Equinor has awarded contracts to Shearwater GeoServices for two 4D seismic monitoring projects aimed at enhancing production optimisation in the Mariner field in the UK North Sea and the Heidrun field in the Norwegian Sea.

Shearwater's advanced Isometrix technology will be deployed at the Mariner and Heidrun fields to detect reservoir dynamics over time, for optimising reservoir management and improving production efficiency.

The two-month-long seismic surveys are due to be conducted using the SW Amundsen vessel and an additional undershoot vessel.

The Isometrix deployments are part of Equinor's broader vision for enhancing production while maintaining sustainable practices in its oil field operations.

Shearwater CEO Irene Waage Basili said: “These projects underscore our shared ambition for pioneering and repeating production monitoring solutions, and we look forward to once more supporting Equinor in navigating towards the efficient optimisation of resources.

“Our dedication to providing top-tier seismic technology and expertise will provide Equinor with the insights needed to continue delivering long-term, sustainable value creation from the Mariner and Heidrun fields.”

In a separate announcement, Equinor, on behalf of the partners, has exercised two options to extend contracts for drilling services on the Norwegian Continental Shelf with KCA Deutag Drilling Norway, Archer and Odfjell Technology.

The initial contracts with the companies were signed in 2018 with three option periods of two years. In 2022, the first two-year option was exercised.

Equinor said that the options for drilling services on fixed installations have an estimated value of Nkr18.4bn ($1.75bn). It is expected to provide jobs for 2,000 people per year.

The companies will provide drilling, completion, intervention services, plugging, maintenance and modifications for Equinor’s 19 fixed installations.