StreamTec Solutions Signs Cooperation Agreement with TIMOR GAP and MPRM to Develop Underwater Gas Pipeline in Timor-Leste

Switzerland-based StreamTec Solutions has recently entered into a significant cooperation agreement with Timor-Leste’s national oil & gas company, Timor Gás & Petróleo, E.P. (TIMOR GAP), and the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (MPRM). The collaboration aims to establish a joint venture company that will focus on the development of an innovative underwater pipeline highway for the transportation of natural gas.

The newly formed public-private partnership company, STREAMTEC Timor-Leste Pipeline, CO. (STS TL), will have TIMOR GAP owning 70% of the shares, while StreamTec Solutions will hold the remaining 30%. The primary responsibilities of STS TL will include the promotion, operation, and maintenance of the underwater pipeline highway, which will facilitate the transportation of natural gas from the Bayu Undan and adjacent fields in the Timor Sea to Natarbora.

The proposed ultra-deepwater pipeline is expected to span approximately 250 kilometers. The initial phase of pipeline design is projected to be completed within one to two years, with a collaborative study involving active participation from the local Timorese community to enhance their capacity in future operations and maintenance.

Francisco da Costa Monteiro, the Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources of Timor-Leste, emphasized the necessity of developing a domestic pipeline solution due to the declining production at the Bayu Undan field. The impending closure of the current commercial route (pipeline) to Australia further underscored the urgency to establish a sustainable pipeline infrastructure that would support the continued utilization of remaining reserves, in alignment with the potential development of the Chuditch and other nearby gas fields.

Notably, StreamTec Solutions had previously been involved in conducting gas pipeline feasibility studies for MPRM on the Greater Sunrise project, showcasing their expertise and experience in the field.