Seamless Subsea System Re-configuration for Evolving Field Needs

Brief Outline:

• Delivered a highly flexible subsea control solution adaptable to changing operational needs.
• Rapid reconfiguration between MODFOX M1, M2, and M3 systems.
• Enabled successful project execution despite major last-minute operational changes.
• Provided a modular system that supports ongoing field optimization.

Location: Balder Field, Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS)

Challenge:

Vår Energi initially requested offers for two different subsea control systems (M1 and M3) for operations from the West Phoenix rig, where only one ROV would be available. Based on our experience and system flexibility, FOX Subsea also proposed the MODFOX M2 system as an optimal solution. Following the original plan the customer selected the M3 system, suited for one of ROV on rig operation.

However, shortly before execution, Vår Energi made a significant operational change — moving the installation to the Island Constructor vessel. This rendered the M3 system suboptimal for the new setup.

Solution:

FOX Subsea responded quickly by reconfiguring the M3 system into an M1 system within five hours at our workshop, preparing it for immediate deployment to the Island Constructor. The first campaign at Balder was successfully executed using the M1 system. Due to the tight template structures and access limitations encountered offshore, Vår Energi later opted for the M2 system for subsequent campaigns. The system was again swiftly reconfigured, highlighting its modular design and flexibility.

Result:

All following campaigns at Balder have been conducted using the M2 system, demonstrating the effectiveness of modular system flexibility. By choosing the MODFOX platform, Vår Energi gained a highly adaptable solution that could be quickly adjusted to evolving operational needs without costly delays or extensive mobilizations.

Case Highlights:

• Reconfigured the system from M3 to M1 in just five hours offshore.
• Seamless operational transition to fit major last-minute changes.
• Modular system design enables quick adaptation between M1, M2, and M3.
• Supported continuous, efficient offshore operations across multiple campaigns.

FOX Subsea’s modular approach gave us the flexibility we needed when plans changed last minute. Their rapid reconfiguration kept the project on track and ensured efficient execution across all campaigns.

Frode Ottesen, Vår Energi