Infrastructure
Client: Metapetroleum Ltd
Country: Colombia
Role: Geotechnical & Environmental Consultant
Purpose: Assessment of a new pipeline design.
In September 2007, Metapetroleum Ltd. contracted Inogen Associate GeoIngenieria to conduct the geotechnical and environmental evaluation of the basic engineering designs of the Rubiales - Cusiana pipeline, a 230 km proposed new line in the west plains of Colombia. The client commissioned a detailed assessment of the geotechnical and environmental protection works required to ensure the adequate design of the pipeline.
Outcome / Client Benefits:
Field reconnaissance to the proposed pipeline corridor allowed us to detect a series of likely severe environmental impacts and foresee technical difficulties during the construction stage with high risks of execution delays and expensive over costs.
After a detailed analysis of alternatives, GeoIngenieria proposed a series of realignments to the initial line design avoiding environmental sensitive areas and preventing related impacts. The Environmental Impact Assessment was completed according to the terms of reference set forth by the Colombian regulations. The new design obtained the Environmental License issued by the National Environmental Authority without any request of additional mitigation measures, saving significant time and cost for our client.