Tampnet has deployed a Private Multi-Access Edge Compute (PMEC) with 4G/5G capabilities on Vår Energi’s Jotun FPSO, the first installation of its kind on a floating production storage and offloading unit (FPSO).
The new deployment marks a new chapter in offshore operations, where full wireless coverage lays the foundation for real-time data processing, seamless sensor integration and smarter, safer platforms. The Jotun FPSO at the Balder Field on the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS) is now the first FPSO globally equipped with a full PMEC-enabled private network, supported by high-speed fibre-backhaul to the Ringhorne platform.
The project is part of Vår Energi’s Digital Field Worker program, which is improving safety, efficiency and data quality by connecting field workers on offshore installations with digital applications to cover 80% of tasks performed. The program is already fully implemented (using Wi-Fi) on Goliat, with Gjøa to follow, while Vår’s Southern North Sea assets – including Balder and Ringhorne – are now 4G/5G enabled. Jotun FPSO leads the next digital phase, powered by Tampnet’s Private 4G/5G PMEC solution.
“This is a true industry-first, a digitally enabled FPSO with edge compute onboard. Vår Energi is raising the bar, and we’re proud to help them lead this transformation. This deployment showcases how combining connectivity and edge technology creates smarter, safer and more autonomous offshore operations”, said Per Atle Sørensen, Vice President and Head of Market Unit North Sea at Tampnet.
Tampnet’s solution at Jotun includes dedicated cellular coverage, local compute power (PMEC) and secure private network capabilities to support real-time communication, predictive maintenance, edge AI, remote assistance and more.
The offshore environment presents unique challenges: steel structures block traditional Wi-Fi signals, latency can be critical, and safe operations depend on instant communication and data access. Private networks with edge computing solve this by enabling real-time data transfer from sensors and devices platform-wide.
