The Energy Chamber of Trinidad and Tobago said on April 10 that Shell is advancing plans to increase natural gas output from the Loran-Manatee field some 300 million cubic feet per day (mcf/d) above what was initially planned, with infrastructure upgrades.
In a statement, the Chamber said the company is moving to commence production, with output from the Manatee portion expected “as early as next year.”
Shell ups Manatee production forecast 10%, says Trinidad energy minister | OilNOW
According to the statement, National Gas Company (NGC) Chairman Gerald Ramdeen confirmed to Reuters that the project has undergone major upgrades to handle increased capacity. A key development is the expansion of the export pipeline. The report noted that Shell “has expanded the capacity of the pipeline…to a 32-inch pipeline capable of moving 1 billion cubic feet of gas per day,” up from the originally planned 24-inch line rated at 700 million cubic feet per day.
The upgraded pipeline will transport gas to the Beachfield facility in Trinidad, supporting downstream industries. The Energy Chamber said this will provide “a much-needed lifeline to Trinidad’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) and petrochemical sectors,” which have faced supply constraints in recent years.
The cross-border nature of the project adds complexity. The Manatee field lies within Trinidad and Tobago’s waters, while the larger Loran field, estimated at 7.3 trillion cubic feet, is located in Venezuela. Shell is “in advanced discussions to participate in the Loran side,” following Chevron’s exit.
Parallel negotiations are ongoing for additional gas development. The statement noted that Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar announced a delegation will travel to Caracas to advance discussions on the Dragon gas project, which is operated under a 30-year license.
The Energy Chamber said it “welcomes the news of first gas from the Loran-Manatee field in 2027 and the intention to deliver higher volumes of natural gas.” It added that expanded supply “will aid in the production and export of LNG, methanol, and ammonia,” while creating opportunities for local contractors and service providers.
Trinidad and Tobago, one of the region’s largest gas exporters, has struggled with supply shortfalls affecting its Atlantic LNG facility and downstream industries. Manatee is among several projects, including Shell’s Aphrodite development, expected to help reverse the trend.
