Production at the In Amenas gas facility in Algeria has resumed after the factility’s technical integrity and security was assessed following the terrorist attack which took place in January.
The plant’s train 1 has been inspected and deemed fit for operations by the partners. The remaining two production trains were damaged during the terrorist attack and will not be put on stream until it is safe to do so.
The physical inspection of train 1 was conducted by Sonatrach on behalf of the Joint Venture and the documentation has been fully reviewed by both Statoil and BP.
“The Joint Venture has initiated a limited production start-up at In Amenas. We thank Sonatrach for the work they have done and continue to do on behalf of the joint Venture, during this difficult time for everyone involved,” says Lars Christian Bacher, executive vice president for Development and Production International in Statoil.
During the production start-up phase, the facilities will be operated by Sonatrach on bhalf of the Joint Venture. Statoil and BP staff will not yet be redeployed but technical specialists will provide support when needed, in line with strict security procedures established for short-term visits.
Statoil is currently in a close dialogue with Algerian authorities, Sonatrach and BP about the necessary conditions for full production and a redeployment of staff.
“The safety and security of our people is our utmost priority. We will take whatever time needed to conduct all required assessments and reviews and take all necessary precautions before we consider a re-entry of Statoil personnel,” says Bacher.
