By the OGJ Online Staff
HOUSTON, Feb. 23�Three major companies have agreed to begin a $10 million feasibility study of a liquefied natural gas project in southern Iran.
Indian conglomerate Reliance Industries Ltd., National Iranian Oil Co., and BP will study a proposed two-train, 8 million tonne/year plant.
The study will examine using gas from Iran's South Pars field and moving it via pipeline to the proposed plant at the Pars Special Energy Economic Zone at Assaluyeh on the Persian Gulf.
Exports would go to India and other markets in Asia and Europe.
Reliance, with 25% share, will conduct a market study; BP, with 25%, will lead the technical effort and evaluate financial options; and NIOC, with 40%, will be involved in all aspects. The holder of the remaining 10% was not disclosed.