On Oct. 6, Total and Novatek signed the final agreements to jointly develop the Yamal LNG Project, becoming the main international partner on the gas liquefaction project with a 20% share. Novatek intends to keep at least 51% of the project.

“Total will work with Novatek to unlock the Yamal peninsula gas potential using world-class technology and combining the expertise of both companies as we build a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plant in the area,” said Yves-Louis Darricarrère, president, Total Exploration & Production. “The decision to participate in this LNG project comes in addition to the acquisition of a significant share of Novatek’s capital and confirms Total’s long-term commitment to Russia.”

The relevant Russian authorities authorized this acquisition on Aug. 22.

The Yamal LNG project will develop the South Tambey field located in the Arctic area of the Yamal Peninsula. The resources of this condensate and gas field will allow production of more than 15 million metric tons of LNG per year.

With this project, Total will have access to proved and probable (2P) reserves of approximately 800 million barrels of oil equivalent (boe) within the licence duration and to a plateau production of about 90,000 boe per day. The project has been declared of national interest by the Russian authorities.