Noble Corporation, a U.S.-based offshore drilling company, has received a technical qualification (TQ) certificate from DNV, an energy and assurance provider, for its advancements in carbon capture and storage (CCS) rig technology. The certificate, presented this week by DNV’s CEO Remi Eriksen to Noble’s CEO Robert Eifler, recognizes Noble’s efforts in assessing the impact of CO2 operations on rig systems and developing solutions for safe offshore CO2 handling.

Noble Interceptor rig

Noble stated: “We’re extremely proud of the work our Low Carbon Solutions group is doing to advance the capabilities that are crucial for scalable offshore carbon storage.” Last year, DNV issued a Statement of Qualified Technology, confirming Noble’s mobile offshore drilling unit (MODU) is equipped for drilling, interventions, and workovers involving CO2.

To support CCS well drilling, Noble is developing a modular rig package addressing challenges such as CO2 ventilation, temperature, and corrosion of blowout preventer materials. A key issue is CO2’s higher density compared to methane, which Noble is tackling with a second ventilation line to direct CO2 downward into the sea, preventing leaks onto the drill floor. The package will include sensors to monitor CO2 levels. Prototype testing is planned for 2026, with commercial use targeted for 2027 or 2028.

Noble has gained CCS experience through Project Greensand in the Danish North Sea, led by INEOS and Harbour Energy. On March 8, 2023, the project achieved the world’s first cross-border CO2 injection and offshore storage. After DNV verified the safety of the CO2 storage process, the Greensand Future Project was approved, establishing Denmark’s first commercial CO2 storage site at the Nini field. Noble, the preferred drilling contractor for Greensand until 2027, supports the project’s goal of storing up to 8 million tons of CO2 annually by 2030.

Noble is also collaborating with BP and DNV to develop a CCS-enabled rig design for drilling and workover operations. The company emphasized: “Inspired by initiatives like Project Greensand and the testing we do on the Noble Interceptor, these innovations show our dedication to advancing energy solutions.”

Beyond CCS, Noble is exploring sustainable fuel options like green methanol, which could reduce CO2 emissions by up to 95% compared to diesel on jack-up rigs. The company has implemented energy-efficient initiatives, including the world’s first shore-powered rig and a hybrid, low-emission rig upgrade. Its Energy Efficiency Insights program, applied to 29 rigs, achieves 6–10% reductions in fuel use and emissions.

Noble continues its global hydrocarbon exploration while enhancing sustainability, with a drillship set to begin a new campaign offshore Ghana later this month.