GE to support Freeport LNG’s liquefaction project in US

Freeport LNG has selected GE Oil & Gas for the North American liquefied natural gas (LNG) export project.

Under the contract, GE will deliver both technology and capital to help expedite construction of the gas liquefaction and LNG export project, located in south-east Texas.

The company will deliver the main refrigeration compressors, variable-speed drive electric motors and other electrical equipment for two LNG liquefaction trains.

Each of the trains will produce a base volume of 4.4mtpa of LNG.

GE will also provide financing to support the project through pre-construction engineering and design.

Freeport LNG CEO Michael Smith said: "GE’s strong partnership and expertise have helped us address this project’s unique challenges quickly.

"Through its innovative technology, financial expertise and ability to address environmental challenges in a cost-effective manner, GE is helping us to create the lowest air emissions and carbon footprint in the US LNG industry."

GE will construct and package the refrigeration trains in Florence, Italy, and undertake tests in Massa, Italy.

The trains are scheduled to be delivered in 2016 and expected to start operations by 2017.

GE Oil & Gas turbomachinery solutions CEO and president Rafael Santana said: "Our strong LNG expertise, manufacturing capabilities and our ability to perform full load string tests, as well as our exacting safety standards, set us apart with this major project.

"Freeport was also impressed by our ability to adapt and upgrade our technologies to meet their requirements."

CZJV, a joint-venture (JV) between CB&I and Zachry Industrial, is serving as the engineering, procurement and construction contractor for both trains.