Oman: TotalEnergies and OQEP Announce Groundbreaking for Marsa LNG Plant

TotalEnergies and OQEP have broken ground on the Marsa LNG plant in Oman, expected to be one of the lowest carbon intensity LNG facilities in the world. This plant will serve as the first marine LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East, supporting the energy transition in the shipping industry. Sustainable initiatives are integral to the project, with significant expected emissions reductions compared to typical LNG operations.

Marsa LNG has officially broken ground, marking a significant milestone for both TotalEnergies and OQ Exploration and Production (OQEP). This event took place in Sohar, northern Oman, following a year after the Final Investment Decision. The plant will have a capacity of 1 million tons per year and aims to provide cleaner energy solutions for the shipping industry.

The new liquefaction facility will be among the world’s leading LNG plants in terms of low carbon intensity. It incorporates advanced technologies, including a fully electrified design complemented by a photovoltaic solar farm capable of meeting the plant’s annual energy requirements. The anticipated emissions are under 3 kg CO₂e per barrel, significantly lower than the global average of approximately 35 kg CO₂e.

Housed strategically at the Gulf’s entrance, the Marsa LNG facility is set to become the first marine LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East. The recently signed contract for an LNG bunkering vessel, Monte Shams, named after a prominent mountain in Oman, is expected to enhance local maritime fuel supply from 2028. LNG as a marine fuel can cut greenhouse gas emissions from ships by about 20% compared to traditional fuels.

Patrick Pouyanné, CEO of TotalEnergies, expressed pride in this project, noting the collaboration with OQEP and support from Oman’s authorities. He said the plant illustrates how LNG production can be environmentally friendly, offering a vital transition fuel for the global energy sector. The aim is to set a new standard for low-emissions LNG production worldwide.

His Excellency Eng. Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals for Oman, remarked on the importance of the Marsa LNG project in supporting the country’s economic integration. He emphasized the initiative’s role in developing clean energy infrastructure, aligning with Oman Vision 2040’s sustainability goals. Al Aufi noted the project is a strategic collaboration that promotes local job creation and supports long-term economic growth.

Ahmed Al Azkawi, CEO of OQEP, also highlighted the significance of the Marsa LNG project in transforming Oman’s energy landscape. He confirmed the commitment to sustainability and innovation as the project leverages cutting-edge technology. The influence on regional and global energy sectors is significant, marking Oman’s emergence as a key player in low-carbon fuel solutions.

TotalEnergies has had a hand in Oman’s energy sector since 1937 and continues to expand its role, particularly in cleaner energy. Notably, they aim to increase their natural gas share in sales to 50% by 2030, all while maintaining strong collaborations for a greener future. The Marsa LNG initiative embodies this potential as LNG becomes an essential transition fuel, especially to the shipping industry.

The groundbreaking of the Marsa LNG plant marks a pivotal step for both TotalEnergies and OQEP in Oman’s energy evolution. Set to be a leader in low-carbon LNG production, this facility will support the marine fuel market while emphasizing sustainability. Collaboration between these companies and the Omani government reinforces commitments to clean energy and economic growth, showcasing Oman as a future hub for LNG in the region.

Original Source: totalenergies.com