[SatNews] Hermes Datacomms, a leading global provider of managed networks for the upstream oil and gas industry, hosted a VSAT licensing forum for oil companies in Myanmar in Yangon on January 29, 2015. Representatives from seven oil companies active in Yangon, including all active offshore fields, attended the event, which was based round a Q&A session with PJ Bernardo, Telecoms Partner at Kelvin Chia Yangon. 

Reliable satellite communications are critical for safe and efficient oil and gas operations. Giles Middleton, CEO of Hermes explains, “After operating in Myanmar for two years, Hermes was still finding considerable confusion over the rules. The idea behind the forum was to bring a shared clarity around the key issues, and to identify how to deal with licensing from a practical point of view. “Oil and gas needs comms” said Giles, “ and our job is to make sure that they are not only reliable and cost-effective, but also fully compliant with local laws”

The forum was based on Q&A and round-table discussion, with oil company representatives sharing their experiences. PJ Bernardo responded to questions on the current licensing rules, clarifying the differences between onshore and offshore satellite installations, and outlining the rules of the game for importing and using satellite transmission equipment. “The rules under the new Telecommunications Act have not all been published yet” explained PJ, adding that “there are some uncertainties, but the important thing is to have an open discussion with the Regulator, tell them your plans, and explain how you are complying with applicable rules”.

Hermes Datacommunications Ltd specializes in providing Wide Area Communications to the oil and gas industry worldwide with over 20 years of experience, service in 54 countries, and representing 92 percent of the world’s oil and gas reserves.