Our data showed the Shell-controlled Qogir arrived at the Philippines new Batangas LNG terminal on Monday, indicating an ongoing ramp-up of LNG flows. With two LNG terminals now operational since April 2023, the Philippines has become one of the fastest growing Southeast Asian LNG importers.
The Philippines saw LNG flows pick up at the second of its new LNG terminals this week, our data showed on Monday.
The Shell-controlled LNG carrier Qogir delivered a 0.08mmt cargo to the Batangas LNG terminal previously lifted at Ichthys LNG in Australia on 29 January.
Commissioning
In September last year, project developer First Gen Corp. said that the interim offshore terminal project had entered the commissioning stage.
Jonathan Russell, First Gen’s Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer expressed enthusiasm about the commissioning of the LNG terminal, highlighting its importance for the energy security of the archipelago.
In July, First Gen had reported the docking of the laden BW Batangas FSRU at the terminal.
Power production
The LNG procured via Batangas LNG by First Gen is destined for use in the company's gas-powered generation facilities located within its Clean Energy Complex in Batangas City.
The company operates four such plants, boasting a total capacity of 2,017 megawatts. Moreover, First Gen contends that the terminal is crucial for the energy security of both the Luzon grid and the nation as a whole.
First Gen has spearheaded the project, securing a five-year charter for the BW Batangas to facilitate LNG storage and regasification services.
The company asserts that the Batangas LNG terminal will be pivotal in introducing LNG to the Philippines, catering to the gas needs of both existing and prospective gas-fired power plants owned by third parties and First Gen affiliates.
Demand growth
The Batangas LNG terminal is the Philippines’ second import node. In April last year, the PHLNG facility entered the market as its FSU Ish arrived laden from the Das Island plant in the UAE.
The Philippines imported 0.57mmt last year, our data show, and have become a fast-growing LNG market in Southeast Asia.
