Saipem cheers first gas milestone on rig-turned-FPU at Eni’s African project

December 3, 2025, by Melisa Cavcic

Italy’s engineering, drilling, and construction services giant Saipem has confirmed the achievement of first gas at an asset that was recently converted from a semi-submersible drilling rig into a floating production unit (FPU) deployed at Eni’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) project off the coast of Congo, Africa.

While corroborating the introduction of first gas on Scarabeo 5, which forms part of Congo LNG, the country’s first natural gas liquefaction project, Saipem emphasized the milestone was reached ahead of schedule.

“With this achievement, Phase 2 of Eni’s Congo LNG project is officially underway, targeting the export of the first LNG cargo in early 2026. This major milestone highlights our fast-track execution capabilities and our distinctive approach, which has enabled us to significantly reduce project time to market,” added the Italian giant.

Saipem was in charge of engineering, procurement, construction, transportation, and commissioning of the FPU and CIMC Raffles was tasked with the main conversion activities, including the dismantling of the drilling system, repairing and refurnishing the marine system, implementing brand new topside process modules, and converting the vessel.

The confirmation of first gas comes only a day after Eni announced the start-up of Congo LNG Phase 2, which allows the FLNG Nguya to work alongside the FLNG Tango that has been deployed at the project since late 2023.

View on Offshore-energy.

This LNG project is envisioned to exploit the gas resources of the Marine XII project with the installation of two FLNG units at the Nenè and Litchendjili fields. From a drilling rig to a fully integrated gas treatment, separation, and compression unit, Scarabeo 5 is said to now incorporate advanced decarbonization solutions.

This is perceived to demonstrate how circular economy principles and industrial reuse can drive sustainable energy innovation, according to Saipem, which added: “A special thank you to our onshore and offshore teams in Congo, whose dedication and commitment ensured a safe and successful start-up.”