Netherlands-based SBM Offshore Receives ABS Approval for NearZero FPSO Design

Netherlands-based SBM Offshore, a leading provider of offshore floating facilities, has recently obtained approval for its innovative NearZero floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) design from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), a prominent classification society.

The company has been diligently working on its emissionZERO program since 2020, aiming to achieve near-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through the development of a near-zero FPSO. This design is considered a significant milestone and a crucial component of SBM Offshore’s emission-zero roadmap, with plans to introduce the solution to the market by 2025.

ABS, following thorough design reviews based on class and statutory requirements, views the NearZero FPSO design as “an important step” in SBM Offshore’s strategic journey towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The innovative design incorporates low-carbon technologies that collectively result in a near-zero Scope 3 carbon emissions profile, potentially reducing GHG emissions by up to 80%.

Jaap-Harm Westhuis, SBM Offshore’s Technology and Product Development Director, emphasized the significance of the NearZero FPSO design, stating, “The introduction of SBM Offshore’s NearZero FPSO design marks an important milestone in our decarbonization strategy. The NearZero FPSO design is fully integrated with our proven Fast4Ward design and standardized delivery model, allowing us to offer this solution to the market in collaboration with our technology partners.”

The innovative features of the NearZero FPSO design include all-electric topsides, closed flare, carbon capture, and seawater intake riser/deep intake sea hose, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption.

Miguel Hernandez, ABS’ Senior Vice President of Global Offshore, expressed pride in supporting SBM Offshore’s efforts towards carbon emissions reduction, highlighting the technical readiness of the NearZero FPSO concept for implementation in current FPSO projects.

Looking ahead, SBM Offshore foresees a promising future in the FPSO market, with approximately 40 potential FPSO awards expected in the next three years, aligning with the company’s strategic objectives.

In line with its commitment to decarbonization, SBM Offshore has partnered with Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) to explore the integration of CO2 capture modules on future FPSOs operating in Petrobras’ offshore fields in Brazil.

Additionally, ABS, known for its support of FPSO projects, has strengthened its collaboration with Akselos through a technical assessment for structural digital twin technology, aimed at enhancing FPSO safety and operational efficiency.