China Offshore Oil Engineering Company (COOEC) has commenced fabrication of critical infrastructure for Shell’s HI shallow-water gas and condensate development offshore Nigeria, marking a major step in the project’s execution.
The project, located in Offshore Mining Licence (OML) 144, includes the construction of a three-level topside module and a four-legged jacket, designed with an innovative hybrid energy system integrating wind and solar power. This sustainable approach aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions in oil and gas operations.
COOEC recently held a steel-cutting ceremony at its Tianjin yard, officially launching the fabrication phase. This milestone event signals the beginning of construction for facilities scheduled for delivery by late March 2026. The completed project will support Nigeria’s ambitions to expand its liquefied natural gas (LNG) production capacity.
Upon completion, the HI development is expected to supply up to 500 million cubic feet of gas per day to Nigeria LNG’s Train 7 expansion project, a critical initiative to boost the country’s LNG exports. Nigeria, as Africa’s largest gas reserves holder, has been actively seeking to monetize its natural gas resources through projects like NLNG Train 7, which aims to increase production capacity by 35 percent.
The Shell-operated HI development will play a pivotal role in feeding this expansion, reinforcing Nigeria’s position in the global LNG market. COOEC’s involvement highlights China’s growing role in international energy projects, particularly in fabrication and offshore engineering. The company’s expertise in modular construction ensures efficient project execution, meeting Shell’s technical and environmental standards.
The hybrid power system incorporated into the platform design underscores the industry’s shift toward cleaner energy solutions. By utilizing wind and solar power alongside traditional energy sources, the project aims to minimize its carbon footprint while maintaining operational efficiency.
Industry analysts note that the successful delivery of this project could pave the way for similar collaborations between Chinese engineering firms and global energy majors, particularly in developing offshore gas resources.
With fabrication now underway, the focus shifts to meeting the 2025 delivery deadline. Once operational, the HI development will not only enhance Nigeria’s gas supply but also contribute to global energy security amid rising demand for LNG. For Shell and its partners, the project represents a strategic investment in Nigeria’s energy future, while COOEC’s role reinforces China’s engineering capabilities on the global stage.
Source: businessday.ng
