Mozambique gas production

Background Information on Gas Production in Mozambique

Mozambiquehas emerged as a significant player in the global natural gas industry over the past decade. The discovery of substantial natural gas reserves in the country's offshore Rovuma Basin in 2010 by Anadarko (now part of TotalEnergies) and Eni marked a turning point for Mozambique's energy sector. These gas fields are among the largest discovered in recent years, with potential reserves estimated to be about 100 trillion cubic feet (Tcf).

The development of these gas fields has attracted significant international investment. Major energy companies, including TotalEnergies, ExxonMobil, and Eni, have been involved in various projects aimed at extracting and exporting liquefied natural gas (LNG). Key projects include the Coral South FLNG project (operated by Eni) and the Mozambique LNG project (originally led by Anadarko and now by TotalEnergies), which are designed to transport LNG to global markets.

Mozambique's strategic location along the Indian Ocean makes it an attractive point for LNG export to major markets in Asia and Europe. The development of LNG infrastructure, including floating LNG facilities and onshore liquefaction plants, aims to position Mozambique as a leading global gas exporter.

However, the development of Mozambique's natural gas sector has faced challenges. Security concerns, particularly due to insurgent attacks in the Cabo Delgado province where significant gas activities are located, have disrupted projects and posed risks to investors and local communities. Additionally, the global COVID-19 pandemic caused temporary delays in project timelines.

On the economic front, the successful development of these gas reserves is expected to be transformative for Mozambique. Export revenues from LNG can potentially boost the country's economy, create jobs, and fund infrastructure and social projects.

Gas production on Mozambique 

Major gas fields in Mozambique 

Mozambique's entrance into the global natural gas market is primarily anchored in its major gas fields located within the Rovuma Basin. These fields have attracted significant international interest and investment due to their substantial reserves and strategic importance. Below, you'll find detailed descriptions of the major gas fields contributing to Mozambique's gas production:

1. Coral South Field

Discovery and Development: Discovered in 2012 by Eni, the Coral South Field is a key component of Mozambique's offshore gas reserves. It is located in Area 4 of the Rovuma Basin, approximately 50 kilometers off the coast.

Production Facilities: The Coral South Project employs a Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) unit, a pioneering technology that allows for the processing and liquefying of natural gas at sea. Production commenced in 2022, with expectations to produce around 3.4 million tons of liquefied natural gas (LNG) annually.

Significance: Coral South is notable for being the first FLNG facility in Africa. This innovation enhances the field's export capabilities, positioning Mozambique as a significant player in the international LNG market.

2. Golfinho-Atum Field

Discovery and Development: The Golfinho-Atum Field was discovered by Anadarko in 2010 and is located in Area 1 of the Rovuma Basin. It lies in proximity to the Coral South Field, making the northern coast a hub for natural gas reserves.

Production Facilities: The Mozambique LNG project, led by TotalEnergies, aims to develop this field into a major LNG export facility. Plans include the construction of an onshore LNG plant in Afungi, with the capacity to produce up to 12.88 million tons per year.

Significance: The Golfinho-Atum Field is expected to transform Mozambique into a global LNG supplier. The project's development includes significant infrastructure investments, such as the Afungi LNG Park, to support large-scale LNG production and export.

3. Mamba Complex

Discovery and Development: The Mamba Complex is another significant discovery in Area 4, consisting of multiple gas reservoirs, including Mamba North, Mamba South, and Mamba Northeast. The complex was also discovered by Eni and represents one of the largest gas finds in Mozambique.

Production Facilities: Development plans for the Mamba Complex involve integrating it into the Coral South FLNG facilities and potential additional onshore processing units. This will bolster Mozambique's LNG output and diversify its export portfolio.

Significance: The Mamba Complex contributes significantly to the overall gas reserves in Mozambique and plays a crucial role in long-term production strategies. It leverages advanced extraction and processing technologies to maximize gas recovery and economic viability.