Stephen Whitfield

2 weeks ago | drillingcontractor.org | Stephen Whitfield

H&P is introducing the Cat Dynamic Gas Blending (DGB) Gen 2 Kit by Caterpillar Oil & Gas to its drilling rig fleet. The DGB Gen 2 Kit is designed to retrofit existing engines, including the Cat 3512C, maximizing engine efficiency while reducing the need for costly engine replacements. By utilizing advanced port-injection technology, the system optimizes the air-to-fuel ratio in the cylinder, minimizing methane slip and improving thermal efficiency.

3 weeks ago | drillingcontractor.org | Stephen Whitfield

By Stephen Whitfield, Senior EditorDigitalization and automation have become critical developments in offshore drilling in recent years, as OEMs work with operators and drillers to develop technologies that can improve rig operations. But even as digital software and apps are taking greater precedence in the tech space, advanced hardware and their associated systems are also primed to deliver time savings, performance boosts and safety improvements.

3 weeks ago | drillingcontractor.org | Stephen Whitfield

New contract for VALARIS DS-10 in West AfricaValaris was awarded a two-year contract offshore West Africa for the VALARIS DS-10 drillship that is expected to commence in late Q2 or Q3 2026. The total contract value for the firm term is $352 million and does not include the provision of additional services. The contract includes two unpriced options, each with a duration of one year.

3 weeks ago | drillingcontractor.org | Stephen Whitfield

By Linda Hsieh, Editor & PublisherIn the city of Vienna, Austria – known the world over for its beautiful architecture and cultural landmarks – drilling is now ongoing as part of efforts to build the city’s first deep geothermal plant. On 27 March, I joined several dozen attendees of the inaugural IADC Geothermal Drilling Conference for a tour of the drilling site, and it was amazing to witness the milestone project first-hand.

3 weeks ago | drillingcontractor.org | Stephen Whitfield

Deferred P&A could add billions to UK decom costsAnalysis by Westwood Global Energy Group shows that timing uncertainty around decommissioning is driving up financial and operational risks for operators. Political and fiscal uncertainty has impacted investor confidence in the UK, which is accelerating the decline of domestic production.