OREANDA-NEWS. GDF SUEZ, together with its partner PEMEX, announces the start of construction on the Ramones Phase II South pipeline (Ramones II South), a segment of the Ramones natural gas pipeline system, which is one of the largest energy infrastructure projects in Mexico's history, extending from the Texas border to central Mexico.

Established as a joint venture1 between PEMEX and GDF SUEZ, Ramones II South will span 291 kilometers from San Luis Potosi to Apaseo El Alto, Guanajuato, and represents a total estimated investment cost of USD 1 billion. The Ramones II South pipeline will have the capacity to deliver 1.4 billion cubic feet per day of natural gas.

"We are delighted to begin construction of the Ramones II South pipeline, which will be key to the expansion of the natural gas transportation system in Mexico," said Gerard Mestrallet, Chairman and CEO of GDF SUEZ. "This investment demonstrates our Group's confidence in Mexico's growing economy and our commitment to play an important role as an investor in Mexico's energy future."

The company responsible for the construction of the 42-inch diameter pipeline is ICA Fluor.

GDF SUEZ will operate and maintain the project from its completion, which is anticipated by the end of 2015. The project is expected to generate 1,480 construction jobs and 3,000 indirect jobs.

The Ramones natural gas pipeline, of a total length exceeding 1,000 kilometres, will be an important project for the development and energy security of Mexico, allowing for the importation from the United States of up to 2.1 billion cubic feet per day of natural gas.

GDF SUEZ has significant experience in managing large natural gas projects locally in Mexico and internationally. Since beginning operations in Mexico more than 15 years ago, he Group currently operates nearly 1,000 km of pipelines in the country. Additionally in Mexico, GDF SUEZ operates six local gas distribution companies serving more than 400,000 customers and three natural gas-fired power plants that serve a variety of industrial clients and public utility companies. GDF SUEZ is also the leading natural gas distribution network operator in Europe and the third largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) importer in the world.