Doomed Arctic LNG platform arrives in Arctic Russia
After three weeks of towing across rough Arctic waters, the 640,000 ton heavy production platform arrives in the remote port of Utrenny. It might never produce liquified natural gas as planned.
The gigantic platform on the 25th of July started its more than 2,000 km long voyage from Belokamenka near Murmansk to Gydan, the remote peninsula where Novatek is developing its Arctic LNG 2 project.
On the 17th of August, the more than 110 meter high object reached its destination. Its proportions made it easy to spot on satellite photos.
On the day before arrival, the gravity-based structure could be seen about 50 km away from the port of Utrenny. It was towed by three tugs, and surrounded by a number of more support vessels. In the wake of the ships was a thick belt of muddy waters from the shallow bay.
In Utrenny, the platform docked next to the similar structure that was sent from Murmansk to Gydan in August 2023.
Essential elements for Novatek’s Arctic LNG 2 venture
The two gravity-based structures are key components in Novatek’s Arctic LNG 2 project. They are designed to produce up to 6,6 million tons of LNG per year each. A third structure is due to arrive in Utrenneye in 2025.
However, the fate of the three gravity-based structures hangs in the balance as mounting international sanctions target Russia’s LNG industry.
Since Moscow launched its full-scale war on Ukraine, the U.S Treasury has approved a number of sanctions against the Arctic LNG 2. The project that was to make Russia one of the world’s leading producers of LNG is now paralysed and the production platforms in Utrenneye might never be able to start production as planned.
Locals note significant reduction in construction workers
The two structures in Utrenneye, as well as the third structure that is under construction in Belokamenka, risk ending up as rusting ghost installations. The same applies for the Saam, a 400 meter long vessel projected to serve as transshipment hub for the project.
Also Belokamenka, the LNG construction center outside Murmansk, now faces a halt in activities.
Locals in Murmansk report that the construction center is almost emptied of workers.
Contracts are being terminated and all workers will leave the yard by September, the news site Arktichesky Obozrevatel informed on Telegram. Only a small group of specialists will remain to preserve the industrial facilities.
Related stories from around the North:
Canada: Ottawa pledges $19M for Nunavut projects to slash diesel use, Eye on the Arctic
Russia: Moscow’s Arctic policy is corrupt and based on lies says exiled energy expert, The Independent Barents Observer
Sweden: Sweden’s climate policies closer to reaching goals, Radio Sweden
United States: U.S. judge suspends Alaska Cook Inlet lease, pending additional environmental review, The Associated Press
