The project
Saipem, in a 50/50 joint venture with Clough, is the exclusive EPC contractor for the development of Perdaman’s Ceres urea plant on the Burrup Peninsula, approximately 20 km northwest of Karratha, on the coastline of Western Australia.
Once completed, it will be the world’s largest gas stream ammonia-urea plant, with single line of ammonia, with a production capacity of 2.14 MMTPA and Australia’s first urea export project.
The facility will use local natural gas for fertilizer production, employing innovative and low-emission technologies. It brings together key areas: ammonia production, urea and granulation, utilities, and supporting infrastructure such as port facilities and water supply. It will span two main sites connected by a causeway, with dedicated areas for production, storage, and administration. A 3.2 km conveyor will link the plant to the port, ensuring efficient transport and loading of urea for export.
The project will feature advanced processing units, large-scale storage, and modern facilities designed for sustainable operation and environmental care.
An extraordinary project
Project Ceres will be the largest urea plant in the world and a global benchmark for high energy efficiency and advanced construction methods.
It is also on track to achieve net carbon zero by 2050, applying best practices to minimise greenhouse gas emissions. This state-of-the-art facility will use Topsoe’s SynCOR Ammonia™ technology for the largest single-line ammonia plant and Saipem’s Snamprogetti™ Urea technology to produce next-generation fertilisers with lower environmental impact.
Project Ceres is committed to delivering positive economic and social benefits. It will create approximately 2,000 jobs during construction and about 200 permanent positions once operational. A key focus during construction is engaging local and Indigenous communities by offering career, training, and business opportunities to ensure long-term social impact.
The plant is designed with a modular approach to improve efficiency, reduce on-site activities, and keep time and costs under control. It features 110 modules - 47 pre-assembled units and 63 pre-assembled racks - with a total weight of about 62,885 tonnes.
The facility also features an advanced control system to ensure the highest-quality urea.
This project will strengthen the fertiliser industry and help secure the global supply of agricultural products, supporting food stability for millions of people worldwide.
