DNV, a global energy expert and assurance provider, has been engaged by Brazilian upstream service provider Ocyan, as an independent third party to qualify the system injecting hydrogen as an additive in the internal combustion engines of drilling rigs.
This system, developed by technology partner LZ Energia and supported by Shell Brazil, aims to reduce diesel consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from drilling operations. The project began as an adaptation of the technology for truck engines, which optimizes combustion and results in a fuel-saving and less polluting operation. DNV will use its systematic approach to technology qualification, which provides stakeholders confidence that the technology can be sensibly scaled in support of the global decarbonization of the drilling industry.
Hybrid power, especially the use of low-carbon energy carriers such as hydrogen, is a new concept that is being applied in drilling assets to reduce emissions and support environmental objectives. By using hydrogen together with diesel and optimizing combustion, there is a fuel-saving, and less pollutants are emitted. Power from shore, with subsea distribution, and power from offshore wind or a renewable energy island or hub are other options available to operators. The project is still in the first phase of delivery of the functional prototype of the product, and the second phase will be based on tests in a relevant environment and commercialization.
The technology qualification process carried out by DNV provides a systematic approach to technology qualification, which focuses not only on demonstrating technology performance reliability but also on addressing the operational risk to ensure safety while assessing classification society requirements. DNV-RP-A203, which provides the industry with a systematic approach to technology qualification, has been used to qualify more than 120 technologies, ranging from downhole safety valves to tidal energy systems.
The use of hydrogen as a fuel source offshore is not entirely replacing traditional electricity production methods, but it is instead replacing the fuel stock used to generate this electricity. It has the potential to significantly reduce emissions and support environmental objectives. However, it requires expert guidance and verification if it is to prosper as part of the energy transition. One challenge of the sole reliance on offshore wind as the source of electricity production is that the reliability, availability, and uptime of the turbine and the electricity production will have a direct impact on the production of the asset. The use of hydrogen injection on a drilling rig aims to optimize combustion and result in fuel-saving, less pollutant emission, and reduced emissions.
