Offshore staff
OSLO, Norway — DNV has granted approval in principle (AiP) for the NH3 FPSO concept developed by SwitchH2 in the Netherlands and BW Offshore.
This involves converting either a very large crude carrier (VLCC) or a dedicated newbuild vessel to produce hydrogen by electrolysis of seawater and nitrogen through the use of an air separation unit, combining these in an ammonia synthesis unit.
Produced ammonia gas would be condensed, with the liquid ammonia stored in the hull for subsequent offloading to an ammonia carrier via a floating hose, reeled from the aft ship to the shuttle carrier mid-ship manifold.
The FPSO, which would receive most of its power from a wind farm, would be permanently moored but could be relocated if needed via a planned disconnect.
According to DNV, the AiP covers all aspects of the integrated vessel concept including structural integrity, mooring, ammonia production, ammonia storage and cargo handling.
DNV also revealed it had received authorization from Poland’s Ministry of Infrastructure to issue certificates for offshore wind farms and assembly of power output equipment in Poland.
Certification will be performed in line with Polish law requirements.
Krystian Słodzinka, project manager Renewables Certification at DNV, said, “This scheme has significantly helped the industry to establish a shared understanding between the globally accepted certification process and the specific requirements of Polish law.”
At present DNV has more than 200 personnel in the country providing assurance and risk management services to sectors including energy, oil and gas, offshore and maritime industries.
03.15.2023
