Golar looking into second FLNG conversion

Keppel Shipyard Ltd, a subsidiary of Keppel Offshore & Marine Ltd is in the process of finalising contracts with Golar Gimi Limited (Golar Gimi), a subsidiary of Golar LNG Limited (Golar LNG), to perform the conversion of a second Moss LNG carrier, the GIMI, into a Floating Liquefaction Vessel (FLNGV).

Earlier on 3 July 2014, Keppel Shipyard was awarded a firm contract by Golar Hilli Corporation (Golar Hilli) to perform the world’s first-of-its-type conversion of a Moss LNG carrier, the HILLI, into an FLNGV, and the contract included options for another two similar units. The forthcoming conversion award of the GIMI will mark the exercise of the first of these two options.

The work scope for Keppel Shipyard in converting the GIMI is expected to be similar to that for the HILLI. Keppel Shipyard will be responsible for the provision of the design, detailed engineering and procurement of the marine systems and all of the conversion-related construction services. It is also expected that Keppel Shipyard’s scope will include engaging Black & Veatch to provide design, procurement and commissioning support services for the topsides and liquefaction process. Once again, Black & Veatch’s established PRICO® technology is expected to be selected for the liquefaction process.

Michael Chia, Managing Director (Marine & Technology), Keppel O&M, said, “We are happy that Golar LNG is looking into their second FLNGV conversion, and is finalising discussions with Keppel Shipyard to perform this second conversion. We look forward to the opportunity to collaborate once again with Black & Veatch, our trusted partner for the first conversion, on this potential second project. We are confident that together with Black & Veatch, we will be able to perform this second conversion to the high standards expected of us.

“This advanced discussion for the conversion of the GIMI, which follows just two months after the first firm contract with Golar Hilli, is testament to the industry’s positive reception to FLNGV conversion solutions and its potential to bring small and mid-scale Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to market, ahead of other competing solutions.”

A further announcement will be made upon the execution of a firm contract, which is expected by October 2014, for the conversion of the GIMI. Upon execution of the contract, full construction activities will only commence when Keppel Shipyard receives a notice to proceed which is expected to be given on or after 1 January 2015 but no later than November 2015.

The above is not expected to have any material impact on the net tangible assets and earnings per share of Keppel Corporation, the parent company of Keppel O&M, for the current financial year.