Energy giant Shell has started production at its Whale floating facility in the Gulf of Mexico . The development, designed to replicate the efficient model of the Vito platform, is shaping up to be a key step forward in the company’s deepwater operations . Whale is 60% owned by Shell Offshore Inc. in partnership with Chevron USA Inc., which owns the remaining 40%.
Efficient Whale production with lower environmental impact
Whale has been designed to maximise energy efficiency, integrating advanced gas turbines and compression systems that reduce greenhouse gas intensity by 30% compared to its predecessor Vito. It is expected to reach peak production of 100,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day , with recoverable resources estimated at 480 million barrels.
Whale’s design leverages 99% of Vito’s hull structure and 80% of its topside components, demonstrating Shell’s ability to optimize processes and reduce costs. Located in Block 773 of Alaminos Canyon, the facility is connected to 15 wells via advanced subsea infrastructure .
Providing long-term value
Zoë Yujnovich, Shell’s Director of Integrated Gas and Upstream, highlighted the strategic importance of the project: “Whale reinforces our commitment to delivering reliable energy while reducing our carbon footprint .” In addition, this project is part of a comprehensive plan to consolidate the Gulf of Mexico as a leading region in efficient oil and gas production.
Whale’s strategic location, 200 miles south of Houston, complements Shell’s operations in the area, such as the Silvertip field and the Perdido platform . Discovered in 2017, the project managed to start operations just seven years later, even overcoming challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Source: Shell
Photo: Shutterstock
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