TotalEnergies and OQEP have begun construction on the Marsa LNG plant in Oman, set to be a key marine LNG bunkering hub and one of the lowest carbon intensity LNG plants worldwide. Expected to start production in 2028, the project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in maritime operations significantly. Leaders from both companies emphasized the importance of this venture for sustainability in energy production.
In a significant step for the energy sector, TotalEnergies and OQEP have marked the beginning of construction for the Marsa LNG plant in Sohar, Oman. The groundbreaking ceremony, held under the patronage of Minister of Energy & Minerals, Eng. Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, featured prominent figures including Patrick Pouyanné from TotalEnergies and OQEP’s Ahmed Al Azkawi. This project follows a crucial Final Investment Decision made a year earlier and signals an ambitious commitment to cleaner energy solutions.
The Marsa LNG facility aims to produce 1 million tons per year of liquefied natural gas (LNG), primarily for marine fuel, with the plant expected to be operational by early 2028. The joint venture sees TotalEnergies holding an 80% stake, while OQEP covers the remaining 20%. Positioned strategically at the entrance of the Gulf, Marsa LNG is designed to become the first marine LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East, a move that supports the maritime industry’s shift towards clean energy.
One of the standout features of Marsa LNG is its environmentally friendly design. The plant will be fully electrified and will include a solar farm generating 300 megawatts-peak (MWp), enough to meet its energy needs. This means it will have one of the lowest carbon intensities among LNG facilities globally, at less than 3 kg CO2e/boe for scope 1 and 2 emissions. Compared to the worldwide average of around 35 kg CO2e/boe, this represents a staggering 90% reduction in carbon emissions.
Marsa LNG also stands out for its commitment to a sustainable shipping future. A newly chartered vessel, named Monte Shams after Oman’s iconic Mountain of the Sun, is set to serve this bunkering hub. Expected to operate out of Sohar from 2028, this vessel will cater to various maritime vessels such as container ships and tankers. Using LNG as a fuel, ships will benefit from an estimated 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fuels, thanks to the plant’s low carbon production.
Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, expressed pride in the project, emphasizing its potential to set new standards for low-emissions LNG production. “This flagship project demonstrates that LNG production can be very low carbon, contributing to making gas a long-term transition fuel,” he stated. He underscored the importance of this initiative in supporting the energy transition in the shipping sector.
Adding to this, Minister Al Aufi reiterated the government’s dedication to advancing downstream energy projects, which he described as critical for Oman’s economic diversification. He noted that Marsa LNG fits into Oman Vision 2040’s goals emphasizing sustainability and innovation. The Minister heralded the project as essential for reducing emissions and establishing Oman as a reliable regional hub for clean maritime fuel.
OQEP’s Ahmed Al Azkawi also highlighted the innovative aspects of the Marsa LNG project. He described it as a significant leap towards sustainability, underlining its role in the regional energy landscape. The development of this LNG facility, he noted, not only positions Oman on the global energy map but will also serve as a stepping stone towards a cleaner energy future.
TotalEnergies has been active in Oman since 1937, and their involvement in Marsa LNG represents a commitment to blending natural gas production with advanced technology while simultaneously expanding their footprint in the global LNG market. Their focus on LNG aligns with an ambition to transition to lower-carbon energy by 2030.
The Marsa LNG project marks a pivotal advancement in Oman’s energy sector, emphasizing sustainability and innovation. With significant support from government and industry leaders, it’s poised to become a key player in global LNG markets. Its commitment to low carbon emissions and support for the shipping industry’s energy transition reinforces Oman’s role as a vital regional energy hub.
Original Source: totalenergies.com
