BP announces new production from Kinnoull field

BP Petrol station. Picture: Ian Georgeson

It said the reservoir was being developed as part of a wider rejuvenation of the Andrew field area, and was expected to enable production to be extended by a decade.

Production is being carried to the Andrew platform, about 140 miles east of Aberdeen, through a subsea pipeline – the longest such system in the world. Oil then comes ashore via the Forties pipeline; gas is brought in through the Cats system.

Trevor Garlick, regional president for BP’s North Sea business, said: “50 years after BP was awarded its first licences in the North Sea, the successful start-up of Kinnoull demonstrates our continued commitment to maximising recovery from the basin.

“As we now look to continue our investments and meet the challenges of a toughening market environment, we also need to continue to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of our North Sea business.”

Production from Andrew and Kinnoull is forecast to peak at more than 50,000 barrels of oil a day, and is expected to make a “significant contribution” to BP’s commitment to grow its operating cash flow.

UK energy minister Matthew Hancock said: “The Kinnoull project is a great example of the continued commitment shown by the government and the offshore industry to make the most of the North Sea’s remaining resources. Working together we are maximising the potential of our … reserves.”

BP operates and has a 77.06 per cent interest in Kinnoull, alongside co-venturer JX Nippon Exploration and Production (UK).

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