Crux - Shell's next project in Australia

Now that Prelude FLNG is back online, Shell can turn their attention to the Crux project. Crux is a far simpler, smaller project than Prelude, based on well-established proven technology.

Crux plans to use Prelude as a host facility with a tieback of some 160 km.  In this remote region offshore Kimberley, tieing back to the huge Prelude facility makes a lot of sense.  The Crux project will also include a platform for initial processing.

It’s fair to say that Prelude has had its fair share of operational problems. But Prelude, as the world’s first large scale floating LNG includes extremely complex technology. Unit operations including cryogenics and steam generation were always going to be challenging in a remote offshore environment.

The Crux field was discovered in 2000 by Nexus Energy. Previous development plans were far more complex, and included a condensate stripping project requiring a very large compression and gas re-injection circuit. 

Shell is proposing a far more straightforward project with well proven technology.     Although the location is remote and challenging, Shell’s huge worldwide expertise is well able to handle any issues that arise.

After COVID delaying so many projects in 2020, it is very pleasing to see Crux moving ahead.  Hopefully it will be one of many FIDs to come this year.

Jeanette Roberts is an energy industry leader and Non-Executive Director.  She is interested in global energy issues, and their impact on the Asia Pacific region.