SBM Offshore Advances Future-Ready FPSOs with Standardization, Robotics, and Sustainability

In an exclusive interview with Offshore Energy, SBM Offshore, a Netherlands-based provider of offshore floating facilities, has shed light on its efforts to advance the next generation of Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units. According to the company, key drivers behind this evolution include increased standardization, the integration of robotics and AI, and a focus on lower-carbon solutions - all aimed at delivering 'future-ready' FPSO designs. 'We have been on an evolution journey of our offshore operations model and the implementation of our Fast4ward program,' explained Bart Laméris, Chief Technology Officer at SBM Offshore. 'This program is really about standardizing our FPSO design and execution, which allows us to deliver projects faster, more efficiently, and with a lower carbon footprint.' The Fast4ward program, launched in 2016, centers around a standardized FPSO hull design that can be rapidly customized for specific field developments. This approach, the company says, reduces engineering hours, shortens delivery timelines, and enables more sustainable construction. In parallel, SBM Offshore is integrating advanced technologies like robotics and artificial intelligence into its FPSO operations. 'We see a lot of potential in using robotics for inspection and maintenance tasks, which can reduce the need for personnel offshore and make these activities safer and more efficient,' noted Laméris. The company is also pursuing lower-carbon solutions for its FPSO fleet, including the use of shore-to-ship power, waste heat recovery systems, and alternative fuels. 'Sustainability is a key priority for us, and we're committed to developing FPSOs that minimize their environmental impact,' Laméris said. Overall, SBM Offshore's strategy reflects the maritime industry's broader shift towards more standardized, automated, and environmentally-conscious offshore operations - a trend that is likely to continue as operators seek to improve project delivery, operational efficiency, and environmental performance. (Source: Offshore Energy)