Last year, Elemental Energies, a global leader in well engineering, subsurface, and project management, joined forces with Archer, a world-renowned drilling and well services company, to launch a pioneering joint venture (JV). This strategic partnership was established to deliver integrated plugging and abandonment (P&A) services for decommissioning projects worldwide, formalising a long-standing collaborative relationship between the two companies.
The JV combines Elemental Energies’ extensive experience managing over 700 wells—including 210 deepwater projects and 500 decommissioning operations—with Archer’s advanced well services technology and global operational reach. With a heritage stretching back more than 50 years, Archer has built a reputation for delivering advanced well services and innovative technology, operating in over 40 countries with a workforce of 5,000 professionals. This formidable partnership is aiming to set new industry standards by streamlining project execution and cutting P&A costs for operators.
Redefining P&A Efficiency
The joint venture recognises that many operators are seeking more flexible and integrated solutions to both platform and subsea P&A, and this partnership aims to deliver highly efficient planning, design, and execution, with a focus on the most effective methods to plug and abandon all well types.
This fully integrated approach allows operators to access tailored solutions from initial project planning through final execution. The JV’s dedicated team works closely with clients to implement best-in-class P&A methods that optimise performance while minimising environmental impact. By leveraging top-tier well engineering and innovative abandonment techniques, the JV seeks to reduce the overall cost of permanent P&A for clients worldwide.
A Timely Industry Response
The partnership comes at a pivotal moment, with global offshore decommissioning expenditure projected to double over the next two decades. Industry operators face mounting pressure to reduce costs while meeting stricter environmental and safety standards.
Recognising the unique requirements of different regions and clients, the JV has tailored its offerings through both integrated service models and traditional contracting approaches. This flexibility allows operators to choose what best suits their specific decommissioning requirements. By providing bespoke solutions, the JV ensures that each operator can optimise performance and cost savings, addressing the varied demands of different projects.
As a company with over 35 years of operational experience, Elemental Energies brings a wealth of knowledge to the JV. The company’s history of strategic acquisitions—including Senergy Wells, Norwell Engineering, and Norway-based Well Expertise—further enhances its service capabilities. These acquisitions strengthened its expertise in exploration, field development, decommissioning, and emerging areas like carbon capture, utilisation, storage (CCUS), and geothermal energy.
Meanwhile, Archer continues to evolve its service portfolio through targeted acquisitions. Its purchase of Wellbore Fishing & Rental Tools in mid-2024 added specialised P&A and fishing services to its already robust offering. With experience spanning drilling, xx, and renewables services—including geothermal, carbon storage, and offshore wind—Archer’s operational footprint positions the JV as a global P&A powerhouse.
Driving Sustainability and Innovation
The JV’s long-term focus stretches beyond operational efficiency and cost reduction. Both companies see the partnership as a chance to drive innovation in P&A technology while supporting decarbonisation efforts across the energy sector. By optimising project design and execution, the JV aims to minimise the environmental impact of decommissioning projects.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to sustainability and industry leadership. With a focus on delivering integrated, flexible solutions and driving innovation, the JV positioned itself as a key player in the growing decommissioning market. As both Elemental Energies and Archer continued to pursue independent growth and new opportunities, the JV sets a high benchmark for excellence in well decommissioning and provided a model for collaboration that would shape the future of the industry for years to come.