Türkiye’s new 300-meter ship set to boost natural gas production by 82%
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan looks at the Abdulhamid Han drillship, the fourth in Türkiye's fleet, in Mersin, Türkiye, Aug. 9, 2022. (AFP Photo)
Türkiye is making significant strides in natural gas production, advancing to a new phase by acquiring a massive ship measuring 300 meters in length and 58 meters in width. This new addition, which will depart from Singapore on July 27, will mark a significant milestone in Türkiye’s energy independence journey.
Türkiye will be the sixth country to have such a platform after the US, Russia, Brazil, Norway, and Malaysia.
Journey towards energy independence
Türkiye ranks among the top 10 countries worldwide with the most advanced deep-sea drilling and seismic vessels. The new ship, expected to arrive in Türkiye in 52 days, will undergo final preparations before being deployed to the Sakarya Gas Field in the Black Sea. This Floating Gas Processing Platform Ship will produce enough natural gas to supply 5 million households.
Technological advancements and production goals
Currently, Türkiye’s Energy and Natural Resources Ministry processes raw gas from the Black Sea’s depths and transports it to the mainland through pipelines. The daily production at Sakarya Gas Field is 5.5 million cubic meters, enough to meet the needs of 2.4 million homes. Production is expected to increase to 6 million cubic meters in August and reach 10 million by the beginning of next year. In the second phase, production will soar to 40 million cubic meters.
Floating gas processing platform
The platform will process raw gas from the depths of the Black Sea, ensuring it reaches shore through new pipelines. Equipped with living quarters for technical staff and ready to employ international experts for operational training, the platform is designed to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness, being 60% cheaper than building a new one from scratch.
Türkiye’s maritime energy fleet expansion
Under Berat Albayrak’s leadership, the ‘National Energy and Mining Policy initiated Türkiye’s energy independence.’ The first drillship, Fatih, was added to the fleet in 2017, followed by significant natural gas discoveries in the Black Sea. With the new ship, Türkiye’s maritime energy fleet will expand to 7 ships, including 4 drillships and 2 seismic research ships.
A symbol of national pride
Adorned with the colors and symbols of the Turkish flag, the platform’s name is yet to be decided, with suggestions like “Cumhuriyet,” “Gazi,” and “Ertuğrul” being considered to honor the nation’s heritage. The final decision will be made by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
