Keppel cleared to start conversion work on Gimi FLNG project

Hilli Episeyo FLNG; Source: Keppel

Keppel Offshore & Marine’s has received the final notice to proceed (FNTP) from Gimi MS Corporation, a Golar LNG unit, to begin full conversion works for the Gimi FLNG project.

Keppel O&M said that Keppel Shipyard would begin work on the conversion of the Gimi FLNG, with the total value of the contract being $947 million.

It is worth reminding that Keppel received a limited notice to proceed back on December 17, 2018 while Golar entered into a formal lease and operating agreement with BP for the charter of an FLNG unit to service the Greater Tortue / Ahmeyim project back in February.

Keppel’s scope of work in the conversion of a Moss LNG carrier into an FLNG vessel includes the design, detailed engineering, and procurement of the marine systems as well as conversion-related construction services.

It will be similar to the work done on the first FLNG vessel, Hilli Episeyo, which Keppel undertook for Golar, but will be customized for work on BP’s Greater Greater Tortue / Ahmeyim field offshore Mauritania and Senegal. According to the company, the delivery of the vessel is expected in the first half of 2022.

Also, Keppel Shipyard will once again engage Black & Veatch, its partner for the conversion of the Hilli Episeyo, to provide design, procurement, and commissioning support services for the topsides, as well as the liquefaction process.

When completed, the Gimi FLNG will be stationed at a nearshore hub located on the Mauritania and Senegal maritime border as part of the first phase of the Greater Tortue / Ahmeyim project. The Gimi FLNG is designed to produce an average of approximately 2.5 million tonnes of LNG per annum.

Iain Ross, CEO of Golar LNG, said: “Golar looks forward to working closely with Keppel on another Mark I FLNG and has a high degree of confidence in Keppel’s ability to safely deliver FLNG Gimi on time and within budget.