LR nets Gabon FSU conversion contract

Classification society Lloyd’s Register has secured a contract from Dutch services company Dixstone, a unit of London-based oil and gas firm Perenco, to deliver classification and technical assurance for the conversion of an LNG carrier into a floating storage unit (FSU) for the Gabon project.

The 137,500-cbm LNG Bayelsa, now under the temporary name FSU LNG Cap Lopez, is currently undergoing conversion work at Drydocks World Dubai.

Once complete, the FSU will provide LNG storage for Perenco’s offshore project in Gabon, supporting liquefaction, storage, and export from a near-shore barge while helping reduce routine gas flaring and improving overall energy efficiency, LR noted in a statement on Wednesday.

The work includes extensive steel works (renewals and project specific additions), new piping systems, installation of a boil-off gas module and broader life-extension measures.

LR said its involvement spans the full scope of conversion and life-extension activities, providing classification, plan approval, survey and technical oversight to ensure that all modifications meet stringent safety, structural and regulatory requirements.

Working closely with Dixstone Lower Gulf FZCO, and the shipyard, LR is helping to assure the integrity and long-term operability of the asset in its new role, the classification society said.

LR did not provide further details.

According to Dixstone, the Gabon project will produce 0.7 mtpa of LNG and 25,000 tons of LPG per year in the first phase.