A high-ranking Iranian energy official says the first segment of two phases of the South Pars gas field will come on stream in the next few days.

On Sunday, National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) Managing Director Ahmad Qalebani paid a visit to the refinery of phases 15 and 16 of South Pars gas field, and lauded endeavors made by Iranian contractors and experts to launch the first phase of the gas sweetening project at the refinery of the phases.

“It makes us proud that Iranian experts have succeeded in designing, constructing and launching a mega gas project for the first time. We hope that such an experience would prepare the ground for the successful commission of other major projects in this joint field,” he stated.

On July 23, Iranian Oil Minister Rostam Qasemi said the development of the different phases of the South Pars gas field is going ahead despite US-engineered sanctions against Iran over its nuclear energy program.

“South Pars phases are being developed through the efforts and endeavors of capable Iranian specialists and experts, and despite sanctions and certain difficulties, the development of this joint field is progressing satisfactorily,” he said.

Qasemi further noted that six phases of the South Pars gas field have been developed by 62 percent in less than 35 months and four others by 50 percent, while building refineries for some of the phases has progressed more than 75 percent.

He said 20 drilling rigs are currently active in the field, and the number is the highest ever since the development of the South Pars gas field got underway.

Qasemi noted that nearly 100,000 people are currently working in the South Pars field, saying that Iranian manufacturers play a major role in procurement of equipment and parts for the development of the field.

The South Pars gas field is located in the Persian Gulf straddling the common border between Iran and Qatar. It is estimated that the field contains 14 trillion cubic meters of gas and 18 billion barrels of condensates.
 

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