Fugro, the world’s leading Geo-data specialists, is actively involved in a crucial ground investigation for Equinor’s groundbreaking new CO2 highway project off the Belgian coast.
This project encompasses a planned 1,000-kilometer (621 miles) pipeline designed to transport CO2 between mainland Europe and Norway, marking a significant step towards large-scale CO2 storage for European industries. This initiative has the potential to revolutionize CO2 transport and storage in northwestern Europe.
Recognizing the critical importance of avoiding delays due to design flaws arising from inaccurate or unsuitable geodata, Equinor has entrusted Fugro with the acquisition of high-quality data. This data will enable Equinor to swiftly assess ground risks and minimize uncertainties associated with the project.
Fugro is executing the ground investigation utilizing WaveWalker, its innovative liveaboard jack-up platform. Jack-up barges are ideally suited for shallow-water operations, making WaveWalker an efficient solution for the project’s coastal location in Zeebrugge, Belgium.
Prior to commencing site works, Fugro conducted a thorough search for unexploded ordnance to ensure the safe deployment of WaveWalker and the feasibility of the full ground investigation scope. The investigation encompasses geotechnical borehole drilling, high-quality sampling, and downhole cone penetration tests (CPT).
The collected data will provide Equinor with valuable insights for the development of the landfall and the deep pipeline burial under the Scheur ship channel, crucial factors in ensuring the safe and efficient installation of the CO2 pipeline.
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This contract award builds upon the successful marine geotechnical campaign conducted earlier this year.
Two vessels, Fugro Galaxy and Fugro Meridian, were deployed in August to perform CPT and Vibrocore sampling along the CO2 highway route. Fugro Meridian subsequently undertook the deep-water sections of the investigation.
Matthew Chappell, Regional Nearshore Service Line Director for Europe and Africa, stated, “This is a fantastic opportunity for our Fugro teams across Europe to deliver critical data acquisition works for Equinor, especially within the pioneering CCUS sector which aligns with our mission to help create a safe and liveable world.”
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