SULLOM VOE

• GBSUL
• Latitude: 60.4528
• Longitude: -1.28612
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: Shetland Shetland Islands ZE2 9UR UK

Sullom Voe Marine Port, UK: Description and Specification

Location: Sullom Voe is a marine port located in the Shetland Islands, Scotland, UK. It sits within a sheltered harbour on the north coast of Mainland, the largest island in the Shetland archipelago.

Geographic Coordinates: Latitude: Approximately 60.45° N Longitude: Approximately -1.35° W

Description: Sullom Voe is widely known for its significant role in the oil and gas industry, primarily because it hosts one of Europe's largest oil terminals. The terminal receives crude oil from the Brent and Ninian pipelines. The Sullom Voe terminal started operations in 1978 and continues to be a critical node in the UK's energy infrastructure.

Key Features:

1. Oil Terminal:

   • The Sullom Voe Terminal, operated by EnQuest, includes extensive facilities for crude oil processing, storage, and export. It comprises several jetties and a sophisticated system for handling large oil tankers.
   • The terminal has storage tanks with a total capacity of over 6.25 million barrels of crude oil.

2. Tanker Facilities:

   • The port has multiple jetties and berths designed to accommodate oil tankers of various sizes, including Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs).
   • Tankers with a draft up to approximately 20 meters can be accommodated, presenting significant flexibility for maritime traffic.

3. Navigation and Access:

   • Sullom Voe features deep water channels, making it accessible to large vessels.
   • High levels of navigational aids and safety equipment ensure secure passage and docking for ships under a variety of weather conditions.

4. Anchorage Area:

   • The anchorage area provides safe holding grounds with over 30 meters of water depth to accommodate large ships awaiting berth.

5. Environmental Considerations:

   • The region experiences strong tides and current variations, but the natural shelter provided by the voe ensures relatively calm waters.
   • There are stringent environmental regulations in place to minimize the impact on the surrounding marine and terrestrial ecosystems, emphasizing oil spill prevention and emergency readiness.

Operational Aspects:

1. Cargo Handling:

   • Primarily focused on crude oil, but the port also handles associated gas and refined products occasionally.
   • Facilities include both single-point moorings (SPMs) and fixed jetties.

2. Support Services:

   • Towage and pilotage services are available for safe navigation.
   • Maintenance and emergency response capabilities are robust, reflecting the port's central role in the oil industry.

3. Regulatory Compliance:

   • Sullom Voe complies with international maritime regulations and standards. The port is regularly inspected to ensure safety and security.

4. Climate and Weather:

   • The area is subject to temperate maritime climate conditions, with variable weather including strong winds during winter months.

5. Economic Impact:

   • The port is critical for the local economy, providing employment and supporting auxiliary services in the Shetlands.
   • It also contributes significantly to the UK's overall oil production capacity.

Conclusion

Sullom Voe marine port in the UK is a highly specialized and strategic hub within Europe's oil and gas infrastructure. Its advanced facilities and geographical advantages make it an essential asset for crude oil processing and export, while stringent safety and environmental protocols ensure sustainable operations.