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Project Browse: a life extension for liquefied natural gas plants

BP acquires Shell's 27% interest in the Browse joint venture, increasing its stake to 44% in Australia's largest untapped gas resource. The Browse project could extend the life of the North West Shelf LNG plant.

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In a move that could have significant implications for the energy industry, BP has agreed to acquire Shell ‘s 27% stake in the Browse joint venture. The deal will increase BP’s stake in Australia’s largest untapped gas resource to 44%, surpassing Woodside Energy Group’s 30.3% stake.

The importance of the Browse project to liquefied natural gas supply

The Browse project, estimated to cost $20.5 billion, has been in development for several years but has not yet made significant progress. However, with aging gas fields in need of replacement to supply the North West Shelf LNG plant, the Browse development has taken on new importance. The project could extend the life of the plant for decades, meeting the growing demand for LNG from Australia’s largest trading partners, including China, Japan and South Korea.

Shell Australia said in a statement that it has agreed to sell its stake in Browse because the asset is no longer a strategic fit with Shell’s global portfolio. While both companies declined to comment on the transaction price, analysts believe it was likely to be modest given the significant risks and ongoing expenses required for the Browse project.

BP supports the concept of using carbon capture for the Browse project

BP believes that the development of Browse’s gas resources could make a significant contribution to Australia’s and the Asia-Pacific region’s energy security. The company’s decision comes after it lowered its climate targets in February with plans to produce more oil and gas for a longer period. However, the company said it supports the concept of using carbon capture for the project and processing Browse gas at the North West Shelf LNG plant.

While the acquisition of Shell’s interest in Browse is an important decision, the project still faces significant hurdles, including costs, carbon solutions and environmental approvals. Woodside Energy Group downplayed concerns about the status of the project and said discussions had resumed with the North West Shelf LNG joint venture on a processing agreement for Browse.

Overall, BP’s acquisition of Shell’s stake in Browse is a clear indication of the company’s commitment to the oil and gas industry, despite growing calls for cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions. However, the project still faces significant challenges and it remains to be seen whether it will be a real success in the years to come.

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