LNG Fundamentals with Michael Williams & Richard Harrison Geylang, Central

Course details

The 21st century has been coined the century of gas. The course will address the fundamental technical and economic factors that have driven and will drive the successful development of natural gas reserves by means of an integrated liquefied natural gas (LNG) project. The current exponential growth in the use of natural gas through international trade in LNG is explored.

The course contrasts the technical and commercial differences between LNG and natural gas to point out benefits and constraints that arise from the LNG option. A description is given of the elements in the “gas chain” which apply to LNG and of drivers that would lead to optimisation of design and commercial operation. The range and role of relevant parties to a successful LNG project are described. Regulatory authorities are also concerned with LNG safety, which is covered in detail. Ways and means by which a new entrant to a proposed LNG project may ensure an investment that meets expectations.

Actual case histories will be used frequently to demonstrate learning points. Case histories and exercises will deal with examples taken from international and local experience.

An introduction to terminology and practical “rules of thumb” should further enhance the participant’s ability to immediately contribute to a successful gas project – and to ask the right questions to test and improve the viability of a proposed project.

Course learning outcomes

On completion, participants in the course will be able to

•  Understand the special characteristics of LNG which both broaden and yet constrain the commercial and technical links in the “gas chain”
• Generate options for market development proposals
• Understand risks and their mitigation
• Negotiate more effectively the terms of LNG sales agreements
• Understand the perspectives of the investor, the operator, the customer and government towards the LNG project
• Recognise political and diplomatic implications of international trade in LNG

Who should attend

LNG project development executives are drawn from both technical (E&P geoscience and engineering) and non-technical (commercial, finance and legal) backgrounds. Participants who have recently joined an LNG market development team, perhaps with expertise in one area of gas development, will benefit from the course by obtaining a good grounding of all other areas.