BP Achieves First Gas Flow Milestone at Greater Tortue Ahmeyim Gas Project

UK-headquartered energy giant BP has reached a significant milestone at its gas development off the coasts of Mauritania and Senegal. The Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) Phase 1 project, considered the biggest in BP’s portfolio and one of the most complex gas developments in Africa, has successfully initiated gas flow from wells to its floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) GTA.

The GTA Phase 1 development, with the deepest subsea infrastructure in Africa, will produce approximately 2.3 million tons of LNG annually for over 20 years. This achievement marks a major step for Mauritania and Senegal as gas-exporting nations.

Key Highlights of the Project

Gas is being introduced to the FPSO GTA, located approximately 40 kilometers offshore, where water, condensate, and impurities are removed. The gas will then be transferred via pipeline to Golar LNG’s floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) Gimi, situated 10 kilometers offshore, for further processing and export.

BP, as the operator of GTA with a 56% working interest, partners with Kosmos Energy (27%), Petrosen (10%), and SMH (7%) in this endeavor. Upon completion of commissioning activities, the GTA Phase 1 project is expected to contribute significantly to the natural resource development of Mauritania and Senegal, potentially establishing them as key LNG production hubs.

Commendations from Industry Leaders

Dave Campbell, BP’s SVP Mauritania and Senegal, expressed pride in the progress made, emphasizing the strengthening relationships with both countries. Gordon Birrell, BP’s EVP Production & Operations, hailed the achievement as a significant milestone for the megaproject, highlighting its importance in meeting global energy demands.

NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, lauded the GTA project for showcasing the immense opportunities available in Africa’s gas market. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved in driving the success of the project and emphasized the transformative impact of gas on Africa’s economies.

Conclusion

The Greater Tortue Ahmeyim gas project represents a pivotal moment in Africa’s energy landscape, demonstrating the continent’s growing significance in the global energy system. With strategic support from governments, NOCs, and international partners, projects like GTA pave the way for enhanced energy security, industrialization, and economic transformation across Africa.