COBALT advised Hoegh LNG in the LNG terminal project of national significance

COBALT provided legal advisory services to the Norwegian company Hoegh LNG in the Klaipėda liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal project, advising it on FSRU Independence related matters. The project, which following completion of construction has now entered the operational phase, represents a historic milestone of national significance for Lithuania, ensuring alternative gas supply to Lithuania and enhancing energy independence and security both nationally and across the Baltic Region.

The first in the Baltic States, Klaipėda LNG terminal is comprised of FSRU Independence, the jetty and the pipeline. The terminal will serve as an alternative to the only currently available option of importing natural gas through pipelines from Russia. Natural gas will be delivered to the terminal by gas carriers.

The LNG terminal was officially launched on 3 December 2014. Lithuania is the first in the Baltics to have secured an alternative source of gas supply.

COBALT lawyers provided comprehensive legal services to Hoegh LNG in relation to obtaining security for project financing purposes, operation of the local office and lease of premises, employment and tax law matters. Extensive legal advice on aspects related to the arrival of FSRU Independence included advising on immigration law matters, application of visa-free regime for seafarers and obtaining work and residence permits for officers and seafarers on board the vessel.

COBALT lawyers assisted the client in dealing with the National Labour Exchange, Klaipėda Territorial Labour Exchange, the Migration Department, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the State Border Guard Service. The team was led by Managing Associate Aušrys Šliavas. Managing Associate Maksimas Saveljevas and tax adviser Rokas Daugėla also advised in the matter.