Chevron Reiterates First Wheatstone LNG Expected by Mid-2017

Chevron operated Wheatstone project in Western Australia is on track to produce first LNG by mid-2017.

In the latest project update released last July, Chevron said the Wheatstone drilling campaign is complete, with all nine development well flowbacks successful. In its subsea diving campaign, spool and flowline tie-ins are also complete.

The hookup and commissioning activities are progressing. The accommodation support vessel has demobilized.

At LNG Train 1, all modules are on site with structural, mechanical and piping works continuing, Chevron said. Delivery of Train 2 modules continue, with 21 of 24 modules now on site.

The LNG storage tanks are nearing completion with hydrotesting activities complete.

The project a combined capacity of 8.9 mtpa. At full capacity, the Wheatstone project, can produce 200 terajoules per day (TJ/d) of domestic gas for the Western Australian market.

Wheatstone is expected to deliver domestic gas to the Western Australian market in 2018.

Originally the first LNG was expected by end 2016 but the start-up date was delayed. 

The project is a joint venture between Australian subsidiaries of Chevron (64.14%), Kuwait Foreign Petroleum Exploration Company (KUFPEC) (13.4%), Woodside Petroleum Limited  (13%), and Kyushu Electric Power Company (1.46%), together with PE Wheatstone Pty Ltd, part owned by TEPCO (8%).