The SEPLA combines two proven technologies - suction piles and plate anchors - to increase the anchor point efficiency of pre-set moorings and reduce mooring system costs for floating structures.

The SEPLA system uses a suction follower (similar to a suction pile) to embed a plate anchor deeply in the soil. The suction follower is retrieved once the plate anchor is brought to design soil depth and can be used again and again to install additional plate anchors.

SEPLA anchors have the same location and depth precision as suction piles but are more efficient geotechnically. They are significantly smaller and up to four times lighter than equivalent suction piles, substantially reducing the cost of the mooring system.

Chris Johnston, segment head and group managing director, said: "I am proud of the team for getting ABS class approval. It is an important achievement in the field of permanent moorings for floating facilities, be it in oil and gas or floating offshore wind, where reducing capital cost without sacrificing safety and reliability is paramount."

The SEPLA has a successful track record of over 180 installations worldwide, from the Gulf of Mexico to West Africa and Asia.