DOMESTIC PUSH : ONGC ENGAGES WITH INDIAN SHIPYARDS TO BUILD TWO OFFSHORE JACK-UP RIGS
India ’ s Oil and Natural Gas Corporation ( ONGC ) is in advanced discussions with Indian shipyards to build two offshore jack-up drilling rigs . The move underscores ONGC ’ s commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities while supporting the Indian government ’ s Aatmanirbhar Bharat ( self-reliant India ) initiative . Each rig is expected to cost between $ 500 million and $ 550 million , signifying a significant investment in the nation ’ s shipbuilding industry .
This initiative aims to replace some of ONGC ’ s ageing rigs , which have been operational for more than four decades , according to Om Prakash Singh , ONGC director of technology & field services .
Currently , ONGC operates a fleet of 113 drilling rigs , including 38 offshore rigs , with an additional 90 workover rigs in its arsenal . The company seeks to maintain its position as India ’ s leading offshore energy producer . The proposed rigs will incorporate advanced technologies to meet modern operational standards and align with global sustainability trends . By fostering domestic production capabilities , ONGC aims to reduce reliance on foreign equipment and bolster India ’ s offshore infrastructure .
The discussions with Indian shipyards mark a revival of domestic rig-building capabilities , dormant since the 1990s . This initiative is expected to provide a substantial boost to India ’ s shipbuilding industry , creating jobs and promoting technological advancements . It aligns with the government ’ s vision of reducing imports and enhancing domestic manufacturing capabilities .
The rigs will play a critical role in ensuring India ’ s energy security by enhancing offshore drilling capacity . Furthermore , ONGC ’ s focus on building energy-efficient rigs aligns with its broader commitment to sustainable energy practices .
The discussions are currently in the exploratory phase , with details on partnerships and timelines yet to be finalized . Once operational , these rigs are expected to enhance ONGC ’ s ability to meet India ’ s growing energy demands while setting benchmarks for future offshore projects .
By commissioning domestic shipyards , ONGC is not only addressing its operational needs but also contributing to the nation ’ s economic growth . This move will invigorate India ’ s maritime industry , reinforcing its capability to handle complex offshore projects .
This development is being closely watched as a potential game-changer for India ’ s offshore energy sector , showcasing the synergy between government initiatives and corporate strategies to drive progress .
QATAR ADVANCES OFFSHORE ENERGY AMBITIONS WITH MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS
Qatar is making significant strides in its offshore oil and gas sector , cementing its position as a global energy leader . Two pivotal projects — the Al-Shaheen oil field expansion and the North Field Expansion ( NFE )— are set to boost the nation ’ s energy output while reinforcing its economic resilience and environmental goals .
In January 2024 , QatarEnergy awarded more than $ 6 billion of Engineering , Procurement , Construction and Installation ( EPCI ) contracts at Al Shaheen , the largest offshore oil field in Qatar , which lies to the south , 80 km off the coast . The initiative , being known as Project Ru ’ ya , is the third phase of the field ’ s development since North Oil Company took over its operations in 2017 .
Moreover , UK-based CRC Evans was granted a very important welding services contract in November 2024 to support the project , which is expected to ramp up production of about 100,000 barrels a day . Another milestone in the execution of the project is the declaration of completion for the sailaway of a new offshore platform constructed in a UAE shipyard .
www . rigsbargeworld . com | January-February 2025 | 15