The amount of CO2 in the atmosphere has reached record highs, global average temperatures continue to rise, and weather-related disasters are on the increase. The science is clear, if we don’t play an active role in reducing our carbon emissions, the impact of global warming will be severe and potentially irreversible. With sustainability at the forefront of our operations, Fugro has continued its sustainability journey with the introduction of a reduced-emission mobile wireline geophysics logging unit.

Through intelligent application of geophysics in boreholes using wireline logging, the Company are able to maximise value obtained from subsurface site investigations. Combined with borehole drilling, wireline logging provides key geotechnical, geological, hydrological and structural information about the subsurface.

Custom fit solar panels are used to ensure the wireline logging van remains fully charged when stationary

Fugro's new mobile logging unit immediately reduces CO2 emission by between 20 – 25 kg each day it’s on site, using internally fitted smart battery packs and solar power to replace conventional diesel and petrol powered mobile generators.

Innovative design

Designed by Alan Benson, Fugro’s Electronics and Instrumentation Engineer, the unit has a custom-built uninterruptible power supply which is charged as the wireline logging van travels to site using excess energy from the vehicle alternator. When stationary, or not in use, it uses solar power to remain fully charged.

This combination of smart charging provides sufficient power for a full day of logging activities and eliminates the need for fossil fuel powered generators.

Balazs Rigler, UK Wireline Services Manager:
"The geophysics team, and the broader UK business, is committed to reducing the environmental impact of our operations. The wireline logging unit was designed and developed in-house and is already proving to be a great success. It’s innovative ideas like these that reduce our energy consumption and CO2 emissions, getting us closer to achieving our sustainability targets and contributing to a safe and liveable world.”

More than energy savings

By removing the need for a generator, Fugro are also reducing noise pollution and improving working conditions for field staff. Designed to be a self-contained unit, the interior is purpose built with a dedicated workspace, separate from the wireline winch and larger equipment, eliminating potential hazards and improving productivity.

Cross industry impact

Wireline logging has become an integral element of both small and complex site investigation programmes in the renewables, infrastructure, nuclear and water sectors. This new wireline unit reduces our carbon footprint and contributes to a safer and more liveable world.

KeyFacts Energy Industry Directory: Fugro