Axess Group, a Norway-based asset integrity management company, has secured significant new contracts with Golar LNG, the Bermuda-headquartered owner and operator specializing in liquefied natural gas (LNG) midstream infrastructure. These contracts involve two floating LNG (FLNG) units that are set to be deployed at an ambitious LNG project along Argentina’s Atlantic coast.
This latest venture underscores Axess Group’s growing influence in the global asset integrity management sector. After a competitive selection process, Golar LNG has chosen Axess to handle maintenance, building, and integrity management activities for two notable FLNG units: MK II FLNG and Hilli FLNG. These units will operate under the Argentina LNG project, aimed at enhancing LNG export capabilities for the South American nation.
The responsibilities allocated to Axess for the MK II FLNG consist of maintenance build services, which include developing a detailed asset hierarchy and an asset register. The firm will also implement comprehensive maintenance and inspection programs that are essential for establishing a robust framework for long-term asset integrity and operational reliability. This signifies a commitment to ensuring these floating units operate efficiently in the challenging marine environment.
Andreas Sæter, VP of Europe at Axess Group, shared insights into the significance of this deal: “These awards reflect the strong confidence in Axess’ execution model and technical expertise in asset integrity for FLNG assets. They provide a solid platform for long-term value creation through high-quality AIM delivery and operational support.”
In addition to these tasks, Axess is also slated to undertake integrity revalidation services for the FLNG Hilli, which will support its redeployment through Risk-Based Inspections (RBI), structural integrity reassessment, and inspection baseline consolidation. This comprehensive approach ensures that all safety and operational parameters are satisfied, allowing for seamless operational transitions.
Anticipated for delivery in Q4 of 2027, the MK II is a next-generation FLNG unit converted from the LNG carrier Fuji and boasts a liquefaction capacity of an impressive 3.5 million tonnes per year. In contrast, the FLNG Hilli, which has been in commercial operation since 2018, is recognized as one of the pioneering converted floating LNG units in the industry.
Leveraging its established global presence, Axess is positioned to deliver comprehensive, digitally-enabled asset integrity management (AIM) solutions across both units. This strategic partnership not only indicates a significant milestone for Axess but also strengthens the company’s foothold in the competitive FLNG sector. It builds a deeper, long-term relationship with Golar LNG while laying the groundwork for further execution and operational support activities throughout South America.
Southern Energy S.A. (SESA), the company that will charter these FLNG units, is a consortium comprised of various major Argentinian gas producers. The consortium’s makeup includes Pan American Energy (30%), YPF (25%), Pampa Energia (20%), Harbour Energy (15%), and Golar (10%). Their collaboration aims to facilitate LNG exports from Argentina, providing essential infrastructure for the burgeoning LNG market.
Once operational, the combined capacity of the MK II and Hilli units will reach approximately 6 million tonnes per year (mtpa). The FLNG Hilli Episeyo is expected to commence commercial operations in September 2027, while MK II will follow suit by late 2028, creating a significant impact on the LNG export landscape in Argentina.
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