Consortium proposed by SCF could be charged with construction of vessels – Sovcomflot

A consortium planned by SCF with one of the large shipping companies (the name of which has not been revealed) could manage the operation of LNG carriers supporting Yamal LNG project and supervise their construction having sent its watchdog groups to the shipyards, Dmitry Rusanov, deputy director of LNG fleets at Sovcomflot, told PortNews IAA. According to him, the earlier the consortium is set up the better as more time will be left to prepare crews and on-shore offices for operation of tankers. 

We remind that Sovcomflot has proposed NOVATEK to create a consortium to manage LNG tankers within the framework of Yamal LNG project. 16 gas carriers with the aggregate capacity of 16.5 mln tons of LNG are totally valued at some $6 bln.

As of today, two tenders for construction and operation of vessels under Yamal LNG Project are in process.

Yamal-LNG project implies the development of the South-Tambey field of gas condensate at Yamal and construction of LNG plant with the capacity to liquefy 15 mln tons of gas per year and produce 1 mln tons of condensate. The launch of the first phase is scheduled for 2016. LNG is supposed to be transported along the Northern Sea Route. For that purpose an ice class fleet and a sea port is to be built in Sabetta.

The Project is being implemented by NOVATEK which holds 80% of Yamal-LNG OJSC. Its strategic partner is Total holding 20% of the company.