Golar converting Hilli to FLNGV

Golar LNG Limited said that, following a successful follow-on equity offering, it has executed and made effective key agreements for conversion of the 125,000 m3 LNG carrier Hilli to a floating liquefaction vessel (FLNGV).

The primary contract for the FLNGV was entered into with Singapore’s Keppel Shipyard. Keppel has simultaneously entered into a sub-contract with global engineering, procurement and construction company Black & Veatch who will provide its licensed PRICO® technology, perform detailed engineering and process design, specify and procure topside equipment, and provide commissioning support for the FLNGV topsides and liquefaction process. Golar selected Black & Veatch’s PRICO® technology for the liquefaction process because of its long-established record of reliable performance in global operations. The conversion has been approved in principle by DNV in accordance with their classification rules and international standards.

The conversion is scheduled to be completed in February 2017. Golar has also secured firm options for conversion of two additional vessels which can be delivered from the yard in the third quarter of 2017 and the first quarter of 2018.

The conversion vessel Hilli will be delivered to Keppel shipyard in Singapore within 3 to 4 months to initiate renewal of key systems onboard the vessel while the topsides are manufactured. The FLNG production equipment will be mounted on two new sponsons which will be connected to the vessel. The company expects the FLNGV conversion to be completed and delivered in approximately 31 months, which Golar views as one of several strong competitive advantages. This will make it possible for the company to offer a cost effective and reliable LNG production facility to its customers several years ahead of any potential competitors.

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Press Release, July 3, 2014; Image: Keppel