Semi-submersible gets DNV GL battery notation
By incorporating batteries on board, the ultra-deepwater semi-submersible West Mira can reduce the runtime of its diesel engines significantly. The rig is heading for operations on the Nova Field in the North Sea. (Source: DNV GL)
The ultra-deepwater semi-submersible rig, West Mira, is the first offshore rig in operation to receive DNV GL’s Battery (Power) class notation. The Moss Maritime-designed rig uses a hybrid power plant with lithium-ion batteries whilst operating in DP mode and to supply power during peak load times.
Installation and test have been undertaken involving close cooperation between the classification society, Seadrill/Northern Drilling, Siemens and Kongsberg Maritime. By using the batteries, the operator believes that use of the rig’s diesel engines will be cut by 42%, reducing CO2 emissions by 15% and NOx emissions by 12%. DNV GL’s Geir Fuglerud, director of Offshore Classification, said: “Hybrid and fully electric battery solutions have already been installed in almost 200 marine vessels globally. We are now seeing offshore rigs stepping up to take advantage of these energy storage systems, with several more rigs soon to follow West Mira.”
