Pakistan's government has chosen France's Beicip Franlab for award of a study of Pakistan's natural gas import prospects.
Energy-hungry Pakistan is busy lining up potential supply sources for what's expected to develop into a big surge in natural gas demand going into the next century (see related story, this page).
Gas import deals are expected to total in the billions of dollars.
Main objective of the study is to analyze options available to Pakistan for gas imports in the context of its medium and long-term energy demand.
The study would identify various issues arising as a result of such imports and to assist the government in formulating the necessary policies and regulations. It would also evaluate the experience of other countries in importing gas and assess the applicability of these cases to Pakistan.
Having analyzed the various options among supply sources-notably Iran, Qatar, and Turkmenistan-for meeting the country's medium and long-term gas requirements, Beicip would recommend the least-cost option and study its effects on consumer gas prices.
The study would also take various political and commercial risks into consideration and advise on risk mitigation measures and the effects of gas imports on the legal and regulatory regime governing the country's gas sector.
The study is expected to be completed in 6 months, but an interim report would be prepared within 3 months. Pakistan's Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Resources has formed a steering committee that would review the study's progress monthly.
Asian Development Bank is providing $600,000 to carry out the study.
Pakistan has already signed three memoranda of understanding with Iran, Qatar, and Turkmenistan for importing at least 1.6 bcfd of gas via pipeline. In addition, Karachi is considering options for importing liquefied natural gas.
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