Santos said production at its Barossa gas project offshore Australia’s Northern Territory is being prepared for restart, with start-up expected around 18 April 2026.

The company said output was temporarily halted at Darwin LNG because of early operating issues tied to the FPSO BW Opal. During the first quarter of 2026, production remained limited while commissioning work continued, although three cargoes were sold during the period.

To support a return to full rates, dry gas seals on the compressors aboard BW Opal have been replaced. Santos also said heat exchangers are being flushed and cleaned to clear blockages.

Barossa moved ahead after the final investment decision in March 2021, and the FPSO BW Opal reached first gas in September 2025. Initial LNG output followed completion of the Darwin LNG life extension works and cooldown of the LNG train and storage tank.

The Barossa field lies about 285 km offshore Darwin and is set to supply the Darwin LNG plant for the next 20 years.