Rydberg project marks new milestone for Shell in the Norphlet Corridor, Gulf of Mexico

Shell Offshore Inc., a key subsidiary of Shell plc, has announced the commencement of production at the Rydberg project, a significant addition to the deep-water portfolio in the Gulf of Mexico. This new venture is expected to yield an impressive peak production rate of 16,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d), positioning it as a pivotal asset for meeting current and future energy demands.

Located approximately 75 miles off the coast of Louisiana in the Mississippi Canyon, within the strategic Norphlet Corridor, the Rydberg project is a subsea tie-back to the Shell-operated Appomattox production hub. This development underscores Shell’s commitment to leveraging the best growth opportunities in the Gulf of Mexico, a region where the company has established a commanding presence as the leading deep-water operator.

Rich Howe, Shell Deep Water Executive Vice President, emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, “Rydberg will further boost production in the Norphlet Corridor at Appomattox, which is consistently one of our highest producing assets. As we meet the energy demands of today and the future, we will continue to mature the best opportunities for growth in the Gulf of Mexico.” This statement highlights Shell’s strategic focus on expanding its high-performing assets while adhering to sustainability principles.

Shell Offshore Inc. Begins Production at Rydberg in Gulf of Mexico: A Major Boost for Appomattox Hub. Photo courtesy of Shell.

The Rydberg project’s integration into the Appomattox hub, initiated with two production wells connected via a single insulated 12-mile flowline with a dynamic umbilical, showcases Shell’s innovative approach to deep-water exploration and production. Shell’s operation of Appomattox with a 79% working interest, alongside CNOOC’s 21%, further demonstrates the collaborative efforts in maximizing resource utilization and operational efficiency in the region.

Shell’s operations in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico are distinguished by some of the lowest greenhouse gas (GHG) intensities in the world for oil production, reflecting the company’s dedication to environmental stewardship. The Rydberg project’s development aligns with Shell’s broader commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its operations, leveraging advanced technologies and operational practices to minimize GHG emissions.

The announcement of Rydberg’s production start is not just a testament to Shell’s operational capabilities but also to its strategic vision for sustainable growth in the energy sector. With an estimated recoverable resource volume of 38 million boe, classified as 2P under the Society of Petroleum Engineers’ Resource Classification System, Rydberg represents a significant contribution to Shell’s portfolio and the global energy landscape.

In conclusion, the initiation of production at Rydberg by Shell Offshore Inc. marks a noteworthy achievement in the Gulf of Mexico’s oil and gas sector. This project exemplifies Shell’s ongoing commitment to meeting the world’s energy needs while prioritizing sustainability and operational excellence. As the energy industry continues to evolve, Shell’s strategic investments and innovations in deep-water exploration and production set a benchmark for the sector, contributing to a more sustainable energy future.

The commencement of production at Rydberg by Shell Offshore Inc. represents a significant milestone in the Gulf of Mexico’s oil and gas industry. This project not only reinforces Shell’s position as a leader in deep-water operations but also underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. With Rydberg, Shell continues to set high standards for operational efficiency, environmental stewardship, and meeting the global energy demand, highlighting the strategic importance of the Gulf of Mexico in the global energy landscape.