NOV lands work on Argentina’s first FLNG project

September 22, 2025, by Dragana Nikše

Oilfield services company NOV has won a contract to provide a mooring solution for an offshore floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) project in the Gulf of San Matías, offshore Argentina.

The project will see the redeployment of FLNG Hilli Episeyo, a unit which previously operated offshore Cameroon. Also known as FLNG Hilli, the vessel is expected to handle around 2.4 million tonnes of LNG per year.

Under the new contract, NOV will provide the APL submerged swivel and yoke (SSY) system. As explained, this solution delivers safe mooring and uninterrupted gas transfer through a subsea pipeline. Since a jetty is not needed, topside infrastructure and overall project complexity are said to be reduced.

“Supplying the SSY for Argentina’s first FLNG project is a proud moment for our team. Together with Southern Energy SA, we are setting a high benchmark for efficient export of Argentina’s natural gas,” said Anders Vaalandsmyr, Director of Technology and R&D, APL.

According to NOV, the compact SSY is built on proven turret and swivel technology, with an integrated design that makes it ideal for redeployed or remote field FLNG developments. The reuse of the FLNG is also anticipated to shorten the project schedule and reduce embedded CO2 emissions compared to a new unit.

The development is led by Southern Energy SA (SESA), a company formed to enable LNG exports from Argentina. It comprises Pan American Energy, Pampa Energía, Harbour Energy, YPF, and Golar LNG.

Seatrium was recently picked by Golar LNG to handle the upgrading of the unit before its 20-year redeployment. The unit will be tasked with liquifying gas from the Vaca Muerta Shale formation onshore in Neuquen province, with an expected start in 2027.