Modest transfer of Kristin work

Only a small proportion – about 15 per cent – of the work required to complete two modules for the Kristin platform is being transferred by operator Statoil from Spain’s Dragados yard.

According to a preliminary estimate, some 100-200,000 hours needs to be shifted to the Aker Stord yard in western Norway which is responsible for hooking up the structure.

“Aker Stord already has the job of completing and hooking up these modules,” explains Nina Udnes Tronstad, vice president of operations for the Kristin field in the Norwegian Sea.

“When that contract was awarded, we also took account of the possibility that such a position could arise.”

Even in the present circumstances, Ms Tronstad adds, Statoil believes that the best solution for the partners in the Kristin project was to award the contract to Dragados.

Overall progress on the platform is good, with the completed structure due to leave Aker Stord next spring as planned.

Dragados won its contract through an international competition, which is mandatory for assignments of this kind.

“The delays which have arisen are naturally regrettable, but can just as easily happen with national as with international deliveries,” says Ms Tronstad.