The Republic of Congo is advancing efforts to reposition its hydrocarbons sector by unveiling a comprehensive Gas Master Plan (GMP), spearheaded by the national oil company, Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo (SNPC).
Presented by Dr. Bi-Dia-Ayo Ibata during the Congo Energy & Investment Forum in Brazzaville, the GMP outlines a strategic framework aimed at maximizing natural gas resources, enhancing government revenues, fostering economic diversification, and attracting foreign investment. The plan also emphasizes expanding the national power grid and boosting local industry through increased gas utilization.
A key component of the GMP is prioritizing gas-to-power development to support affordable and sustainable electricity across the country. With a focus on long-term and short-term exploration strategies, the plan encourages the establishment of new industrial projects and expanded LPG supply options. The proposal includes appointing a natural gas aggregator potentially the SNPC to stabilize domestic supply and direct gas flows toward strategic sectors. The development of a comprehensive natural gas policy is also highlighted as essential to shaping future sector growth.
READ: Mozambique to receive US $5bn for LNG project
Industrialization
The Ministry of Hydrocarbons presented its own strategic outlook, reinforcing the government’s commitment to boosting hydrocarbon production and value through both exports and local processing. Director General of Gaz Valorization, Hippolyte Tchininanga, underscored the role of natural gas in driving national electrification and supporting industrialization.
In addition, the Ministry is finalizing a new Gas Code, expected to soon receive government approval. The code will serve as a regulatory blueprint, covering the entire value chain from exploration and development to transport, storage, and aggregation thereby creating a more favorable environment for international investors.
A key pillar of the country’s gas ambitions is the Congo LNG project, led by energy major Eni. Already supplying 70% of Congo’s electricity, the project is now in its second phase of development. Technical Director Alberto Nocerino revealed that the expansion will include the drilling of 38 new wells, installation of six wellhead platforms, construction of a new gas pre-treatment facility, and the deployment of two floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) units. Upon completion, the project will raise Congo’s liquefaction capacity to 3 million tons per annum, further positioning the country as a regional energy hub.
[…] READ: Republic of Congo unveils comprehensive Gas Master Plan […]