bp has begun to transfer gas from the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) phase 1 LNG project wells to an FPSO.
GTA, located offshore Mauritania and Senegal, is one of the deepest offshore developments in Africa, with gas resources in water depths of up to 2,850 m, bp claimed.
Once fully commissioned, phase 1 is expected to produce around 2.3 mill tonnes of LNG per year.
This marks an important milestone towards realising the potential of Mauritania’s and Senegal’s gas resources, with the possibility for the countries to become an important LNG production hub, the UK energy giant said.
“This is a fantastic landmark for this important mega project. First gas flow is a material example of supporting the global energy demands of today and reiterates our commitment to help Mauritania and Senegal develop their natural resources,” said Gordon Birrell, bp’s Executive Vice President production & operations.
“Africa’s significance in the global energy system is growing, and these nations now have enhanced roles to play. Congratulations to the project and production teams for delivering this project and for always keeping safe operations at the heart of what they do. Thank you to the entire GTA team, our partners and host governments for this tremendous achievement,” he said.
Gas from the project is being introduced to the FPSO around 40 km offshore, at which, water, condensate and impurities will be removed.
From the FPSO, gas will be piped to an FLNG, located 10 km offshore, where it will be cryogenically cooled, liquefied and stored before being transferred to LNGCs for export.
Some of the gas will be utilised to help meet growing energy demand in the two countries.
“With this milestone, Mauritania and Senegal take a major step towards an exciting new chapter as gas-exporting nations. I am proud of the relationships we continue to strengthen in both countries.
“Without the resilience and dedication of the bp team, as well as our partners, host governments and of course the people of Mauritania and Senegal, none of this would have been possible,” added Dave Campbell, bp’s Senior Vice President, Mauritania and Senegal.
GTA’s construction has generated more than 3,000 local jobs, and the project has employed around 300 local companies across the two countries.
bp and its partners have also invested in local workforce development – including a four-year apprentice training programme – and started a multi-million dollar social investment programme.
The FPSO arrived offshore Mauritania and Senegal during the second quarter of last year and is designed to process over 500 mill standard cu ft of gas per day.
The FLNG moored offshore is the ‘Gimi’, which is owned and operated by Golar LNG.
bp is GTA’s operator with a 56% working interest, alongside Kosmos Energy (27%), PETROSEN (10%) and SMH (7%).
