Angolarich in natural resources, aims to become a key player in the field of natural gas in Africa. With approximately 55 billion cubic meters of proven reserves in 2023, the country is intensifying its efforts to fully exploit this potential, in order to diversify its economy and reduce its historical dependence on oil. Through his Gas Master Plan (NGMP)Angola is increasing its strategic projects to meet growing energy needs and establish itself on the global gas market.
At the heart of Angola's energy ambitions is the projet Sanha Lean Gas Connection (SLGC)recently launched by the Cabinda Gulf Oil Companythe Angolan subsidiary of Chevron. Located in the province of Benguela, on the bloc offshore 0this project constitutes a significant advance in the exploitation of national gas resources.
In its first phase, the site will produce 80 million standard cubic feet per day intended for the natural gas liquefaction plant Angola LNGwhich displays an impressive capacity for 5.2 million tonnes per yearas well as the Soyo power plants, with a capacity of 750 MW. A second phase, planned with the addition of an additional compression module, will bring daily production to 220 million standard cubic feet. Once fully operational, the SLGC project will be able to provide up to 600 million standard cubic feet per daythus consolidating Angola's gas supply.
Angola faces a major challenge: reducing the deficit between natural gas supply and demand. Between 2019 and 2023, national gas production amounted on average to 9.29 billion standard cubic feet per yearwhile demand reached approximately 20.89 billionaccording to data from Statesman. This imbalance has prompted the authorities to accelerate the development of projects like the SLGC, essential to meet domestic consumption and maximize exports.
This project will contribute in particular to reducing the gas deficit anticipated between 2022 and 2025while positioning Angola as a strategic supplier in the global market. In fact, the factory Angola LNGpowered by Sanha gas, strengthens the country's capacity to export liquefied natural gas (LNG) to international markets seeking new sources of energy supply.
The launch of the SLGC is part of a broader vision by the Angolan government to diversify the economy and reduce its dependence on oil revenues. Currently, oil accounts for more than 90% of exports and constitutes a dominant share of government revenue. Natural gas, as a complementary resource, offers an opportunity to reconfigure the country's economic structure.
The Gas Master Plan (NGMP)adopted by the government, aims not only to boost production, but also to encourage investment in infrastructure, such as liquefaction plants, power plants and distribution networks. These efforts are also focused on integrating renewable energy and creating a more sustainable energy mix.
With projects like the SLGC, Angola aims to become a model for the responsible exploitation of gas resources in Africa. In addition to meeting national demand, the country aims to attract international partners and strengthen its role in the global energy transition.
Indeed, Angola LNG, with its liquefaction and export capacities, represents a strategic platform for serving growing markets. Asia, Europe and in Latin America. This export orientation, combined with efforts to improve access to energy locally, could transform Angola into a major energy hub for the African continent.
