ABB announced it has successfully completed a 3,000-hour shallow water test on its subsea power distribution and conversion technology system - a $100 million research, design and development project between ABB and Equinor with its partners, which brings groundbreaking potential for cleaner, safer and more sustainable offshore oil and gas production.

For the first time energy companies will be able to access a reliable supply of up to 100 MW of power over distances up to 373 miles and down to 1.8 miles water depth, at pressures that could shatter a brick, according to ABB.

This is all achievable with a single cable with little or no maintenance for up to 30 years, making oil and gas production feasible in far out and deep ocean environments.

ABB's complete subsea power distribution and conversion system includes a step-down transformer, medium voltage variable speed drives and switchgear, control and low voltage power distribution, and power electronics and control systems.

"This milestone marks an outstanding achievement and is the culmination point of an inspirational technology development achieved through tremendous dedication, expertise and perseverance. It is the result of intensive collaboration by over 200 scientists and engineers from ABB, Equinor, Total and Chevron in a multi-year, joint effort," said Dr. Peter Terwiesch, President of ABB's Industrial Automation business.

Source: ABB