Ultra Mobile Solar Hybrid Solution for Mobile Rig Camps in Abu Dhabi

Abstract This paper presents the implementation and performance evaluation of a mobile solar-hybrid power system deployed by an onshore oil & gas operator in the UAE. The system uses an ultra-mobile, containerized solar solution to power mobile accommodation camps, traditionally powered by conventional diesel generators. Since November 2023, the operator has been using this system to power a mobile rig camp in a prolific field southwest of Abu Dhabi. The system comprises two 75 kWp solar containers (including inverters), a control panel (energy management system and data logger), and two diesel generators (one prime and one standby), with capacities varying according to load requirements over the operation duration. The energy management system, developed in-house by the provider, maximizes solar utilization, and ensures efficient operation of all energy sources. The system has provided substantial benefits over its nine-month operation, primarily reducing CO2 emissions by 47% compared to diesel-only generators. This equates to approximately 262 tons of CO2 or around 100,000 liters of diesel saved. The containerized design enables rapid transport and installation, with mobilization times of under four hours. The hybrid system also lowers fuel consumption and maintenance costs, improving the economic viability of running the mobile rig camp. Real-time monitoring is crucial to the system's safe and efficient operation, providing high reliability and uptime without requiring excessive onsite personnel. Compared to the previous diesel generator setup, the hybrid system's reliability is a significant advantage, eliminating frequent shutdowns caused by manual generator switchovers. Overall, the deployment of the ultra-mobile containerized solar-diesel hybrid power system has been successful, demonstrating significant CO2 emissions reduction and improved operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The lessons learned from this project highlight the importance of sustainable energy solutions for off-grid applications in the oil and gas sector.