Future of Nigg oil terminal jetty secured
The transfer of a jetty at the Nigg yard could lead to a jobs boost for the region, according to its new owners.
Global Energy Group has reached an agreement with Repsol Sinopec Resources UK to take over the operation of the Nigg oil terminal jetty.
Oil from the Beatrice field was piped to the oil terminal until the pipes were switched off in 2016. Repsol Sinopec has been exploring options for the facilities it is decommissioning at the Easter Ross port, including the jetty.
Under the agreed deal and a new licence from Crown Estate Scotland, the jetty will be operated as an extension to the Port of Nigg, which has already established itself as a leading deep-water port servicing oil and gas, offshore renewables and the wider energy markets.
The jetty at the former oil terminal has a minimum depth of 21 metres and was originally built to accommodate vessels up to 290 metres long with a maximum displacement of 180,000 tonnes.
Global Energy Group, which operates the port, said the addition of berthage with even deeper water extends its capability and is already attracting interest from mobile drilling operators, EPC contractors and floating wind developers.
Global chairman Roy MacGregor said: “I am delighted that we have reached this agreement with Repsol Sinopec. The Nigg Jetty is a valuable addition to our facilities. It not only increases our deep-water quayside capacity but enables us to consider bringing new business lines to the port, creating further employment for the area.”
Repsol Sinopec will continue to operate the main oil terminal and to work towards final decommissioning of its facilities. Global Energy Group will become responsible for all decommissioning liabilities associated with the jetty.
Nicolas Foucart, chief operating officer with Repsol Sinopec, said: “This is a clear example of a win-win situation – the transfer of the jetty will improve local industry capabilities to support emerging opportunities in the area, while Repsol Sinopec can focus its efforts on safely and efficiently decommissioning the terminal by reducing our operational footprint.
“We are pleased to have been able to reach this agreement and to know that it will help to sustain employment in the area for years to come.”
Subject to regulatory and other approvals, the transfer is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
