BHP Billiton (ASX: BHP) has announced that it has sold its stake in the Browse LNG project for US$1.63 billion to PetroChina International Investment.
BHP had an 8.33% interest in East Browse, and a 20% interest in West Browse joint ventures, but said they were no longer strategic assets for the company. The sale is still subject to regulatory approval, but should be completed early next year.
Related: BHP versus WA government
Given the rising costs of developing LNG projects in Australia, and the controversy over Browse, it's no wonder BHP has decided to exit. With Browse yet to get the go-ahead, and controversy over the siting of the LNG plant, as well as environmental opposition to the planned James Price Point plant location, the project faces rising costs as well as other hurdles.
WA premier Colin Barnett wants the LNG plant built at James Price Point, but the partners, including operator, Woodside Petroleum (ASX: WPL), are understood to be keen on building a floating LNG plant to cut costs by up to $15 billion.
We've already seen costs on other LNG projects blow out, including Chevron's US$43 billion Gorgon project, now expected to cost $52 billion, $9 billion more than originally anticipated. Increasing labour costs, falling productivity and the strong Australian dollar are all being blamed for the cost rise. Santos Limited's (ASX: STO) Gladstone LNG and the PNG LNG project, involving Oil Search (ASX: OSH) and Santos have also experienced cost blow-outs in recent months.
Woodside chief Peter Coleman has warned that further cost blowouts could jeopardise future long-term investment. Investors could look elsewhere if operators failed to maintain revised cost estimates and schedules. With several large LNG projects planned or already under development in Australia, some could be postponed or scaled back, which may scare investors away, Mr Coleman said.
Foolish takeaway
BHP's decision to exit Browse now certainly looks like the right decision for the company. BHP can now concentrate on its US shale oil and gas plays and existing petroleum projects, whilst avoiding the risks of being involved in a costly, controversial LNG project.
If you only invest in one company this year, make it our "Top Stock for 2012-13." Operating in two hot markets — one set to double by 2012, the other predicted to grow 5x over the next five years — this stock is a solid growth play that also boasts strong recurring revenue, zero debt, and lots of cash. Get its name and full research case in this brand-new FREE report.
More reading
- Banks ignore pleas to pass on full rate cut
- Ardent Leisure: Fun for the whole family
- Gerry Harvey's American nightmare
- Last throw of the dice for Ten?
- New airport back on the agenda
Motley Fool writer/analyst Mike King owns shares in BHP and Woodside. The Motley Fool's purpose is to help the world invest, better. Take Stock is The Motley Fool's free investing newsletter. Packed with stock ideas and investing advice, it is essential reading for anyone looking to build and grow their wealth in the years ahead. Click here now to request your free subscription, whilst it's still available. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.
