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Fluenta is able to function in extreme environments. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Algeria, the fifth-largest gas flaring country in the world, is taking significant steps to transform its energy sector and meet its Paris Agreement pledge to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 22% by 2030 

Gas flaring alone accounts for an annual loss of 9.3 bn cu/m — equivalent to 1% of Algeria’s GDP, according to a World Bank report. The stakes are both environmental and economic, placing the country at a pivotal moment as it seeks to balance energy production with sustainability in a way that could redefine regional standards.

Flaring in Algeria produces approximately 150 million tonnes of CO₂-equivalent gases annually, according to FlareIntel, which exceeds that of many neighbouring countries, emphasising the urgency for reform.

Historically, Algeria has struggled to curb flaring due to limited infrastructure and inconsistent enforcement of regulations. However, global pressures, rising scrutiny on methane emissions, and self-policing initiatives have created fresh incentives to accelerate decarbonisation.

In 2023, Algeria achieved the largest reduction in flaring globally, cutting flare volumes by 0.4bn cu/m — a 5% decrease. While oil production fell by 2%, flaring intensity dropped by 3%, continuing a three-year trend of improvement.

SONATRACH, Algeria’s national oil company, has played a pivotal role by implementing flare gas recovery projects in Hassi Messaoud, the country’s largest oil field. In 2023, the company expanded its initiatives to include new projects in Tiguentourine, Ohanet, and Tin-Fouye-Tabankort, laying the groundwork for further reductions in flare volumes.

Algeria is turning to advanced technologies like Fluenta’s ultrasonic flare gas measurement systems, which provide reliable and actionable data. These systems enable operators to close the loop on mass balance calculations, and deliver accurate and reliable emissions reporting, including flare gas destruction removal efficiency (DRE).

Traditional metering systems such as thermal mass and others struggle with flare gas due to its unpredictable composition, rapid velocity changes, and extreme temperatures. Fluenta’s technology is specifically designed to overcome these challenges, delivering accurate measurement even in the most volatile conditions. By integrating flow rate data with gas composition analysis, operators gain deeper insight into their emissions profiles, allowing for more effective management and reduction strategies.

One of Fluenta’s key advantages is its ability to function in extreme environments, such as Algeria’s high-temperature oil and gas fields. This resilience ensures uninterrupted accuracy, even during peak operations or equipment stress. With access to real-time data, operators can optimise combustion efficiency, identify inefficiencies, and reduce unnecessary flaring.

Improved flare gas measurement strengthens Algeria’s position in global energy markets. As international buyers increasingly demand transparency and sustainability, advanced monitoring systems help ensure Algeria’s gas remains competitive—particularly in Europe, where emissions regulations are tightening. This is especially crucial in the wake of geopolitical shifts that have reshaped global energy supply chains.

Fluenta’s ultrasonic measurement systems enable operators to move beyond regulatory compliance toward proactive emissions management. By combining flow rate and gas composition data, they help identify fugitive emissions, detect inefficiencies across upstream processes, and optimise overall plant performance. Rather than simply minimising flaring, these insights allow operators to improve resource efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance production throughput—advancing both Algeria’s sustainability goals and its economic ambitions. 

This is the first of a two-part article. Read the second part here

The acquisition in Algeria will enhance PTTEP’s petroleum reserves. (Image source: PTTEP)

PTTEP reported its operational performance for 2024, highlighting the successful production ramp-up of the G1/61 Project and its investment expansion in the UAE and Algeria

As part of international investment expansion, PTTEP acquired a 10% participating interest in the Ghasha Concession Project, one of the largest offshore natural gas fields in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with gas production set to commence in 2025. Additionally, in September 2024, PTTEP obtained government approval for the field development plan of the Abu Dhabi Offshore 2 Project and is on track to finalise the investment decision (FID) within this year.

In Algeria, PTTEP acquired a 34% of the share capital in E&E Algeria Touat B.V., with the transaction expected to be completed within 2025. Upon the completion, PTTEP will indirectly hold 22.1% investment in Touat Project, which is an onshore natural gas producing field with a production capacity of approximately 435 MMSCFD. This acquisition will immediately enhance the company’s revenue, sales volume, and petroleum reserves.

PTTEP is spearheading a digital revolution in the energy sector through the innovative DigitalX project. By harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), the company has established a data-driven ecosystem that enhances exploration and production operations. Our standardised data foundation fosters greater integration and collaboration across all business units. The AI-driven X.brain engine empowers staff to make faster, more informed decisions. To fully capitalize on these advancements, the company is investing in the workforce, equipping them with the skills to become digital-savvy innovators who drive efficiency, cultivate creativity and accelerate task completion. PTTEP remains committed to leading technological advancements, leveraging digital solutions to unlock new opportunities.

The development ramps up the full commissioning of the FLNG. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Mauritania and Senegal see first gas as the bp-operated FLNG Gimi by Golar LNG Limited received feed gas from the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim offshore project 

The FLNG is under a 20-year Lease and Operate Agreement between bp and Gloar LNG on the GTA field.

Fully commissioned

The development ramps up the full commissioning of the FLNG. Prior to achieving this key milestone, gas from the LNG carrier British Sponsor was being used to undertake advanced commissioning work. The first LNG export cargo is expected within Q1 2025, and full Commercial Operations Date is expected within Q2 2025, subject to all conditions being met. 

A significant part of the gas produced will be directed to help meet growing energy demand in the two host countries

 

 

Sanha Lean Gas Connection is a project by Cabinda Gulf Oil Company Limited. (Image source: Chevron)

The Sanha Lean Gas Connection (SLGC) project has achieved first gas that is being directed to the Angola LNG Plant (ALNG) via Congo River Crossing Pipeline (CRX)

A project by Chevron-subsidiary Cabinda Gulf Oil Company Limited (CABGOC) and Block 0 partners, around 300 mn st cu/ft of gas is currently being mobilised from the SLGC development before it starts delivering an additional 80 mn st cu/ft. The CRX pipeline will be operating in its full capacity by the time further 220 mn st cu/ft is injected via booster compression module

To pull off this mega gas supply project from CABGOC base to ALNG, the SLGC facility in Benguela was given a new platform for integration with the existing Sanha facilities and the CRX Pipeline. 

"First gas from the Sanha Lean Gas Connection shows CABGOC’s success in maximising value from existing resources in Block 0 while growing capabilities in Angola," said Billy Lacobie, managing director of Chevron's southern Africa Strategic Business Unit. “The Sanha Lean Gas Connection project will help supply gas from Block 0's Sanha field to Soyo power plants and Angola Liquefied Natural Gas (ALNG), serving as a gas hub for CABGOC operations. As a long-term partner, Chevron builds upon a legacy of 70 years of operational excellence in Angola and remains dedicated to continuing to provide reliable, affordable, and lower carbon energy to benefit the people of Angola.” 

The Sanha project delivery has largely been in schedule, since Lacobie had explained the company's gas boosting strategies in the region.gas boosting strategies in the region. 

The Block 0 concession that lies by the Cabinda coast is operated by CABGOC which has a 39.2% interest. It also enjoys a 31% operated interest in a production-sharing contracts in deepwater Blocks 14, located West of Block 0. CABGOC also holds the largest equity shares at 36.4% in the ALNG project in Soyo, and 31% shares in the Azule Energy-operated New Gas Consortium

Gas remains an integral part of Angola's asset diversification strategies

Gas from GTA Phase 1 is being introduced to the GTA FPSO. (Image source: African Energy Chamber)

The Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) offshore Mauritania and Senegal sees first gas flow to its floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel before its commissioning begins

A project by bp, gas resources from GTA runs 2,850 m underwater, making it one of the deepest offshore developments in Africa. Once fully commissioned, GTA Phase 1 is expected to produce around 2.3 million tonnes of LNG per year. 

“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, EVP production & operations.  

“Congratulations to the project and production teams for delivering this project and for always keeping safe operations at the heart of what they do.

“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 GTA Phase 1 is being introduced to the GTA FPSO approximately 40 kilometres offshore, where water, condensate and impurities are removed. From there, it will be transferred via pipeline to a floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) vessel located 10 kilometres offshore, where it will be cryogenically cooled, liquefied and stored before being transferred to LNG carriers for export. Some of the gas will be allocated to help meet growing energy demand in the two host 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,” said Dave Campbell, SVP Mauritania and Senegal.  

 

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