WLNG hopes to add second floatel for workers on LNG project
Woodfibre LNG Seeks Second Floatel for Squamish Site
Woodfibre LNG is advancing plans to install a second floating workers’ accommodation at its Squamish site, aiming to house an additional 900 tradespeople. This initiative, if approved, could significantly expedite the construction timeline for the liquefied natural gas export facility. Currently, the MV Isabelle X, a repurposed cruise ship, serves as the primary accommodation for workers at the site.
Plans for Enhanced Worker Accommodation
The Vancouver-based Bridgemans Services Group has been tasked with supplying the second floatel, which will be outfitted similarly to the existing MV Isabelle X. Brian Grange, president of Bridgemans, expressed pride in contributing to the project, emphasizing its role in enhancing Canada’s position in the global energy market. He stated, “The MV Isabelle X showcases Canadian innovation and sets a new benchmark for workforce accommodation on the water.”
Woodfibre LNG’s CEO, Luke Schauerte, highlighted the project’s urgency, citing the changing global energy landscape as a driving force behind the accelerated construction timeline. He noted, “We’ve seen passion across Canada to diversify our export markets,” and emphasized the potential for creating high-paying, skilled jobs. Schauerte expressed optimism about completing the regulatory process and hopes to have the second floatel operational by the end of the year.
The District of Squamish has indicated that Woodfibre LNG will need to submit an application for temporary land use approval as part of the approval process. A spokesperson for the District stated that staff would review the application and recommend a decision to the council once received. Until then, they cannot comment on the associated timelines.
Impact on Local Community and Workforce
If approved, the addition of the second floatel would increase the total number of workers on-site to between 1,200 and 1,400. Each floatel can accommodate around 650 workers, but due to rotating shifts, the overall number of workers in the community will not increase, as all will reside on the vessels. Schauerte reassured the community that the first floatel had minimal impact, with positive feedback from tradespeople regarding the accommodations and amenities.
Currently, non-local workers are transported to the floatel from Vancouver by boat, a system that will continue with the new floatel. Schauerte noted that this approach has effectively minimized traffic and disruptions in the area. Regarding workforce sourcing, he mentioned that other major industrial projects nearing completion could provide skilled workers, including those from Site C and LNG Canada.
Once operational, the Woodfibre LNG facility is expected to produce approximately 2.1 million tonnes of LNG annually. Schauerte reiterated the desire for Canada to diversify its energy exports, stating, “Woodfibre LNG is really well positioned right now to actually finish the project strong and make those connections to get those LNG exports over to Asia.”
This development underscores the ongoing commitment to enhancing Canada’s role in the global energy market while addressing local workforce needs.
