Status of Prometheus floating gas terminal remains uncertain

The Prometheus floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU), currently anchored in Malaysia due to delays at the Vasiliko energy terminal in Cyprus, cannot be easily chartered to a third party under current conditions. According to a response provided by Energy Minister Michalis Damianou to a parliamentary question from DISY MP Nikos Georgiou, the vessel requires significant technical and operational interventions before it can be commercially utilized elsewhere.

Maintaining the vessel in Malaysia costs over $386,000 per month, covering expenses such as berthing, staffing, maintenance, insurance, and fuel. While the Natural Gas Infrastructure Company (ETYFA) has explored alternative scenarios, including potential trial operations or chartering to neighboring countries, no firm commercial offers have been secured. Market estimates suggest daily charter rates between $75,000 and $130,000, but moving the ship remains a complex process involving rigorous regulatory and technical checks.

The vessel remains at its current location awaiting the eventual completion of the necessary infrastructure in Cyprus. ETYFA continues to analyze the costs of management and potential relocation, though officials note that simply moving the unit to another terminal is not a straightforward procedure.