Specifications for Oceanographic/ Meteorological Studies for Offshore Operations
Authors: Fallon A.R. , Aagaard P.M. , Fischer W. , Hudson T.A. 
Published: December 2007

Economic evaluation of an offshore lease can be aided by advance knowledge of ocean conditions. This advance knowledge is usually obtained from an oceanographic/meteorological study. Experience shows that a more usable study results if a detailed specification is followed. This paper is a guide to preparing such a specification.

Introduction

The decision to proceed with acquisition, exploration, and development of an offshore lease requires favorable economics. Economic evaluation can be aided by advance knowledge of operating conditions (that is, wave, wind, current, and visibility conditions). This knowledge could make the difference between reliable or risky operations; profit or no profit (even for an oil field with large reserves); and government approval or rejection. Advance knowledge is usually obtained from an oceanographic/meteorological study. The relatively small cost of the study is more than off set by safer and less costly operations. These operations result from information that is adequate toselect design parameters that minimize the risk of failure and yet avoid over-design;make weather down-time estimates (for over-all economic evaluation);select drilling vessels and equipment appropriate for operating conditions; andschedule construction to coincide with favorable weather.

Development and use of oceanographic/meteorological information for planning and designing also demonstrate to government and to the public that the industry is doing its part to protect the ocean and shoreline environment. In considering an oceanographic/meteorological study, the operator faces the task of satisfying his data needs at a reasonable cost. Oil companies usually obtain such studies by contracting with consulting firms with experienced specialists, extensive references, weather charts, etc., to develop the information. A wide variety of methods are used in developing oceanographic and meteorological information for offshore operations because of differences in marine conditions, the amount and types of data available, and the scope of study required by the operator. The methods vary considerably in cost and reliability. A detailed specification is an ideal way to match data requirements with cost. A well-prepared specification enhances the usability of results, simplifies the administration of the contract, and minimizes misunderstandings between the operator and the contractor. It can also avoid much wasted effort on the part of the contractor, because he then knows part of the contractor, because he then knows exactly what is expected of him and can proceed in the most expeditious manner. This paper is intended to be a guide to preparing a specification. Included area discussion of oceanographic/meteorological parameters needed in exploration, drilling, and production operations;brief comments on methods for developing the data;a discussion of the scopes for three typical levels of study;an example specification for a general study; andrecommendations for the conduct of a study.

JPT

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