Metering

A project with permits, funding, and engineering approved, allowing field work to begin immediately. For subcontractors, it signals that mobilisation and contract awards are imminent. Pursuing shovel-ready work reduces the risk of scoping delays eating into your margins.

A reduction or suspension of oil, gas, or construction operations ordered by the operator or regulator. For subcontractors, curtailment often means standby, demobilisation, or reduced scope with little notice. Review your contract carefully for curtailment clauses that affect payment and mobilisation costs.

A system of buried cables and conduits that delivers power across a site without overhead lines. Subcontractors must locate and verify these lines before any excavation or ground disturbance. Unmarked or mislabelled lines create serious safety and liability risks on job sites.

A peaking facility is an energy plant activated only during periods of high demand, such as extreme cold snaps. For subcontractors, these sites generate short-notice, high-intensity work orders requiring rapid crew mobilisation. Expect compressed timelines and premium billing opportunities during activation periods.

A purchase or work order automatically issued to a subcontractor when a client's primary vendor cannot fulfil a job. It serves as a backup contract, so subcontractors should confirm scope and rates before accepting. Default orders may come with tighter mobilisation timelines.

A moored vessel used solely to store crude oil or LNG offshore, without production capabilities. Subcontractors are engaged for inspection, maintenance, and marine support work aboard these assets. Mobilisation logistics and offshore safety certifications are typically required before access is granted.

How Operator Mergers and Acquisitions Affect Your Subcontract Agreements

When operators merge, get acquired, or sell assets, subcontractor agreements are caught in the middle. Learn how M&A activity affects your MSA, payment terms, vendor status, and what to do before, during, and after a deal closes.

How Rig Count Trends Affect Subcontractor Demand and What to Do About It

Rig counts are the earliest signal of where field service work is heading. Learn how to read drilling activity trends, anticipate demand shifts, and position your crew before the phone stops ringing.

What Is an AFE in Oil and Gas and How Does It Affect Subcontractor Payments?

An AFE (Authorization for Expenditure) controls every dollar spent on an oilfield project. Learn how it affects your billing, change orders, and cash flow as a subcontractor.