Drydocks World Secures Groundbreaking Contract for World's Largest Floating LNG Facility
DUBAI (ALETIHAD) – In a significant stride for the maritime and oil and gas sectors, Drydocks World, a subsidiary of DP World, has recently been awarded a strategic Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract by AMIGO LNG. This contract entails the development of the world’s largest Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) liquefaction facility, marking a pivotal moment in the energy landscape.
The ambitious project, set to unfold at Drydocks World’s state-of-the-art facility in Dubai, encompasses the conversion of two existing Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) carriers into Floating Storage Units (FSUs) alongside the construction of two additional FLNG barges. These vessels collectively aim to achieve a liquefaction capacity exceeding 4.2 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), thus setting a new global standard for floating LNG developments upon its anticipated operational phase in the latter half of 2028.
AMIGO LNG represents a synergistic collaboration between Texas-based Epcilon LNG LLC and Singapore’s LNG Alliance Pte Ltd. Situated off the coast of Guaymas in Sonora, Mexico, the facility leverages natural gas sourced from the prolific US Permian Basin. By enabling direct LNG exports, this development will significantly enhance Mexico’s stature in the international energy supply chain, catering to surging demand in both Asia and Latin America.
The facility’s strategic geographic position provides a distinct advantage by reducing shipping distances to Asian markets when compared to traditional US Gulf terminals. This not only translates to cost savings for operators but also contributes positively to emissions reduction. By tapping into this new LNG corridor, the project arrives at a critical juncture for global energy security—a context underscored by heightened demand for efficient and sustainable energy solutions.
Captain Rado Antolovic, PhD, CEO of Drydocks World, emphasized the importance of this contract for both the company and Dubai as a whole. He stated, “This contract represents a major milestone for Drydocks World and Dubai. With our expertise in complex offshore conversions and large-scale new builds, we are setting new global benchmarks for floating LNG solutions. At the same time, this project reinforces Dubai’s position as a hub for advanced maritime engineering that powers global trade and the energy transition.”
The execution of the EPC project will adopt a modular build strategy. This innovative approach facilitates precision fabrication and ensures seamless system integration and pre-commissioning within a controlled environment. By utilizing such strategies, Drydocks World aims to uphold rigorous quality assurance measures, shorten delivery timelines, minimize environmental repercussions, and guarantee the long-term performance of the facility.
Dr. Muthu Chezhian, CEO of LNG Alliance Pte Ltd., echoed Captain Antolovic’s sentiments, stating, “By partnering with Drydocks World on the world’s largest FLNG facility, we are securing best-in-class quality, exceptional production capacity, and reliable long-term performance of this critical asset. We are also harnessing the key advantages of FLNG solutions—ranging from expedited project schedules to stringent testing and smooth pre-commissioning in a controlled fabrication yard environment, alongside the substantial environmental benefits this approach delivers.”
Drydocks World boasts a commendable track record, having successfully completed over ten major LNG and Floating Storage Regasification Unit (FSRU) conversion projects. This extensive experience positions the company not just as a participant but as a leader in the evolution of LNG infrastructure.
In conclusion, the partnership between Drydocks World and AMIGO LNG signifies a forward-thinking approach to meeting the escalating demand for LNG while facilitating crucial advancements in energy security and environmental stewardship. As we look toward the future, this landmark project underscores the vital role of innovation and collaboration in shaping the energy landscape globally.
Tags: #BusinessNews #EconomyNews #UAE #EnergyInnovation #MarineEngineering