Power Cable Lay Optimisation Program, Offshore Angola
Construction Lead (Specialist)
Offshore Angola / Chevron
January 2022 – April 2025
Scope of work:
- J-tube installation
- Cable lay
- Ridged riser installation
- Project planning and execution of more than 20 platforms
Offshore Construction and Platform Power Upgrade Overview
This offshore construction program was delivered prior to the formation of Trinity Offshore Construction and reflects Karl Mulder’s direct experience leading complex platform-related construction works. The program involved upgrading and optimising power systems across multiple platform-linked assets operating offshore Angola.
The project was delivered for Chevron, a major international operator In Malongo managing multiple production assets. Execution required disciplined offshore construction under live operating conditions with minimal tolerance for disruption.
The experience gained on this program now informs how Trinity Offshore Construction approaches offshore planning, execution, and safety on Platform projects.
Cable lay and J-tube installation Project Context
The Platform power optimisation program covered offshore construction from site surveys and rigging plans, liaising with Engineers, Fabrication to execution across more than 20 offshore platforms supporting operations. All work was carried out in demanding marine environments with live production constraints and complex offshore interfaces.
Karl Mulder served as Construction Lead (Specialist), responsible for offshore planning, coordination, and execution from early site surveys through to installation and close-out. The scale and duration of the program required consistent leadership, strong procedural control, and coordinated execution across multiple assets over 3,5 years.
Offshore Construction Scope of Work
Offshore Construction Management
Karl led offshore construction management activities across multiple platforms, coordinating work sequences and managing interfaces between construction, operations, and engineering teams. Execution was aligned with approved procedures and lift plans to ensure safe and consistent delivery across all assets.
J Tube Installation
The scope included J tube installation works supporting Platform Cable lay Pull-ins and control systems. These activities required controlled offshore handling, precise alignment, and careful interface management to ensure safe installation within constrained offshore environments.
Cable Pull In and Offshore Electrical Works
Cable pull-in operations were executed across multiple offshore assets using controlled tension management and rigging systems. Works were carried out under live operating conditions, requiring disciplined execution, clear communication, and strict adherence to offshore safety procedures.
Site Surveys and Rigging Design
Early site surveys and the development of detailed rigging designs formed a critical part of the program on which all Engineering was based on and none of the proposals were challenged or declined. Based on these activities, offshore lifts, pull-ins, and installation works were executed within defined limits and aligned with engineering intent with perfection.
Safety, Leadership and Offshore Programme Management
Upgrading Platform power systems of over 20 platforms across live offshore assets presents significant operational and safety challenges. The primary challenge was executing construction and installation activities without disrupting production while maintaining strict offshore safety standards.
Karl’s delivery approach focused on disciplined planning, detailed rigging strategies, and strong offshore leadership. Clear communication between offshore crews, engineering teams, and stakeholders was maintained throughout the program. A strong safety culture and strict procedural compliance were essential to managing risk across multiple platforms and extended timeframes.
Results and Project Outcomes
The offshore construction program was delivered successfully across all assets while maintaining stable operations throughout execution. The work contributed to improved power system reliability and long-term operational performance.
The program reduced execution risk through controlled offshore interfaces, disciplined planning, and consistent leadership. The experience reinforced best practices for managing long-duration of J-Tube installation, coordinating with heads of departments for the installation of lifting Aids. Project planning and creating Lifting plans through site surveys on which all Engineering was based ensured a great collaboration with Engineers which was instrumental in the success of the project.
If you are planning a Cable lay power upgrade, or deepwater construction project, contact our team to discuss your offshore engineering and construction requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an FPSO?
An FPSO, or Floating Production Storage and Offloading unit, is a floating offshore facility used to process hydrocarbons, store oil, and offload it to tankers. FPSOs are commonly used in deepwater developments where fixed platforms are not practical.
What does FPSO power optimisation involve?
FPSO power optimisation involves upgrading or improving onboard power systems to support reliable production and long-term operational performance. This often requires offshore construction and cable installation works on live assets.
What is deepwater offshore construction?
Deepwater offshore construction refers to offshore works carried out in water depths typically greater than 500 metres. These projects involve higher technical complexity and require experienced offshore crews and specialised equipment.
What is a J tube installation?
A J tube is a curved steel structure installed on offshore facilities to guide cables or pipelines from the seabed to the platform or FPSO. Installation requires precise offshore handling and controlled pull-in operations.
What does cable pull in mean offshore?
Cable pull in is the controlled process of pulling power or control cables from the seabed into offshore structures using rigging systems and tension control methods.
Why is offshore power upgrade work high risk?
Power upgrades are often carried out on live offshore assets, requiring careful planning to avoid operational disruption while managing lifting, rigging, and electrical installation risks.
How does this experience support future FPSO projects?
Experience gained on complex FPSO power optimisation programmes directly supports future offshore projects requiring disciplined execution, risk management, and sustained offshore leadership.