FLNG Gimi Receives First Gas: African LNG Milestone

Introduction

FLNG Gimi has officially reached a groundbreaking milestone for the maritime and LNG industries by receiving its first gas feed on January 18, 2025, from bp’s Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (“GTA”) project. This event signifies the beginning of full commissioning activities for FLNG Gimi, paving the way for the first LNG export cargo anticipated in Q1 2025, and new possibilities for LNG production offshore Mauritania and Senegal.

1. Key Facts and Figures

• Gas Intake Date: January 18, 2025
• Location: Offshore Mauritania and Senegal
• Operator: bp’s FPSO on the GTA project
• First LNG Export Cargo: Expected in Q1 2025
• Full Commercial Operation: Targeted for Q2 2025
• Contract Value: 20-year Lease and Operate Agreement, unlocking around $3 billion of Adjusted EBITDA Backlog (Golar’s share)

Prior to receiving natural gas directly from the FPSO, FLNG Gimi relied on the LNG carrier British Sponsor for advanced commissioning work. With the new feed source in place, commissioning efforts can now ramp up to operational levels.

2. Expert Insights

Industry analysts have noted that FLNG Gimi’s venture represents one of the largest offshore LNG opportunities in recent years, offering new avenues for energy security and market flexibility.

3. Impact on the LNG and Maritime Sector

• Offshore LNG Growth: The successful start-up at GTA demonstrates the growing viability of offshore liquefaction, reducing the need for extensive onshore infrastructure.
• Reduced Environmental Footprint: FLNG projects often present lower onshore environmental impacts compared to land-based LNG plants.
• Regulatory and Operational Synergies: Collaboration between Golar, bp, and host governments could streamline future offshore LNG endeavors, setting precedents for standardized regulations and permitting processes.

This wide-ranging collaboration also signifies a turning point for the African maritime industry, positioning Mauritania and Senegal as emerging players in global LNG exports.

4. Potential Future Implications

• Long-Term Revenue Streams: Triggering the 20-year Lease and Operate Agreement allows Golar to recognize significant contractual payments, bolstering investment in further LNG technology.
• Global LNG Market Influence: As more FLNG projects come online, market dynamics may shift, with flexible, quicker-to-deploy floating facilities challenging the dominance of established onshore terminals.
• Further Technological Advancements: The continued success of FLNG operations could encourage R&D that reduces operational costs, enhances efficiency, and broadens adoption of similar projects worldwide.

Conclusion

FLNG Gimi’s first gas intake not only signals the start of commercial commissioning but also represents a major leap forward in offshore LNG innovation. FLNG Gimi is poised to reshape global LNG strategies by offering efficient production capabilities and substantial, long-term commercial gains. With the first export cargo expected by Q1 2025 and a projected COD in Q2 2025, the stage is set for a transformative new era of floating LNG production.