Scarborough FPU arrives on site

THE SCARBOROUGH FPU, one of the biggest semi-submersible facilities ever built, has arrived at the Scarborough field, 375 kilometres off the coast of Karratha, Western Australia.

The arrival of the floating production unit (FPU) marks a major milestone for the Scarborough Energy Project.

The approximately 70,000 tonne FPU completed the journey from China to Australia, after being towed more than 4000 nautical miles.

The FPU was towed by four large anchor handling tug supply vessels (AHTS) owned by Boskalis of The Netherlands: Boka Striker, Boka Defender, Boka Centre and Boka Guard. 

Scarborough is also being attended by two Dampier-based AHTS vessels, Normand Scorpion and Siem Topaz.

A Woodside media release said the arrival of the FPU, which will process gas at the Scarborough field, marks a significant step forward for the Scarborough Energy Project, and builds on a long list of achievements in recent times.

Woodside Acting CEO Liz Westcott said the project was now more than 91% complete.

“Having the FPU, an integral component of the Scarborough Energy Project, safely in the field is a momentous way to begin 2026. Its successful arrival is a further demonstration of the Woodside, McDermott and subcontractor teams' collaboration and commitment to safe delivery of the project,” Ms Westcott said.

“At the start of 2025, the FPU hull and topsides were being constructed in separate yards. Since then, they have been integrated into a single unit and delivered into Australian waters, with work on securing the mooring lines underway.

“Our focus now shifts to the hook-up and commissioning phase in preparation for production, and ultimately, first LNG cargo which is on track for the second half of this year.”

The Scarborough FPU is the centrepiece of the Scarborough Joint Venture's upstream development. It features advanced emissions-reduction systems and is designed to treat and compress gas for export through the trunkline.

It can also accommodate future tie-ins to support the development of nearby fields.

Woodside says that once operational, the Scarborough Energy Project will provide a secure and reliable supply of gas for Western Australia and the wider Asia-Pacific region.

It is also expected to contribute more than $55 billion in direct and indirect taxes to Australia.