Rick Wilkinson
OGJ Correspondent
MELBOURNE, Aug. 5 -- ExxonMobil Corp. awarded a $64 million (Aus.) work order to the Clough Curtain joint venture for advance mobilization and early works at the PNG LNG project in Paupa New Guinea.
The JV is a 65:35 partnership between Clough and Curtain Bros Papua New Guinea.
The program includes construction of roads, bridges, wharves, early site preparation in the Highlands, laydown, and camp areas plus other infrastructure so full-scale construction can begin early in 2010. Final investment decision for the project expected later this year.
The early works agreement follows the signing of the umbrella benefits-sharing agreement earlier this year as well as progress in marketing the LNG.
ExxonMobil also signed an agreement with KBR and WorleyParsons EOS joint venture for services such as training, in-country support, and integrated project team services for construction and project management of the development.
PNG LNG comprises a two-train 6.3 million tonnes/year LNG plant near Port Moresby with gas sourced from several fields in the central highlands region.
ExxonMobil has 41.6%, Oil Search 34.1%, Santos 17.7%, and Nippon Oil 5.4% with landowner interests holding 1.2%.