TotalEnergies and OQEP have commenced the Marsa LNG project in Sohar, Oman, expected to produce one million tons of LNG annually for marine fuel starting in 2028. This facility will be one of the lowest carbon intensity LNG plants worldwide and aims to be the first LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East, leveraging renewable energy to minimize emissions. Significant support from local authorities underscores its alignment with Oman’s Vision 2040 for sustainability and innovation.
Marsa LNG, a notable project being developed by TotalEnergies and OQ Exploration and Production (OQEP), officially broke ground in Sohar, Oman. The ceremony took place under the auspices of His Excellency Eng. Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Oman’s Minister of Energy and Minerals. Patrick Pouyanné, the Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, and Ahmed Al Azkawi, CEO of OQEP, were also present. This milestone follows the company’s Final Investment Decision made just one year prior, a significant step in establishing a new chapter in energy production.
The liquefaction plant at Marsa LNG is set to have an annual capacity of one million tons and aims to begin operations in the first quarter of 2028. The facility, a joint venture predominantly led by TotalEnergies (holding 80% stakes), focuses on providing liquefied natural gas (LNG) primarily for the marine fuel market in the Gulf region. With increasing demand for cleaner marine fuels, this venture is particularly well timed.
One standout feature of the Marsa LNG plant is its commitment to sustainability. It plans to be among the lowest carbon intensity LNG plants globally, combining a fully electrified system with a dedicated 300 megawatt-peak photovoltaic solar farm to meet its energy needs. The projected CO2 emissions for this facility are under 3 kg CO2 equivalent per barrel of oil equivalent, which is a staggering 90% lower than the existing global average of around 35 kg CO2 equivalent per barrel.
Furthermore, the Marsa LNG site is strategically located at the entrance of the Gulf, set to become the first marine LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East. Notably, a charter contract has already been signed for a new LNG bunkering vessel named Monte Shams, which references Oman’s famous Jabal Shams or Mountain of the Sun. This vessel is anticipated to be operational by 2028, servicing various ships from container and tanker vessels to large cruise ships.
By using LNG, vessels will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 20% compared to conventional fuel oil. The low carbon intensity of the LNG produced at Marsa LNG will further enhance these emissions reductions. Patrick Pouyanné expressed his pride in the project and its potential impact, stating it demonstrates that low-carbon LNG production can significantly contribute to a more sustainable energy future.
His Excellency Eng. Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi emphasized the government’s dedication to enhancing energy projects in alignment with Oman Vision 2040, particularly focusing on sustainability and industrial innovation. He noted that the Marsa LNG project embodies this vision, enhancing Oman’s role as a key player in clean energy solutions while promoting responsible energy practices in the maritime sector.
Ahmed Al Azkawi also touched on the significance of the Marsa LNG project, citing its potential to revolutionize the energy landscape in Oman. He highlighted TotalEnergies and OQEP’s commitment to utilizing innovative technologies to support a cleaner and more cost-effective energy future. This project represents a pivotal moment, setting new benchmarks for low-carbon energy initiatives.
Operating in Oman since 1937, TotalEnergies has reinforced its commitment to the nation through significant investments, including Marsa LNG. With a strong focus on natural gas production and renewable energy, TotalEnergies aims to expand its influence in Oman’s energy sector, supporting both local and global needs for cleaner fuels. The company is currently the third-largest player in the global LNG market, advocating for LNG’s role as a transitional marine fuel that significantly reduces emissions while maintaining operational efficiency.
OQEP, on the other hand, plays a vital role in Oman’s oil and gas sector, being one of the largest in terms of exploration and production capabilities. With a robust production rate and ongoing efforts in sustainability, OQEP is dedicated to advancing the country’s ambitions concerning energy development. The collaboration between OQEP and TotalEnergies marks a promising leap towards cleaner, more sustainable energy systems in the region, aligning well with future trends and needs in energy consumption.
In summary, the groundbreaking of the Marsa LNG plant marks a significant advancement in Oman’s energy sector, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and innovation. Set to be one of the lowest carbon intensity LNG plants globally, this facility underscores a strategic movement towards cleaner energy solutions in maritime operations. Through partnerships between TotalEnergies and OQEP, Oman aims to bolster its position as a leader in the regional clean energy landscape, adhering to national and global objectives for reduced emissions in the shipping industry.
Original Source: totalenergies.com
