BP plans repairs at Azeri oil platform from Oct. 31

 British oil major BP plans repair works at one of its main oilfields in Azerbaijan from Oct. 31 for one month, BP-Azerbaijan president said, in a move that may further reduce oil production in the country.

Gordon Birrell told reporters the company would "slowly run down" operations at the Central Azeri platform from Oct. 31.

"These turnarounds (maintenance) are planned one year in advance under our annual plan and budget, which is agreed with the government," Birrell said. "The effect of the turnaround is built into a production forecast."

It would end by Dec. 2, he added.

Falling output at the main Azeri, Chirag and Guneshli (ACG) oilfields has been a cause of concern in Baku for several years.

BP and its partner, Azeri state energy firm SOCAR, tried to ease those worries last year by saying production had stabilised. Total oil output grew last year for the first time since 2011 to 43.15 million tonnes.

Earlier this year, however, BP said 2014 oil production at ACG might be slightly lower than in 2013, because it planned maintenance work at the Central Azeri and West Azeri platforms.

Birrell said BP would replace some worn-out equipment.

"That ensures the safety and reliability of the facility," he said.

Crude oil and condensate production in Azerbaijan fell to 32.1 million tonnes in January-September this year from 32.8 million tonnes in the same period last year. 

(Reuters) 

Bakudaily.Az