Steelhead LNG, WorleyParsons in deal for Sarita Bay LNG

Steelhead LNG and Huu-ay-aht First Nations have signed a contract with WorleyParsons, worth in excess of CAN$30 million, for the provision of environmental, engineering, geotechnical and regulatory services at the proposed LNG project at Sarita Bay, Vancouver Island.

The proposed project, a 24 million tpy land-based facility, is one of the largest proposed LNG projects in British Columbia. The new contract will encompass environmental impact assessments, preliminary front end engineering and design (pre-FEED) studies, geotechnical investigations, and permitting approvals support for the project.

Environmental consultancy

WorleyParsons’ environmental team will be supported by Hemmera, a Canadian environmental consultancy, creating a team of leaders in environmental and social sciences with expertise in environmental assessment, marine and terrestrial ecology, and experience working with First Nations.

Huu-ay-aht Councillor John Jack commented: “WorleyParsons and Hemmera bring local knowledge and global proficiency to the project, and we have faith in the process set out before us. Huu-ay-aht looks forward to working with both and moving into the future.”

The new contract is an extension of the strategic relationship that already exists between WorleyParsons, Steelhead LNG and Huu-ay-aht First Nations.

Comments

Nigel Kuzemko, CEO of Steelhead LNG, added: “We’re pleased to formalise our relationship with a world leader like WorleyParsons, who contribute their tremendous LNG experience and expertise. This deal is a reflection of our commitment to Huu-ay-aht citizens and British Columbia at large to investigate possible environmental impacts of the project, along with other technical and economic aspects, prior to making any decision to proceed with development.”

WorleyParsons will support the project with technical personnel from its offices in Burnaby, B.C., and London, England. In addition, the partnership will offer regional employment opportunities.

“Huu-ay-aht citizens will participate in the environmental studies and geotechnical investigations on Huu-ay-aht land, and they will provide crucial insight as well as local, historical and traditional knowledge about the proposed site and surrounding region,” added Jeff Cook, Elected Chief Councillor of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations.

Project milestone

The contract marks the first major milestone for the proposed project since Huu-ay-aht citizens voted in favour of continuing to explore the proposed project in November 2014.

Cook continued: “In the lead up to our People’s Assembly vote in November, and since then, our citizens identified a wide range of environmental issues that are important to them. Huu-ay-aht has a strong relationship with Steelhead, and our Nation is confident that this will also be true with WorleyParsons and Hemmera. We look forward to working closely with their personnel to examine issues raised by citizens over the coming months.”

WorleyParsons will begin activities for the proposed project immediately.

Adapted from press release by Katie Woodward

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/liquid-natural-gas/09022015/steelhead-lng-and-worleyparsons-sign-lng-deal-205/