Integrated Control & Safety Systems (ICSS) Upgrade on CNOOC International’s Buzzard Asset

Project Background

Since it produced first oil in 2007, CNOOC International’s Buzzard asset has produced more than 800 million BOE, making it one of the UK’s highest-producing fields. 

Located about 100 kilometres northeast of Aberdeen, UK, Buzzard is a significant North Sea asset and ensuring the continued safe and reliable operation of its infrastructure supports regional energy security, protects offshore personnel, and contributes to the stability of energy supply across the UK and wider European markets.   

CNOOC International required a modernisation of the Integrated Control & Safety Systems (ICSS) on the Buzzard asset. The existing ICSS, built on ABB AC800 and Safeguard 400 platforms, has provided reliable service for many years but now faces increasing lifecycle challenges including system obsolescence, limited vendor support, and evolving cybersecurity requirements.  

With considerable operational life remaining for the Buzzard asset, the client required a robust ICSS upgrade to ensure continued safe and reliable operations.  

Services

C&I Engineering Solutions, a Penspen company, are working with CNOOC International to deliver a comprehensive ICSS upgrade. Our solution focuses on delivering a modernised ICSS architecture capable of supporting the long-term operational requirements of the Buzzard platform.  

Key elements include:  

• Replacement and modernisation of legacy control and safety system infrastructure  

• Alignment with current operational, safety, and cybersecurity standards  

• Design and implementation of architecture capable of supporting safe and scalable operations  

Result

The ICSS upgrade is designed to deliver a robust, future-ready ICSS solution that supports safe operations and long-term asset integrity. The updated systems not only reduce lifecycle risk associated with obsolete equipment, but also increase system reliability and operational availability, as well as enhancing cybersecurity resilience. 

 “Our team has worked with the team at CNOOC International to deliver an ICSS upgrade that will improve the long-term reliability and maintainability of their systems, with enhanced vendor support,” said Richard Auld, Technical Director – C&I Engineering Solutions. 

 “Our engineering teams continue to work closely with the operator and stakeholders to ensure the upgraded system protects operational continuity throughout the remaining life of this critical UK North Sea asset.”