KN secures Brazilian LNG import terminal operation deal

Oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal operator Klaipedos Nafta (KN) has been selected as the operator of the LNG terminal in the Brazilian Port of Açu.

Through its unit KN Açu Serviços de Terminal de GNL, the operator has signed the deal with Gas Natural Açu (GNA), which is a joint venture (JV) between Prumo Logistica, BP and Siemens.

When the deal is in effect, KN will become responsible for the provision of operations. The deal includes maintenance of the jetty and its installations, as well as support in commissioning the LNG terminal.

KN will also assume responsibility to maintain gas pipeline and gas metering stations.

The agreement will become effective upon GNA receiving approval from remaining corporate and lenders.

KN CEO Darius Šilenskis said: “This year marks the 60th anniversary of KN as a company and five years of successful operations at the Klaipeda LNG terminal and I am proud to see the increasing demand for our services internationally.”

The agreement is initially valid for a 13-year operational period following the completion of the LNG import terminal. It can be further extended subject to mutual understanding between the entities.

The port of Açu LNG terminal is due to start operations this year.

The project currently consists of the development of two natural gas-fired thermoelectric plants (GNA I and GNA II) with a combined capacity of 3GW and includes the LNG terminal with a regasification capacity of 21 million cubic metres per day (mmm³/d).

GNA CEO Bernardo Perseke said: “This agreement is an important milestone for our project. KN will bring its experience to our LNG terminal. We are confident that KN will maintain high safety performances.”