Qatar to Launch LNG Project in Dec.

Qatar hopes to soon achieve LNG production target of 77 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) and has set up a task force to mark the historic occasion. Huge celebrations are being lined up as Qatar will soon be the only gas-producing country in the world to have the largest LNG capacity.

As the coveted target is to be reached shortly, Deputy Premier and Minister of Energy and Industry, Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah, yesterday announced the formation of a ‘multi-company, multi-discipline’ task force named ‘77Mta Task Force’ that would be entrusted to mark the historic milestone.

“With the imminent completion of the RasGas 3 (Train 7) and the QatarGas III, QatarGas IV (Trains 6 and 7), Qatar will have an installed capacity of some 77 million tonnes of LNG, thus fulfilling the vision of the Emir, H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.” “This is a milestone of historic significance for Qatar. Our country will certainly take centre position on the world energy stage and will be the world’s largest LNG producer. I am very proud of this achievement and look forward to the celebration,” the deputy PM said.

In addition to forming the 77Mta Task Force, the deputy PM has appointed the director of his office, Abdulaziz Al Malki, as head of an apex panel which has been named ‘77 Higher Committee’ whose job is to oversee the celebration plans. This committee has representation from Qatar Petroleum (QP) group of companies such as Qatargas, RasGas and Ras Laffan Industrial City. This will be the first time such globally renowned companies are coming together to represent such a historic achievement for the state of Qatar.

Preparations are on to hold grand celebrations and accent is on making sure that the significant milestone is captured in a way that has never been seen before. The central event of the 77 Mta of LNG will take the form of a celebration showing all aspects of the projects, the people and infrastructure which have made this feat possible.

Al Malki said: “Our combined effort is to put together a unique platform—and a breathtaking event—which will demonstrate to the world our pride and the recognition of all who have supported Qatar in turning His Highness’s vision into reality.” It is hoped that the 77Mta event will be held on 13 December 2010 at Ras Laffan to be shared with a global audience along with the world media. The celebrations will additionally recognise the need to establish a balance between reserves and production.- Peninsula