In the realm of offshore energy, the Mexico Area 1 Development project, spearheaded by ENI Mexico, stands as a testament to technological advancement and strategic collaboration. This initiative, particularly in its second phase, has not only exemplified engineering prowess but also underscored the potential of international cooperation in the energy sector.
The core objective of this phase was the provision of composite cables, ancillaries, and technical assistance services. The scope and scale of this undertaking were substantial, involving the supply of 18,000 meters of 33 kV cable composite submarine cable with optical fibres and 14,500 meters of 4.15 kV submarine cable, also equipped with optical fibers. Additionally, the project entailed the supply of accessories for the installation and onshore and offshore termination of these cables, along with technical assistance for their deployment and commissioning.
A unique aspect of this project was the delivery method – using three massive cable reels, each carrying different lengths and types of cables, with gross weights ranging from 18,000 kg to 310,000 kg. This logistical feat underscores the complex nature of modern offshore projects.
Assigned in July 2022 and successfully completed by December 2023, the project’s execution was seamless. The cables’ components were manufactured and tested by Tratos Cavi SPA and then shipped to MFX in Brazil for final assembly, sheathing, armoring, and testing before being delivered to the port of Salvador Baia. The entire project was managed by Tratos Cavi SPA, which also oversaw the engineering phase and collaborated with PCS Italiana for the accessory construction.
This project marks the third major undertaking by ENI in Mexico’s Area 1, following the optical cable project in 2017 and the composite medium voltage cable project with optical fibre in 2019. These projects collectively highlight the ongoing commitment to enhancing offshore connectivity and power supply.
With an estimated value of several million USD for supplies alone, excluding assistance and commissioning of accessories, the Mexico Area 1 Development Phase II project is not just a financial investment but a milestone in the evolution of offshore energy projects. It demonstrates the intricate ballet of engineering, logistics, and international collaboration necessary to propel the energy sector into a future of sustainable, efficient, and reliable power generation and distribution.
