UK-based classification society Lloyd’s Register (LR) is supporting the life extension of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier (LNGC) being repurposed into a floating storage unit (FSU), helping lay the groundwork for Gabon’s emerging floating gas infrastructure and a wider push to unlock Africa’s offshore gas potential.
Lloyd’s Register is delivering classification and technical assurance for the conversion of an LNG carrier into a floating storage unit for Dixstone Lower Gulf FZCO, a Perenco sister company. The former LNG Bayelsa carrier, now under the temporary name FSU LNG Cap Lopez, is undergoing conversion at Drydocks World Dubai. The sail-away of the repurposed unit is planned for Q3 2027.
Once complete, the FSU will chart a new LNG storage course for Gabon’s offshore project, supporting liquefaction, storage, and export from a near-shore barge, while helping reduce routine gas flaring and improving overall energy efficiency.
According to the classification society, the assignment includes extensive steel works, such as renewals and project-specific additions, new piping systems, installation of a boil-off gas module, and broader life-extension measures.
LR, which is working closely with Dixstone Lower Gulf FZCO and the shipyard to help assure the integrity and long-term operability of the asset in its new role, claims that such projects are increasingly seen as a faster and more cost-effective alternative to newbuild solutions, particularly for offshore gas developments.
Sean Van der Post, Global Offshore Business Director at Lloyd’s Register, commented: “The FSU LNG Cap Lopez conversion reflects increasing momentum behind LNG carrier conversions and floating storage solutions as operators seek flexible, lower-impact ways to develop gas resources. Independent technical assurance and robust life-extension strategies are essential as assets are adapted to new operating profiles and environments.
“Through our role on this project, LR continues to strengthen its position in the LNG and floating gas sector, supporting clients with trusted technical insight, regulatory confidence and practical solutions that enable safer, more resilient maritime and offshore energy operations worldwide.”
Lloyd’s Register’s involvement spans the full scope of conversion and life-extension activities, providing classification, plan approval, survey and technical oversight to ensure that all modifications meet stringent safety, structural, and regulatory requirements.
Michel Gotab, Managing Director at Dixstone Lower Gulf, said: “Dixstone is working closely with its many partners to deliver new project infrastructure, serving Perenco and the Republic of Gabon in maximizing the potential of the country’s natural gas resources.
“As a new storage facility for LNG, the FSU LNG Cap Lopez is an integral part of the broader Cap Lopez project, a new gas backbone for Gabon for both local use and export.”
The project is being carried out as part of a larger FLNG development to expand Gabon’s offshore gas infrastructure, increasing the country’s production capacity by approximately 105 million standard cubic feet per day.
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