Shell Makes Final Investment Decision on Aphrodite Gas Project in Trinidad and Tobago

Energy producer Shell has announced a positive final investment decision on its Aphrodite gas project offshore Trinidad and Tobago. The project is set to produce first gas in 2027 with a peak production of 18,400 barrels of oil equivalent per day.

Shell, a 45% shareholder in Trinidad’s Atlantic LNG plant, is looking to address the plant’s shortfall of natural gas through the Aphrodite project. This shortfall has prevented Shell from receiving its full share of over 5.5 million metric tons per annum (mtpa) of LNG from the plant.

With the development of Aphrodite, Shell aims to backfill the country’s Atlantic LNG facility, providing much-needed gas to support its operations. The project will enable Shell to expand its integrated gas business by leveraging existing developments in the east coast marine area (ECMA), a key gas-producing region in Trinidad.

Currently, the ECMA is home to Shell’s major gas-producing fields, including Dolphin, Starfish, Bounty, and Endeavour. With Aphrodite coming online, Shell expects to increase its gas production capacity in Trinidad, optimizing the utilization of its existing assets.

However, the Trump administration’s decision to revoke a license for the Dragon gas project, which would have supplied Atlantic LNG with gas from Venezuela, has impacted Shell’s gas supply arrangements. The Aphrodite project now serves as a critical alternative to meet the gas demand of the LNG plant.

Overall, the final investment decision on the Aphrodite gas project represents a significant step for Shell in strengthening its presence in Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector. By strategically investing in new gas developments, Shell is poised to enhance its operational capabilities and contribute to the country’s energy security.

Source: Reuters