UTEC, a brand in marine energy and infrastructure services company Acteon, has successfully demonstrated a remote operations proof of concept using the EIVA NaviPac system. This initiative allows for efficient control of all survey systems on board a vessel or vessels from a remote operations centre (ROC) on land. 

In this innovative project, UTEC, part of Acteon’s Geo-services business line, collaborated with a construction vessel operator to streamline decommissioning operations. Located offshore Asia-Pacific, the initiative leveraged advanced technology and remote capabilities to enhance efficiency, reduce costs and minimise environmental impact. 

Technology used 

• EIVA NaviPac: Advanced navigation and positioning software 
• UTEC’s Comms HubTM: Enabling seamless secure communication and live video streaming 
• 2 x Remotely operated vehicles (ROVs)  
• Realtime file sharing and co-authoring: Accessible via offshore network 
• Clear-com system: Real-time voice chat between ROC and co-authoring multiple stations on the vessel 
• Real-time messaging: Facilitating communication with crew onboard 

In addition to operating the EIVA NaviPac online navigation software, the surveyor in the ROC was able to operate the following software remotely as well: 

• Digital video recorders (DVRs): Remotely controlled for recording purposes 
• Sound velocity sensor and processing software 
• The vessel’s Kongsberg APOS HiPAP USBL system 
• As decommissioning operations continued, the ROC Surveyor was able to update the online navigation system to reflect the progress of operations and record this in a shared database. 

Benefits of remote construction and positioning services for decarbonising oil and gas projects

• Reduced carbon footprint: By minimising offshore personnel presence, the remote services solution significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with traditional operations. 
• Enhanced health, safety and environment (HSE) performance: Removing personnel from the vessel improves safety by eliminating exposure to hazardous conditions. 
• Cost optimisation: Efficient utilisation of personnel leads to cost reductions. Minimised logistics and travel expenses contribute to overall savings. 
• Flexibility and scalability: Remote operations allow for adaptability and scalability, ensuring efficient project execution. 

In collaboration with the operator and EIVA, UTEC’s remote operations proof of concept demonstrates the future of offshore survey services. By leveraging EIVA NaviPac and the latest survey technology, UTEC achieves operational excellence while minimising risk and complexity.