The Kvitebjorn rich gas pipeline, which runs from the Kvitebjorn platform in the North Sea to Kollsnes processing plant outside Bergen, Norway, was closed on August 20, 2008, following the discovery of a minor gas leakage from the pipe.
The gas leakage was discovered during a routine inspection of the pipeline in connection with start-up after a scheduled shutdown. The leakage is in the same place where the pipe was damaged in 2007 by a ship’s anchor, roughly 10km from the platform. The pipe was qualified for temporary use in January 2008 pending permanent repairs that were scheduled for summer 2009.
If it is necessary to change the repair strategy underway, start-up will most probably take place around June 1, 2009. During the period until repairs start, Kvitebjorn will continue with the planned drilling program as well as continuing with necessary scheduled maintenance work.
