Statoil extending rig suspensions

Due to overcapacity in the rig portfolio the suspension periods for COSL Pioneer, Scarabeo 5 and Songa Trym have been extended.

The suspensions are also a result of the failed attempts to mature alternative tasks for the rigs.

“When the rig contracts were signed it was challenging to ensure sufficient rig capacity. Today the activity is facing lower margins, a generally high cost level and subsequent lower profitability. It is therefore more demanding to mature profitable drilling targets,” says Statoil procurement head Jon Arnt Jacobsen.

COSL Pioneer, Scarabeo 5 and Songa Trym were initially suspended until the end of the year from 8 October, 5 October and 20 November, respectively. COSL Pioneer will be suspended for an additional seven and a half months. The suspension periods for Scarabeo 5 andSonga Trym will be extended by one and a half months and one month, respectively. The extension period for Songa Trym may be reduced, or avoided, if acceleration of activities is achieved.

“I would like to emphasise that the suspensions are not related to the rig deliveries. We are very pleased with the work they have done for us. These measures are necessary due to the overcapacity of rigs compared to the assignments we are prioritising. This situation is unfortunate, and we are doing what we can to minimise the extent of the suspensions,” Jacobsen says.