Review of Cabled Observatory Systems and Their Applications to Deep Water Oil and Gas

Abstract

Scientific cabled observatory systems have been deployed around the world with significantly increased capabilities over the last five years. The concept and rationale for cabled ocean observatories is introduced with detail on their function as modern and powerful tools used to understand a broad range of ocean science objectives. In addition to science, other applications are discussed, such as site and equipment monitoring for tidal and wave based renewable energy projects. Similarly, the same technology can be applied to oil and gas production (monitoring, control and intervention), along with port and coastal security surveillance. The paper provides an overview of cabled observatory elements with three cabled observatory projects described as examples. It describes the various features and capacities that each system offers to its users. The paper introduces a modular subsea uninterruptable power supply capable of providing 150kWhr of capacity per module. This system can be used in conjunction with cabled observatories to provide load leveling and guaranteed data collection in the event of a cable fault. The paper concludes with applications for cabled observatory systems related to environmental monitoring and well head control in the oil and gas industry.