Drillship first to receive ABS EHS-E notation

Valaris upgraded the vessel’s electrical system to secure the notation, which recognises sophisticated system design to improve reliability and enhance protection. The Valaris electrical system is specifically designed to allow the drillship to optimise powerplant performance, enabling operations on fewer generators and reducing emissions.

“With this enhanced notation, VALARIS DS-12 exemplifies our company’s purpose of providing responsible solutions that deliver energy to the world,” said Gilles Luca, Valaris senior vice president and chief operating officer.

“I want to recognise our engineers, ABS and thank our customer, BP, for their support. This is truly a remarkable team achievement that paves the way to more sustainable deepwater drilling,” he added.

ABS has surveyed the upgraded system and tested it to ensure it can operate on reduced generator power. The short circuit and fault ride through capability was demonstrated on board the vessel with ABS in attendance.

Matt Tremblay, ABS vice president, global offshore, commended Valaris on its accreditation. “As the world’s leading global offshore class, ABS is well placed to help forward thinking operators such as Valaris achieve next generation operations,” he said.

The EHS-E notation was introduced in the ABS Guide for Dynamic Positioning Systems in October 2021.