In 2016, Oil and Gas Company, Total PNG had engaged in several fronts for the Papua LNG project; the second major LNG project for the country.
Total PNG’s Managing Director, Philippe Blanchard, gave EMTV an exclusive update on the project.
The last 12 months have been a busy period for the developer of the Papua LNG project, Total PNG.
According to Total Managing Director, Philippe Blanchard, the company has drilled Antelope 6 beginning of 2016 and is currently drilling Antelope 7.
Antelope 7 should be the last appraisal well. It is located to the west of the field and required to finalize the assessment of Elk Antelope resources.
He added that several field surveys have begun, required to perform the environmental and social impact assessments.
The surveys will provide the company with the baseline which will be used to minimize potential development impact on the communities and the environment.
Production for the project is expected to begin in 2022 and 2023.
However, the company’s plans may hit a few speed bumps. Gulf Governor, Havila Kavo, came out strongly against this developments, addressing his concerns to both the developer, Total and the state.
In response, Minister for Petroleum, Nixon Duban has stated that while he respects Kavo’s and the Gulf people’s concerns, he also urged them to keep project economics in mind as the project will bring much needed development to the Gulf province.
