Russia's Novatek has once again hit a snag with its Arctic LNG 2 project, postponing the start of its third line from 2026 to 2028, according to RBC Media. This delay is a direct consequence of the Western sanctions imposed due to Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine. These sanctions have significantly restricted Novatek's access to vital equipment and ice-class tankers, which are critical for the project's operation in the frigid Arctic conditions.
Arctic LNG 2 was poised to be a game-changer for Russia's LNG ambitions, with plans to produce 19.8 million metric tons of LNG annually and 1.6 million tons of stable gas condensate. However, the challenges have mounted. Just last month, Novatek was forced to slash gas output, signaling deeper issues in maintaining production levels under the current sanctions regime.
These sanctions have not only impeded Novatek's ability to secure gas carriers but have also forced the company to reconsider the entire scale of the project. Earlier reports suggested that Novatek might shift its focus to the ice-free port of Murmansk, where the logistics are less daunting.
Despite these setbacks, Novatek insists on moving forward with the third line, albeit delayed. The Russian government's broader strategy to boost its share of the global LNG market to 20% by 2035 is increasingly at risk. Currently, Russia holds about 8% of the market, and any further delays could jeopardize its long-term goals.
In response to these challenges, Russia has been expanding its "dark fleet" of tankers to evade LNG sanctions, a clear indication of the lengths to which Moscow is willing to go to sustain its energy ambitions.
By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com
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Julianne Geiger is a veteran editor, writer and researcher for Oilprice.com, and a member of the Creative Professionals Networking Group. More