In the offshore energy sector, an E-House is more than just a modular enclosure; it is the central nervous system of the entire vessel. For the EMEM FPSO, currently positioned as a cornerstone of Nigerian offshore production, Drakken has officially delivered a fit-for-purpose power and automation hub designed to survive the harshest environments while maintaining peak operational efficiency.
Engineering the Complexity Out
At 300 tonnes, this mid-sized module houses a high-density configuration of over 100 individual pieces of equipment. From a finance perspective, the “cost-effective” nature of this build wasn’t achieved by cutting corners, but by aggressive 3D modeling and Human Factors Engineering.
- Risk Mitigation via 3D Design: We identified and resolved potential clashes between HVAC ducting, piping, and structural elements during the digital twin phase, long before a single weld was made.
- The 20km Challenge: Our team managed the integration of over 20km of power and control cabling within a segregated cable void, ensuring that maintenance is simplified and electrical interference is eliminated.
- Integrated Intelligence: The module seamlessly fuses MV/LV transformers and switchgear with a sophisticated Emerson DeltaV integrated control and safety system.
Strategic Integration: From Topsides to Subsea
The role of this platform isn’t just to “exist” on the vessel; it’s to command it. Once fully commissioned, the E-House will provide the power and control logic for both topsides production and critical marine systems.
A key differentiator for this project is our “flawless interface” approach. We are integrating the electrical and automation systems on the well-head platform via state-of-the-art umbilical systems, ensuring the Emerson DeltaV environment remains a single, unified source of truth for the operators.
A Milestone, Not a Finish Line
For the C-suite, “on schedule” is the most important metric. Following final construction works in Dubai, the vessel was delivered on track for First Oil in 2025.
“This project highlights our unwavering commitment to field development over the past five years,” says Richard Walker, Drakken Project Manager. “Reaching this milestone showcases the tenacity of our team. But the real work continues as we move into the commissioning phase with the same professional enthusiasm.”
