GE, Technip Think 'Digital' for LNG Projects

GE and Technip signed a memo of understanding June 14 to evaluate the application of digital solutions to the design, construction, start-up and full-life operation of new LNG projects.

French contractor Technip has built many of the world’s LNG plants today on behalf of their developers, while US giant GE has a track record in providing equipment reliability solutions for many LNG facilities.

GE worked with the Snohvit LNG project in Norway (Photo credit: GE / Finn Beales)

With the volume of global LNG trade expected to double by 2035, both firms believe digital solutions will be increasingly critical role in improving the sector’s productivity and cost-efficiencies. All solutions under consideration would encompass Technip and GE Oil & Gas’ expertise in digital tools and be powered by Predix, built exclusively by GE which describes it as the world’s “only cloud-based operating system”.

“We are entering this partnership with the same pioneering spirit which inspired us 50 years ago when Technip built the world’s first LNG plant,” said Nello Uccelletti, President Onshore Offshore at Technip. Just as the industry had made strides in developing floating LNG solutions, so both firms were convinced that this digital partnership would represent another significant step forward for the LNG industry, he said.

Contractors that have been facing cost pressures from their customers are increasingly looking at alliances, cooperation, and even mergers to reduce overheads. On May 19, Technip and US contractor FMC announced their intention to merge, creating a new $13bn company.

Mark Smedley