However, even the technology's proponents admit there are still technical, commercial and other challenges to be overcome, while others believe it will be much longer before floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) sees the light of day.

Operators such as ConocoPhillips and Shell and contractors including Flex LNG, SBM Offshore, KBR, MISC and Samsung Heavy Industries have already invested their time and funds in progressing FLNG.

Norway's