In search for certainty of delivery

Abstract

Achieving effective project start-up is critical to the profitability and successful operation of an asset. A modern gas facility can generate revenue of up to $20 million a day, making the financial impact of a delayed start-up considerable. With the Australian LNG sector moving from construction to operations, the right commissioning model for a project has become a critical consideration. This is even more pertinent when considering the drain on experienced, quality LNG commissioning personnel as a number of large projects move towards operations across the globe. This places a higher challenge and risk on fabrication and construction contractors, who are often responsible for delivering the commissioning scope. By using an independent and integrated commissioning model, operators can reduce the financial risks of poor project start-up and achieve a seamless transition from construction to operation. This extended abstract explores the pros and cons of commissioning and completion services performed by an EPCIC contractor compared to an independent and specialised commissioning contractor. A critical component to the success of the independent commissioning model is the early embedding of key commissioning personnel in the project in advance of the construction hand-over. By applying sophisticated engineering techniques that identify and schedule commissioning requirements early in the project, trained commissioning personnel can help detect and intervene early on potential delays to the commissioning scope.