FPSO Power Generation: Electrifying the Sea Giants

Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessels are the unsung heroes of offshore oil and gas production. These massive floating platforms not only handle extraction, storage, and offloading but also generate the vital electricity that powers their intricate systems. In this electrifying journey, we’ll go through into the heart of FPSO power generation, exploring their technologies and system that keep these vessels afloat and operational. From gas-driven generators to emergency backup systems, let’s illuminate the currents that flow beneath the waves.

The FPSO power generation system refers to the set of components and processes responsible for producing electricity onboard the FPSO. The system is consisting of the power generation part which normally having gas driven generator as main power sources and diesel driven generator as essential/emergency power source. It also has electrical distribution system which built up by the busbars, transformer, switchgear, and its associated cable route/distribution board. With the digitalization trends, Electrical Control System (ECS) is normally in-place for the load management. In high level the FPSO power generation system can be summarized as the schematic below.

Let’s dig further on the 3 main power system as follow,

·?????? Main/Normal power system

This power system is referring to the FPSO normal operation scenario. It includes all equipment with continuous and intermittent operation. It’s the largest distribution system within the FPSO and normally divide into High Voltage and Low Voltage system.

In most of the FPSO, gas turbine driven generator are become the preferable choice to electrify the system. However, with the recent development of Once Through Steam Generator (OTSG), Combined cycle power generation which involve combination of gas driven generator and steam turbine driven generator are become other viable option. In particular for complex facilities with huge power demand (>100 MW).

·?????? Essential System

The essential system is referring to the load for the main accommodation/living quarters plus its life support/associates facilities and scenario for restarting the main facilities after the shutdown. The system is covering the mode of requirement for re-starting of the main power generation (Black Start) and facilities reservation mode in the case of prolonged shutdown (including riser preservation).

This system is normally power up by marine type diesel engine driven generator. Diesel driven are selected to be more independent in the case of absence of the fuel gas supply. Dedicated tank will be assigned to centralize the diesel storage with only daily tank supply located near the generators. ?70% of marine fleet in the world are utilizing the Essential Diesel Generator from Wartsila which include FPSO.

·?????? Emergency System

The emergency system is covering the load affecting personal safety and a risk of major damage of the facilities in the event of the loss of main power generation and essential power generation. This system includes Emergency lighting, Fire pumps, Emergency communication systems, Lifeboat launching systems and Emergency shutdown systems.

Similar with essential system, the emergency system is normally power by diesel driven generator. In most of the case the generator is located on the hull side to ensure safe operation during emergency.

?

As we conclude our voyage through the intricate world of FPSO power generation, we’re reminded that these floating giants are more than mere vessels—they’re self-sustaining energy hubs. From the rhythmic hum of gas driven generators to the emergency backup systems poised to spring into action, every watt of electricity plays a vital role in keeping operations afloat. As technology advances and sustainability takes center stage, the future holds exciting possibilities for cleaner, more efficient power solutions on the high seas. So next time you see an FPSO across the horizon, know that beneath those waves lies a symphony of electrons orchestrating progress.