Gasunie subsidiary Eems Energy Terminal has sold the remaining capacity of the LNG terminal in Eemshaven to French utility Engie who purchased the last 1Bn m3 (bcm)
Earlier contracts were signed with Czech conglomerate ČEZ and Shell Western LNG. Gasunie said the 8 bcm available in Eemshaven is now sold out. The first delivery of LNG through the terminal is expected to take place as early as mid-September.
With these new capacities added to its existing LNG portfolio, Engie will, through its business entity Global Energy Management & Sales, strengthen its energy diversification strategy and increase its ability to supply LNG to Europe.
Gasunie executive board member Ulco Vermeulen said, “In just three months, the floating LNG terminal is now completely sold out. In the coming weeks, all attention will be focused on the technical preparation of the location for the floating terminal. This too will take place at record speed.”
Engie’s business entity, Global Energy Management & Sales’ executive committee member Marc Pannier said the new capacities are part of the company’s strategy to secure supply for its customers and support Europe’s independence.
Until this year, the Netherlands only had an LNG terminal in the port of Rotterdam. The expansion in Eemshaven and the optimisation of the Rotterdam terminal will double LNG import capacity. The new LNG terminal in Eemshaven will consist of two floating FRSUs, Exmar S188 and Golar Igloo, which are expected to arrive at Eemshaven early September.
Chartering FSRUs is part of the EU’s strategy to replace at least some Russian gas volumes in the short-term.
Over the next five years, the floating terminal will convert LNG into gaseous natural gas in Eemshaven and integrate it into the national natural gas network. In total, Gasuine said an additional 8 bcm of gas can be brought to the Netherlands.
