Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 23, NOV, a global oilfield services company, has secured a contract to provide a mooring solution for an offshore floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) project in the Gulf of San Matías, Argentina. The project involves redeploying the FLNG Hilli Episeyo, previously operating offshore Cameroon, to handle an estimated 2.4 million tonnes of LNG per year.

Under the contract, NOV will supply the APL submerged swivel and yoke (SSY) system. This technology allows safe mooring and uninterrupted gas transfer via subsea pipelines, eliminating the need for a jetty and reducing topside infrastructure and overall project complexity.

“Supplying the SSY for Argentina’s first FLNG project is a proud moment for our team. Together with Southern Energy SA, we are setting a high benchmark for efficient export of Argentina’s natural gas,” said Anders Vaalandsmyr, Director of Technology and R&D at APL.

NOV highlighted that the compact SSY system is based on proven turret and swivel technology, with an integrated design well-suited for redeployed or remote-field FLNG developments. Reusing the FLNG vessel is expected to shorten the project schedule and reduce embedded CO₂ emissions compared to deploying a new unit.

The development is led by Southern Energy SA (SESA), established to facilitate LNG exports from Argentina. SESA includes Pan American Energy, Pampa Energía, Harbour Energy, YPF, and Golar LNG.

Golar LNG recently appointed Seatrium to manage the upgrading of the FLNG Hilli Episeyo before its 20-year redeployment. The unit will process gas from the Vaca Muerta Shale formation in Neuquen province, with operations expected to start in 2027.

This project represents Argentina’s first offshore FLNG initiative and is anticipated to play a key role in expanding the country’s LNG export capacity. By integrating advanced mooring technology and redeploying a proven vessel, the development aims to combine operational efficiency with reduced environmental impact.

The SSY system, by allowing continuous gas transfer without shore-based infrastructure, demonstrates a flexible and scalable approach to FLNG deployment, particularly suitable for remote or previously developed sites. The collaboration between NOV, Southern Energy SA, Golar LNG, and Seatrium illustrates a coordinated effort to optimize technology and project timelines while supporting Argentina’s energy export goals.

With an expected start in 2027, the project will contribute significantly to the utilization of the Vaca Muerta Shale resources and strengthen Argentina’s position in the global LNG market. The adoption of innovative mooring and gas-handling solutions also underscores the potential for sustainable and efficient offshore energy operations.

In summary, the redeployment of FLNG Hilli Episeyo with NOV’s SSY technology positions Argentina to efficiently export natural gas while minimizing new infrastructure requirements and environmental impact, marking a milestone in the country’s offshore energy development.