Stones is a phased development that began production in September 2016 from two flowing subsea wells tied back to an FPSO. Full-field development includes six more wells from two connected drill centers, and a subsea boosting system to increase production and extend the life of the field. This paper will describe the technology qualification program and execution experience from developing and delivering the world’s first 15 ksi ultra deepwater subsea pump, as well as lessons learnt from the project, through component qualification, engineering, manufacturing, testing and installation. In addition, experience from commissioning and start-up of the boosting system will also be described.

Multiple technology gaps were identified to meet the HPHT design parameters for Stones. To close these gaps an extensive Technology Qualification Program (TQP) was executed together with OneSubsea Processing. This was the start of a cooperation between Shell and OneSubsea with a common goal; to deploy the world’s first 15 ksi ultra-deepwater boosting system.

Following the TQP, an EPC contract was awarded in 2015 that included a pump station with two off 2.9 MW pumps and topside power drive system. The pump system has been through an extensive execution and test phase that has been completed without any injuries. The complete system has now been handed over to the operator and has partially been installed as part of the world’s deepest oil and gas project. The Stones boosting system will enable the operator to maintain and extend production in addition to significantly increase the recovery at the field.