Greater Tortue Ahmeyim project begins gas production, transforming West African energy sector

bp has achieved a transformative milestone with the commencement of gas production at the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) Phase 1 project. Situated offshore along the maritime borders of Mauritania and Senegal, GTA is one of Africa’s most ambitious offshore gas developments. This milestone marks the start of operations at a project poised to redefine the region’s energy landscape, addressing both global energy needs and local economic aspirations.

The project, a collaboration involving bp, Kosmos Energy, and the governments of Mauritania and Senegal, signifies a critical step toward positioning West Africa as a competitive LNG production hub. With an anticipated output of 2.3 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) per annum, the GTA project is strategically designed to address increasing global demand for cleaner, more sustainable energy sources.

What Sets Greater Tortue Ahmeyim Apart?

The GTA project is a pioneering offshore gas project, leveraging advanced technology to extract natural gas from water depths exceeding 2,850 metres. This deepwater development underscores Africa’s growing importance in the global energy market. Gas extracted from the project is processed on a floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel stationed approximately 40 kilometres offshore.

From the FPSO, the gas is transported via pipeline to the Gimi floating LNG (FLNG) vessel, where it is cryogenically cooled, liquefied, and prepared for export. Some of the gas will remain within Mauritania and Senegal to meet rising domestic energy demands, while the majority will be exported to global markets.

Industry experts have hailed the project as a testament to what collaborative efforts between international energy companies and host nations can achieve. The combination of cutting-edge engineering and a clear focus on local capacity-building sets the project apart in a competitive global LNG market.

Economic and Social Impact of GTA

Beyond its technical accomplishments, the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim project represents a significant economic opportunity for Mauritania and Senegal. The project has created over 3,000 local jobs during its construction phase and engaged around 300 local businesses in various capacities.

bp has also invested heavily in workforce development, implementing a four-year apprentice training programme that equips local technicians with the skills needed to operate in the offshore energy sector. By creating a sustainable pipeline of local talent, the project is contributing to long-term economic stability in the region.

In addition to employment opportunities, the GTA project includes a multi-million-dollar social investment initiative. This programme focuses on community health, environmental awareness, education, and local economic development, with targeted efforts such as funding for women’s cooperatives and micro-finance initiatives.

Global Energy Market Implications

As LNG production ramps up, industry analysts predict that GTA Phase 1 will bolster Africa’s standing in the global energy market. The project’s capacity aligns with rising international demand for LNG as countries transition away from coal and oil. With its 2.7 mtpa nameplate capacity, the Gimi FLNG vessel is expected to help Mauritania and Senegal become critical suppliers of LNG in the coming years.

Kosmos Energy has praised the project’s progress, noting that the first LNG cargo is expected in early 2025. The company emphasised the role of the project in strengthening its financial position through disciplined capital allocation and the reduction of debt. Analysts suggest that the long-term revenue streams generated by GTA will help further stabilise the economies of Mauritania and Senegal, enabling future investments in critical infrastructure.

The Road Ahead: Mauritania and Senegal as LNG Pioneers

The successful commissioning of the GTA project represents a turning point for Mauritania and Senegal, which are poised to emerge as significant players in the LNG sector. The project has already been declared of “strategic national importance” by both governments, reflecting its transformative potential.

As the world’s focus shifts toward cleaner energy solutions, projects like GTA highlight Africa’s pivotal role in meeting global energy demands. The initiative showcases the region’s ability to deliver technologically advanced solutions while fostering local economic growth.

The Greater Tortue Ahmeyim project is a landmark development, blending state-of-the-art engineering with a commitment to social and economic progress. By tapping into Africa’s vast natural gas reserves, bp and its partners are not only addressing global energy challenges but also paving the way for Mauritania and Senegal to thrive as LNG-exporting nations. With its first gas flow achieved, GTA Phase 1 is now set to make a lasting impact on the energy industry and the future of West Africa.