Beyond tradition: redefining pipeline surveys with remote inspections
We previously conducted annual pipeline inspections for Eni Energy Netherlands using our conventional survey vessels. In 2024, to deliver operational sustainability and safety benefits, we transitioned to a fully remote inspection campaign, deploying our 12-metre uncrewed surface vessel (USV), Blue Essence®
Challenge
Eni Energy Netherlands (formerly known as Neptune Energy Netherlands) has performed pipeline inspections using our conventional crewed ships for several years. This approach provided a deep understanding of the area, enabled thorough process mapping, and ensured the integrity of critical platforms, subsea constructions, and pipelines.
As the industry continues to evolve, we identified an opportunity to improve how these regulatory surveys were performed, by leveraging remote and autonomous technology to reduce offshore human presence, enhance safety and align with sustainability goals. Eni Energy Netherlands wanted a more sustainable approach that still delivered high-quality data on pipeline integrity.
Having a strong relationship and history with us, Eni Energy Netherlands was interested in using our tried and tested USV, Blue Essence®. However, in order to use the USVs, Eni Energy Netherlands had to update its own policies and risk assessments to be able to safely operate within 500 metre zones around its offshore assets.
Solution
Blue Essence® Vaquita was deployed for this project, marking its debut after earning MCA category 0 accreditation, allowing unrestricted access for operations in UK waters. The vessel, equipped with state-of-the-art geophysical equipment and Blue Volta® electric remotely operated vehicle (eROV), was mobilised from the port of Den Helder, Netherlands. Upon departure, the USV was controlled entirely by a team of experts 640 kilometres away at our remote operations centre (ROC) in Aberdeen.
The USV performed 132 hours of sub-bottom profiler (SBP) and 238 hours of multibeam echosounder (MBES) acquisition, efficiently visualising pipelines and detecting anomalies. Over 1,000 linear kilometres of bathymetry data were collected, enabling Eni Energy Netherlands to make informed decisions regarding future pipeline maintenance. This remote operation ensured precise data collection, allowing its team to quickly address any identified issues.
To alleviate concerns about remote operations, multiple backup control systems were implemented, reassuring operators and facilitating the USV’s safe entry into the 500 metre zones around the platforms.
Results
The USV, controlled from our ROC in Aberdeen, enabled continuous 24-hour operations, gathering data over 7 days. This seamless, real-time Geo-data delivery supported quick, informed decision-making and enhanced operational safety by eliminating the need for personnel offshore. Utilising Blue Essence® significantly improved sustainability, saving 290 tons of emissions and a reduction of over 90% compared to conventional methods.
– 290 tons of emissions reduced in comparison to conventional vessels
– 90% reduction of fuel consumed in comparison to conventional vessels
With advanced MBES and SBP technology, the USV effectively monitored 282 kilometres of pipelines and 26 box-in platform inspections, ensuring accuracy and maintaining integrity. This innovative approach proved not only to be efficient and reliable but also sustainable, helping Eni Energy Netherlands achieve its sustainability targets, exceeding its expectations, and setting a new standard for pipeline inspections.
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