Kongsberg Maritime has just landed a hefty contract worth over $25 million USD to outfit the Golar Mk2 Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) project with a suite of high-tech electrical, control, safety, and propulsion systems. This deal marks a significant milestone in the maritime sector, especially as it paves the way for the transformation of the Golar LNG tanker Fuji LNG into a state-of-the-art FLNG vessel. The ambitious rebuild, taking place at the CIMC Raffles shipyard in Yantai, China, will see the Fuji LNG lengthened by nearly 100 metres, a move that underscores the industry’s push toward more efficient, mobile solutions.
The Golar FLNG technology is a game changer in the liquefied natural gas sector. By offering a floating liquefaction plant, it caters to offshore and remote locations where traditional infrastructure is either impractical or cost-prohibitive. The compact design and optimized capital expenditure of FLNG systems eliminate the need for permanent onshore facilities like pipelines, which can be a logistical nightmare. This flexibility doesn’t just save money; it allows for the redeployment of these units to other fields once gas reserves are tapped out, enhancing both economic viability and operational efficiency.
Kongsberg Maritime is stepping up to the plate with a comprehensive equipment package that includes two UUC305 azimuth thrusters, sophisticated electrical systems, and an integrated control and safety system (ICSS). These thrusters, paired with a Heading Control system, leverage Kongsberg’s expertise in Dynamic Positioning (DP) without the need for full DP capabilities, a clever workaround that maximizes functionality while minimizing complexity.
What’s particularly noteworthy about the ICSS is its all-encompassing nature. It doesn’t just control the process plant; it integrates energy management, power distribution, cargo handling, ballast control, and auxiliary systems into one seamless operation. The safety features built into the ICSS are robust, including an Emergency Shutdown System (ESD), Fire and Gas Detection System (F&G), and Process Shutdown System (PSD). These systems ensure that the FLNG unit operates with integrity and safety at its core, a non-negotiable in an industry where the stakes are high and the margins for error are slim.
As the maritime industry continues to evolve in response to increasing energy demands and environmental considerations, contracts like this one signal a shift toward more innovative and sustainable solutions. Kongsberg Maritime’s involvement in the Golar Mk2 project not only showcases their technological prowess but also sets a precedent for future developments in the sector. With the rise of FLNG technology, we might just be witnessing the dawn of a new era in how we think about and utilize natural gas resources. The implications are enormous, and the potential for growth in this niche market could reshape energy supply chains for years to come.
