McDermott secures major EPCI contract from Shell for Manatee gas field

McDermott has secured a significant engineering, procurement, construction, installation (EPCI), hook-up, and commissioning contract from Shell Trinidad and Tobago Limited for the ambitious Manatee gas field development project. This contract is a key development for the energy sector in Trinidad and Tobago, with the Manatee gas field located approximately 60 miles (100 kilometers) off the southeast coast of the twin-island nation. This latest contract follows the successful completion of front-end engineering design, detailed engineering, and long-lead procurement service contracts, which laid the foundation for the project’s initial design and execution planning.

The Manatee gas field, part of the Loran-Manatee cross-border field shared between Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela, is a significant natural gas reserve that has been in development discussions for years. The field holds an estimated 10.2 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, making it one of the largest reserves in the region. The Final Investment Decision (FID) for the Manatee field was a pivotal moment, as it allowed Shell and the government of Trinidad and Tobago to move forward with the development plans. The FID was announced after extensive negotiations and planning, ensuring that the project would align with the country’s energy goals and provide a stable supply of natural gas for domestic and export markets.

McDermott’s new EPCI contract with Shell Trinidad and Tobago for the Manatee gas field is set to transform the region’s energy infrastructure.

The plan of development for the Manatee field includes the construction of offshore platforms and the installation of subsea infrastructure to connect the field to existing gas processing facilities. The project is expected to boost Trinidad and Tobago’s natural gas output significantly, supporting the country’s energy sector and contributing to its economic stability. The development of the Manatee field is also seen as a strategic move to ensure energy security and to position Trinidad and Tobago as a key player in the global natural gas market.

Under this new contract, McDermott will spearhead the design, procurement, and fabrication of a platform and jacket, which are critical components for the offshore infrastructure. Additionally, McDermott’s scope includes the hook-up and commissioning of the platform, as well as the design, installation, and commissioning of a 32-inch gas pipeline. This pipeline is set to become a vital conduit, connecting the platform to a gas processing facility operated by Shell. The company will also manage the design, procurement, installation, and testing of a fiber optic cable, further enhancing the connectivity and operational efficiency of the project.

Commenting on the contract, Mahesh Swaminathan, McDermott’s Senior Vice President of Subsea and Floating Facilities, noted that the award highlights the company’s integrated EPCI capabilities and its legacy of engineering excellence. He emphasized that this contract not only builds on McDermott’s successful project execution history with Shell but also demonstrates its commitment to delivering large offshore platforms and complex subsea infrastructure on a global scale. Swaminathan also underscored McDermott’s ongoing dedication to supporting Trinidad and Tobago’s gas supply, both for domestic use and export markets, through this project.

This contract is a pivotal moment for McDermott, strengthening its position as a leader in the global energy infrastructure industry while also contributing to the energy security and economic stability of Trinidad and Tobago. The project is expected to play a crucial role in meeting the growing demand for natural gas, ensuring a steady supply for the future.

A critical step for energy security

Energy industry analysts view this contract as a critical step in bolstering Trinidad and Tobago’s energy security. The Manatee gas field, one of the most significant discoveries in the region, is poised to become a cornerstone of the nation’s energy landscape. The successful execution of this project by McDermott will not only enhance the country’s gas production capabilities but also position it as a key player in the global natural gas market. Furthermore, the integration of advanced technologies such as the fiber optic cable system reflects the industry’s move towards more sophisticated and reliable offshore operations.