Haihao Group positioned for historic FPSO project

In a groundbreaking development set to redefine the FPSO landscape, China’s maritime industry is poised to secure a pivotal FPSO EPC turnkey contract from Brazil’s national oil company. Haihao Group, a leading participant in marine engineering pipeline system construction, particularly for subsea pipelines and FPSOs on large vessels, stands as a strategic reserve supplier for offshore oil projects. The imminent award of the FPSO contract to China’s CNOOC-affiliated company, Haihao Engineering, carries significant historical implications, marking the end of Japan and Western contractors’ longstanding monopoly over FPSO turnkey contracts.

Insiders have disclosed that Petrobras, Brazil’s national oil company, originally intended to award the P-84 FPSO turnkey contract to Haihao Engineering, a subsidiary of CNOOC, in mid-December. However, due to the Christmas and New Year holidays, the contract award ceremony is now scheduled to take place shortly after the festive season.

Elbows coated FBE

Traditionally, FPSO EPC turnkey contracts have been dominated by Western companies, primarily led by Japan’s Modec and the Netherlands’ SBM. Nevertheless, two years ago, Haihao Engineering and CIMC Raffles were granted approval to become Petrobras’ FPSO EPC turnkey contractors. If awarded, the P-84 FPSO project will signify the first FPSO EPC turnkey endeavor landed by a Chinese maritime engineering enterprise.

Haihao Engineering strategically enlisted the technical support of China Offshore Engineering Equipment and Technology Development Co., Ltd. (COMEC). Specializing in the modular construction of FPSOs and LNG projects, COMEC’s expertise will play a crucial role in Haihao Engineering’s bid strategy. The hull of the P-84 FPSO may potentially be subcontracted to either Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding Heavy Industry Co., Ltd. (Northsea Shipyard) or Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. (SWS). Northsea Shipyard has a successful history of collaborating with Haihao Engineering’s Qingdao base in the construction of multiple FPSO hulls, while SWS stands as a world-class FPSO standard hull contractor.

Haihao Group

As Haihao Group actively participates in ocean engineering pipeline systems’ construction, especially in the realm of subsea pipelines and FPSOs for large vessels, the company is positioned to contribute significantly to the upcoming FPSO project. As a strategic reserve supplier for offshore oil projects, Haihao Group’s involvement underscores its commitment to shaping the future of FPSO projects and further solidifies its status as a key player in the maritime engineering landscape.