India's state-controlled Oil & Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has initiated the process to secure a mobile offshore production unit (MOPU) for its Mumbai High field off the west coast. The company recently issued expressions of interest for the facility, which is intended for marginal field development at the asset.

Project Specifications and Timeline

ONGC is seeking the MOPU for a lease period of approximately seven to 10 years, with operations expected to commence in the second half of 2026. The required unit must be sizable, capable of handling gas production between 4 million and 6 million cubic metres per day. It would be bridge-linked to an existing process complex platform and must include multiple process facilities such as well fluid handling, separation, gas dehydration, compression, and chemical injection systems.

Procurement and Contractor Responsibilities

The expressions of interest process serves as a market survey ahead of a formal tender. The subsequent contract will involve the supply of a jack-up rig and its conversion to a MOPU as per ONGC's specifications. The chosen contractor will also be responsible for topsides modification, hook-up, commissioning, and the operation and maintenance of the facility.

Strategic Context and Production Goals

This initiative is part of ONGC's broader redevelopment efforts at the ageing Mumbai High field, for which it has partnered with BP as a technical services provider. ONGC has committed $400 million in capital expenditure for the first redevelopment phase. BP has indicated the partnership could increase oil and gas production from the field by up to 60% from baseline levels over a 10-year period, aiming to unlock up to $15 billion in revenues from incremental production.

Broader Operational Strategy

The Mumbai High asset, along with other west coast fields like Bassein & Satellite and Neelam Heera, is strategic to ONGC's plans to sustain and expand domestic oil production. This move aligns with India's national goal to enhance energy security through increased domestic output. ONGC's wider offshore portfolio includes numerous other projects in the west coast region, such as the Ratna, R-Series, and Cluster 9 developments, following a 2022 announcement of 18 major offshore projects.