Gas supply deal signed for Trinidad’s Manatee field

Shell has signed an agreement to supply at least 4.25 mcm (150 mcf) per day of gas from the upcoming Manatee project with Trinidad and Tobago’s state-run NGC through 2036, Reuters reported on Friday.

The 48.4-square-kilometre Manatee field is located in water depths of 91 metres next to the maritime Venezuelan border and is expected to contain 76.5 bcm (2.7 tcf) of natural gas resources.

According to Reuters sources, first gas is expected in 2028.

“Manatee represents a significant resource for Trinidad and Tobago,” said Mark Loquan, president of NGC.

“We do recognize that we have some distance to travel before we can access gas from Manatee, but we are committed to the outcome and optimistic that we can bring this project to fruition.”

Shell operates the Manatee field with a 100% stake under a 25-year contract.

The play is part of the Loran-Manatee discovery that is shared between Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela. It is estimated to hold 283 bcm (10 tcf) of natural gas resources.

The two markets have agreed to develop the two portions of the Loren-Manatee play independently.

In March 2023, Shell awarded the Manatee field’s FEED contract to McDermott International.