TMC and Allseas Sign Agreement for First Commercial Deep-Sea Nodule Recovery System
The Metals Company (TMC) has entered into a significant commercial agreement with offshore contractor Allseas to develop and operate the world's first commercial deep-sea nodule recovery system. This partnership aims to facilitate offshore recovery operations in the Clarion Clipperton Zone of the Pacific Ocean. The system is designed with a nameplate production capacity of 3 million wet tonnes per year, utilizing two collector vehicles operating at depths exceeding four kilometers. Collected nodules will be transferred to the surface vessel Hidden Gem via a specialized riser system. Conceptual and basic engineering for critical components, such as the riser pipe and umbilical systems, are already complete, with vendor engagements expected by the third quarter of 2026. Commissioning of the offshore system is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2027. Under the terms of the deal, Allseas will fund a portion of the development costs, which will be recoverable through future production revenues. TMC CEO Gerard Barron described the agreement as the contractual cornerstone of their strategic alliance, emphasizing the move from scientific testing to commercial-scale operations while minimizing environmental impact.
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