Petrofac files for administration amid financial challenges

Core Viewpoint - Petrofac, a US-based energy services company, has initiated administration proceedings for its holding company due to financial difficulties, while ensuring that its North Sea operations remain unaffected [1][2]. Company Operations - The administration process is targeted specifically at the Group's ultimate holding company, and the group's operations will continue to trade [2][3]. - Administrators will collaborate with executive management to preserve value, operational capability, and ongoing service delivery across the group's entities [4]. Financial Situation - Petrofac's financial position has significantly deteriorated, with its value dropping from approximately £6 billion ($9 billion) in 2012 to around £20 million ($26.7 million) before share trading was suspended in May 2025 [5]. - The decline in financial health is attributed to a Serious Fraud Office investigation, multiple profit warnings, delayed contract payments, and rising operational costs [5]. Industry Context - The termination of a significant offshore wind contract with Dutch grid operator TenneT disrupted Petrofac's planned financial restructuring [2]. - The Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce expressed concerns regarding the challenges faced in the North Sea supply chain, emphasizing the importance of Petrofac to the local economy [5][7]. - The UK Department of Energy Security and Net Zero noted that Petrofac's UK operations continue to function normally, highlighting the skilled workforce and successful contracts [6].