Singapore's new LNG terminal starts operationsSingapore's new LNG terminal starts operations

Construction of the SGD1.7bn ($1.4bn) terminal began in 2010, with the first two tanks with regasification facilities now completed on schedule and within budget, according to Singapore LNG Corporation (SLNG), the terminal operator.

Singapore expects the new LNG terminal to support the country's energy diversification strategy in importing natural gas from around the world and accessing competitively priced gas.

The LNG terminal will have an initial throughput capacity of 3.5m tonnes per annum (mpta) with two tanks. This capacity will increase to 6 mpta by the end of 2013 when a third tank, additional jetties and regasification facilities are completed.

Plans for a fourth tank and associated regasification facilities will be added to raise throughput capacity to 9 mpta, according to SLNG.

The first LNG cargo was delivered by BG Group, which was awarded an LNG importer's licence to import and sell up to 3 mpta of LNG.