BHP Billiton today announced the start-up of the North West Shelf Joint Venture’s fifth liquified natural gas (LNG) processing train (Train 5) in Western Australia. This expansion will increase the production capacity by 4.4 million tonnes to 16.3 million tonnes of LNG per year, on a 100 per cent basis.

The expansion with capital investments of approximately US$350 million (BHP Billiton share), includes a second LNG jetty and loading berth, two additional power generation units and other associated infrastructure.

BHP Billiton Petroleum Chief Executive, J Michael Yeager, said the continued growth in production of the North West Shelf Joint Venture is a key part of the foundation of our Petroleum business.

"BHP Billiton is continuing to deliver on our commitment to long-term growth which is underpinned by strong international demand," Mr. Yeager said.

"The North West Shelf is a world class asset and this investment adds significant new high-margin volumes and value to our business," Mr. Yeager said.

First LNG production from Train 5 is ahead of project schedule.

The six equal participants in the NWS Project are: Woodside Energy Ltd. (16.67 per cent and operator); BHP Billiton Petroleum (North West Shelf) Pty Ltd (16.67 per cent); BP Developments Australia Pty Ltd (16.67 per cent); Chevron Australia Pty Ltd (16.67 per cent); Japan Australia LNG (MIMI) Pty Ltd (16.67 per cent); and Shell Development (Australia) Pty Ltd (16.67 per cent). CNOOC NWS Private Limited is also a member of the North West Shelf Venture but does not have an interest in North West Shelf Venture infrastructure.

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