As offshore infrastructure reaches the end of its lifecycle, asset owners are increasingly focused on ensuring decommissioning activities are carried out safely, efficiently, with a strong focus on responsible operations, preparedness and operational integrity.
In Spain, a nearshore well decommissioning project prompted a proactive approach centred on preparedness and coordinated response capability.
Although the wells contained only negligible volumes of oil, their proximity to the shoreline required enhanced planning, coordination and preparedness, consistent with Repsol's standards for responsible offshore operations.
To support this approach a comprehensive preparedness and response framework was developed, supported by OSRL's technical expertise and operational capability.
What the project set out to achieve
The decommissioning campaign focused on:
- Ensuring a safe and environmentally sound operation
- Enhancing preparedness through contingency planning and exercises
- Strengthening integrated response capability across Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 resources
- Engaging leadership through immersive crisis management activities
How OSRL supported the operation
To meet the unique challenges of a nearshore decommissioning environment, OSRL and project teams implemented:
- Sensitivity mapping and risk assessments to inform response planning
- Tactical Response Plans and contingency exercises, including senior leadership drills
- Deployment of equipment and trained personnel, maintaining constant operational readiness
- Seamless integration with project teams to enable rapid transition from planning to response
Outcomes and insights
Initial and preparatory activities were carried out in line with the defined plans, confirming the robustness of the preparedness framework and the value of early and continuous planning.
The approach provides relevant reference points for decommissioning activities in sensitive operating contexts, reinforcing the importance of leadership engagement and integrated response arrangements.
Explore the methodologies, planning tools, and operational lessons that shaped this successful decommissioning programme.
