WORK on a huge oil rig in Aberdeen has secured dozens of jobs for contractor Semco Maritime.
Support of work on the Noble Innovator jack-up, which arrived last month, has also seen a cash injection into the local economy, according to the energy services firm.
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Semco has been contracted to provide a range of services, including project management, quayside support, scaffolding and hull rebranding.
Energy Voice says the jack-up is due to start on a £40million contract with BP this year, decommissioning North Sea oil and gas wells.
Semco said 40-plus workers are being employed directly on Aberdeen work – not including Noble and BP staff – and they would be using local amenities in support of the local economy.
Managing director David Hutchinson said: “We are excited to be part of this fast turnaround project, collaborating closely with our partners and suppliers to deliver a safe and efficient return of the Innovator to the North Sea.
“Rig services play a major part in the overall Semco Maritime offering, and we have executed many similar projects on a global scale.
“The chance to complete this project on our doorstep was met with great enthusiasm and we look forward to its successful completion.”
The Noble Innovator is the first oil rig to berth in Aberdeen thanks to the new South Harbour expansion.
Standing an immense 674ft tall, the jack-up has added a new feature to the Aberdeen skyline.
Semco estimates the local supply-chain boost on the contract – from its workers alone – will be in excess of £750,000.
Roddy James, chief commercial officer at Port of Aberdeen, said: “This type of vessel and project activity would have previously sailed past the city, often destined for a European port capable of handling their requirements.
“With South Harbour, we can attract this type of project which supports local jobs and generates significant spend and investment in the local supply chain.”
The Noble Innovator is expected to kick off work with BP in May.
Semco operations manager Phil MacDonald said: “I am delighted Noble selected Port of Aberdeen and Semco Maritime for the works on the impressive Innovator rig.
“This project demonstrates Aberdeen has the infrastructure and strong supply chain needed to support the energy market for many years to come.
“As a local engineering expert, Semco Maritime is well placed to support similar projects in Aberdeen and we are looking forward to continued discussions with other majors requiring support.”
