A Graduate in the Field – by Kristian Birkeland

On June 5th, I received an incoming Teams call from the project manager for T&I in Valhall PWP-Fenris. The excitement hit instantly when I got confirmation of what I had been eagerly awaiting for the past few weeks. In true northern Norwegian fashion, I didn’t need to hear more than “Javæll, e du klar før tur?” (“Alright, are you ready for the trip?”) to realize I had been given the opportunity to join the installation of the PWP jacket and the connecting bridge to PH at Valhall.

We mobilized from the Mekjarvik quay and were transported to SSCV Sleipnir by boat. It’s quite an impression to dock at one of the world’s largest lifting vessels and come face to face with such enormous dimensions. I got my first adrenaline rush during boarding, which involved being lifted by crane several tens of meters above the sea in a basket. What made it extra special was that we were lifted onto the deck just a few kilometers from my own front door in Stavanger, before Sleipnir set course for open sea.

Onboard, I took on the role of junior client representative and joined the night shift. My first thought was that it would be quiet, and I feared missing the major lifts. Luckily, I was completely wrong. “It’s during the night shift that things happen,” I was told the first night, and I can confirm that was absolutely true. My tasks included logging and preparing the daily report, which might sound trivial. On the contrary, with the goal of maximizing my learning, these tasks really forced me to understand every step of the operation. Even just taking photos for the report meant I had to be present on deck when things happened, giving me the chance to speak directly with the professionals doing the work. It was incredibly educational.

The operation offered a wide range of experiences. Among them was piling. I couldn’t imagine how one could drive gigantic steel pipes 45 meters into the ground. It turned out the principle of “hammering a nail” still applies, you just need a big enough hammer. I gained insight into aspects like pile sway, meaning the pile swings more with increasing wave height. This is important to consider when the hammer strikes with energy equivalent to a 3-ton car at 160 km/h. It’s like with a nail, it breaks if you hit too hard when it’s slightly tilted. Beyond the technical aspects, I also felt the seriousness in meetings with Heerema when things didn’t go quite as planned. At the same time, there was room for lighter moments, like feeling part of an American action movie when the ROV pilots from Oceaneering consistently confirmed commands with a crisp “Roger that.”

The biggest highlights were the set-down of the jacket and the bridge, both of which happened while I was on duty. Seeing the bridge connect new infrastructure to the existing was a moment I’ll never forget.

For a graduate nearing one year in the company, this was a major experience. Since my first day, I’ve heard that “it’s you young and promising ones we need to invest in.” It’s one thing to say it, another to actually send someone out. It proves that Aker BP is a company that invests in young people and has its eyes set on the future. I’ve had the opportunity to be part of many things this past year, and this trip was the highlight. What an incredible learning experience it is to be out in the field—and above all, what a huge motivation it gives for further development.

Thank you for the trip, and thank you for the experience.

Kristian Birkeland, Graduate Project Engineer

Milestone Marked for 1000-Ton Module for New Valhall Platform

On August 11th, Aker BP, together with NOV and Nymo, celebrated an important milestone in the Valhall PWP project: the completion of equipment installation on the 1000-ton MEG module being built at Nymo’s yard in Grimstad.

Among the several hundred skilled workers attending the event were Grimstad Mayor Beate Skretting, Nymo owner Knut Ugland, Head of NOV’s Process Systems division Rune Fantoft, Project Director for Valhall PWP-Fenris Rannveig Storebø, and Aker BP CEO Karl Johnny Hersvik.

Local Ripple Effects

“This is a landmark day for Nymo and the entire Southern Norway region. The project has brought record-high activity to our workshops in Grimstad and Arendal. Most notably, we’ve tripled the number of apprentices—from 7 to 20—which strengthens recruitment into the industry,” said Nymo CEO Øyvind Boye.

In addition to the MEG module, Nymo has also built the bridge that will connect the new platform to the existing Valhall field center. The bridge, weighing around 1200 tons, was completed and transported from Nymo’s facility at Eydehavn in Arendal to the field in June.

The projects have had significant ripple effects for the local business community. Goods and services worth over 600 million NOK have been purchased from local companies.

“At times, more than 800 employees have been present at our facilities in Grimstad and Arendal simultaneously. This illustrates both the complexity and the tremendous boost these projects have given to the region’s industry,” said Boye.

Efficient One-Team Collaboration

The MEG module is a central part of the Valhall PWP development, where Aker BP is the operator. The module will enable the recycling of monoethylene glycol (MEG) in pipelines between Valhall and the Fenris field, located 50 kilometers away. This prevents hydrate formation and ensures efficient operations.

NOV Process Systems is the main supplier of the MEG module and has delivered the design, fabrication engineering, and procurement of all key equipment. Nymo, contracted by NOV, has been responsible for fabrication and completion. This is the first MEG regeneration system ever fabricated in Norway.

“We are proud and pleased to deliver this project with Aker BP, Nymo, and other partners and suppliers. MEG regulation systems are among the most technically advanced process technologies required for offshore gas production. Completing this project with fabrication in Norway, and continuing collaboration with Aker BP as the technology is deployed at Valhall, is a major milestone for us,” said Rune Fantoft of NOV. He emphasized that Aker BP, NOV, and Nymo have worked closely and integrated as one team to achieve this project milestone.

Production start in 2027

The MEG module will be completed and prepared for transport during the year and shipped to Aker Solutions’ yard at Stord early next year for finalization. The platform will then be installed at the Valhall field. Production start is planned for the second quarter of 2027.

“Valhall PWP-Fenris is one of the largest ongoing development projects on the Norwegian continental shelf. We are proud that so much of the work on PWP-Fenris is being done in Norway, especially in Southern Norway. This brings significant ripple effects to the local business community and contributes greatly to competence development in the industry,” said Project Director Rannveig Storebø of Aker BP.

The Valhall PWP-Fenris project is part of a comprehensive execution plan for Aker BP. In total, the company is investing around USD 20 billion in the development of new and existing fields on the Norwegian continental shelf.

A great start to her career as a graduate in Aker BP

For Anne Maren, the transition from student life to working life has been just as she hoped – and more.

After five years of studies at NTNU, where she completed an integrated master’s degree in mechanical and energy technology with a specialisation in structural engineering, she was ready for new challenges. Now, she works as a subsea engineer on the Yggdrasil team at Aker BP, and she’s thriving.

International experience in her backpack

Anne Maren made the most of her time as a student. She spent exchange semesters at Politecnico di Milano in Italy and at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia. These experiences have given her both solid academic expertise and an international perspective, valuable assets in a global industry like oil and gas.

A workplace that invests in technology and people

When Anne Maren started her new job at Aker BP, the most important factor was the people.
– I was warmly welcomed by my colleagues. The company has an incredibly inclusive culture, she says.
– I learn something new every single day, and that’s what makes me love my job.

She is part of the Yggdrasil project, which is currently the largest development on the Norwegian continental shelf. Aker BP is heavily focused on innovation and new technology to develop the next generation of solutions for subsea operations.
– It’s incredibly rewarding to work on projects that are exciting, challenging and sustainable, Anne Maren says.

A strong social environment for graduates

Starting out as a new graduate can be challenging, but Aker BP makes sure that new employees settle in well, both professionally and socially.
– The first weeks were packed with activities where we got to know each other. It made it easy to build a network and make new friends, says Anne Maren.

The graduate program at Aker BP includes both professional and social gatherings throughout the year. Every six months, all graduates come together for sessions that combine learning with social activities.

Advice to other students

For students considering a graduate position or a summer job at Aker BP, Anne Maren has a clear piece of advice:
– Keep an eye out on career days at your university and reach out to the companies you’re curious about. Don’t be afraid to send an email, make a call or have a chat with them at events. You never know what opportunities might come up.

She herself had a summer internship at Aker BP before starting as a graduate, which made the transition even smoother.
– I worked in the Concept Development department, and it gave me valuable insight into how the company operates. After that, I was sure Aker BP was the place where I wanted to start my career.

Courage, curiosity, and a career at Aker BP

Meet Diana Busingye, one of our newest graduate engineers at Aker BP.

Born and raised in Uganda, Diana developed a strong sense of resilience, curiosity, and ambition early on. Her passion for energy and engineering took her to France, where she earned a Master’s degree in Petroleum Engineering and Project Development from IFP School. Stepping into a new country and culture was a leap of faith that opened the door to extraordinary opportunities.

Towards the end of her studies, Diana applied for Aker BP’s graduate programme and, after receiving an offer, made the move to Norway. A new country, new challenges, and a new beginning with our team. Since joining in March 2025, she has been contributing to projects within Drilling & Wells on the Skarv Asset, from cross-functional workshops to hands-on planning sessions.

Diana describes her experience so far as enriching and inspiring:

Every day brings something new to learn, someone new to collaborate with, and a deeper appreciation for the work we do. Clarity and courage go hand in hand.

Diana Busingye

Aker BP supports students who need to relocate in order to work for the company.

– I was put in touch with a relocation company that helped me find a suitable apartment. It made the move easy, and I was able to focus on settling in both at work and in my new city, says Diana.

Graduate

The graduate positions are permanent jobs with extra focus on training in the first year. As a graduate, you get to participate in gatherings, network meetings and courses, which increase yourskills and understanding of the company and how we work.

Aker BP is now hiring graduates

In mid-July, Aker BP announced the graduate positions starting in 2026. The application deadline is August 24.

Aker BP offers a safe and structured learning environment, where candidates are given challenges, responsibility, and the support needed to make a real impact together with colleagues who want to see you succeed.

Are you a student or recent graduate looking for a place to grow, learn, and take responsibility? Then the graduate programme at Aker BP might be your next step, Diana recommends.

– There are opportunities everywhere at Aker BP. Sometimes, all you need is the courage to take that first step, Diana concludes.

Thriving on nutrients from the North Sea

Last year, Aker BP, with the help of Allseas, removed the 2/4-G jacket from the Ekofisk field. The jacket was transported to Aker Solutions in Stord for recycling. It had been installed in the North Sea in 1981, and after 43 years in the ocean, the yellow steel was covered in marine growth and mussels.

Nutrients in mussels

Calcium carbonate
(from the shells)
Raises pH in acidic soils and strengthens plant cell walls.

Phosphorus (P)
Important for root development and flower formation.

Proteins and amino acids
(from the mussel meat)
Break down to provide nitrogen.

Trace elements
Small amounts of zinc, copper, and manganese.

Nutrients in marine growth (seaweed and kelp)

Potassium (K)
Important for flowering and fruit development.

Calcium (Ca)
Strengthens cell walls and helps neutralize acidic soil.

Magnesium (Mg)
Essential for chlorophyll production.

Micronutrients
Including iron, boron, manganese, zinc, and copper.

Organic Matter
Improves soil structure and feeds beneficial microorganisms.

Alginic Acids and Polysaccharides
Can enhance the soil’s ability to retain moisture.

Recycling Platforms

Aker Solutions is a leader in platform decommissioning and recycling. Each year, several offshore platforms arrive at Stord, and they appear massive when placed on the quayside, visible from much of the surrounding town.

The steel is highly sought after on the raw materials market, as the platforms are constructed with exceptionally high quality. The steel is melted down along with household scrap and turned into rebar for the construction industry. Aker Solutions maintains a detailed environmental accounting system, and their contribution plays a key role in making Norwegian industry sustainable and circular.

Organic Waste

Marine growth and mussels don’t smell pleasant when brought ashore. They start to rot quickly, and a strong odor spreads in the summer heat. The Norwegian Environment Agency has previously pushed for offshore waste handling by operators.

Now, Aker Solutions has entered into an agreement with an innovative company, Reve Kompost. They receive the organic waste and produce compost, which becomes nutrient-rich soil and organic fertilizer. Aker Solutions has cleaned the jacket, and Reve Kompost has taken in all the marine growth and mussels. The result: nutrient-rich soil for flowers.

Back to Aker

Rogaland County Municipality is currently finalizing the new bus route at Jåttå. Risa AS is responsible for, among other things, the landscaping along the road and has used 80 m³ of compost made from marine growth and mussels in the flower beds.

Now, flowers are blooming and greenery is thriving in front of Aker BP and Aker Solutions’ new office building, GNIST, in Jåttåvågen, nourished by resources drawn from our own history in the North Sea.

Illustrasjonsbilde av en digital tvilling, her av Yggdrasil-feltet som har planlagt oppstart i 2027

Aker BP AI Strategy

We’re excited to announce the launch of Aker BP’s new AI Strategy – a major step in our journey to become the industry’s first truly AI-first exploration and production company.

The strategy outlines how we will use AI to accelerate growth, transform how we work, and build a strong, responsible foundation for the future. From unlocking new value and automating routine tasks, to strengthening governance and data security, AI will play a central role in how we operate, innovate, and deliver results across the business.

At the core of the strategy are four areas of guiding principles: investing where AI creates the most value, developing our internal capabilities, scaling on a unified and scalable AI foundation, and ensuring AI is implemented ethically and responsibly.

This is a company-wide strategy that touches every part of our organization

We aspire to lead the energy sector into a data-driven future. AI is a catalyst for this journey – enhancing decision-making, boosting efficiency, and cutting costs across all our business units and assets.

We aim to seamlessly integrate AI applications within our industrial settings and business objectives.

«Let’s lead the future of energy—smarter, faster, and stronger—with AI at the heart of our journey» – says Paula Doyle, Chief Digital Officer.

Höegh Evi and Aker BP receive DNV Approval in Principle for next-generation CO₂ carrier

Höegh Evi and Aker BP have been awarded an Approval in Principle (AiP) from DNV for a next-generation liquefied CO₂ (LCO₂) carrier. The vessel, developed in Norway by Höegh Evi, Aker BP and Moss Maritime, is designed to transport captured CO₂ safely and cost-efficiently from European industrial emitters to offshore sequestration sites on the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS).

Aker BP’s engagement in CCS:

  • Aker BP is evaluating opportunities for CO₂ storage on the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS) primarily as a potential new growth opportunity, but also as a mean to support Europe’s decarbonization efforts.
  • Aker BP is currently the operator on two CCS licenses (Atlas and Poseidon) and a partner on a third on the NCS.
  • In 2023, Aker BP and Høegh EVI entered into a collaboration agreement to provide the marine CO₂ infrastructure required to collect, aggregate, and transport CO₂ from emitters on the European continent to the NCS.

Pioneering a new class for CO₂ shipping
DNV’s Approval in Principle includes a comprehensive assessment of the vessel’s design, including its onboard CO₂ conditioning module. It is the first to be reviewed under DNV’s new CO2 RECOND class notation, developed specifically for CO₂ handling and conditioning.

The approval marks a significant step in enabling the Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) value chain and industrial decarbonization in Europe.

“This designation from DNV affirms the strength of our technical solution, which is key to realizing Höegh Evi and Aker BP’s unique CCS offering. Together, we can deliver a cost-efficient path to decarbonization, by connecting large-scale carbon emitters to permanent storage offshore,” said Nils Jakob Hasle, EVP Clean Energy at Höegh Evi.

 We are excited to leverage Aker BP’s extensive upstream expertise to mature and develop CO₂ storage solutions on the Norwegian Continental Shelf. We appreciate the integrated and collaborative efforts with Höegh Evi in the development of the CCS value chain. This innovative design with designation from DNV is expected to set new benchmarks in safe, cost-efficient, and sustainable large-scale CO₂ transportation and storage,” said Ørjan Jentoft, Asset Manager for CCS at Aker BP.

DNV is pleased to collaborate with such a strong consortium of partners to help bring this large-scale CCS project closer to realization. This AIP demonstrates how maritime regulations with DNVs new class rules can support the development of safe and cost-efficient solutions for CO2 transportation and offshore injection – an essential step toward building cost-effective CCS value chains,” said Christina Saenz de Santa Maria, COO at DNV Maritime. 

Part of an integrated solution for CO₂ transport and storage 

The next-generation liquefied CO₂ (LCO₂) carrier is a key part of a fully integrated carbon removal option for both large and dispersed EU emitters. By integrating CO₂ conditioning and offloading capabilities directly into the shuttle carriers, the design minimizes complexity, reduces risk of impurity co-mingling and ensures reliable injection into offshore reservoirs. Two approved variants of CO₂ vessels will offer total capacities of up to 50,000 m³ of liquid CO₂. 

Höegh Evi and Aker BP’s CCS solution can be applied for the Aker BP-operated CO₂ storage licenses on the NCS, EXL 005 Poseidon and EXL 011 Atlas. While initially sized to handle up to 10 million tonnes of CO₂ per annum, it may be scaled to accommodate growing market demand.

Aker BP shares ocean data to boost transparency and innovation

Oslo, Norway

Aker BP is now openly sharing time series data on ocean and weather conditions through HUB Ocean’s Ocean Data Platform. This includes wave heights, currents, wind, and sea temperatures, vital information for offshore operations, environmental monitoring, and climate research.

The move supports Aker BP’s commitment to transparency and innovation and sets an example for the wider ocean industry. Aker BP aims to inspire others to share data that can improve ocean knowledge and sustainability, and its collaboration with HUB Ocean—a member of the UN Ocean Decade Corporate Data Group—helps make that possible. Together, they are helping shape a global standard for corporate ocean data sharing.

“This aligns with our vision for a more transparent, data-driven future,” says CEO Karl Johnny Hersvik. “We hope others in the energy sector will follow.”

The data spans from 2021 to today and is now available for scientists, engineers, and industry players to explore and combine with other datasets.

HUB Ocean CEO Kimberly Mathisen adds: “The real value comes from combining datasets to see the bigger picture. We encourage others to join us in raising the bar for ocean transparency.”

A recent HUB Ocean report, Tides of Transparency, found that only 3% of the largest biodiversity repositories contain private sector contributions, highlighting the urgent need for greater industry participation in data sharing.

Aker BP’s contribution helps close a major gap in private sector data sharing, supporting better decisions for ocean health and sustainable resource use.

Facts about HUB Ocean

HUB Ocean is an independent non-profit ocean foundation. Deeply grounded in science, Hub Ocean’s mission is to change the fate of the ocean by unleashing the power of data, technology and collaboration. HUB Ocean | Unlocking Ocean Data.

As a member of the UN Ocean Decade Corporate Data Group, HUB Ocean advocates for global open data sharing by ocean industries. Met ocean data – covering wave heights, currents, wind speeds, and sea temperatures is crucial for offshore operations and planning, environmental monitoring, and climate research.

HUB Ocean’s Ocean Data Platform enables users to analyze, visualize, and share insights that contribute to ocean health and sustainable resource management. Aker BP’s contribution expands the platform’s high-quality dataset repository, fueling innovation in climate resilience, maritime operations, and marine biodiversity research.

Aker BP and Aker Solutions complete first remote-controlled offshore drone flight 

Aker BP and Aker Solutions have reached a significant milestone in remotely controlling drones for offshore operations. The drone operation took place on Aker BP’s Edvard Grieg platform, while the drone operator controlled the mission from Aker Solutions’ control center in Jåttåvågen in Stavanger. 

Using technology to manage and monitor drone operations across locations, Aker Solutions carried out the first full drone operation using a so-called resident drone system on the Norwegian continental shelf. A resident drone system is stationed and partially integrated at a remote location—Edvard Grieg in this case—and maintains the drone while ensuring communication with the remote operator. This marks a major step toward autonomous offshore operations in our industry. 

“Aker BP’s operations strategy outlines that robotics and drones should be an integrated part of observation, inspection, and task execution offshore. These technologies should operate autonomously or be remotely controlled, either on-site or onshore. We are now demonstrating that this development is underway. By freeing up offshore accommodations to make room for new projects, we are shifting more tasks that can be done from onshore to exactly that. This builds on years of experience with remote operations, now with robotics and drones at the center,” said Thomas Øvretveit, SVP Operations, Aker BP.

Equipped with autonomous navigation and advanced sensors, the drone collected high-resolution images and data during its inspection rounds. Controlled from onshore, the flight sets a new standard for the use of robotics, AI, and digital technologies in offshore inspection and maintenance. In addition to confirming the system’s ability to perform safe operations, experience and data were gathered to further develop use cases and improve the system toward full operational deployment. 

“It’s no coincidence that we are now reaching milestones in operationalising technology in Aker BP Operations. Over the past few years, we have cultivated a set of strategic technology areas that have also been prioritized in terms of Research & Development funding. When we combine enthusiasm for new technology, strong vision and direction, and—most importantly—assets that roll up their sleeves, we have a lot in place to realize the potential of new technology. Through close collaboration with Aker Solutions, we have achieved remote-controlled drone operations. Together, we are taking an important step toward more autonomous and efficient offshore operations,” said Michelle Williams, Business Transformation Manager, Aker BP.

New major investment from Aker BP on «Equal Opportunities» in Norwegian volleyball

Aker BP has signed a new sponsorship agreement with the Norwegian Volleyball Federation. The company will be the general sponsor for three more years to ensure the federation’s long-term work with «equal opportunities» in Norwegian volleyball. The agreement strengthens the investment in para volleyball and elite sports for women in volleyball and beach volleyball. 

The agreement is valid from 2026 to 2028 and was signed during the opening of the European Championship in sitting volleyball in Stavanger on Wednesday 21 May. 

«Aker BP has been the general sponsor of the Norwegian volleyball federation for two and a half years, and we are proud that the cooperation has given a significant boost to both sitting volleyball and elite women in beach volleyball. Working for equal opportunities to perform in sports takes time, effort, and significant resources. Aker BP wants to be a predictable partner. We are signing an agreement today that ensures continued and increased focus on this important work in Norwegian volleyball after 2025,» says Lars Høier, SVP Yggdrasil. He signed the agreement on behalf of Aker BP. 

The Work Has Just Begun 

Aker BP and the Norwegian volleyball federation entered into the first three-year agreement at the beginning of 2023. For the first time in history, the volleyball federation then signed a commercial agreement for para-sports. 

«The cooperation has contributed to the establishment of national teams, increased recruitment, and a higher level in sitting volleyball in Norway, as well as the implementation of the first-ever European Championship here in Stavanger. The funds from Aker BP have also given our best female athletes in beach volleyball better opportunities to perform and compete internationally. This is the result of systematic work over several years and external funds that make it possible,» says Secretary General Guro Røen of the volleyball federation. 

«At the same time, our work on equal opportunities has just begun. We depend on solid partners, and it is fantastic that Aker BP is continuing as a partner in our long-term work to ensure that people with disabilities and women have equal opportunities to perform in volleyball,» adds Røen. 

Women to Compete Internationally 

Over 50 percent of the members of the Norwegian volleyball federation are girls and women. The volleyball federation is now developing a new strategy for women in volleyball, where the goal is ensure that more female athletes can compete at elite level, and to revive the national team. 

In beach volleyball, the women’s national team is further strengthened, and the goal is for more teams to compete in international tournaments, and for one team to qualify for the Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028. 

«Aker BP has over time chosen to support organizations that have a clear strategy for ‘One Sport – Equal Opportunities.’ The Norwegian volleyball federation has both that and clear goals for the future. We look forward to cooperation for many years to come, and we are especially pleased that the cooperation now also includes the investment on women in volleyball, in addition to sitting volleyball and beach volleyball,» concludes Lars Høier. 

The men’s national team Mol/Sørum will also be part of the new agreement from 2026.