The Barossa LNG vessel has reached a new operational milestone with the loading of its first shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) at Darwin LNG’s facilities, marking the formal start of its export operations. The cargo is being shipped to the Sakai terminal in Japan on an ex ship delivery (DES) basis.
The technical and logistical process of the Barossa vessel
During the past few months, the floating production, storage and offloading unit BW Opal has successfully executed the start-up and calibration procedures of the offshore production systems. Currently, the volume of gas exported is around 450 million cubic feet per day, which represents approximately 75 % of the liquefaction plant’s operating capacity.
The project included the drilling of six wells in the Barossa field, all with satisfactory results. The tests performed showed an estimated average individual yield of 300 million cubic feet per day per well, thus consolidating the field’s productive potential.
With the start-up of Barossa and the next phase of Pikka, Santos anticipates a substantial increase in its global production. The company estimates a 25% to 30% increase in operating volume by 2027 compared to 2024 levels. This expansion is part of its strategy focused on efficient operations, disciplined capital allocation and optimization of its energy portfolio.
In addition to the boost it represents for its presence in the Asian market, the sale of this first cargo positions Santos as a key player in the LNG supply chain from Australia to the main consumption centers in North Asia.
The start of operations was also made possible by the completion of the Darwin LNG life extension project. This process included modernization work on the liquefaction train and storage system, essential to support the new operations coming from the Barossa field.
The success of this first load reinforces the commercial viability of the project and reflects the technical progress made by Santos on its offshore development platform. The company continues to execute its roadmap with a view to consolidating its role as a stable energy supplier to Asia for decades to come.
Source and photo: Santos