African FLNG project getting its ‘ideal choice’ of LNG liquefaction technology

Anglo-French oil and gas player Perenco has picked a liquefied natural gas (LNG) liquefaction technology partner for its floating LNG (FLNG) project in Gabon, West Africa. Thanks to this, Aragon, a Norway-headquartered engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) player, which is part of Seatrium, will work on the firm’s FLNG terminal.

Following a final investment decision (FID) for an LNG plant to be built at the Cap Lopez oil terminal that Perenco acquired from TotalEnergies in 2021, Dixstone got the construction, procurement, and integration deal for the nearshore type LNG facilities’ project in Cap Lopez, Gabon. The Dutch player will handle the construction of the liquefaction barge in Dubai.

Perenco recently selected Aragon’s ODEC Nitrogen Expander Cycle as LNG liquefaction technology for its Cap Lopez FLNG project in West Africa. According to the Norwegian firm, the strategic partnership represents “a significant milestone, underscoring the shared commitment of both organisations to advancing innovation and excellence in the LNG technology sector.”

Armel Simondin, CEO of Perenco, commented: “We are thrilled to embark on this journey with Aragon, as its proprietary ODEC technology will play a crucial role in the success of the Cap Lopez FLNG project. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in our pursuit of innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and environmental stewardship in the LNG sector. Together with our partners, we look forward to advancing this milestone project forward.”

The company claims that its ODEC Nitrogen Expander Cycle is renowned for its reliability, safety, and ability to adapt to the specific demands of FLNG operations. The Norwegian firm underlined that its technology was deemed “the ideal choice” for the project, thanks to its ability to optimize LNG production while addressing challenges such as operational flexibility and environmental sustainability.

Kristian Utkilen, CEO of Aragon, remarked: “We are honoured to partner with Dixstone on this landmark project. The Cap Lopez FLNG project is a testament to the potential of innovative technologies like our ODEC system to drive reliable, safe and environmental sustainability in LNG production while reducing flaring.“

Perenco previously disclosed that the planned LNG production unit would entail an investment of more than $1 billion, transforming the Cap Lopez project into both an oil and gas terminal. The LNG plant is expected to produce 700,000 tons of LNG. The company received technical approval from the Gabonese authorities in December 2022 for the construction of an LNG export terminal at Cap Lopez.

The FLNG facility will have a production capacity of 0.7 mtpa of LNG and 25,000 tons of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), with a storage capacity of 137,000 cubic meters in a former gas tanker converted to FSO. The project will expand on the existing Cap Lopez oil export terminal once it comes online, which is expected to occur in 2026.

“The Cap Lopez FLNG project represents a major leap forward for the global FLNG industry, and Aragon is excited to contribute its technological expertise to this groundbreaking initiative. Together with Perenco, Aragon is committed to delivering outstanding results that will redefine industry benchmarks and set new standards for the sector,” outlined the Norwegian firm.