All-electrical FPSO scheme with Variable Speed Drive Systems

The intent of this paper is to present the possible electrical solutions for an “all-electrical” FPSO scheme. It describes the underlying reasons, both technical and economical, that led to the selection of Variable Speed Drive Systems (VSDS) as drivers of the large electric motors for the FPSO (Floating Production Storage and Offloading). This paper gives also the positive and negative impacts of this innovative architecture on the FPSO design, CAPEX, OPEX and project execution schedule. Finally this paper gives the challenges that require particular attention and the way forward for the “all-electrical” FPSO scheme using large Variable Speed Drive Systems.