Monday, 30 December 2024

Cheniere Achieves First LNG at the Corpus Christi Stage 3 Project

Cheniere Energy, Inc. (“Cheniere” or the “Company”) (NYSE: LNG) today announced that liquefied natural gas (“LNG”) was produced for the first time from the first train (“Train 1”) of the Company’s Corpus Christi Stage 3 Liquefaction Project (“CCL Stage 3”). The commissioning process continues, and Cheniere expects substantial completion of Train 1 to be achieved at the end of the first quarter of 2025, over six months ahead of the guaranteed completion date. Upon substantial completion, Bechtel Energy, Inc. (“Bechtel”) will transfer care, custody and control of the completed train to Cheniere.

Full notice to proceed on CCL Stage 3 was issued to Bechtel by Cheniere in June 2022. CCL Stage 3 consists of seven midscale trains, with an expected total production capacity of over 10 million tonnes per annum (“mtpa”) of LNG. As of November 30, 2024, overall project completion for CCL Stage 3 was 75.9%, which reflects engineering 96.8% complete, procurement 97.2% complete, subcontract work 87.7% complete and construction 39.2% complete. Upon substantial completion of all seven trains of CCL Stage 3, the expected total production capacity of the Corpus Christi liquefaction facility will be over 25 mtpa of LNG.

Sunday, 29 December 2024

Venture Global’s Plaquemines LNG Achieves Historic First LNG Production

Today, Venture Global announced it has reached first LNG production at the company’s second facility, Plaquemines LNG, in Port Sulphur, Louisiana. Achieving this milestone for a 20 MTPA nameplate capacity project 30 months from its Final Investment Decision (FID) makes Plaquemines LNG one of the two fastest greenfield projects to reach first production, along with Venture Global’s first facility Calcasieu Pass. Once fully operational, Plaquemines LNG will be among the largest facilities in the world.

“Venture Global is proud to have a world-class team wholly dedicated to our company’s mission of innovating to provide reliable, low-cost, LNG to the world. Because of their hard work and commitment, Venture Global is executing on our promise to deliver much-needed LNG to our allies and strengthen global energy security and reliability. Reaching first LNG at Plaquemines at this pace will enable the United States to remain the top exporter of LNG in the world. Between current and planned facilities, Venture Global is prepared to invest $50 billion in energy projects based in the United States which will create jobs, support local economies, strengthen the balance of trade and unleash much needed US LNG supply to our allies,” said Venture Global CEO & Co-Founder Mike Sabel.

Plaquemines LNG reached a Final Investment Decision on Phase One in May 2022, and on Phase Two in March 2023. Because of Venture Global’s unique configuration and construction approach, Plaquemines will produce and export LNG while construction and commissioning continues for the remainder of the project’s 36 trains and associated facilities, unlocking significant additional US LNG supply years faster than any other new suppliers of LNG to the rapidly growing global market. This incremental supply has proven to be a valuable geopolitical asset for the United States especially in recent years during a time of historically tight global LNG markets and project delays.

Thursday, 31 October 2024

Sahara Group and Amigo LNG Sign Long-Term LNG Supply Deal

Sahara Group, a leading global energy and infrastructure conglomerate announced today that it has entered into a Heads of Agreement (HOA) with Amigo LNG SA de CV (Amigo LNG) of Mexico, a subsidiary of LNG Alliance Pte Ltd, to supply Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) from its liquefaction facility in Guaymas, Sonora, Mexico. This agreement marks a significant step in strengthening long-term LNG supply chains aimed at serving the rapidly growing energy markets in Asia and Latin America.

“This agreement strengthens our collaboration with Sahara Group, a dynamic leader in Africa’s energy sector, and firmly positions Amigo LNG as a key player in the global LNG supply market,” said Muthu Chezhian, CEO of LNG Alliance Pte Ltd. “Our partnership drives forward our shared vision of delivering sustainable, reliable, and scalable energy solutions to meet the world’s evolving needs. Together, we are committed to advancing energy transition goals, fostering innovation, and expanding access to clean energy resources globally, creating lasting impact and positive change for future generations.”

Wale Ajibade, Executive Director, Sahara Group, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “This HOA with Amigo LNG perfectly aligns with Sahara Group’s commitment to bringing energy to life responsibly by facilitating access to clean, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions. By expanding our LNG portfolio, we are reinforcing our dedication to delivering more affordable energy globally. This partnership not only strengthens our foothold in the LNG industry but also positions us to support energy transition efforts. We are excited to collaborate closely with Amigo LNG and look forward to the transformative impact we will create together.”

The Amigo LNG project, a large-scale 7.8 MTPA liquefaction and export facility located on Mexico’s west coast, benefits from its proximity to key shipping lanes and access to Asia-Pacific markets. Developed in close cooperation with the State of Sonora and the Port of Guaymas, this facility is a vital component of Mexico’s emerging LNG export industry.

KPHL Sign FLNG Pre-Feed Contract

On the sidelines of the 2024 Petroleum & Energy Conference today, Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited Managing director, Wapu Sonk signed a Pre-Front-End Engineering & Development (FEED) contract for a Floating LNG (FLNG) facility in the Gulf of Papua, in PNG.

Mr Sonk announced that this important contract had been awarded to Shanghai Wison Offshore & Marine Company Ltd. Mr Damien Nguyen, the Chief Technical Officer (CTO), who signed on behalf of the company said Wison is delighted to work closely with Kumul Petroleum in its ambitious plan to commercialise gas fields in Papua New Guinea.

“Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited has for some time been investigating how to commercialise stranded gas resources, particularly those in our Petroleum Retention Licenses (PRLs 47 &50) over the Pandora and Uramu gas fields, offshore of Gulf Province,”

“This is a critical step and in the right direction, one we are extremely excited about as the National Petroleum Company,” Mr Sonk said.

“KPHL has evaluated these gas discoveries and completed reserve certification, which has given us confidence to move to this stage of the commercialisation plan.”

“KPHL is 100% license holder of the two PRL offshore licenses at the moment and intends to farm down post this study to interested partners who see value in the 1.5mtpa FLNG project in PNG.”

“This pre-FEED study is a necessary step to ensure that we understand the full scope, cost, schedule, risk and the full economic value before making a decision on moving to FEED and Final Investment Decision. The pre-FEED study is expected to take 8-12 months, leading to entry of FEED thereafter, and FID sometime in 2026 or 2027.

Wood to deliver front-end engineering design for Singapore LNG expansion

Wood, a global leader in consulting and engineering, has been awarded the front-end engineering design (FEED) contract for the development of Singapore’s Second liquefied natural gas (LNG) Terminal by Singapore LNG Corporation (SLNG).

According to the Singapore Economic Development Board, more than 95% of electricity in Singapore is generated from natural gas. With an estimated five million tons per annum of additional capacity to come from this expansion, the new terminal will further enhance and secure Singapore’s growing energy needs.

This project will feature a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU), a specialised vessel used for LNG and the first-of-its-kind deployed permanently for Singapore. Intended to be located at the Jurong Port, the terminal will feature facilities for transfer of regasified LNG from the ship to the onshore gas transmission network. Wood will review the FSRU design and coordinate its integration into the onshore connecting infrastructure.

Henry Ling, Senior Vice President of Process & Chemicals Asia Pacific for Wood, said: “We are thrilled to be awarded the engineering contract for the Second LNG Terminal, enabling the delivery of additional low-carbon LNG services.

“Wood successfully supported SLNG with the engineering of the first LNG Terminal which was completed in 2013. We will deliver the same exceptional quality of work for this complex concept, utilising our expertise in LNG terminal design and regasification. Combining our marine infrastructure design and experience with Singapore’s regulatory approvals will bring this low-carbon concept to reality.”

Over 50 Wood employees based in Singapore will be involved in delivering the project, with subject matter experts in Ireland and Scotland supporting on the marine infrastructure design and experts in Spain supporting on the FSRU design.

Monday, 30 September 2024

McDermott Awarded FEED Contract in Mozambique

McDermott, through a consortium with Saipem and China Petroleum Engineering and Construction Corporation, has been awarded a front-end engineering design (FEED) contract for the Rovuma LNG Phase 1 Project in Mozambique, a joint venture between ExxonMobil Development Africa B.V., Eni S.p.A. and CNODC Dutch Cooperatief U.A.

The Rovuma LNG Phase 1 project represents a significant development for the country and provides a significant opportunity for economic growth. The project includes liquefaction and export of natural gas extracted from the Offshore Area 4 fields off the Afungi Peninsula in Mozambique.

"LNG helps shape an entirely new era of energy solutions and McDermott plays a significant role in this global shift with more than 60 years of LNG experience," said Rob Shaul, Senior Vice President of McDermott's Low Carbon Solutions business. "McDermott is well established in Mozambique and can apply this knowledge and experience to continue the country's industrial, social and economic development."

The FEED contract scope of work includes the modular design of a greenfield LNG production facility in Afungi, all associated gas pre-treatment units and the utilities and offsite systems to support the LNG production. The plant will have an overall production capacity of 18 million tons per annum (MTPA). The scope of work also includes the engineering, procurement and construction proposal.

Work on the project will be executed from McDermott's office in London.

Technip Energies and JGC Corporation awarded FEED contract by ExxonMobil for the Rovuma LNG project in Mozambique

Technip Energies (PARIS: TE) and JGC Corporation have been awarded the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) contract by ExxonMobil – on behalf of Mozambique Rovuma Venture (MRV), a joint venture of ExxonMobil, Eni, and CNPC – for the Rovuma LNG project at Palma in the Afungi peninsula, Northeast of Mozambique.

The Rovuma LNG project will consist of an LNG plant with a total production capacity of 18 Mtpa(1), comprising 12 fully modularized LNG trains of 1.5 Mtpa each.

The plant design will feature electric-driven LNG trains instead of gas turbines, reducing greenhouse gases emissions compared to conventional LNG projects. It will also include prefabricated and standardized modules to be assembled at the project site in Mozambique, offering cost competitiveness and certainty in delivery schedule.

Mario Tommaselli, SVP Gas and Low Carbon Energies of Technip Energies commented: “We are honored to have been selected by ExxonMobil and its partners to design the Rovuma LNG project. By leveraging our expertise in modularization and electrified LNG, we are committed to support ExxonMobil and its partners towards final investment decision, as well as strengthening our presence in Mozambique to contribute to long-term economic growth and its ambition to become one of Africa’s leading LNG exporters.”

Farhan Mujib, Representative Director, President of JGC, commented: “We are pleased to have been awarded by ExxonMobil and its partners, large-scale and environmentally efficient LNG Project in Mozambique. With the global focus on decarbonization and energy security, the JGC Group is accelerating the promotion of energy transition, and this project is firmly in line with the direction of our strategy. We are convinced this project of national significance will contribute to enhance economic and industrial growth in Mozambique and East Africa."

Monday, 23 September 2024

Commercial Operations of the Alexandroupolis LNG Terminal

Gastrade is pleased to announce that the Commercial Operations Date of the LNG Alexandroupolis Terminal is confirmed for October 1st, 2024, following the successful completion of all commissioning tests.

The imminent commencement of operations at the LNG Alexandroupolis Terminal marks the completion of a project with prominent European, National and local significance.

The Project will enhance Greece’s leadership role in energy and will contribute to the diversification of gas resources, to the energy security and the establishment of a liquid regional gas trading hub in Southeast and Central Europe.

The Project will also support the expansion and will strengthen the perspective of the Vertical Corridor Initiative.

The entire Gastrade Team is thrilled to begin commercial operations of the LNG Alexandroupolis Terminal, coinciding with the new Gas Year, very soon.

Wednesday, 4 September 2024

NFE’s Fast LNG Asset Receives DOE Long-Term Authorization for LNG Export to Non-FTA Countries

New Fortress Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NFE) (“NFE” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has received authorization from the United States Department of Energy (“DOE”) to export up to ~1.4 million tonnes per annum of LNG to non-Free Trade Agreement countries from its Fast LNG 1 (“FLNG 1”) asset located offshore Altamira, Mexico for a term of five years. In combination with the previously received Free Trade Agreement authorization granted by the DOE, our FLNG 1 asset is now able to export LNG to markets and customers worldwide.

“This important authorization cements NFE’s position as a leading global vertically integrated gas to power company and enhances the marketability of our FLNG 1 asset. NFE is now able to freely supply cheaper and cleaner natural gas to underserved markets across the world and further our goal of accelerating the world’s energy transition,” said Wes Edens, Chairman and CEO of New Fortress Energy.

Tuesday, 6 August 2024

Woodside to Acquire Tellurian and Driftwood LNG

Woodside has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire all issued and outstanding common stock of Tellurian (NYSE: TELL) including its owned and operated US Gulf Coast Driftwood LNG development opportunity (“Driftwood LNG”)

The consideration for the transaction is an all-cash payment of approximately $900 million, or $1.00 per share of outstanding Tellurian common stock. The implied enterprise value is approximately $1,200 million. 1 This represents an attractive entry into an opportunity with more than $1 billion of expenditure incurred to date. 

“The acquisition of Tellurian and its Driftwood LNG development opportunity positions Woodside to be a global LNG powerhouse,” said Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill. 

“It adds a scalable US LNG development opportunity to our existing approximately 10 Mtpa of equity LNG in Australia. Having a complementary US position would allow us to better serve customers globally and capture further marketing optimisation opportunities across both the Atlantic and Pacific Basins. 

“The Driftwood LNG development opportunity is competitively advantaged. Woodside expects to leverage its global LNG expertise to unlock this fully permitted development and expand our relationship with Bechtel which is the EPC contractor for both Driftwood LNG and our Pluto Train 2 project in Australia.

“Through this acquisition, we are delivering on our strategy to thrive through the energy transition. Woodside believes that LNG will play a key role in the energy transition and is well positioned to deliver the energy the world needs while delivering significant value to our shareholders.” 

Strategic rationale 

The acquisition of Tellurian and its Driftwood LNG development opportunity strengthens Woodside’s positioning to deliver on our strategy to thrive through the energy transition. The expected benefits of the acquisition include: 
  • Expanding Woodside’s position as a leading independent LNG company; 
  • Adding a high-quality, fully permitted US LNG development option to Woodside’s portfolio;
  •  Leveraging Woodside's LNG development, operations and marketing expertise to unlock the development and create value; 
  • Enabling value creation from marketing optimisation with geographic diversification; 
  • Increasing long-term cashflow generation potential with a phased development to manage investment decisions aligned with Woodside’s capital allocation framework; and 
  • Supporting Woodside’s carbon competitiveness through increased exposure to LNG and potential to reduce the average Scope 1 and 2 emissions intensity of Woodside’s LNG portfolio. 
Woodside’s target of reducing net equity Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030, and aspiration for net zero by 2050, are unchanged. 

Driftwood LNG 

Driftwood LNG is a fully permitted, pre-final investment decision (FID) development opportunity located near Lake Charles, Louisiana. The current development plan comprises five LNG trains through four phases, with a total permitted capacity of 27.6 Mtpa. 

The foundation development includes Phase 1 (11 Mtpa) and Phase 2 (5.5 Mtpa). Woodside is targeting FID readiness for Phase 1 of the Driftwood LNG development opportunity from the first quarter of 2025. 

The Driftwood LNG development opportunity is competitively advantaged: 
  • The development is fully permitted, and has a valid non-free trade agreement (FTA) export authorisation. The development also recently received an extension of its Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) authorisation; 
  • The design is cost and carbon competitive. Woodside expects development costs of ~$900-960/tonne for Phase 1 and 2. 3 The contracting strategy is a lump-sum turnkey contract with LNG contractor Bechtel; and 
  • Construction has commenced, with pilings for Trains 1 and 2 complete, foundation work in progress and pilings underway for the LNG tanks. The progress on ground work reduces the risk to EPC timeline and cost.
Transaction details 

Under the proposed transaction Woodside, or a wholly owned subsidiary of Woodside, will acquire 100% of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock of Tellurian Inc. (“Tellurian”). 

Tellurian’s Board of Directors has approved the transaction and has recommended that its shareholders approve the transaction. The transaction is targeting completion in the fourth quarter of the 2024 calendar year. 

The transaction is subject to satisfaction of customary conditions precedent, including maintenance of validity for existing authorisations (e.g. Department of Energy (DOE) and FERC), Tellurian shareholder approval, regulatory approval and other approvals. 

In connection with entry into a binding agreement to acquire Tellurian, Woodside will provide a loan to Tellurian of up to $230 million to ensure Driftwood LNG site activity and de-risking activities maintain momentum prior to completion of the transaction. The loan is secured by a first priority lien over the borrower’s assets subject to customary exclusions. The latest maturity date for the loan is 15 December 2024 or the date of transaction completion. 

Woodside’s sole financial adviser is PJT Partners and its legal adviser is Norton Rose Fulbright.

Wednesday, 10 July 2024

Shell to invest in Ruwais LNG project in Abu Dhabi

 Shell Overseas Holdings Limited, a subsidiary of Shell plc (Shell), has signed an agreement to invest in the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company’s (ADNOC) Ruwais liquefied natural gas (LNG) project in Abu Dhabi through a 10% participating interest.


“This investment decision builds on our long-standing partnership with ADNOC," said Shell's Chief Executive Officer Wael Sawan. "In line with our strategy to create more value with less emissions, we are investing in additional LNG capacity and further growing our world-leading LNG portfolio, with energy-efficient and carbon-competitive projects."

The Ruwais LNG project will consist of two 4.8 million metric tonnes per annum (mmtpa) LNG liquefaction trains with a total capacity of 9.6 mmtpa. Shell, through its subsidiary Shell International Trading Middle East Limited FZE, has also signed an agreement to offtake 1 mmtpa of LNG produced by the project. The Ruwais LNG facility is set to have an electric-powered liquefaction system and will utilise access to a renewable power supply. This design supports lower operational emissions compared to traditional gas-powered LNG facilities.

ADNOC will hold a majority 60% share in the project and serve as the lead developer and operator of the facility, while Shell, BP, Mitsui and TotalEnergies will each hold 10%.

ADNOC has awarded an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract to a Technip-led joint venture and will soon start construction in Al Ruwais Industrial City, Abu Dhabi. LNG deliveries are expected to start in 2028.

Notes to editors
The Ruwais LNG project is located some 240 kilometres west of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Shell has a proud history of more than 80 years in the United Arab Emirates. Shell’s current activities with ADNOC include a 15% interest in ADNOC Gas Processing (AGP) with associated technical and manpower support services.
The capital investment related to Shell’s 10% participating interest in the Ruwais LNG project will be absorbed within Shell’s cash capital expenditure guidance, which remains unchanged. The deal is in excess of the internal rate of return (IRR) hurdle rate for Shell’s Integrated Gas business, delivering on its 25-30% growth ambition in liquefaction volumes, relative to 2022, as outlined during the 2023 Capital Markets Day.
Global demand for LNG is estimated to rise by more than 50% by 2040, as industrial coal-to-gas switching gathers pace in China, South Asian and South-east Asian countries. These countries are expected to use more LNG to support their economic growth, according to Shell’s LNG Outlook 2024 (PDF)
.
Shell believes LNG will play a critical role in the energy transition, replacing coal in heavy industry. It also has a continued role in displacing coal in power generation, helping to reduce local air pollution and carbon emissions. LNG helps to provide the flexibility the power system needs, at a time when renewable generation is growing rapidly. Find out more in Shell’s Energy Transition Strategy 2024 (PDF)

Thursday, 4 July 2024

Technip Energies, JGC and NMDC Energy awarded a major contract for ADNOC’s Ruwais LNG project in the UAE

Technip Energies (PARIS:TE), leader of a joint venture (TJN RUWAIS JV) with JGC and NMDC Energy, have been awarded a major contract by ADNOC for the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) of the lower-carbon Ruwais LNG project, located in Al Ruwais Industrial City, Abu Dhabi.

The project will consist of two natural gas liquefaction trains with a total LNG production capacity of 9.6 Mtpa(2). The plant will use electric-driven motors instead of conventional gas turbines and will be powered by clean energy.

The plant is set to be the first LNG export facility in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to run on clean power, making it one of the lowest-carbon intensity LNG plants in the world.

The project will more than double ADNOC's LNG production capacity aligning with global natural gas demand and the shift towards decarbonization.

Arnaud Pieton, CEO of Technip Energies, commented, “We are honored to have been awarded by ADNOC the Ruwais LNG project, a pioneering initiative in the LNG sector. By powering electrified LNG trains with nuclear energy, this project sets a new standard for energy security and sustainability. By leveraging our low-carbon and electrified LNG leadership we will support ADNOC’s position as a reliable global natural gas supplier and commitment to decarbonization.”

Farhan Mujib, Representative Director, President of JGC, commented, “We are highly honored to have been awarded in this innovative lower-carbon LNG project which will be the next generation of energy security and sustainability. We commit to leveraging our capabilities and experience for the lower-carbon Ruwais LNG project, bringing our proven track record in the LNG field. We are convinced this will contribute to the success of the project and enhance economic growth in the UAE.”

Ahmed Al Dhaheri, CEO of NMDC Energy, commented, "We are proud to be entrusted by ADNOC with the Ruwais LNG project, which strengthens our position in the UAE’s energy landscape and underscores our dedication to advancing the country’s sustainable development. Utilizing nuclear energy for LNG production not only sets a new international standard for low-emission energy but also aligns with the UAE’s strategy for a sustainable future.”

Tuesday, 28 May 2024

Santos signs long-term LNG supply contract with Hokkaido Gas

Santos today announced the signing of a binding long-term LNG Supply and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with Hokkaido Gas Co., Ltd. to provide LNG from Santos’ portfolio of world-class LNG assets.

The long-term SPA will supply up to approximately 0.4 million tonnes per annum of LNG for 10 years, commencing in 2027, from Santos’ LNG portfolio on a delivered ex-ship basis.

Hokkaido Gas and Santos also intend to collaborate to explore carbon sequestration and e-methane opportunities to reduce carbon emissions across their respective portfolios.

Santos Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kevin Gallagher said the contract is consistent with Santos’ strategy of maintaining long-term LNG pricing and demonstrates the value of Santos’ high-quality LNG portfolio. This agreement further demonstrates the strong demand for high heating value LNG from projects such as Barossa and PNG LNG.

“This SPA is a significant step in developing Santos’ equity LNG portfolio and establishes a long-term relationship with Hokkaido Gas, a Japanese gas utility providing natural gas within the Hokkaido region of Japan.”

“Our agreement with Hokkaido Gas demonstrates Santos’ commitment to providing reliable, competitive energy supplies to support our valued customers in Asia. We also look forward to working together to explore CCS and e-methane opportunities to support Japan’s and Santos’ decarbonisation targets,” Mr Gallagher said.

Wednesday, 22 May 2024

ADNOC to Acquire 10% Equity Stake in Major LNG Development in Mozambique

ADNOC announced today the acquisition of Galp’s 10% interest in the Area 4 concession of the Rovuma basin in Mozambique, marking a major milestone in the company’s international growth strategy. The acquisition will entitle ADNOC to a share of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) production from the concession, which has a combined production capacity exceeding 25 million tonnes per annum (mtpa).

The Area 4 concession includes the operational Coral South Floating LNG (FLNG) facility, the planned Coral North FLNG development and the planned Rovuma LNG onshore facilities. This strategic investment is ADNOC’s first in Mozambique and complements ADNOC’s efforts to expand its lower-carbon LNG portfolio to meet growing gas demand and support a just, orderly and equitable energy transition.

Musabbeh Al Kaabi, ADNOC Executive Director for Low Carbon Solutions and International Growth, said: “For over fifty years, ADNOC has been a reliable and responsible global provider of LNG and we are building on this role with this landmark investment in the world-class Rovuma supergiant gas basin in Mozambique as we deliver on our international growth strategy. Natural gas plays an important role to meet growing global demand with lower emissions compared to other fossil fuels and this acquisition supports our efforts to build an integrated global gas business to ensure we continue providing a secure, reliable and responsible supply of natural gas.”

The Coral South development, currently in operation, is capable of producing up to 3.5 mtpa of LNG, and represents the first facility of its kind in Africa. The proposed Coral North development is expected to produce a further 3.5 mtpa of LNG through a FLNG facility to process and liquefy natural gas for export.

The 18-mtpa Rovuma Onshore LNG development is a modular, electric-drive design that will dramatically reduce the carbon intensity of the LNG it produces, when compared to industry benchmarks. The facility’s design philosophy and its emphasis on limiting carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions aligns with ADNOC’s ambition to achieve net zero by 2045.

Mozambique’s Rovuma supergiant gas basin represents one of the world’s largest gas discoveries in the past fifteen years and holds proven reserves to provide a stable supply of natural gas to the FLNG and Onshore facilities.

ADNOC Signs Third Long-Term Heads of Agreement for Ruwais LNG Project

ADNOC announced today the signing of a 15-year Heads of Agreement (LNG agreement) with EnBW Energie Baden-Württemberg AG (EnBW), one of the largest energy companies in Germany, for the delivery of 0.6 million metric tonnes per annum (mmtpa) of liquefied natural gas (LNG).

The LNG will primarily be sourced from ADNOC’s lower-carbon Ruwais LNG project, currently under development in Al Ruwais Industrial City, Abu Dhabi. The Ruwais LNG plant is set to be the first LNG export facility in the Middle East and Africa region to run on clean power and will leverage the latest technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) tools to minimize emissions and drive efficiency.

This agreement marks the third long-term LNG supply agreement from the project. The deliveries are expected to start in 2028, upon commencement of commercial operations.

Fatema Al Nuaimi, ADNOC Executive Vice President, Downstream Business Management, said: “The Ruwais LNG project continues to gain momentum, reinforcing ADNOC’s position as a reliable global natural gas provider. This new agreement builds on the UAE-Germany Energy Security and Industry Accelerator and will support Germany as it strives to diversify its energy sources and enhance its energy security.”

The UAE-Germany Energy Security and Industry Accelerator (ESIA), signed in 2022, aims to advance cooperation in energy security, decarbonization and lower-carbon fuels.

Peter Heydecker, EnBW’s Board Member for Sustainable Generation Infrastructure, said: “We are delighted that EnBW has signed its first LNG contract in the Middle East with our experienced partner ADNOC. In doing so, we are taking the next step in terms of diversifying our procurement portfolio and establishing our own LNG value chain. We can also use the experience gained here for our medium-term goal of establishing an import structure for green gases, since the two business fields are very similar.”

The LNG agreement is contingent upon a final investment decision (FID) on the project, including regulatory approvals, and the negotiation of a definitive Sale and Purchase Agreement between the two companies. When completed, the project, which consists of two 4.8 mmtpa LNG liquefaction trains with a total capacity of 9.6 mmtpa, will more than double ADNOC’s LNG production capacity to around 15mmtpa.

Tuesday, 21 May 2024

ADNOC Secures Equity Position and LNG Offtake Agreement in NextDecades Rio Grande LNG Project

ADNOC announced today the acquisition of a 11.7% stake in Phase 1 (Trains 1-3) of NextDecade Corporation’s (NextDecade) (Nasdaq: NEXT) Rio Grande LNG (RGLNG) Rio Grande LNG (RGLNG), a leading liquefied natural gas (LNG) export project located in Texas, United States (US), which is expected to produce a less carbon-intensive LNG. Additionally, ADNOC and NextDecade announced that they have entered into a 20-year LNG offtake agreement from RGLNG Train 4.

The Phase 1 RGLNG equity stake has been acquired through an investment vehicle of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), one of the world’s premier infrastructure investors. ADNOC acquired a portion of GIP’s existing equity interest in Phase 1 while NextDecade retains its previously announced expected economic interest in Phase 1 as well as its interests in the Train 4 and Train 5 expansion capacity.

The Phase 1 acquisition marks ADNOC’s first strategic investment in the US as it continues to deliver on its international growth strategy and complements its efforts to expand its lower-carbon LNG portfolio to meet growing gas demand.

The 20-year LNG offtake agreement between ADNOC and NextDecade is for 1.9 million tons per annum (mtpa) from RGLNG Train 4, on a free on board (FOB) basis at a price indexed to Henry Hub, subject to a Final Investment Decision (FID).

Musabbeh Al Kaabi, ADNOC Executive Director for Low Carbon Solutions and International Growth, said: "We are delighted to partner with NextDecade on this world-class lower-carbon LNG project as it marks a significant milestone in ADNOC’s international growth strategy and provides us access to one of the world’s top LNG export markets. As global energy demand continues to increase, ADNOC is growing our diversified energy portfolio to ensure a secure, reliable and responsible supply of energy to our customers while driving innovation and greater value.”

Rio Grande LNG, situated on a 984-acre site near Brownsville, Texas, is the first US LNG project offering expected emissions reduction of more than 90% through its innovative proposed carbon capture and storage (CCS) project, which is expected to capture and permanently store more than 5 million metric tons per annum of carbon dioxide (CO2) – equivalent to removing 1 million vehicles from the road annually.

Matt Schatzman, NextDecade’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are excited to begin a multi-decade partnership with ADNOC, a major player in the global LNG market, and we look forward to having them as both a commercial offtaker and an equity partner in Rio Grande LNG. LNG from our facility will allow ADNOC to further increase its presence in the global LNG market, while also supplying global customers with more affordable and less carbon-intensive LNG.”

ADNOC’s acquisition of an equity stake in Phase 1 (Trains 1-3) of Rio Grande LNG also secures the option from GIP for equity participation in the future Trains 4 and 5 of the project.

NextDecade is currently targeting FID on Train 4 at the Rio Grande LNG Facility in the second half of 2024, subject to, among other things, finalizing and entering into an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract, entering into appropriate commercial arrangements, and obtaining adequate financing to construct Train 4 and related infrastructure.

Thursday, 2 May 2024

MOL and Gaz System enter into agreement on FSRU project in Gdańsk, Poland

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL; President & CEO: Takeshi Hashimoto, Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo), today announced that it has signed a long term Time Charter Party (TCP) Agreement, through its 100% subsidiary, for one Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU) with the Polish Gas Transmission System Operator, GAZ-SYSTEM S.A. (Gaz System), the project developer and operator behind the future LNG terminal. The FSRU will be constructed by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries shipyard (HQ: South Korea) and is expected to be completed in 2027, and thereafter will be managed by the MOL group.

The project involves the construction of a new floating LNG receiving terminal approximately 3 km offshore from the Polish port of Gdańsk (the "Project") and the vessel will play a key role in the terminal as receiving and storage facility. This will be the first FSRU to be deployed in Poland, which will contribute to the strategic strengthening of the country's energy security. The project is also of great interest to Europe, as it has been designated by the EU as a "Project of Common Interest", an infrastructure development project that contributes at a regional level.

Sunday, 28 April 2024

Technip Energies Awarded a Substantial Contract for TotalEnergies and OQ’s Marsa LNG Project in Oman

Technip Energies (PARIS: TE), has been awarded a substantial contract by TotalEnergies and OQ for the Marsa LNG bunkering project located in Sohar, Oman.

The contract covers Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) of a natural gas liquefaction train with an LNG production capacity of 1 Mtpa. The plant will use electric-driven motors instead of conventional gas turbines and will be powered by renewable electricity from a planned nearby solar farm which will cover 100% of the annual power consumption of the LNG plant. This is positioning the site as one of the lowest greenhouse gases intensity LNG plants ever built worldwide. The LNG produced will notably be used as a marine fuel to reduce the sipping industry’s carbon footprint.

The Marsa LNG project is an integrated complex developed by TotalEnergies (80%) and OQ (20%).

Arnaud Pieton, CEO of Technip Energies, commented, “The world’s net-zero trajectory will require LNG as a critical source of energy, while addressing emissions abatement. TotalEnergies and OQ’s progressive Marsa LNG project is an example of how we can decarbonize the LNG value chain by powering its production with renewable energy and using it as a marine fuel to reduce emissions linked to maritime transportation. By leveraging our innovation and global leadership in LNG infrastructure design and delivery, we are proud to support TotalEnergies and the Sultanate of Oman in providing reliable, affordable and sustainable energy to the world.”

Thursday, 25 April 2024

Oman: TotalEnergies launches the Marsa LNG project and deploys its multi-energy strategy in the Sultanate of Oman



During a visit in Muscat on April 21st, Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies met with His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said and His Excellency Eng. Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Minister of Energy & Minerals, to reaffirm the long-term partnership between TotalEnergies and the Sultanate of Oman.

On the occasion of this visit, Patrick Pouyanné and Mr. Mulham Basheer Al Jarf, Chairman of OQ, the Oman National Oil Company, announced the Final Investment Decision (FID) of the Marsa LNG project.

TotalEnergies had signed a Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with Oman LNG to offtake 0.8 Mtpa of LNG for ten years from 2025, making the Company one of the main offtaker of Oman LNG's production.

Finally, TotalEnergies (49%) and OQ Alternative Energy (51%), the national renewable energy champion, have confirmed being at an advanced stage of discussions to jointly develop a portfolio of up to 800 MW, including the 300 MWp solar project that will supply Marsa LNG

Marsa LNG, an innovative integrated project

Through their joint company Marsa Liquefied Natural Gas (“Marsa”), TotalEnergies (80%) and OQ (20%) launch the integrated Marsa LNG project which combines:
  • upstream gas production: 150 Mcf/d of natural gas, coming from the 33.19% interest held by Marsa in the Mabrouk North-East field on onshore Block 10, which will provide the required feedstock for the LNG plant. Block 10 production started in January 2023 and reached plateau in April 2024. The FID allows Marsa LNG to extend its rights in Block 10 until its term in 2050.
  • downstream gas liquefaction: a 1 Mt/y capacity LNG liquefaction plant will be built in the port of Sohar. The LNG production is expected to start by first quarter 2028 and is primarily intended to serve the marine fuel market (LNG bunkering) in the Gulf. LNG quantities not sold as bunker fuel will be off-taken by TotalEnergies (80%) and OQ (20%).
  • renewable power generation: a dedicated 300 MWp PV solar plant will be built to cover 100% of the annual power consumption of the LNG plant, allowing a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

Setting very low carbon intensity standards for the next generation of LNG plants

The Marsa LNG plant will be 100% electrically driven and supplied with solar power, positioning the site as one of the lowest GHG emissions intensity LNG plants ever built worldwide, with a GHG intensity below 3 kg CO2e/boe. (for reference, the average emission intensity of LNG plants is around 35 kg CO2e/boe - this represents a reduction in emissions of more than 90%).

The main Engineering, Procurement and Construction contracts have been awarded to Technip Energies for the LNG plant and to CB&I for the 165,000 m3 LNG tank.

The Marsa LNG project will generate long-term employment opportunities and significant socio-economic benefits for the city of Sohar and the region.

The first LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East

The ambition of the Marsa LNG project is to serve as the first LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East, showcasing an available and competitive alternative marine fuel to reduce the shipping industry's emissions. Compared to conventional marine fuel, LNG helps to cut:
  • Greenhouse gas emissions by up to 23%,
  • Nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 85%.
  • Sulfur emissions by 99%,
  • Fine particle emissions by 99%.

“We are proud to open a new chapter in our history in the Sultanate of Oman with the launch of the Marsa LNG project, together with our partner OQ, demonstrating our long-term commitment to the country. We are especially pleased to deploy the two pillars of our transition strategy, LNG and renewables, and thus support the Sultanate on a new scale in the sustainable development of its energy resources”, said Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies. “This very innovative project illustrates our pioneer spirit and showcases the relevance of our integrated multi-energy strategy, with the ambition of being a responsible player in the energy transition. By paving the way for the next generation of very low emission LNG plants, Marsa LNG is contributing to making gas a long-term transition energy.”

Glenfarne Energy Transition’s Texas LNG Sells Over Half of Offtake with an Additional LNG Tolling Agreement with EQT

Texas LNG Brownsville LLC (“Texas LNG”), a four million tonnes per annum (“MTPA”) liquefied natural gas (“LNG”) export terminal to be constructed in the Port of Brownsville, Texas, and a subsidiary of Glenfarne Energy Transition, LLC (“Glenfarne”), has signed a second Heads of Agreement (“HOA”) with EQT Corporation (“EQT”) for natural gas liquefaction services for an additional 1.5 MTPA of LNG over 20 years. This transaction expands Texas LNG’s total HOA volume with EQT to 2 MTPA. Final terms remain subject to the negotiation of a definitive 20-year LNG tolling agreement. With this transaction and Texas LNG’s recently announced offtake agreement with Gunvor, only 1.5 MTPA of additional offtake is pending public announcement to reach Texas LNG’s fully permitted capacity.

“We are proud to expand our partnership with EQT with today’s announcement. Texas LNG has sold more than half of its permitted capacity. With this announcement with EQT and additional offtake sales to be announced soon, we will reach financial close and the start of construction in the fourth quarter this year,” said Brendan Duval, Glenfarne CEO and Founder.

Glenfarne, a developer, owner, and operator of energy transition infrastructure, is the majority owner and managing member of Texas LNG. Glenfarne is also the sole owner and developer of the 8.8 MTPA Magnolia LNG in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Texas LNG will commence commercial operations in 2028. Texas LNG and EQT announced an initial agreement in January 2024 for 0.5 MTPA of tolling capacity.

Tuesday, 19 March 2024

Glenfarne Energy Transition’s Texas LNG Announces LNG Offtake Agreement with Gunvor Group

Texas LNG Brownsville LLC (“Texas LNG”), a four million tonnes per annum (“MTPA”) liquefied natural gas (“LNG”) export terminal to be constructed in the Port of Brownsville, Texas, a subsidiary of Glenfarne Energy Transition, LLC (“Glenfarne”), has signed a Heads of Agreement (“HOA”) with Gunvor Group through its subsidiary Gunvor Singapore Pte Ltd (“Gunvor”) for a 20-year LNG FOB sale and purchase agreement (“SPA”) for 0.5 MTPA of LNG from Texas LNG.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Gunvor to our portfolio of customers, connecting Texas LNG, one of the lowest-emitting liquefaction facilities in the world, with global economies in need of reliable, sustainable energy,” said Brendan Duval, CEO and Founder, Glenfarne Energy Transition and Co-President of Texas LNG.

“With the previously announced commencement of the execution phase of the project financing process, this agreement aligns with our plan to take a final investment decision on Texas LNG this year,” said Vlad Bluzer, Co-President of Texas LNG.

“We are pleased to have executed this agreement and become one of the foundation buyers of the Texas LNG project. Gunvor continues to support US LNG export projects, unlocking new supplies for the global energy market and providing energy security especially to our customers in Europe and Asia” said Kalpesh Patel, Co-Head of LNG Trading of Gunvor.

Today’s news follows Texas LNG’s recently announced LNG tolling agreement with EQT Corporation (“EQT”). Texas LNG also recently announced partnerships with Baker Hughes, ABB and Gulf LNG Tugs of Texas. These partnerships total nearly one billion dollars of investment into the project.

Glenfarne Energy Transition, a developer, owner, and operator of energy transition infrastructure, is the majority owner and managing member of Texas LNG. Texas LNG will achieve financial close and begin construction in 2024 commencing commercial operations in 2028. Glenfarne Energy Transition is also the sole owner and developer of the 8.8 MTPA Magnolia LNG in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Monday, 18 March 2024

ADNOC Signs Second Long-Term Heads of Agreement for Ruwais LNG Project

ADNOC announced today the signing of a 15-year Heads of Agreement (LNG agreement) with SEFE Marketing & Trading Singapore Pte Ltd., a subsidiary of Germany’s SEFE Securing Energy for Europe GmbH, for the delivery of 1 million metric tonnes per annum (mmtpa) of liquefied natural gas (LNG).
The LNG will primarily be sourced from ADNOC’s lower-carbon Ruwais LNG project, currently under development in Al Ruwais Industrial City, Abu Dhabi. The Ruwais LNG plant has been designed to run on clean power and will leverage the latest technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to drive efficiency. This is the second long-term LNG supply agreement from the Ruwais LNG project, following the 15-year agreement with China’s ENN Natural Gas signed in December 2023. The deliveries are expected to start in 2028, upon commencement of the facility’s commercial operations.

Fatema Al Nuaimi, Executive Vice President, Downstream Business Management at ADNOC said: “This LNG agreement, the first with a European company from the Ruwais lower-carbon LNG project, underscores ADNOC’s position as a reliable and responsible global energy provider. Gas accounts for almost a quarter of Germany’s primary energy use, and we look forward to supporting its efforts to diversify its energy sources and enhance its energy security.”

This LNG supply agreement reinforces the Energy Security and Industry Accelerator (ESIA) agreement, signed by the UAE and Germany in 2022, further strengthening bilateral cooperation in energy security, decarbonization and climate action. It builds upon ADNOC's delivery of the first LNG cargo from the Middle East to Germany in 2023.

Frédéric Barnaud, Chief Executive Officer of SEFE Marketing & Trading and Chief Commercial Officer of SEFE, said: “SEFE and ADNOC have a long and productive partnership, spanning over 15 years. This LNG supply agreement for the Ruwais LNG project, set to be one of the lowest-carbon intensity LNG projects in the world, marks the start of a new chapter. We aim to further build on our existing relationship and explore joint low-carbon energy developments.”

Natural gas plays a crucial role as a transitional fuel, generating lower-carbon emissions compared to other fossil fuels. The Ruwais LNG project is set to be the first LNG export facility in the Middle East and North Africa region to run on clean power. When completed, the project, which consists of two 4.8mmtpa LNG liquefaction trains with a total capacity of 9.6mmtpa, will more than double ADNOC’s LNG production capacity to around 15mmtpa, to help meet increased global demand for natural gas. The project is being designed to leverage AI, digitalization and the latest advanced technology to drive efficiency and safety across the new facility.

The LNG agreement is contingent upon a final investment decision (FID) on the project, including regulatory approvals, and the negotiation of a definitive Sale and Purchase Agreement between the two companies.

Thursday, 14 March 2024

ADNOC Issues Early EPC Award for Ruwais LNG Project

ADNOC announced today that it has issued a Limited Notice to Proceed (LNTP) for early engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) activities to a joint venture, led by Technip Energies, with JGC Corporation and National Petroleum Construction Company PJSC for its low-carbon liquefied natural gas (LNG) project in Al Ruwais Industrial City, Abu Dhabi.
With the Final Investment Decision (FID) expected this year, the Ruwais LNG project is set to be the first LNG export facility in the Middle East and North Africa region to run on clean power, making it one of the lowest-carbon intensity LNG plants in the world.

Fatema Al Nuaimi, Executive Vice President, Downstream Business Management at ADNOC, said: The Ruwais LNG project will reinforce ADNOC’s position as a reliable global natural gas supplier, underscoring its pivotal role and contribution to global energy security. The project is set to significantly contribute to the Al Dhafra region’s economy by boosting the local industrial ecosystem, attracting further investments and creating a vital energy trade gateway in Al Ruwais Industrial City.”

Once completed, the project will consist of two 4.8 million metric tonnes per annum (mmtpa) LNG liquefaction trains with a total capacity of 9.6mmtpa, and is set to more than double ADNOC’s LNG production capacity, from 6mmtpa to around 15mmtpa.

Natural gas is a key transition fuel and the low-carbon LNG project in Al Ruwais Industrial City underscores ADNOC’s commitment to decarbonization, sustainability and innovation.

Thursday, 29 February 2024

New Fortress Energy Places Barcarena LNG Terminal in Pará, Brazil into Operation

New Fortress Energy Inc. (Nasdaq: NFE) (“NFE” or the “Company”) today announced that its 6 MTPA (300 TBtu) Barcarena LNG terminal located in Pará, Brazil is now operational with the Energos Celsius Floating Storage Regasification Unit (FSRU) on-site. NFE cohosted an event on-site to celebrate the terminal’s commissioning with the state government of Pará and the Ministry of Mines and Energy for Brazil, including Helder Barbalho, the Governor of Pará, and Alexandre Silveira, the Minister of Mines and Energy for Brazil.

NFE’s Barcarena LNG terminal is strategically located at the mouth of the Amazon River in Pará, Brazil and serves as the sole natural gas supply source in the state of Pará and the North region of Brazil. The facility consists of an offshore terminal and FSRU that will supply LNG to several industrial customers, including a 15-year contract with Norsk Hydro’s Alunorte refinery, the largest alumina refinery in the world. The terminal will not only support industrial development but also reduce emissions and pollution in the environmentally sensitive Amazon region by providing a cleaner, affordable and reliable alternative to oil-based fuels.

NFE expects to immediately begin delivering natural gas to Norsk Hydro’s Alunorte refinery under a 15-year gas supply agreement. NFE will supply the alumina production facility with approximately 30 TBtus of natural gas annually, reducing the refinery’s annual CO2 emissions by an estimated 700,000 tonnes per annum and supporting Norsk Hydro's global commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030.

The Barcarena terminal will also supply natural gas to NFE’s 630 MW power plant, which is currently under construction adjacent to the Barcarena terminal. The power plant remains on track to achieve COD in the third quarter of 2025 and is approximately 50% complete. Additionally, the company intends to utilize its existing infrastructure in place in Barcarena to strategically expand its power complex by 1.6 GW under the previously announced New Power Project PPA, with an expected COD no later than July 2026. NFE has applied to transfer the New Power Project PPA to a permitted site adjacent to the Barcarena terminal and expects close the acquisition in the first quarter of 2024, subject to regulatory approval.

“Our Barcarena complex is a great example of NFE’s fully integrated LNG-to-power business model, where our LNG import terminal provides a significant competitive advantage. We are honored to support Brazil, the state of Pará, and Norsk Hydro in their decarbonization efforts while growing energy supply and economic opportunity in the region,” said Wes Edens, Chairman and CEO of New Fortress Energy.

Singapore: TotalEnergies to Supply Sembcorp with 0.8 Mtpa of LNG for 16 Years

TotalEnergies has signed a sale and purchase agreement (SPA) with Sembcorp Fuels, a wholly owned subsidiary of Singapore-based Sembcorp Industries. The deal entails the delivery of up to 0.8 million tons of liquefied natural gas (LNG) per annum (Mtpa) for a duration of sixteen years, commencing in 2027. The LNG will be sourced from TotalEnergies’ global portfolio. This new agreement adds to the companies’ current SPA, which runs until 2029.

By supplying this additional LNG supply to Singapore, TotalEnergies is contributing to the country’s energy security and to its decarbonization goals. This deal also reflects TotalEnergies’ commitment to supporting its customers in their transition to greater sustainability.

Tuesday, 27 February 2024

The President of the Republic of the Congo, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Eni and the CEO of Eni celebrate Congo’s first LNG cargo

In the occasion of the first shipment of LNG from the Republic of the Congo, the President of the Republic of the Congo Denis Sassou-N'Guesso, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Eni Giuseppe Zafarana, and the CEO of Eni Claudio Descalzi celebrated the successful start-up of LNG production in the country. With the first cargo, the Republic of the Congo enters the group of LNG exporting countries, opening up opportunities for economic growth while contributing to global energy balance.

Eni CEO Claudio Descalzi commented that: “The first cargo of LNG from Congo is the result of the strong commitment of Eni and its partners and of the unwavering support of the Government of the Republic of the Congo. Eni and the local partners shared work forces, know-how and technologies, ensuring additional revenues to the country while contributing to Europe’s energy security.”

The Congo LNG project, sanctioned in December 2022, came on stream after just 1 year, in line with the initial timeline: an achievement made possible by Eni's distinctive phased and parallelized approach and its highly efficient execution plan. The first LNG cargo is currently being loaded and will sail to Piombino’s regasification terminal, in Italy, in the coming days.

The project, situated within the Marine XII permit, will achieve a plateau gas liquefaction capacity of approximately 4.5 billion cubic meters per annum and will mark zero flaring from operated activities in country. The volumes will be marketed by Eni, strengthening and expanding the company’s LNG portfolio, and supporting efforts towards energy security and transition.

Eni is present in Congo since 1968 and is the only company active in the development of the country's gas resources: it currently supplies gas to the Centrale Électrique du Congo (CEC), which provides 70% of the country's power generation capacity. Eni is strongly committed to promoting the energy transition in the country through several initiatives, including the Oyo Center of Excellence for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, promoted and supported by Eni and managed by the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Technological Innovation of the Republic of the Congo together with UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization). In addition, Eni is including Congo in the value chain of sustainable mobility through the production of agri-feedstock for biorefining, and promotes clean cooking initiatives, to reduce biomass consumption and the emissions associated with combustion.

Friday, 23 February 2024

Woodside To Sell 15.1% Scarborough Interest To JERA

Woodside has broadened its strategic relationship with JERA through a transaction that involves three core elements: equity in the Scarborough Joint Venture; LNG offtake; and collaboration on opportunities in new energy and lower carbon services. 

Woodside has executed a binding sale and purchase agreement with JERA for the sale of a 15.1% non-operating participating interest in the Scarborough Joint Venture (JV) for an estimated total consideration of US$1,400 million.2 This comprises the purchase price of approximately $740 million, and reimbursement to Woodside for JERA’s share of expenditure incurred from the transaction effective date of 1 January 2022. Completion of the transaction is expected in the second half of 2024. 

Woodside and JERA have also entered into a non-binding heads of agreement for the sale and purchase of six LNG cargoes on a delivered ex-ship basis per year for 10 years commencing in 2026 from Woodside’s global portfolio. 

A non-binding agreement for new energy collaboration including potential opportunities in ammonia, hydrogen, carbon management technology and carbon capture and storage was also signed to support common decarbonisation ambitions. 

Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill welcomed the broadened strategic relationship with JERA. 
“Woodside welcomes Japan’s largest utility, JERA, into the Scarborough Joint Venture. This builds on a long history of collaboration, starting in 1989 with LNG sales from the North West Shelf to JERA’s parent companies Tokyo Electric and Chubu Electric. “JERA’s participation in the Scarborough Joint Venture, which will also include LNG Japan, is a further demonstration of the importance of the project to Japanese customers and confidence in long-term demand.

“Scarborough is a world-class project which will provide reliable energy for our customers in the Asian region, including in Japan. LNG continues to be an important energy source for Japan and one which supports the country’s decarbonisation ambitions. 

“In Australia, the Scarborough Energy Project will provide local jobs and contracting opportunities and deliver tax revenue to State and Federal Governments. 

“We are also looking forward to exploring new energy and business opportunities alongside JERA. These have the potential to further our shared ambitions to develop new energy value chains between Australia and Japan,” she said. 

Yukio Kani, JERA Global CEO and Chair said, “Solving the world's energy issues requires deep collaboration to tackle challenges one by one with reliable partners. I am grateful for the open and engaging dialogue I have had with Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill. I look forward to further developing our relationship with Woodside, a global player in LNG, and to promote new initiatives to achieve decarbonisation.” 

Completion of the Scarborough equity transaction is subject to conditions precedent including Foreign Investment Review Board approval, National Offshore Petroleum Titles Administrator approvals, Western Australian Government approvals and satisfaction of requisite financing approvals. 

The transaction also includes an option for JERA to acquire a 15.1% non-operating participating interest in the Thebe and Jupiter fields as well as a non-binding agreement that outlines a long-term collaboration to pursue opportunities for additional feed gas and joint investment in offshore gas fields for future tieback to the Pluto LNG facility via Scarborough infrastructure. A non-binding agreement has also been signed for Woodside to provide carbon management services to assist JERA to meet its obligations associated with its share of carbon emissions from the Scarborough Joint Venture. 

Following completion of the sale of equity to JERA, Woodside will hold a 74.9% interest in the Scarborough Joint Venture and remain as operator.

About Scarborough 
The Scarborough Energy Project comprises the Scarborough Joint Venture, the Pluto Train 2 Joint Venture and modifications to Pluto Train 1 to process Scarborough gas. The Scarborough Joint Venture includes the Scarborough field and associated offshore and subsea infrastructure. 

The Scarborough field is located approximately 375 km off the coast of Western Australia and the reservoir contains less than 0.1% carbon dioxide. Scarborough gas will be processed at the Pluto LNG facility, where Woodside is currently constructing Pluto Train 2. Woodside is operator of Pluto LNG and Pluto Train 2. 

In August 2023, Woodside entered into a sale and purchase agreement with LNG Japan for the sale of a 10% non-operating participating interest in the Scarborough Joint Venture.

Thursday, 15 February 2024

Chesapeake Energy Corporation, Delfin LNG And Gunvor Sign Long-Term LNG Liquefaction Offtake Agreement Indexed To Japan Korea Marker

Chesapeake Energy Corporation (NASDAQ: CHK, together with certain of its subsidiaries, collectively, "Chesapeake"), Delfin LNG LLC ("Delfin") and Gunvor Group Ltd, through Gunvor Singapore Pte Ltd ("Gunvor"), today announced the entrance into a liquefied natural gas (LNG) export deal that includes executed Sales and Purchase Agreements ("SPA") for long-term liquefaction offtake.

Under the SPA, Chesapeake will purchase approximately 0.5 million tonnes ("mtpa") of LNG per annum from Delfin at a Henry Hub price and contract targeted start date in 2028 then deliver to Gunvor on an FOB basis with the sales price linked to the Japan Korea Marker ("JKM") for a period of 20 years. These volumes will represent 0.5 mtpa of the previously announced up to 2 mtpa HOA with Gunvor.

Nick Dell'Osso, Chesapeake President and CEO, said, "Today's announcement cements an important step on our path to 'Be LNG Ready' and is further recognition of the depth of our portfolio and strength of our financial position. We are pleased to formalize our agreement which provides diversification and access to global LNG pricing while enabling the delivery of affordable, reliable, lower carbon energy to markets in need."

Dudley Poston, Delfin CEO, said: "We are excited to partner with a premier company like Chesapeake. We believe our unique liquefaction solution provides Chesapeake with commercial flexibility with a reduced environmental footprint, while providing a much-needed source of additional supply to key US allies and the global LNG market."

Kalpesh Patel, Co-Head of LNG Trading and a member of the Executive Committee of Gunvor, said, "This deal represents an important step in finalizing the 0.5 mtpa out of our total of 2.0 mtpa arrangement with Chesapeake, while expanding our existing cooperation with Delfin. We continue to provide reliable and competitive logistics services to our partners by utilizing our fleet consisting of vessels procured via term charters and equity ownership. Gunvor looks forward to establishing additional agreements with the companies in the near future."

Friday, 9 February 2024

VNG H&V signs gas supply contract with Algerian state-owned energy company SONATRACH

Leipzig-based gas trader VNG Handel & Vertrieb GmbH (VNG H&V), a 100% subsidiary of VNG AG, and the Algerian state-owned energy company SONATRACH have reached an important milestone with the signing of a medium-term gas supply contract. The agreement was signed on February 8, 2024 in Algiers, Algeria, and underscores the close cooperation between the two companies.

Ulf Heitmüller, Chairman of the Board of Management of VNG AG, commented on the conclusion of the contract: "We are delighted that we have successfully concluded a gas supply contract with Sonatrach. VNG is thus the first German company to purchase pipeline gas from Algeria. The contract lays the foundation for a trusting supply relationship, opens up new perspectives and strengthens the German-Algerian energy partnership. In addition to natural gas from Algeria as an important raw material for the energy transition, the long-term goal is to establish a hydrogen partnership with Sonatrach and to import green hydrogen from Algeria to Germany in the future. The purchase and transit of Algerian pipeline gas to Germany is an additional diversification of our supply portfolio, underlines our position as a reliable partner for our customers and makes an important contribution to security of supply."

Rachid Hachichi, CEO of SONATRACH, said: "We are very pleased to strengthen our energy partnerships with Europe through the landmark agreement with VNG. It marks the beginning of natural gas deliveries to Germany. We see great potential to further expand this cooperation and expand it to other areas of the energy value chain, such as hydrogen, in the future."

Monday, 5 February 2024

Grain LNG signs new deal with Venture Global further strengthening the security of supply of LNG to the United Kingdom

 Today (5 February), Grain LNG and Venture Global have announced the execution of a binding long-term terminal use agreement (TUA) enabling the regasification and sale of LNG from all of Venture Global’s LNG terminals in Louisiana, including CP2 LNG, subject to obtaining necessary federal permits.


Under the agreement, Venture Global will have the ability to access 3 million tonnes per annum (3MTPA) of LNG storage and regasification capacity at the Isle of Grain LNG receiving terminal for sixteen years beginning in 2029, equivalent of up to 5% of average UK gas demand.

This is the second agreement from Grain LNG’s competitive auction process which was launched in September 2023. The successful outcome of the auction further secures the future of Europe’s largest LNG import terminal into the mid 2040s.

Currently undergoing a significant expansion, Grain LNG will soon have enough regasification capacity to service approximately one third of the UK’s gas demand, serving as a gateway to the UK energy market as well as the broader European region. The UK has recently seen a significant rise in LNG imports as Europe has diversified its LNG sources.

With volumes across its projects - Calcasieu Pass, Plaquemines LNG and CP2 LNG - this investment will bolster Venture Global’s status as a strategic supplier to Europe. This flexibility and access to Venture Global’s volumes will be critical to the UK and Europe’s efforts to replace LNG volumes from other suppliers. To date, Venture Global has exported about 75% of its cargoes to Europe.

Katie Jackson, President of National Grid Ventures said: “I’m delighted that we are today able to announce the second result from our September auction, commencing a long term partnership with Venture Global. LNG imports play a critical role in making sure the whole of the UK has the gas it needs, when it needs it, providing a flexible and reliable supply of gas to heat peoples’ homes.

The UK has recently seen a significant rise in LNG imports as Europe has sought alternative energy sources. The addition of our first US customer further diversifies our supplier base, underpins UK consumers’ energy security and guarantees the future of our world-class site out to 2045.”

Mike Sabel, CEO of Venture Global said: "Venture Global is thrilled to announce our first investment in LNG infrastructure outside of the United States, bolstering our ability to supply LNG from all our projects. The Grain LNG terminal is an important gateway to the broader European market, and we look forward to supplying the region through this new access point for years to come.”

Monday, 29 January 2024

Excelerate Energy Signs 15-Year LNG Supply Deal with QatarEnergy

Excelerate Energy, Inc. (NYSE: EE) (the Company or Excelerate) and QatarEnergy announced today the execution of a 15-year liquefied natural gas (“LNG”) Sales and Purchase agreement (“SPA”). Under the SPA, Excelerate has agreed to purchase up to 1.0 million tonnes per annum (“MTPA”) of LNG from QatarEnergy on a delivered ex-ship basis in Bangladesh for 15 years, beginning January 2026. Excelerate will purchase 0.85 MTPA of LNG in 2026 and 2027 and 1.0 MTPA from 2028 to 2040.

“This inaugural long term supply agreement with the world’s largest LNG supplier marks a new milestone in our collaboration with QatarEnergy. Qatar delivers approximately 10 percent of its current annual LNG production through Excelerate FSRUs and we are pleased to unlock further new demand in the markets where we operate,” said Steven Kobos, President and Chief Executive Officer of Excelerate. “This agreement highlights our ability to secure critical and affordable LNG volumes for our customers with increasing natural gas demand, while driving stable, long-term economic uplift on our existing infrastructure.”

Commenting on this occasion, His Excellency Mr. Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, the President and CEO of QatarEnergy, said: “We are pleased to sign this agreement with Excelerate for the supply of up to one million tons per annum of LNG to Bangladesh. This new agreement will further strengthen our relationship with Excelerate while also supporting the energy requirements of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh and its stride towards greater economic development.”

As a leading provider of flexible LNG infrastructure and integrated solutions, Excelerate Energy is helping to enhance energy security for countries around the world, while supporting their transition to a clean energy future.

Tuesday, 23 January 2024

Wison New Energies Spearheads the Design validation and Pre-FEED for two 3MTPA FLNG Projects in Nigeria

The Design validation and Pre-FEED phase for two 3MTPA FLNG Projects of Ace Gas and FLNG (“ACE”), and Transoceanic Gas and Power (“Transoceanic”)officially commences. In this project, Wison New Energies is entrusted with the FLNG design and EPC. The contract has been successfully signed, and mobilization funds have been disbursed for this phase of the project.

The agreement is to provide the design validation and engineering studies for the design of a 3MPTA facility to support the "design one and build two strategies "to be applied across Ace and Transoceanic projects in offshore Escravos and offshore Pennington respectively. The FLNG will produce, store and offload 3MPTA LNG and associated LPG and condensates for transport to market.

Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Chris Nwokolo - Group CEO from Ace Gas and FLNG said "We’re excited about the collaboration with Wison New Energies. We thank our team, partners and the government for their efforts and support in ensuring this project becomes a reality.”

Mr. Fan Jian, Country Manager of Nigeria from Wison New Energies, remarked “Wison is excited to see the project has been officially entering into the pre-FEED stage. We’re confident that our FLNG EPCIC experience will guarantee a successful and efficient delivery. We are excited about advancing to the next stage in the near future.”

Friday, 12 January 2024

EQT Announces Tolling Agreement with Texas LNG

EQT Corporation (NYSE: EQT) ("EQT" or the "Company") today announced it has entered into a Heads of Agreement ("HOA") for liquefaction services from Texas LNG's facility in Brownsville, Texas to produce 0.5 million tons per annum of LNG under a 15-year tolling agreement. Final terms remain subject to negotiation of a definitive agreement between the parties. Texas LNG, a subsidiary of Glenfarne Energy Transition, LLC, anticipates a final investment decision on the project in 2024, with first cargo deliveries expected in 2028.

Toby Z. Rice, President and CEO, said, "This HOA with Texas LNG highlights continued momentum behind EQT's differentiated LNG strategy, which is focused on achieving the best combination of upside exposure and downside risk mitigation. Our tolling capacity gives us direct connectivity to end users of natural gas globally, allowing for end-market structuring flexibility and superior downside protection."

Rice continued, "EQT's low-cost structure, peer-leading core inventory depth and environmental attributes uniquely position us to compete and win in the global energy arena and we believe the international market will increasingly covet our molecules as a long-duration secure supply source that can drive meaningful emissions reductions via coal displacement."

Monday, 8 January 2024

KN Becomes Commercial Manager of Four German LNG Terminals

International energy terminal operator KN (KN Energies AB starting 10th January 2024) is kicking off the year 2024 by securing the public tender for the commercial management of four German liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals on the North Sea coast. The company has signed contract with Deutsche Energy Terminal GmbH (DET), the German state-owned company that operates state-controlled LNG terminals.
 
On behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economics Affairs and Climate Action, the DET operates Germany's first LNG terminals on the North Sea coast, 
Additionally, DET will operate two upcoming terminals: 

The two-year contract between KN and DET covers the commercial management of all four LNG terminals. Until now, KN already provided these services for the 1 Wilhelmshaven and Brunsbüttel LNG terminals, but after DET took over the management of these facilities, a new tender was launched for the consolidated commercial management of four LNG terminals.

In recent years Germany is rapidly embarking on the development of the construction of floating LNG terminals in order to provide new sources of supply for LNG following the failure of gas supplies via pipelines from Russia. The German Government is using the state-owned liquefied natural gas terminals to secure reliable energy supplies to the federal market. Germany is expected to have a total of five FSRU-based LNG import terminals within this year, four of which will be operated by DET.

According to the contract signed by KN and DET, commercial management services for the four LNG terminals will include managing commercial and logistics operations, gas dispatching processes, accounting and reporting of the commercial activities to the DET, development and provision of IT systems and tools and other terminal operational services adapted to the customer’s needs.

The contract also includes a commitment to capacity building and knowledge transfer of KN expertise to DET staff. During the term of the contract, the objective is to train the local team to be able to ensure the commercial operation of the terminals themselves.

Darius Šilenskis, CEO of KN, is confident that the success in securing the tender can be attributed to the experience already gained by KN in the German market.

“By providing commercial management services to two German LNG terminals, we have had the opportunity to demonstrate unique competences, expertise, professionalism, and the ability to meet customers' expectations in a qualitative and prompt manner," Mr. Šilenskis stated.

KN CEO emphasizes that assuming a more significant role in the German LNG terminal projects will enhance KN's position in the European LNG terminal market. The company consistently adheres to its strategic direction of being the first choice for customers involved in the development of LNG terminals worldwide.

Dr. Peter Röttgen, Managing Director of DET is satisfied with the result of the tender: “After our initial positive experience of working together with KN at our sites in Brunsbüttel and Wilhelmshaven, we are now looking forward to continuing this fruitful and professional collaboration for all DET sites.”

KN is an international energy terminal operator responsible for ensuring safe and reliable flows of liquid energy, loading of chemicals and raw materials for Baltic consumers, while also using the company’s knowledge and skills to assist clients around the world in developing sustainable energy infrastructure projects. The company currently operates three terminals for liquid energy products in Klaipėda, Subačius, and Marijampolė, and is also the operator of liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals in Lithuania and Brazil. To date, the company has contributed to more than 10 different LNG projects around the world.

Thursday, 4 January 2024

Cedar LNG awards EPC contract for state-of-the-art floating LNG production unit

The Haisla Nation and Pembina Pipeline Corporation (Pembina) (TSX: PPL) (NYSE: PBA), partners in the development of the proposed Cedar LNG Project (Cedar LNG), today announced Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) and Black & Veatch have been selected to provide engineering, procurement and construction for the design, fabrication and delivery of the Project's floating LNG production unit (FLNG), subject to a Final Investment Decision (FID).

"This is a critical milestone on our path towards a FID for Cedar LNG, the first Indigenous majority-owned LNG project in the world," said Doug Arnell, Cedar LNG Chief Executive Officer. "We have secured world-class FLNG expertise and look forward to working with SHI and Black & Veatch to build an LNG facility with one of the cleanest environmental profiles in the world that will usher in a new era of low carbon, sustainable LNG production."

"Our role in helping Cedar LNG make history on this world-class facility aligns with our commitment to deliver a reliable and resilient global energy supply as a leader in the world's energy transition," said Mario Azar, Black & Veatch Chairman & Chief Executive Officer.

Cedar LNG now has major regulatory approvals, signed memorandums of understanding for long-term liquefaction services for the project's total LNG capacity, and with the achievement of this milestone, the Project is at an advanced stage of planning and development with a FID expected by the end of the first quarter 2024.

Subject to a positive FID, onshore construction work for the project could commence as early as the second quarter 2024, with the delivery of the FLNG and substantial completion expected in 2028.

Argent LNG Selects Baker Hughes as Technology Provider, Strengthening Project

Argent LNG LCC (Argent LNG) has selected Baker Hughes (NASDAQ: BKR), an energy technology company, as the liquefaction solution and related...