Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this exploratory cross-sectional research study is to examine the current key challenges that are affecting offshore decommissioning activity in the Gulf of Thailand.
Design / Methodology / Approach
A series of face-to-face interviews with well-placed, knowledgeable personnel in both operating companies in the Gulf of Thailand and the service sector were conducted. The interviews were transcribed, codified, collected by theme, and used to identify the major issues and conflicts that are specifically present for this producing region.
Findings
The study found that the following key challenges are present:
• Clarity over the guidelines that define decommissioning planning work scope
• Sufficient capacity and capability of the regulator as it deals with a wave of decommissioning planning requests in the coming years
• Apparent lack of alignment on decommissioning costs between government and operators
• stakeholder management and the transfer of liabilities for the implementation of any rigs-to-reef program
• Development of local downstream decommissioning capacity that maximizes local content
• Adequate management of contaminated waste in the downstream sector
Research Limitations / Implications
Decommissioning is a cost that is of interest to both government and operators to minimize. It is hoped that this study can be used by industry to undertake decommissioning activities more efficiently and cost effectively. Findings from this research will be useful in informing decommissioning activities of emerging infrastructure like solar panels and EV batteries.
Originality / Value
Very few research studies have examined decommissioning from multiple perspectives in the Gulf of Thailand region. The findings of this research study will set the path for future research around supply chain capacity development and waste management.
Keywords: Gulf of Thailand, Oil and Gas decommissioning, Decommissioning challenges, offshore, stakeholder conflict
Design / Methodology / Approach
A series of face-to-face interviews with well-placed, knowledgeable personnel in both operating companies in the Gulf of Thailand and the service sector were conducted. The interviews were transcribed, codified, collected by theme, and used to identify the major issues and conflicts that are specifically present for this producing region.
Findings
The study found that the following key challenges are present:
• Clarity over the guidelines that define decommissioning planning work scope
• Sufficient capacity and capability of the regulator as it deals with a wave of decommissioning planning requests in the coming years
• Apparent lack of alignment on decommissioning costs between government and operators
• stakeholder management and the transfer of liabilities for the implementation of any rigs-to-reef program
• Development of local downstream decommissioning capacity that maximizes local content
• Adequate management of contaminated waste in the downstream sector
Research Limitations / Implications
Decommissioning is a cost that is of interest to both government and operators to minimize. It is hoped that this study can be used by industry to undertake decommissioning activities more efficiently and cost effectively. Findings from this research will be useful in informing decommissioning activities of emerging infrastructure like solar panels and EV batteries.
Originality / Value
Very few research studies have examined decommissioning from multiple perspectives in the Gulf of Thailand region. The findings of this research study will set the path for future research around supply chain capacity development and waste management.
Keywords: Gulf of Thailand, Oil and Gas decommissioning, Decommissioning challenges, offshore, stakeholder conflict
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Exploratory Research on the challenges associated with decommissioning Oil & Gas infrastructure: A case study on the Gulf of Thailand |
| Subtitle of host publication | International Symposium on Logistics |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 13 978-0-85358-352-3 |
| Publication status | Published - 10 Jul 2023 |
Keywords
- Gulf of Thailand,
- Oil and Gas decommissioning,
- Decommissioning challenges, offshore, stakeholder conflict
