New Conventional and LNG Bunkering Facilities Planned in Suez

SUMED has signed a contract with BESIX-ORASCOM for the construction of the planned Ain Sukhna products jetty

Arab Petroleum Pipelines Company (SUMED) has signed a contract with BESIX-ORASCOM for the construction of a products jetty and accompanying marine facilities in Ain Sukhna, Suez Governorate, Egypt, which is set to include bunkering infrastructure for both conventional and liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkers, the company has told Ship & Bunker.

The project is set to be carried out in two phases, the first of which will include the construction of the jetty, a 2.4 km causeway, and trestle with two berths, as well as facilities for LNG bunkering.

This is slated for completion by 2017's first quarter, and SUMED says it is currently sourcing an LNG bunkering partner.

With a water depth of 15 metres, the first berth will allow the Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company (EGAS) to berth one Floating Storage Regasification Unit (FSRU) on a permanent basis for LNG imports.

Conventional bunkering may also be ready as part of the first phase, but this is pending government approval.

A new dedicated berth with a water depth of 12 meters will be constructed to support the bunkering activities, with plans for it to accommodate two barges from 500 to 15,000 DWT.

Phase 2 will see a second, multi-product berth with a water depth of 19 meters capable of accommodating petroleum products tankers of up to 160,000 DWT as well as LPG carriers of up to 82,000 m3.

A separately awarded contract related to the project will see the construction of onshore facilities, including fuel oil, gasoil, and LPG storage tanks.

"We foresee a significant opportunity for growth through alliance with valuable customers by providing all necessary logistics against long-term commitment while at the same time; adhere to the most up-to-date standards for Technology, Safety and environment Protection," said SUMED.