Kotug to participate in major Australian FLNG project

Known as the Prelude FLNG Project, the facility will be located 475km north-north east of Broome in Western Australia.

KT Maritime Services will supply three 42m long, 100 tonne bollard pull ISVs to assist in product offloading during the operations phase of the project, operating out of the Port of Broome. The ISVs have been specifically designed to meet the Prelude FLNG facilities unique marine services requirements that include tanker berthing and offshore operational support, including emergency response, for a period of at least 25 years.

The project is predicted to create approximately 80 new Australian jobs and includes commitments to the employment of indigenous trainees supported by Aboriginal Marine Services based in Perth.

On awarding the contract, Shell Australia country chairman Andrew Smith stated: “This is a very significant contract when it comes to the ongoing operation of Prelude FLNG, and our key priorities in awarding the contract were finding a partner who could deliver the vessels and services safely, and secure good local employment and training outcomes.

“This contract is an example of the long term benefits of Prelude FLNG. During the operations and maintenance phase we expect to spend at least $200m per year on local content. This is a very positive level of investment into the Australian economy.”

David Parmeter, director of KT Maritime said: “To be part of Shell’s first deployment of Floating LNG technology is an important milestone for our business and we look forward to supporting the Prelude FLNG development throughout its operations. This joint partnership combines the technical innovation and expertise of KOTUG with Teekay’s experience as a marine operator in Australia.”

KT Maritime Services Australia Pty Ltd, a marine towage services provider, was incorporated in July 2012 and is a joint venture established by ship owners and operators, KOTUG International BV and Teekay Shipping Australia Pty Ltd. The joint venture has been established to provide marine towage solutions to the Australian energy and resources sectors.

Fellow KT Maritime director Mr Ard-Jan Kooren commented: “We are proud to be working with Shell Australia in pioneering FLNG technology, and look forward to changing the game together over the decades ahead.”

The three ISVs will be powered by Rotor Tug technology pioneered by KOTUG, featuring three separate azimuth propulsion units to provide improved vessel safety, power, efficiency and manoeuvrability. During the operations phase of the project the three 42m long, 100 tonne bollard pull Rotor Tugs will assist visiting tankers and perform other duties in the product offloading process. As yet no further technical details have been revealed regarding the ISVs, which will currently be the largest Rotor Tugs to be built.