Global energy consultancy Xodus Group has appointed a new late life and decommissioning lead in Asia-Pacific following a significant increase in activity in the region.
Alasdair Gray is taking on the role, having been with Xodus for more than 13 years. He has gained extensive experience in the design engineering of subsea pipelines, subsea construction and field decommissioning over the course of his career.
Xodus has been heavily involved in the inception of the new Centre of Decommissioning Australia (CODA) which will officially launch on March 10. The collaborative industry effort will address the challenges and maximize the opportunities of decommissioning Australia’s ageing oil and gas infrastructure. CODA has been established by Perth-based National Energy Resources Australia (NERA).
Alasdair said: “Although there is an ageing asset pool, decommissioning in the region is still in its infancy and we can see that through the ongoing engagement between state and federal governments and industry. Our strong regulatory and industry body relationships allow us to stay informed and input into any policy updates and changes as they are introduced and our involvement in CODA will only enhance that. My previous experience also allows me to draw on the decommissioning knowledge gained during my years in the UK and the challenges in the North Sea.”
In December, Australia’s Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources released a consultation paper entitled ‘Enhancing Australia's Decommissioning Framework’. The report will look at increased government scrutiny of title transfers, greater assurances that companies can meet their obligations and the ability for government to recall a previous owner to decommissioning if required.
Alasdair added: “We expect that decommissioning in APAC, and particularly Australia, is really going to accelerate over the next few years and Xodus’ knowledge and expertise in late life assets and environmental challenges from around the world can provide local operators with valuable guidance throughout the process.”
Simon Allison, Xodus’ regional director for APAC said: “As well as first-hand project experience of decommissioning in Australia, our integrated way of working means we can draw on the company’s extensive North Sea track record while bringing together the best local engineering and environmental knowledge.
“Alasdair, through his passion and worldwide experience across the asset lifecycle, has shown that he can provide valuable insight into the decommissioning process and present safe and cost-effective solutions to complex problems. I have no doubt he will continue to be a real asset and broaden our work in his new role.”
Alasdair started his career in Aberdeen, Scotland, before moving to Perth in early 2017. He has served as project engineer, lead engineer and project manager for several conceptual, FEED and detailed design studies around the world. In recent years, he has gained extensive experience in analysing options for large-scale decommissioning projects, including detailed work across the planning process, regulatory engagement and comparative assessments.
Alasdair is a chartered engineer with the IMechE and graduated from the University of Edinburgh with an MEng in mechanical engineering.
Xodus is presenting on ‘Subsea cable key challenges of an intercontinental power link’ at AOG at 16.00 on March 10.
