–to better service Guyana’s emerging offshore sector

U.S.-based Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO) on Friday evening formally set up shop here with the opening of its ‘G Boats’ office in downtown Georgetown.
The opening of an office here is another opportunity for many more Guyanese to be hired in the offshore oil-and-gas industry.

The new office was opened at Lot 126 Quamina and Carmichael Streets.
At the event, Head of Guyana’s Department of Energy Dr. Mark Bynoe said Guyana is making positive strides in the industry with increased investor confidence.
“The benefits from the oil-and-gas sector will benefit Guyanese directly and indirectly and through various multipliers,” he said.

Noting that while first-oil is projected to start pumping in the first quarter of 2020, Dr. Bynoe said the oil-and-gas sector is already beginning to sprout green shoots in the form of shore bases being constructed; contracts being signed; capacities being built; standards being lifted; and jobs being created.

He said that the successful development of the oil-and-gas sector is vital for transformation of the country, especially in raising the standards necessary for increased competitiveness of industries.
Noting that the change of which he speaks is not only about expecting jobs, Dr. Bynoe said it is also about providing opportunities in such areas as fabrication and engineering amongst others.

“…the challenge for us as a nation is not just the creation of jobs; it is how to create good, rewarding and sustainable jobs for the citizens,” he said.
Noting that it is patently clear that for skills to be developed, the oil-and-gas sector must be targeted and strategically deployed and nurtured, Dr Bynoe said:
“We in the department also seek to encourage greater joint-venture partnerships, since apart from increasing local content, it also has the added advantage of providing the opportunity for local businesses to gain new insights and expertise.”

According to Business Development Manager Daniel LaFont, ECO has already employed over 60 Guyanese aboard 10 vessels supporting Exxon.
As previously reported, Guyana’s first development, Liza Phase 1, will use a floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel to produce 120,000 barrels of oil per day,starting by early 2020.

Founded as Edison Chouest Boat Rental in Galliano, Louisiana, in 1960, ECO companies are recognised today as the most diverse and dynamic marine transportation solution providers in the world.
ECO operates a growing fleet of well over 200 vessels, ranging from 87 to over 525 feet in length and serving an expanding global customer base.

Staying at the forefront of new technologies is an integral part of the Chouest business plan, as evidenced by recent advances in the areas of sub-sea support, integrated bridge systems and global communications.
The ability to design, build, own and operate diverse, high-capacity and technologically superior vessels has made ECO an unrivalled leader in the maritime industry.