UK Oil and Gas Operator Considering SeaTwirl Floating Wind Technology for Offshore Production Decarbonization

Swedish wind turbine developer SeaTwirl inked a MoU with Serica Energy to explore decarbonizing their offshore assets.
UK Oil & Gas Operator Eyeing SeaTwirl Floating Wind Tech to Decarbonise Offshore Production

Swedish floating wind turbine developer SeaTwirl has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with UK-based oil and gas operator Serica Energy to explore decarbonizing Serica Energy’s offshore assets.

The agreement aims to identify and assess potential opportunities to decarbonize offshore oil and gas production and explore offshore electrification opportunities using renewable power and subsea energy storage, according to SeaTwirl.

The collaboration will involve collecting data from Serica’s operations to evaluate the commercial viability and suitability of SeaTwirl’s technology for offshore assets.

“We are truly excited to enter into this MoU with such a strong and innovative oil & gas operator as Serica Energy, which operates multiple assets in the North Sea and has a solid reputation around innovation and decarbonization of their operations. We will explore a range of options with a clear ambition to develop an electrification solution that could be the first of its kind in the industry,” said Johan Sandberg, Chief Executive Officer at SeaTwirl.

Serica Energy operates production from eleven fields, with over 80% of its production operated by the company. In May, the UK oil and gas player received approval from the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) to develop its 100%-owned Belinda field, which will be tied back to an existing FPSO vessel, Triton.

SeaTwirl, known for its floating vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT), recently signed an MoU with UK-based energy management and energy storage company Verlume to collaborate on the electrification of offshore assets and decarbonization of the oil and gas industry.

Around the same time, SeaTwirl also signed an MoU with Sumitomo Corporation Power & Mobility (SCPM) to promote its vertical-axis offshore floating wind turbine in Japan.

Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.