Golar LNG to build three FLNG vessels

Golar LNG has contracted Keppel Shipyard Ltd. to convert three of its Moss type LNG carriers into FLNG vessels. The vessels will use Golar’s proven topside technology and its own Moss type carriers and Keppel will carry out the engineering and conversion work required. Keppel has already converted two LNG carriers into FSRUs for Golar.

The new FLNG vessels will allow Golar to provide charter vessels for the monetisation of otherwise stranded fields and offers increased flexibility and shorter development times.

The first FLNG will have a capacity of up to 2 million tpy and will utilise the existing 125 000 m³ of LNG storage on board the carrier. Keppel will start the FEED study in November and detailed design and engineering is expected to be concluded around mid-2013 when vessel conversion is expected to start.

The first vessel is expected to be ready for production by Q1 2015. Golar has the option to convert two additional LNG vessels with Keppel at a later date.

Golar's Chairman John Fredriksen said, "Golar helped to open up the LNG market through the introduction of floating receiving terminals which have opened a lot of new markets for LNG. Our FLNGV's will be able to provide a fast-track, cost effective solution for developing new LNG production capacity. We believe this technology will be extremely attractive to companies looking to develop their natural gas assets and we are actively pursuing multiple opportunities. It is Golar's intention to market the solution for field developments as well as for direct production from existing pipeline infrastructure.”

He added, “The Board sees particular opportunities in the African region, where gas prices remain low. Significantly, large quantities of gas are currently being flared and the infrastructure doesn't naturally support large land based LNG investments."

Written by Peter Farrell.

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/lng-shipping/06112012/golar-contracts-keppel-to-convert-three-flng-vessels356/