BP has announced a major milestone at its Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) Phase 1 liquefied natural gas (LNG) project, as gas has begun flowing from wells to its floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel. This step marks the next stage of commissioning for the landmark offshore development.
Situated offshore Mauritania and Senegal, GTA is one of Africa’s deepest offshore projects, with gas reserves located in waters up to 2,850 meters deep. Once fully operational, Phase 1 of the project is expected to produce approximately 2.3 million tonnes of LNG annually. Recognized as a project of strategic national importance by both host governments in 2021, GTA has the potential to position Mauritania and Senegal as a central LNG production hub in the region.
“This is a fantastic landmark for this important megaproject. 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 EVP of Production & Operations.
Birrell praised the project and production teams for their safe and efficient execution of operations, highlighting the growing significance of Africa in the global energy system.
Gas extracted from GTA Phase 1 is being processed at the FPSO vessel, approximately 40 kilometers offshore, where water, condensate, and impurities are removed. From there, the gas is transported via pipeline to a floating LNG (FLNG) vessel located 10 kilometers offshore. The FLNG facility cryogenically cools, liquefies, and stores the LNG before transferring it to carriers for export. Additionally, a portion of the gas will be used to address rising energy demands in Mauritania and Senegal.
Beyond its role in bolstering global energy supplies, the GTA project has significantly contributed to local economies, creating over 3,000 jobs and engaging approximately 300 local companies across Mauritania and Senegal. BP and its partners have also invested in workforce development through initiatives like a four-year apprentice training program.
Additionally, a multi-million-dollar social investment program has been launched, aiming to improve quality of life and create sustainable development opportunities in local communities.
Dave Campbell, BP’s SVP for Mauritania and Senegal, emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, stating, “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, our partners, host governments, and the people of Mauritania and Senegal, none of this would have been possible.”
