Thai operator PTTEP has tempted contractors with tenders to build and install new offshore facilities for the Arthit gas field in the Gulf of Thailand.

It is understood that PTTEP issued the tender for one wellhead platform and 10-kilometres of interfield pipeline on an engineering, procurement, construction, installation and commissioning basis.

Sources said it is part of the Arthit AWP 39 wellhead platform project.

The two leading offshore contractors in Thailand are CUEL and Thai Nippon Steel, but there are other competitors such as BJC Heavy Industries and Sino-Thai Engineering & Construction.

Traditionally, Thai Nippon Steel has been closely allied to PTTEP as a preferred contractor, while Cuel has been associated with Thailand’s other leading operator Chevron.

A spokesperson for PTTEP confirmed that in 2019 the company is planning to build and install new wellhead platforms at Arthit as well as to drill development wells.

However, the spokesperson was unable to elaborate on the number of platforms or wells to be drilled.

Like most of the producing fields in the Gulf of Thailand, it is necessary to regularly drill new wells and install new wellhead platforms to maintain production.

Production of gas and condensate from Arthit has been stable in the last few years.

Average sales volume in the nine months ended 30 September 2018 was 206 million cubic feet per day of gas and 10,000 barrels per day of condensate, according to PTTEP.

In 2017, production averaged 218 MMcfd and 9767 bpd of condensate.

The field is in a relatively shallow-water area of the southern part of the Gulf of Thailand. It has been producing for at least 10 years.

PTTEP has an 80% operator interest and is partnered by Chevron on 16% and Mitsui Oil Exploration on 4%.

The joint venture has a long-term gas sales agreement and condensate agreement with Thailand’s PTT on a take-or-pay basis.

Weekly

PTTEP on new path at Arthit