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Liberty Industrial completes Northern Producer decommissioning with 98% material recycling rate
14 January 2025
Liberty Industrial has successfully completed the decommissioning of the Northern Producer Floating Production Platform, achieving a 98% recycling rate.
The explosive work undertaken was deemed to be of an exceptionally high standard by the World Demolition Award’s panel of expert judges. (PHOTO: Liberty Industrial)
This project, the company’s second decommissioning undertaking in the UK, took place in Kishorn, Scotland, and is notable for being the first major decommissioning project conducted in the remote region.
The work involved decontaminating, dismantling, and repurposing materials from the 11,200-tonne asset, while following stringent local and international environmental standards.
The Northern Producer, a retired floating production platform, was decommissioned in a dry dock on behalf of Qualimar Shipping Limited and Northern Offshore UK Ltd.
The project was completed with zero environmental breaches, no incidents, and no lost time, which Liberty Industrial said exemplifies its focus on safety and environmental responsibility. The high standards of work to which the project was carried out to, also saw it win Project of the Year in the Explosive Category at the 2024 World Demolition Awards.
The Northern Producer was lowered using explosive charges. (PHOTO: Liberty Industrial)
Environmental and Recycling Achievements
Liberty Industrial’s approach centred on minimising landfill use and maximising material recovery.
By utilising a comprehensive waste management programme that comprised precise categorisation, processing, and tracking of materials to ensure efficient recycling, the project resulted in significant environmental and recycling outcomes:
Steel Recycling - Over 11,200 tonnes of steel were recycled, contributing significantly to the circular economy.
Equipment Repurposing - Five Solar Turbines gas engines, two gearboxes, and various electrical instruments were salvaged and sold for global reuse.
Marine Waste as Fertiliser - 42 tonnes of marine growth were treated by Keenan Recycling to create nutrient-rich fertiliser, which was distributed for agricultural use in the local community.
Thousands of tonnes of steel and other materials was sorted and recycled. (PHOTO: Liberty Industrial)
Lifeboats Resale - Four lifeboats were sold to local buyers, repurposed for recreational purposes.
Rock Blanket Reuse - A 4,500-tonne rock blanket used to protect the dock floor was preserved for future decommissioning projects.
Heritage Contributions - Marine artifacts from the platform were donated to a heritage site.
Ballast Water Treatment - More than 1,300 cubic metres of ballast water was safely treated and discharged following regulatory standards.
Collaboration with Local and International Entities
The project was executed in partnership with several organisations, including Solar Turbines, European Metal Recycling, 4D Controls, and Keenan Recycling, as well with the support of the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency. Local community members also played a role by purchasing lifeboats and other items for reuse.
The decommissioning of the Northern Producer platform was carried out at a remote site in Kishorn. (PHOTO: Liberty Industrial)
Liberty Industrial’s Director, Clinton Dick, said: “At Liberty Industrial, we aim not only to deliver the best environmental outcomes on every project but also to provide transparency for our clients to support their own sustainability goals.
“The recycling program aims to recirculate materials back into the supply chain. This project exemplifies our values and showcases our dedication to decommissioning leadership for the oil and gas industry.”
Setting New Standards for Decommissioning
The Northern Producer decommissioning project adopted what the contractor described as a pioneering approach by conducting work in a dry dock in a remote location. This innovative method required a blend of technical expertise and collaboration with entities across the UK and Europe.
Jed Van Iersel, Liberty Industrial’s Decommissioning Manager, said: “This project demonstrates a determined and effective solution for the decontamination, deconstruction, and ethical disposal of oil & gas legacy assets.
“Our approach supports the energy transition by focusing on local decommissioning practices and recycling. Liberty Industrial’s commitment to safety, environmental responsibility, innovation, and collaboration sets a high standard for the industry.”
With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and collaboration, Liberty Industrial’s efforts reflect the increasing importance of ethical decommissioning practices in the transition to a more sustainable energy future.
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