The scope of work also includes operation planning, load out and transportation of the templates from Asdalstrand to Sandnessjøen. The templates are identical and weigh approximately 270 tons each.

In Sandnessjøen the templates will be lifted into the water and towed to field individually using the pencil buoy method. The method attract attention and has recently been patented by Aker Marine Contractors. The pencil buoy method has also been used in other projects such as Vigdis and Snøhvit.

The vessel that will be used for the tow and installation of the templates will be a Maersk A class. Aker Marine Contractor's "Conlift" will be used for the lifting operation in Sandnessjøen.

The contract has a value of NOK 45 million.

The contract also includes an option for the installation of three manifolds in 2005, using the Boa Deep C installation vessel.

ENDS

 

Media:
Geir Arne Drangeid, SVP Group Communications, Aker Kvaerner. Tel: +47 913 10 458

Anne Mürer, President Aker Marine Contractors, Tel : +47 22 94 52 67

AKER KVÆRNER ASA, through its subsidiaries and affiliates ("Aker Kvaerner"), is a leading global provider of engineering and construction services, technology products and integrated solutions. The business within Aker Kvaerner span a number of industries, including Oil & Gas production, Refining & Chemicals, Mining & Metals, , Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology, Power Generation and Pulp & Paper. Aker Kvaerner has aggregated annual revenues of approximately USD 4.5 billion and employs around 21,000 employees in more than 30 countries. The Aker Kvaerner group consists of a number of separate legal entities. Aker Kvaerner is used as the common brand/trademark for most of these entities. The parent company in the group is Aker Kværner ASA.

The Products & Technologies organisation in Aker Kvaerner unites the product supply companies in the group to a strong global supplier of products and services to the oil and gas industry. The organisation covers a wide range of products from downhole services to marine equipment, topside and land based systems and equipment. Products & Technologies will focus on the united strength to provide our customers with the best solutions and services.

 

Aker Marine Contractors provides marine contracting services to the oil and gas industry world-wide. These services include concept development, detail engineering, procurement, fabrication related to marine operations and subsea installations. We shoulder the responsibility for great values, especially when we tow and install platforms, gravity base structures, floaters and platform decks. Our key reference projects are proof of our ability to successfully perform complex marine operations on site, on time and within budget. Aker Marine Contractors possesses the competence and the specialised equipment needed to successfully engineer and install subsea structures, risers, umbilicals, flowlines and mooring systems in ultra deep waters. Our North Sea experience within marine contracting together with our strong owners make us particularly well qualified to create value for our customers and compete in the world markets.

This press release may include forward-looking information or statements and is subject to our disclaimer, see our web-pages www.akerkvaerner.com