Houston-based Gate Energy has successfully clinched the commissioning contract for Woodside's Trion floating production unit (FPU) project, overseen by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. (HHI). This venture marks Gate Energy's entry into offshore Mexico, further expanding its global presence in the energy market. While the contract value remains undisclosed, Gate Energy expressed enthusiasm about strengthening its collaboration with HHI and contributing to the first oil production facility in Mexico's deepwater acreage in the Gulf of Mexico.

The Trion deepwater development, situated in the Gulf of Mexico within the Perdido Fold Belt, features water depths ranging up to 8,200 feet. Woodside Energy Group Ltd. received regulatory approval in September to proceed with the Trion oil field development, with first oil anticipated in 2028. Woodside operates the field with a 60 percent stake, while PEMEX Exploracion y Produccion holds the remaining 40 percent.

Mark Myhre, President of Commissioning at Gate Energy, emphasized the milestone achieved with the Woodside Trion FPU project commissioning contract. He highlighted the trust and confidence clients place in Gate Energy's capabilities, noting that this is the third consecutive FPU project awarded by HHI.

The FPU will be constructed in South Korea, with an ambitious target for first oil production in 2028. The reserves at Trion will be accessed through an FPU with a capacity of 100,000 barrels per day, connected to an FSO vessel with a capacity of 950,000 barrels. The initial drilling phase includes 18 wells, comprising nine production wells, seven water injectors, and two gas injectors. Woodside plans to drill a total of 24 wells over the life of the Trion project.

Gate Energy, specializing in engineering, commissioning, and specialty field services for the energy sector, transitioned to 100 percent employee ownership in June. The move aligns the company's organizational structure with its values and culture, providing employees with a direct stake in the company's success. Gate Energy believes that the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) ensures job security, enhances employee benefits, and fosters a sense of ownership, collaboration, and commitment to quality and safety.

Gate Chairman and Founder Grant Gibson expressed confidence in the ESOP model, emphasizing the benefits it brings to clients, including a dedicated workforce, continuous improvement, and commitment to safety. The transition to employee ownership positions Gate Energy strategically for future growth amid the ongoing energy transition.