Earlier this month, the Australian Government awarded COSCO Shipping Heavy Transport (COSCO) a contract to dry tow the Northern Endeavour FPSO vessel to its recycling location.
The Hua Rui Long semi-submersible heavy lift vessel will tow the Northern Endeavour to a facility for decontamination, dismantling and recycling. The FPSO measures 274 metres in length, meaning there are only a few vessels in the world capable of carry something of this magnitude. Securing a vessel in the right timeframes for this project marks a significant milestone for the programme.
COSCO will work with Petrofac to arrange for the FPSO to be towed to the recycling location after disconnection. The Department of Industry, Science and Resources released a request for tender to find a supplier to recycle the FPSO. Submissions closed on December 13th, 2024, and the Department is currently evaluating its options.
