By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, June 25 -- Qatar Petroleum and ExxonMobil Corp. have agreed to supply LNG to the UK, starting with shipments in 2006-07 for 25 years, with the gas coming from Qatar's North Field.
The agreement covers development of two LNG trains, which ExxonMobil said would be the largest built to date, although the company declined at this time to disclose the trains' anticipated capacities.
Qatar Petroleum will have a 70% interest in the LNG trains, and ExxonMobil 30%.
The LNG trains will be built at the Ras Laffan Industrial City. ExxonMobil is investigating numerous UK sites for the LNG import facility.
Qatar Minister of Energy and Industry Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Attiyah said, "This agreement. . .highlights another successful joint effort between Qatar Petroleum and ExxonMobil to provide an increasing share of the world's growing demand for clean burning and environmentally friendly natural gas."
Harry Longwell, ExxonMobil director and executive vice-president, said that the project will supply the first LNG imports to the UK in 20 years and will help ensure long-term reliable gas supply to that market.
"UK indigenous gas supplies are expected to decline in the near future, and by the end of this decade, a shortfall is anticipated that will have to be met from other sources, such as LNG imports," Longwell said.