The Åsgard A production ship is set to leave for the field within a week, following the resolution of vibration problems.
Statoil's project management was able to determine on 22 January that these difficulties, which derived from the controllable pitch thrusters, had been overcome.
"We could complete the test programme with satisfactory results," says Kjell Aalandslid, the group's project manager for Åsgard A.
Three electric motors were provided with extra reinforcement during trials in the Kloster Fjord near Bergen to remove local vibration in the stern section. These tests have also established which running patterns should be avoided.
"The thrusters can be used to the full," says Mr Aalandslid. "During further sea trials, we'll be ensuring that an appropriate running pattern is utilised."
Plans call for the ship to head for the Norwegian Sea field some time between 29 January and 2 February, once the programme of trials in the Kloster Fjord has been completed.