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…says encounters new problem with gas compressor
After flaring over 2 billion cubic feet of natural gas offshore Guyana last year due to challenges, ExxonMobil has again commenced flaring at above start-up levels due to a new technical issue regarding a seal on the gas compressor on the Liza Destiny. In a press statement on Friday, the company said that the incident is unfortunate and the temporary increase in flaring “above pilot levels” is necessary to maintain safe operations.
“We are disappointed that this unexpected issue has occurred and we’re working diligently with the vessel’s owner and the equipment vendor to understand and fix the issue as quickly as possible,” said Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana.
Flaring is strictly prohibited without approval. It is only permissible during commissioning and start-up and under special circumstances such as emergencies, maintenance, and restarting operations.
ExxonMobil assured the media that the relevant government authorities have been informed and we providing regular updates.
Back in 2020, ExxonMobil had encountered issues with its compressor system at the Liza Destiny during a performance test which initially led to additional flaring.
This flaring, it said, would not continue as routine and would only take place again in the case of an emergency whereby flaring will be used to immediately de-pressure the facility as part of a shut-down process to reduce risk.
However, much criticism came to the Company even as it noted then that it was working assiduously to reinject gas as it worked to fix the problem.
Flaring releases greenhouse gases and toxins, and threatens the global climate, the local environment, and public health.
