Nigeria: Tinubu Deploys Nigerian Army And Air Force To Protect TCN Engineers Fixing Transmission Lines
Nigeria’s president Bola Tinubu has ordered the deployment of a combination of the Nigerian Army and Air Force to protect engineers from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), who are currently fixing damaged transmission lines.
The directive comes as states in the North-West, North-East, and parts of North-Central Nigeria have experienced power outages following the disruption of two 330kV Ugwaji-Apir Double Circuit transmission lines, impacting the affected areas.
In the statement, President Bola Tinubu expressed concern over the blackout in northern Nigeria over the past week, which has paralyzed social and economic activities in the region.
According to the Presidency, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, were summoned last night and directed to expedite efforts to restore electricity to all affected states in the North.
“President Bola Tinubu is saddened by the reports of vandalism and willful destruction of power infrastructure and other public assets that have caused the unfortunate blackout.
“In a meeting with the Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, who briefed the President on efforts made by TCN to repair the damaged Shiroro-Kaduna transmission lines, the President directed the development of a long-term solution to the problem,” the statement partly reads.
President Bola Tinubu urged TCN engineers not to relent in bringing immediate relief to the people who need electricity to carry out their social and economic activities.
“To ensure that restoration work continues unhindered, President Bola Tinubu also directed the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to work with the Army and Air Force to deploy adequate security personnel, including aerial cover, to protect the engineers who are fixing the damaged transmission lines,” Tinubu ordered.
President Bola Tinubu urged traditional rulers, community leaders, and other leaders to assist security agencies in protecting public assets and infrastructure, stating that the government will no longer condone deliberate sabotage and destruction of public utilities.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: PETROSOL Receives CSR Of The Year Award
PETROSOL Platinum Energy Ltd, formerly PETROSOL Ghana Ltd has been presented with the “Corporate Social Responsibility of the Year Award” at the Ghana Energy Awards.
The Ghana Energy Awards was held on Friday, the 25th of October at the Labadi Beach Hotel.
Dr. Kwame Ampofo, a member of the awarding panel , presented the award to Racheal Sampana, our Senior Finance Officer at the event.
This recognition reflects PETROSOL’s unwavering commitment to investing resources in igniting hope and energizing the dreams of socially disadvantaged communities.
“It is a testament to the collective dedication and passion of our team”, said Michael Bozumbil, CEO of Petrosol.
“We remain committed to our CSR initiatives to create lasting impact and value in our communities and for our stakeholders.”
PETROSOL is a Triple ISO-certified Oil Marketing Company (OMC) with a retail network of over 120 outlets across the country.
Nigeria: Electricity Will Be Restored To North Within 5 Days
Nigeria’s Minister for Power Adebayo Adelabu, has assured that electricity would be restored to the 17 northern states that had suffered blackout due vandalisation of the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line.
He said the disruption of electricity supply to the northern part of the country was due to vandalisation of Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line, the major line that supplied electricity to the north.
He, however, said the transmission line would be repaired within three to five days.
“Mr. President has instructed the National Security Adviser (NSA), the chief of defense staff, the chief of Army staff, Chief of Air Staff, to provide the required security for the people that will fix the demolished line.
“With the provision of full security, the TCN staff will have the confidence, together with the contractors, to go to the field and fix it.
“So, I’m just appealing to our northern brothers and sisters, fathers and mothers, to bear with us that very soon, light will be restored, and we must all collectively protect our national grid to avoid further vandalisation,” the minister said after a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the power situation in the northern Nogeria.
He added that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) had earlier given approval for the ministry of power to upgrade the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line, one of the oldest transmission lines in Nigeria.
He said once the upgrade was done, the north would enjoy more stable electricity than what was being experienced now.
He promised to convene a meeting with the chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and all the Distribution Companies (DISCOs) to ensure that customers in the north were not billed during the period they suffered blackout.
Mr. Adelabu explained that the national grid collapsed twice in recent times due to explosion of the transformer at Jeba plant.
He said before the explosion, the last disturbance on the grid was about four months ago.
“Let me tell you the truth of the matter is we have old infrastructure. We have a national grid that is more than 50 years old.
“We have national grid whose transmission lines are weak, the towers are falling, and the substations, the transformers are old.
“In fact, the transformer that actually exploded in Jeba was 47 years old. We’ve been trying to revamp this, to change them, but they cannot all be changed overnight,” he said.
He said the ministry would continue to manage the grid to prevent frequent disturbances, until it was completely overhauled.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Kenya: KenGen Records 35% Growth In Profit
Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen) has reported a 35% surge in profit after tax for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, climbing to Ksh.6.8 billion up from Ksh.5 billion, driven by a strong growth in revenues from its geothermal and hydroelectric power plants.
At the same time, the NSE-listed generator’s finance income skyrocketed by 149% to Ksh.4.2 billion shillings in 2024, nearly tripling the 1.7 billion shillings recorded in 2023.
This sharp increase bolstered the company’s overall profit jump underscoring its strategic financial management amid a volatile economic landscape.
“This impressive growth not only strengthens our financial position but also signals greater returns for shareholders now and long into the future, while enhancing our ability to invest in critical renewable energy projects providing more affordable, reliable electricity for our consumers,” said Eng. Peter Njenga, KenGen’s Managing Director and CEO.
This year’s financial results underscore KenGen’s ability to adapt to environmental and market challenges. The company reported dispatching 8,384GWh (Gigawatt- hours) of electricity during the year, up from 8,027GWh in 2023. The increase came despite volatile weather conditions and inflationary pressures that have affected many businesses in Kenya.
Eng. Njenga said the company was able to maintain a stable operating profit of Ksh.9.6 billion by focusing on cost management and efficiency improvements.
KenGen’s power plants, particularly its geothermal and hydroelectric facilities, were critical to meeting the country’s peak electricity demand of 2,149MW during the period under review.
“Despite the harsh global macroeconomic challenges, characterized by high inflation and foreign exchange fluctuations, we were able to instill financial discipline and prudent cost management measures in our operations which has seen us flatten the operational costs,” said Eng. Njenga.
The CEO went on to state: “We are beginning to see the results of hard decisions taken on austerity measures implemented in the year and prudent financial management further supported by our ability to generate value from financial investments.”
According to the new financial results, KenGen’s revenues rose to Ksh.56.3 billion, a gain of Ksh.2.3 billion from the previous year.
The company’s power generation output grew by 4% despite the decommissioning of over 130MW of fossil fuel- powered plants in Kipevu and Muhoroni in the year.
“The shift to green energy is part of our broader push to meet the rising energy demand while reducing our carbon footprint, aligning with the Government of Kenya’s ambitious renewable energy goals of transitioning to 100% green energy by the year 2030,” said Eng. Njenga.
The CEO went on to state that the company’s performance reflects its strategic focus on scaling up renewable energy capacity while maintaining operational efficiency. “We are committed to leading Kenya’s energy transition and delivering sustainable value to our stakeholders,” Njenga said.
Kenya has long been regarded as a leader in renewable energy on the African continent, with up to 90% of its electricity generated from renewable sources.
KenGen, which produces about 70% of the electricity consumed in Kenya, has played a critical role in this transition, particularly through its geothermal projects.
Looking ahead, KenGen says it plans to focus on revenue diversification through projects such as the establishment of a Green Energy Park at Olkaria, which will provide industries with a platform to operate sustainably.
The company is also providing commercial drilling services for geothermal development across the region, a move that is expected to further bolster its financial performance.
KenGen’s outlook for the future is firmly anchored in its Good-2-Great (G2G) 2024– 2034 Corporate Strategy, which is designed to propel the company into its next phase of growth.
The strategy focuses on increasing renewable energy capacity by about 1,500MW, enhancing operational efficiency, and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving energy sector.
KenGen is confident that this plan will not only ensure continued success but also support Kenya’s broader socio-economic development goals, particularly through improved energy access and environmental sustainability.
“We have several major renewable energy projects in our pipeline, the 42.5MW Seven Forks solar plant, rehabilitation of Olkaria I geothermal power plant to give us 63MW and redevelopment of Gogo hydropower station targeting a total of 8.6MW,” said Eng. Njenga adding that KenGen was committed to implementing its green projects on time and withing budget.
Eng. Njenga went on to say: “Our strategy goes beyond generating profits. At KenGen, we are deeply committed to environmental stewardship and responsible growth,” said Eng. Njenga. “The expansion of our renewable energy portfolio is aligned with our mission to support Kenya’s climate goals and drive sustainable development.
As we continue to invest in green technologies, we aim to contribute meaningfully to the global fight against climate change.”
KenGen’s outlook, bolstered by its financial success and strategic focus on renewable energy, suggests that the company will continue to play a premier role in shaping Africa’s energy future.
“As we move forward, KenGen’s leadership in renewable energy and our ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainability will remain at the core of everything we do.
We are not just providing energy; we are helping to shape a greener, more sustainable future for Kenya and the region,” said Eng. Njenga.
Source: KenGen
Libya: Oil Majors Return To Libya After A Decade Away
BP and Eni have returned to Libya after ten years of avoiding the country amid its civil war.
According to a statement by the National Oil Corporation of Libya, Italy’s Eni resumed exploratory drilling in the Ghadames Basin last weekend.
The company operates the exploration block where it is drilling in partnership with BP and the Libyan Investment Authority—the country’s sovereign wealth fund.
The Italian major acquired half of BP’s 85% stake in the Ghadames Basin block back in 2018. At the time, the company planned to start drilling at the site soon after the acquisition but the unstable political situation in the country changed those plans, as blockades of the oil fields and the oil export terminals became standard practice among various political and paramilitary factions.
Earlier this year, Libya’s oil production was decimated after the country’s two governments locked horns over the appointment of a new central bank governor. Since the central bank handles Libya’s oil revenues, both governments wanted their own man at the top position.
The eastern government, which controls most of Libya’s oil fields through affiliated armed groups, said production would be suspended until a compromise is found and promptly proceeded to carry out its threat.
As a result, Libya’s oil production dropped from over 1 million barrels daily to about 100,000 bpd for a short while, until the two governments shook hands on a new central bank governor.
The events highlighted the fact Libya is still not the safest of locations for oil operators, yet this appears to no longer be the deterrent it used to be.
Two other Western energy majors are also returning to Libya, according to the NOC.
Repsol, the Spanish operator, was preparing to start drilling in the Murzuq Basin in the coming weeks, and Austria’s OMV was also preparing for drilling in the Sirte Basin, the Libyan state energy company reported.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
UAE’s Renewable Energy Giant Pushes Back Green Hydrogen Targets
Masdar, the clean energy giant of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has pushed back its target to reach 1 million tons per year of green hydrogen capacity beyond 2030, the company’s press office told Bloomberg on Monday.
Masdar, which initially targeted this capacity by 2030, will now aim to reach it over the next decade, according to the press office, which did not elaborate on why plans have been deferred.
Masdar says that it is developing and investing in strategic green hydrogen projects and building scalable platforms in key markets around the world.
“Masdar seeks to be a project owner and integrator of world-scale developments along the entire hydrogen value chain,” according to the firm, whose shareholders include Abu Dhabi’s oil giant ADNOC, Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investment company Mubadala, and state utility giant TAQA.
On Monday, Masdar and EMSTEEL, the UAE’s largest publicly listed steel and building materials company, announced the successful completion of a pilot project demonstrating the use of green hydrogen to produce green steel.
Still, Masdar moving the capacity target beyond 2030 likely signals the challenges that green hydrogen is currently facing.
Saeed Ghumran Al Remeithi, CEO of EMSTEEL, told Bloomberg on Monday that “Green hydrogen is currently more expensive.”
“This highlights the need for alignment with regulators, suppliers, steel producers and customers,” the steel giant’s top executive added.
In recent weeks, major companies in Europe have scaled back some of their green hydrogen plans, either because of regulatory hurdles or a lack of future demand.
In Spain, oil firms Repsol and Cepsa are delaying green hydrogen investment in their home market as the Spanish government is considering making the windfall tax on energy firms permanent.
Further north, Shell and Equinor have ditched plans for low-hydrogen production and transportation in north Europe, due to a lack of demand.
Even the International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned that policy and demand uncertainty are slowing down green hydrogen adoption.
Source: Oilprice.com
Ghana: BPA Expands Tsatsadu Mini Hydro Generation Capacity To 120 Kilowatts
Ghana’s second largest state-owned power generation company – Bui Power Authority (BPA) – has expanded its Tsatsadu Mini Hydro Generation Station with an additional 75 kilowatts, bringing the total to 120 kilowatts.
The first phase, which was 45 kilowatts, was executed when Mr Fred Oware was the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of BPA; it was commissioned in 2020 by President Akufo-Addo.
It was solely built by Ghanaian engineers at BPA and it has since eased the burden on the national grid, providing reliable energy to Hohoe and its surrounding areas.
Commissioning the project recently, Ghana’s Vice-President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, reiterated the imperative need for Ghana to consider renewable energy as a measure in reducing the cost of electricity.
Dr Bawumia, who is the flag bearer for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming elections on December 7, said the successful completion of the Tsatsadu Generating Station gives credence to his promise of increasing the country’s power generation capacity, by adding 2,000 megawatts of solar power.
According to him, this is aimed at reducing the cost of electricity by 50% within the first four years of his government and ensuring industries have enough power supply to expand their entities to propel economic growth.
“Today, my confidence has been further enhanced that it is possible. I have every confidence that working with Bui Power Authority, within the first four years, we are going to go all out and introduce 2,000 megawatts of solar power into the national grid,” he pointed out.
Dr. Bawumia also commissioned the Tsatsadu Centre of Excellence which would serve as a learning centre for tertiary students who want to undertake practical training in hydro-generating plant.
The CEO of BPA, Samuel Kofi Dzamesie, said the idea of constructing a Centre of Excellence was birthed by his predecessor, Fred Oware.
He said the 45 KW micro hydro plant was constructed solely by Ghanaian engineers at BPA and funded solely by internally generated funds of BPA.
Mr. Dzamesi announced that construction work would commence on a 3-MWp hydro plant at the Wli Waterfall to produce electricity to serve the Hohoe Constituency.
“BPA is very determined to be the renewable energy leaders of this country. As I speak to you, BPA will add 105 MW of solar power to the energy mix by November this year, 50 MW in Yendi, 50 MW in Bui, and 5 MW floating solar at Bui, the first of its kind in Africa.
“All these projects were done under the Nana Addo/Bawumia government. So, when you talk about adding 2000 MW solar to the grid, I assure you that it is possible and under your Presidency it shall be done,” he said.
The Railways Minister, John Peter Amewu, said he spearheaded the expansion of the plant in 2022, nearly doubling its capacity with the addition of a 75-KW micro hydro unit.
“We now have a total of 120 KW of energy capacity, the first of its kind in Ghana. This would not have been possible without the support of Hon. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (Napo) as Energy Minister and Hon. Kofi Dzamesi as CEO of Bui Power Authority who are committed to ensuring the implementation of this project,” he said in a post on Facebook.
According to him, the project aligns perfectly with Dr. Bawumia’s vision to deliver 2000 MW of solar power in the next four years if elected president on 7th December.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Nigeria: IBEDC Signs N180Bn Power Purchase Agreement With Bresson SA, Magboro Power Plant.
Nigeria-based Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has signed a power purchase agreement with Magboro Power Plant and Bresson A.S, with the start of the first phase being a supply of 30 Megawatts.
Customers around Magboro, Mowe, are expected within eleven months to benefit from a 24-hour uninterrupted electricity supply as a result of the collaboration between Bresson and IBEDC at competitive rates.
The Magboro plant, designed as a 90MW plant, is expected to receive its first shipment of Titan 170 Solar Turbine by the end of April 2025.
In his remarks, Engr Francis Agoha, the Acting Managing Director of IBEDC, emphasised that the partnership aligns with the federal government’s target of 6000 Megawatts power projection for 2024 and the company’s strategic goal of improving customer energy availability.
“This agreement marks a significant milestone in our continuous efforts to ensure consistent and affordable power for the Magboro community and beyond,” he stated.
“We are committed to forging partnerships that foster progress and deliver lasting solutions to the power challenges faced by communities within our network.”
Magboro Power Company Limited, a respected independent power developer, will play a crucial role in this initiative.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: 2023/24 GRIDCo Batch Of National Service Personnel Hand Over Renovated, Equipped Fashion Centre, Other Facilities To Management
The 2023/24 batch of National Service Personnel (NSP) from the Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) last Friday handed over a renovated fashion centre, washroom facilities and office space at the Accra Rehabilitation Centre at Adabraka, a suburb of Accra, to the management of GRIDCo.
With support from GRIDCo management, the NSP raised about GH¢100,000 for the project.
The initiative is part of GRIDCo’s sustainable corporate social responsibility strategy, and it underscores the commitment of GRIDCo’s NSP to support local communities.
The project involved a comprehensive renovation of the centre’s fashion centre, which has been re-equipped with three industrial and 10 manual sewing machines, including the renovation of four-unit washroom facility for improved sanitation and renovation of office space for administrators of the centre.
The support will boost vocational training opportunities for the student beneficiaries, while significantly improving the environment for both staff and students.
The GRIDCo 2023/24 NSP were able to successfully undertake this project through their self-imposed monthly contributions and with additional support from the management of GRIDCo.
Miss Rosabeth Akiwele Avio, President of the 2023/24 GRIDCo NSP, stated: “We are proud to contribute to the improved well-being of the Accra Rehabilitation Centre. This project reflects GRIDCo’s dedication to community service and the importance of empowering individuals through skills development.”
“As we hand over the renovated facilities and the new tailoring equipment today, let us remember that this is just the beginning. Together, we are providing not just resources but also hope and opportunity for those at the centre.”
This initiative continues a tradition of community support by GRIDCo NSP, who have consistently worked to uplift underserved areas.
Ms. Florence Agyei, Director of Human Resources, expressed her appreciation, saying: “On behalf of the management and staff of GRIDCo, I commend our NSP for their outstanding efforts in enhancing the lives of those in our communities.
Your actions exemplify GRIDCo’s core value of CARE, and we encourage you to carry this spirit forward in all your future endeavours.” The role of the centre is to rehabilitate persons living with disabilities.
In a comment, Mr. Seth Dzidzornu said: “We are, indeed, grateful to the management of GRIDCo and the 2023/2024 NSP for this generous gesture which will not only benefit the institution but also positively transform individual lives.”
He also commended GRIDCo for nurturing the NSP and instilling in them a strong sense of giving back to society.
The NSP appreciated the contribution of the Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Grid Company, Ing. Ebenezer Kofi Essienyi, and Madam Ruth Abanga, CSR Officer for GRIDCo, with a citation for their commitment to the cause of service personnel.
GRIDCo remains committed to delivering Ghana’s power transmission needs, while actively supporting the communities it serves
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com Ghana: Riverson Oppong Receives Osagyefo Young Leadership Award
The Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Oil Marketing Companies (AOMCs), Dr Riverson Oppong, has been honoured with the ‘Osagyefo Young Leadership Award’ at the 8th Edition of the Ghana Energy Awards underway at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, the capital of Ghana.
The citation accompanying the award acknowledged Dr. Riverson’s leadership and his remarkable contribution to Ghana’s energy sector.
“Your journey in the energy sector is marked by a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence. Prior to your current role, you served as the Manager in charge of Commercial Operations at the Ghana National Gas Company, where you played a crucial role in overseeing economic modelling, risk management, and strategic planning. Your tenure at the Ghana National Gas Company was pivotal in shaping operational efficiencies and promoting innovative solutions within the industry.
“With fifteen (15) years of global experience in oil and gas, you have worked on significant projects in various countries including Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Kazakhstan, and Iraq. Your involvement in these international endeavours has equipped you with a diverse skill set and a comprehensive understanding of the industry’s complexities. Your role as an experienced Oil and Gas Business Analyst showcases your ability to interpret value creation potential and drive impactful results.
“As an Adjunct Lecturer at esteemed institutions, you have taken on the responsibility of nurturing the next generation of energy leaders. Your dedication to education is evident in your engagement with students, imparting knowledge and inspiring future professionals in the field,” part of the citation said.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com Ghana: 8Th Ghana Energy Awards (Photos)
The 8th Edition of Ghana Energy Awards, organised by the Energy Media Group, ended successfully last Friday at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, the capital of Ghana.
It was under the theme: ‘The Role of Local Content In Building Ghana’s Energy Sector’.
The Special Guest of Honour at the event was Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, the Omanhene of Oguaa Traditional Council Area, Cape Coast, the capital of the Central Region.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com BRICS To Create Nuclear Energy Alliance
BRICS+ member states, including Russia, South Africa, Ethiopia, China, Brazil, Iran and Bolivia, have held the first meeting within the framework of the Nuclear Energy Platform being created.
During the meeting, top executives of the largest nuclear companies and organisations discussed the initiative and outlined further plans.
Experts claim that by 2050 the BRICS countries will account for half of the global energy generation and consumption, with nuclear power playing an important role in meeting the growing energy demand.
The Platform will promote best practices and advanced nuclear energy and other nuclear technologies in the BRICS and BRICS+ markets, providing incentives and models for nuclear projects in the BRICS member countries.
“Practically all the states of the association are implementing projects in the field of nuclear energy. Today, many BRICS members are the technological drivers of the international nuclear market.
“The common experience can and should be used and replicated throughout the BRICS space and on the planet as a whole.
Therefore, we propose to join forces within the framework of the BRICS nuclear platform, a voluntary alliance of companies, professional nuclear communities and NGOs supporting the development and implementation of nuclear technologies,” said Alexey Likhachev, Director General of Rosatom.
Currently, in addition to the 390 GW of operating nuclear power units, another 66 GW of nuclear capacity is under construction globally.
The BRICS countries are making a decisive contribution to global nuclear power. As early as 2030, at least two-thirds of the global nuclear energy growth will come from the BRICS countries.
The energy mix creation is an important step forward sustainable and economically successful future of a country.
Being a low-carbon, safe, reliable and cost-effective, nuclear energy may be considered as a vital element of national energy systems.
Africa is actively engaged in developing nuclear projects across the continent today.
South Africa’s Kouberg nuclear power plant (NPP) is operating, while Egypt is actively constructing the new El-Dabaa NPP – the installation of a core catcher body commenced at NPP’s Unit 3 in the beginning of October.
Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria and Sudan have already engaged with the IAEA to assess their readiness to embark on a nuclear programme. Algeria, Tunisia, Uganda and Zambia are also mulling the possibility of nuclear power.
Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Mali, the Republic of Guinea, Burundi have signed memorandums with Rosatom to establish strong nuclear energy ties.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
FERC Grants Exxon And Qatar Three-Year Extension To Build Golden Pass LNG
The U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has granted a three-year extension to ExxonMobil and QatarEnergy to build their $10-billion Golden Pass LNG export plant in Texas, Reuters reports, citing an FERC filing.
The federal regulator extended its authorization for construction after Golden Pass hit a snag earlier this year and faces delays due to the bankruptcy of Zachry Holdings, the lead construction contractor of the LNG project.
These delays were the reason for FERC’s extension, according to the document seen by Reuters.
In August, Golden Pass LNG, the Exxon-QatarEnergy joint venture developing the project, applied with the FERC for the three-year extension until November 30, 2029.
Earlier in August, Exxon said it is delaying the start-up of its Golden Pass LNG export project in Texas to late 2025 from the first half of next year after work at the facility stalled following the bankruptcy of the lead contractor.
The delay in the timeline for the start-up means that Exxon and its partner in the project, Qatar’s state firm QatarEnergy, will launch the export plant about six months later than originally scheduled, Exxon’s chief financial officer Kathy Mikells told Bloomberg at the time.
In a setback for the $10-billion project, the lead contractor Zachry Holdings initiated a voluntary court-supervised Chapter 11 process in May and fired thousands of workers.
As a result, progress on the LNG export project at Sabine Pass, Texas, stalled.
Zachry said in June that the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas had approved its settlement agreement with Golden Pass LNG Terminal LLC and joint venture partners CB&I LLC and Chiyoda International Corporation.
The court decision paved the way for the resumption of work at the project as the settlement allows Golden Pass to resume construction on an expedited basis while Zachry exits the project.
Source: Oilprice.com
Ghana: NPA Boss Leads Charge For Clean Cooking Revolution In Africa
The President of the African Refiners and Distributors Association (ARDA) and Chief Executive Officer of Ghana’s National Petroleum Authority, Dr Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, has called for urgent action to address Africa’s clean cooking crisis.
Dr Abdul-Hamid emphasised the critical need for LPG to replace traditional biomass fuels, such as wood and charcoal which are still heavily relied on by millions of Africans.
He warned that the global effort to meet United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7), which focuses on providing affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all, is progressing too slowly, with Africa facing the steepest challenges.
The NPA boss who made the remarks at the opening of the 2024 ARDA LPG Forum in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, said, “Eighty per cent of Africans still use polluting fuels for cooking, resulting in nearly half a million premature deaths annually.”
This year’s ARDA LPG Forum under the theme: ‘Revolutionising LPG Adoption and Long-Term Sustainability as a Cleaner Cooking Alternative across Africa’, aimed at ensuring universal access to LPG by 2030, enhancing affordability and accessibility, fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships and developing infrastructure and supply chains.
The first-ever ARDA LPG Forum convened regulators, project developers, financiers, and experts to share success stories of LPG uptake; strengthen regulatory commitment and scale up finance for clean cooking.
As President of ARDA and Chief Executive of NPA, Dr Abdul-Hamid is driving the push for cleaner cooking solutions, noting that “Africa’s rapid population growth demands innovative energy solutions. LPG adoption is critical to reducing health risks, promoting sustainability, and driving economic growth.”
The NPA boss urged African governments and international stakeholders to work together to accelerate LPG infrastructure development and create policies that support the transition to cleaner energy sources.
Partnerships between the public and private sectors, ARDA believes, are key to expanding access to LPG, reducing costs, and making clean energy more affordable for low-income households.
“LPG is a proven solution to one of the biggest energy challenges we face,” Dr Abdul-Hamid stated. “We cannot afford to wait: this is a crisis and we need all hands on deck to solve it.”
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com