Baker Hughes, a GE company, (NYSE: BHGE) has been awarded a subsea contract in connection with phase two of the “supergiant” Zohr Gas Field situated in the Mediterranean Sea, off the Egyptian coast.
The fullstream oil services company will provide project management, engineering procurement, fabrication, construction, testing and transportation of a subsea production system.
The signing ceremony was hosted by H.E. Eng. Tarek El-Molla, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources for Egypt.
He said: “Maximising domestic energy resources and optimizing reliability of their supplies are core elements of Egypt’s vision. We are able to increase the value and efficiency of the sector by driving a sustainable and energy-efficient economy through the ministry’s Modernization Program in partnership with companies such as BHGE.
“The Zohr gas field is playing a major role in the development of Egypt’s domestic energy resources, revenue generation and economic growth.”
Lorenzo Simonelli, president and chief executive, BHGE, said: “This landmark agreement reinforces our commitment to provide competitive offerings for our partners, strengthened by BHGE’s local presence and cutting-edge technology.
“The Zohr Field is one of the most significant developments of its kind, and through this project we can show the efficiency gains that such complex projects can achieve through our enhanced portfolio.
“This project has the potential to meet Egypt’s growing gas demand and save the country billions of dollars that would otherwise be spent on importing gas. Together with our partners, BHGE can support Egypt’s needs and vision for the energy sector and demonstrate its leadership in the subsea space.”
Petrobel is a joint venture between IEOC (an Eni subsidiary in Egypt) and Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC) and is in charge of the development of Zohr Field on behalf of PetroSherouk, a joint venture between Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company (EGAS), IEOC and BP.
Eng. Atef Hassan, Chairman and Managing Director, Petrobel, stated: “Partnering with BHGE on this project demonstrates the growing need for long-term service and equipment providers that complement our efforts in driving optimized production. The Zohr Field will contribute to the development and sustainability of Egypt’s resources, and BHGE’s investment and expertise across oilfield services and equipment will help us drive further efficiencies along the way.”