Nigeria: MD Of IBEDC Sacked
The Board of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) in the Federal Republic of Nigeria has terminated the contract of the company’s Managing Director, Engr Kingsley Achief, a source within the company has said.
The source failed to give details on why the Board took the decision but quickly said the company will soon state that effect.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that Engr Francis Agoha, who is a senior executive of the company, has been appointed as acting Managing Director with immediate effect.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Nigeria: Oil, Gas Reforms ‘Ll Make Nigeria Globally Competitive – Tinubu
Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu says the three Executive Orders on oil and gas reforms, which he signed recently will make the West African nation’s petroleum sector globally competitive.
He made the affirmation during a meeting with a delegation from ExxonMobil Upstream Company, led by its President, Liam Mallon.
Tinubu emphasized that these reforms will ensure that no oil company faces undue challenges in the country.
The three Executive Orders, which became effective from February 28, 2024, are: Oil and Gas Companies (Tax Incentives, Exemption, Remission, etc.) Order, 2024; Presidential Directive on Local Content Compliance Requirements, 2024; and the Presidential Directive on Reduction of Petroleum Sector Contracting Costs and Timelines.
President Tinubu also assured the ExxonMobil delegation that the federal government is committed to resolving the divestment issues between the company and Seplat Energy, which are currently under litigation.
“We have been pushing for closure on divestment issues, and I believe the other party, Seplat, is open to this,” the President said.
The President commended the company for its show of commitment to environmental protection in Nigeria, noting its efforts in reducing gas flaring in the country.
“Nigeria is going through a lot of reforms, and we have been navigating the leadership quarters carefully to ensure that we achieve a win-win situation for all parties and attract more investments,” President Tinubu said.
The President described ExxonMobil as a worthy partner in Nigeria’s development over the decades and urged the company to remain committed to contributing to the success of his administration.
“We are close enough to be fair and blunt with you, and we are not afraid to hear from you on better options and recommendations for the growth of the industry in Nigeria,” the President said.
The meeting, also attended by Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), and Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), discussed issues such as divestment, decommissioning, and abandonment as regards the company.
“Mr. President has given a clear directive to the NNPC GCEO and I to resolve the issue of divestment, and we are doing whatever we can to achieve that,” Lokpobiri stated.
On decommissioning and abandonment in the oil industry, Lokpobiri noted that the ministry is addressing the matter in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and global best practices.
“The reforms driven by the three Executive Orders will ensure that companies operating in Nigeria have the best environment to continue making their investments and that no company will seek to leave Nigeria,” the Minister said.
Liam Mallon, the President of ExxonMobil Upstream Company, expressed his appreciation for the support and reassurances provided by the Nigerian government and pledged the company’s long-term commitment to the country’s energy sector.
He also commended President Tinubu for his courage and conviction to undertake bold reforms within his first year in office.
Source:https://energynewsafrica.com
Nigeria: Ekiti Directs BEDC To End Estimated Billing, Provide Meters To Residents
The Ekiti State Government in the Federal Republic of Nigeria has urged electricity distribution companies (DisCos) operating in the state to ensure that all electricity consumers are metered to put an end to incidences of estimated billing.
The state Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Mobolaji Aluko, gave the charge in Ado Ekiti during an engagement with concerned stakeholders on electricity matters, according to a report by premiumtimes.com.
He noted that arbitrary and outrageous electricity bills being imposed on un-metered houses had discouraged many consumers from paying their bills.
He lamented that the ugly trend was also discouraging investors from investing in the state, leading to a loss of revenue.
Mr Aluko, a professor, explained that the meeting was convened to address and put an end to estimated billing practices, and ensure that customers paid for only what they consumed with the provision of smart prepaid or postpaid meters.
Stressing that the DisCos were expected to meter all consumers as soon as possible, Mr Aluko enjoined all DisCos operating in the state to submit their comprehensive metering plans and strategies to the State Electricity Regulatory Bureau.
He said that Meter Asset Provider Companies would be made to register with the Bureau to ensure compliance in supplying standard meters, adding that the meters would also pass through the process of certification before they are acquired to guarantee good quality and reliable products.
The State Head of Service, Sunday Komolafe, in his goodwill message, emphasised that having many companies providing meters should not be an issue.
He stressed that the focus was to make use of certified companies that will deliver standard meter products.
In his remarks, the state Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, noted that the ongoing reforms initiated by the Biodun Oyebanji administration had turned Ekiti State into a trailblazer in power sector reform in the country.
He said the current moves of the state government in the power sector would act as a catalyst in improving the ease of doing business, and also allow the shared prosperity agenda of the Oyebanji administration to thrive more in the state.
In his contribution, the chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Ekiti State branch, Mr Olusegun Ojo, solicited instalment payments for consumers who were not privileged to pay at once to access the prepaid or postpaid meters.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olumide Ajayi, during his presentation, highlighted some key roles of the Ekiti State Electricity Regulatory Bureau (EK-SERB) as an independent regulatory body for electricity demand and supply.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Executive Secretary of Ekiti State Electricity Regulatory Bureau (EKSERB), Dare David, said that the establishment of EKSERB was done in accordance with the Ekiti State Electricity Power Sector Law 2023 to regulate electricity matters and operationalise the electricity market in the state to ensure reliable and sustainable power supply.
He solicited the continued support of all stakeholders for the efforts of the state government to improve service delivery in the power sector.
Responding on behalf of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), the General Manager of Ado Ekiti district, Mrs. Moyosola Akin- Afuye pledged its cooperation and readiness to work with the state towards achieving the desired goal.
Source:https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: Fuel Tanker Drivers Laud NPA For Spearheading Discussions On Condition Of Service
Petroleum tanker drivers in the Republic of Ghana have commended the petroleum downstream regulator, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), for spearheading discussions on their condition of service.
They said the framework on the condition of service for more than 5000 of them is expected to be ready by the end of June, 2024, and payment to start in July, 2024.
Last week the drivers, embarked on four days industrial action in protest of the delay in approving the framework for condition of service for drivers and their mates.
However, at an emergency stakeholders’ meeting an agreement was reached and the framework was adopted by all the parties pending implementation in July 2024.
Speaking on behalf of the tanker drivers at a press conference in Accra on last Tuesday, the Deputy General Secretary of the General Transport, Petroleum and Chemical Workers Union of Trades Union Congress, Mr. Francis M.K. Sallah, said discussions on the framework convened by the NPA were going smoothly.
The meetings are attended by NPA officials, tanker drivers, tanker owners, oil marketing companies (OMCs), and union leadership.
Mr. Sallah, who was flanked by fuel tanker drivers, particularly commended the UPPF Coordinator of NPA, Mr. Jacob Amuah, for his leadership in chairing the discussions on the condition of service and commitment to seeing to the resolution of the issue.
He, therefore, expressed surprise about the purported call for the removal of Mr. Amuah.
“From us and those who sat in the meeting. The story is strange to us. We don’t know who is pushing the story.
“We don’t have any problem with the Unified Petroleum Pricing Fund (UPPF) Coordinator. We are surprised to see the report. It never came up in our discussions”, he said.
The Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union announced an indefinite sit-down strike last week Tuesday demanding improved conditions of service, especially concerning remuneration.
The fuel tanker drivers issued a communique last week Thursday to call off the sit-down strike after a meeting with all stakeholders facilitated by the NPA.
Mr. Sallah said the discussions spearheaded by the NPA led to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which ended the strike action embarked upon by the tanker drivers.
That, he said, paved the way for the discussion on the framework of the condition of service which spells out the responsibilities of tanker owners and tanker drivers and their assistants.
He mentioned remuneration, medicals, safety, and insurance as some of the items in the framework.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Mali Begins Construction Of 200 MW Solar Plant With Russian Support
The Republic of Mali has kicked off the construction of a major solar power plant with the help of Russia.
This project comes after the two countries recently signed a civil nuclear agreement.
Malian Energy Minister Bintou Camara announced the construction of the solar photovoltaic plant, according to a report by Ecofin Agency.
The facility will be the largest in West Africa, she said on national television ORTM.
“This plant, the largest in the country and even in the sub-region, will help reduce the current electricity shortage,” Camara stated.
The 200 MW solar plant will cover 314 hectares in Sanankoroba, near Bamako.
Grigory Nazarov, director of Novawind, a subsidiary of Russian company Rosatom, said the plant will boost Mali’s electricity production by 10%.
The country is currently facing a severe electricity crisis that affects various economic sectors.
In recent weeks, power outages have lasted up to 18 hours a day.
The Director General of the national electricity company said the country needs 500 million litres of fuel to meet its electricity needs for 2024.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: GOIL CEO Wins Leadership Excellence Award
The Group Managing Director and CEO of GOIL PLC, Ghana’s leading indigenous oil marketing company, Kwame Osei Prempeh, has been honoured with the CEO Leadership Award at the just-ended 8th edition of the Ghana CEO Summit held in Accra.
The annual event celebrates quality leadership at the corporate level.
It was attended by corporate leaders and professionals.
Ghana’s former President John Dramani Mahama was a Special Guest, with the Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia joining the programme via zoom.
Speaking to the media, Mr Osei Prempeh expressed joy for the recognition and praised the management and staff of GOIL for their hard work, and dedicated the award to them.
“It is an honour to be recognised to receive the CEO Leadership Award. My team of Board members, Management and staff in general have made this success possible through their individual effort and hard work,” he noted.
He mentioned that GOIL’s products are the best on the market, stating that the company has now presented options of GOIL’s super fuels to its customers.
This, he said is to give customers choices to choose from.
The company operates over 400 service stations across the country.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Libya: Oil & Gas Minister Mohammed Oun Returns To Work After Two Months’ Suspension Over Legal Violations
Libya’s Minister for Oil and Gas, Mohamed Oun, has returned to work to continue his official duties after being on suspension for two months, pending investigations for legal violations.
He resumed work on Tuesday, the Ministry said in a brief statement.
He was suspended in March by the North African nation’s Administrative Control Agency amid an investigation it said was about “the presence of legal violations.”
The Ministry said that ACA lifted the suspension on May 12 as the investigation had ended.
‘‘Concerning the issuance of Resolution No. 347 of 2024 on 25 March 2024 by the Administrative Control Authority (ACA), which stipulates the suspension of the Minister of Oil and Gas from work in reserve for investigation reasons, and after the completion of the investigation and the issuance of Resolution No. 492 of 2024 on 12 May 2024 to lift the precautionary suspension and the end of the investigation after this date and notify the government of that.
“His Excellency the Minister of Oil and Gas Eng. Mohamed Mohamed Aoun began this morning his duties at the Ministry of Oil and Gas,” the Ministry said in a statement which accompanied a picture of the Minister in his office.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Kenya: Works On 220kV Mariakani-Dogo Kundu Transmission Line Approved
Kenya Electricity Transmission Company has completed talks with the residents of Mombasa, and other state agencies paving way for the works at the 220kV Mariakani-Dogo Kundu power transmission project.
The project had initially raised concerns that it was likely to affect part of the county’s traditional historic sites.
However, in a statement KETRACO said it has been established through ground-truthing and government maps that no part of the Kaya Gandini is impacted by the 220kV Mariakani-Dogo Kundu power transmission project.
Kaya Gandini is a UNESCO-classified and government-gazetted monument of cultural heritage significance.
The exercise was conducted following complaints received by KETRACO from the National Museums of Kenya and subsequently forwarded to NEMA.
This feedback was due to the gazettement done by National Land Commission (NLC) on behalf of KETRACO for the creation of a wayleave for the proposed 220kV Mariakani Dongokundu Transmission Line.
The part of the gazette notice that identified 0.1970 hectares as Kaya forest was due to a mismatch in registry index map compared to the fixed boundary map.
KETRACO and NMK consequently made a joint site visit in May to Mariakani Dongo Kundu Transmission lines where stakeholders including the area chief, Madam Umanzi Mwangolo and 25 elders of Kaya Gandini Kaya led by MwanaMwegga Chigamba, Chairman of Kaya Gandini were present.
While addressing the Kaya members present, Manager Environmental Safeguards and Sustainability at KETRACO, Godana Ramat, said that beyond ensuring that the ecologically and culturally sensitive forest is not affected, stakeholders are invited to monitor the activities along the stretch in question during the construction phase of the project.
“KETRACO will assist in the recovery of any ecosystem that may be degraded due to its project construction activities as well as conserving the ecosystem that are still intact,” said Ramat Godana.
National Focal Point for UNESCO World Heritage Convention, Hosea Wanderi expressed his satisfaction with the outcome of the exercise undertaken to confirm that the Kaya Forest will not be affected in any way by the construction of the line.
Chairman of the Kaya elders MwanaMwegga Chigamba echoed Wanderi’s sentiments saying that KETRACO had done its due diligence and used a collaborative approach in putting the matter to rest.
“We the 25 elders of Kaya Gandini were involved from the start of this conversation and we are happy that KETRACO has come back to reassure other stakeholders that Kaya Forest is not under threat of destruction as had earlier been reported,” said Chigamba.
KETRACO has committed to, in collaboration with NLC, degazette the section in question as part of project’s wayleave.
Source:https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: Bulk Energy Storage And Transportation Ltd CEO, Board Chairman Grab Awards At Ghana CEOs Summit 2024
The Managing Director of Bulk Energy Storage and Transportation Company, formerly BOST, Dr Edwin Alfred Nii Obodai Provencal, and the Board Chairman, Mr Ekow Hackman, on Monday, were honoured with special recognition as ‘Outstanding CEO of the Year’ and ‘Board Chairman of the Year’ for 2023 respectively at the CEOs Summit held at the Kempinski Gold Coast City Hotel in Accra, capital of Ghana.
Ghana’s former President, Mr. John Dramani Mahama, who was the Guest of Honour at the event, presented the award to Dr Edwin Provencal.
The recognition, according to their respective citations, was for the great transformation the two have led at the company, turning its fortunes around and making it the best-run state-owned enterprise in the country.
Within twelve months, the company moved from number eight to four on the Public Enterprise League Table and is tipped to do better at the next ranking of state-owned enterprises.
Recounting the state of the business by the end of financial year 2016, the company had run three successive years of losses with the highest of GH₵459 million (in 2016) at the back of deteriorating infrastructure which had reduced its revenue earning assets to a paltry 18 per cent.
Among other things, it was also indebted to its suppliers and related parties over US$600 million and heavily indebted to the domestic banks of more than GH₵400 million.
With three out of six depots across the country grounded and all marine assets non-operational, the company was in a tight corner.
Fast forward to 2021, the company made a profit of GH₵163 million and more than doubled the figure to declare a profit after tax of GH₵342 million in the 2022 financial year.
Its revenue assets have improved from the 18 per cent to 95 per cent to date with all six depots, all pipelines and all marine assets in full operation, fetching varied volumes of revenue.
Among other things, the performance of the company was given continent-wide recognition in the year 2023 in Kenya where it was recognised as the ‘most transformed public enterprise in Africa’.
Indeed, this is a tremendous improvement in the company’s situation and the recognition accorded the duo was in order.
Dr Provencal and Mr Hackman praised the company’s management team for their cooperation and all members of staff for their wonderful contributions which have brought the company thus far.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com Kenya: Kenya Power’s Prepaid Token System To Undergo Maintenance In June
Kenya’s power utility company, Kenya Power, has announced that there will be interruptions of its prepaid token vending system from June 2 to June 3, 2024.
This, the power utility said would facilitate its system network upgrade.
According to Kenya Power, the token vending system would be unavailable from 10 pm on Sunday until 10 pm on Monday.
Following the scheduled interruptions, all the prepaid services will be disrupted, leading to delays in processing and delivering prepaid tokens.
“We wish to inform our customers that the prepaid token vending system will be unavailable from 10:00 PM, Sunday, June 2 to 10:00 PM, Monday, June 3, 2024, to enable us to upgrade our systems for improved service delivery,” stated Kenya Power.
KPLC said customers will not be able to buy electricity tokens from all vending points, including Kenya Power offices, banking channels and mobile money platforms during this period.
“During this period, customers will not be able to buy electricity tokens from Kenya Power offices, M-PESA Paybill number 888880, Airtel Money, and banking channels,” said Kenya Power.
It, therefore, advised its customers who depend on the pre-paid token vending system to buy enough tokens before then to avoid any inconvenience that would be caused by the interruptions of system maintenance.
Early this year, Kenya Power announced plans to phase out the use of postpaid meters in rural areas in the next three years.
The utility company said the move is aimed at eradicating power theft as well as additional costs that involve hiring meter readers.
Two million and one KPLC customers are currently connected through the postpaid system, while 6.8 million are on prepaid.
Kenya Power recorded Sh319 million in net earnings for the half-year ending December 2023, which was a relief from a net loss of Sh1.1 billion recorded in the previous half-year period ending in December 2022.
The profit was mainly attributed to increased electricity sales, the implementation of a cost-reflective tariff and the deployment of a Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) meant to fast-track meter installation in line with the nationwide connectivity push on increased electricity sales.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: Minority Raises Alarm Over Inactivity At Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam Site Despite $12M Payment
Ghana’s Minority group in Parliament has raised concerns about the seeming inactivity on the land for the construction of the Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam in the Upper East Region nearly four years after President Akufo-Addo performed a ground-breaking ceremony for the project to commence.
The group is alleging that $12 million has been sunk into the project but the land for the project is still lying bare and grown with weeds.
Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo cut the sod in November 2019 for the $993 project which consisted of a hydro-solar hybrid system with 60 megawatts hydropower and 50 megawatts solar power.
The project was to be completed in the second half of 2024.
However, a visit by the Minority group, led by the Ranking Member on Mines and Energy Committee, showed that the site was virtually abandoned as there was no activity ongoing at the time of the visit.
Speaking to some journalists during a visit to the site, the Member of Parliament for Yapei-Kusawgu, John Jinapor, said $12 million had been sunk into the project, yet there was nothing to show apart from the bare land.
He said their visit to the site revealed that parts of the site had been turned into farming areas by locals.
“We will activate all the parliamentary processes to retrieve that amount of money; almost 200 million cedis has been dashed to this contractor. Somebody must be held accountable. $12 million can do a lot in this country.
“So we’ll use every legitimate means, every legal means to retrieve the money and punish those who have caused this financial crime and financial loss to the state,” he said.
Earlier this month, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) addressed questions about the $12 million payment made to MS Power China International Group Limited for the project.
Some lawmakers had raised concerns that the money was released despite a lack of visible progress on the project.
The BoG clarified that it acted as a custodian of government accounts and followed proper procedures by releasing the funds after receiving government authorization.
It emphasised that verifying project progress after payments are made falls outside their area of responsibility.
Government is yet to respond to the Minority’s claim.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: NPA Boss Receives Exemplary Leadership Award At CEO Summit
The Chief Executive Officer of NPA, Ghana’s petroleum downstream regulator, Dr Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, has been adjudged the Best CEO of the Year 2023 in the petroleum sector (Regulations).
The award was in recognition of Dr Abdul-Hamid’s outstanding contributions and exemplary leadership in the country’s petroleum downstream industry.
The prestigious ceremony to honour some well-deserving Ghanaian CEOs was held at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast in Accra on Monday.
The Summit highlights and commends the accomplishments of CEOs and businesses, emphasising their success, innovation, leadership and contributions to the economy.
This year’s event was under the theme: ‘Reigniting Business and Economic Growth: Charting a Path Forward; Economic Diversification and Artificial Intelligence Transformation. A Private-Public Sector CEO Dialogue and High Impact Learning’.
It was organised by the Chief Executives Network Ghana in collaboration with Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers (Pwc), Ministry of Public Enterprises, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), University of Ghana and Multimedia group.
In his remark, the NPA boss who doubles as the President of the Africa Refiners and Distributors Association (ARDA) said he was grateful to the Board, Management and staff of the NPA for their continuous support.
It is recalled that Dr Abdul-Hamid received the Outstanding Public Sector Leadership Award for the Year 2022 for his exemplary leadership, innovation and transformation in the petroleum downstream industry in the country.
He emerged as the Public Sector CEO for the Year 2022 at the Ghana Business Awards.
Similarly, in 2021, the NPA Boss was awarded for his sterling leadership, business excellence and professionalism at the Ghana CEO Excellence Awards.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
New Zealand: Essev Launches World’s First Premium Tourism Electric Hydrofoiling Vessel
Vessev, a global leader in sustainable marine technology, has revealed the VS-9 which will unlock entirely new opportunities for premium passenger transport on the water.
By partnering with Fullers360, New Zealand’s largest ferry operator, the VS-9 will become the first fully electric passenger vessel to operate in Auckland and the first hydrofoiling tourism vessel to operate in the world.
NetZero Maritime, Fullers360’s specialist maritime green technology and innovation team, has played a pivotal role in the adoption of this new type of vessel.
Designed and built by Vessev (formerly Seachange) the VS-9 delivers smooth and quiet travel on the water like never before.
The state-of-the-art vessel is currently undergoing sea trials out of Auckland, New Zealand, and the first VS-9 will be certified this year, entering commercial operation with Fullers360 thereafter.
The nine-meter VS-9 will transport up to 10 passengers at a service speed of 25 knots providing an experience that is more like flying than sailing The VS-9 has a range of 50 nautical miles (57 miles/92.6km) thanks to state-of-the-art efficient hydrofoiling technology.
Eric Laakmann, Vessev CEO, said: “We are in the earliest stage of a global transition to sustainable energy use. Our partnership with NetZero Maritime is one of the most powerful in the world in accelerating the adoption of new technologies. There are 33 million vessels in the world today with sustainable vessels representing the smallest fraction. Through significant enhancements in efficiency, hydrofoiling will play a key role in this once-in-a-generation shift.
Vessev’s expert team of marine engineers and boat builders, combined with Fullers360’s NetZero Maritime decarbonization team, has ensured the VS-9 is designed and built to align seamlessly with commercial and tourism transport requirements.
“Our partnership integrates New Zealand’s largest ferry transport and tourism operator with one of the country’s foremost sustainable marine technology providers. At Vessev, our ethos of ‘engineered for safety’, ‘built to last’ and ‘impact through performance’ is vital, and that’s exactly what the VS-9 delivers”, added Laakmann.
Unlocking New Opportunities
The VS-9 will unlock new opportunities on the water that haven’t been possible until now.
Laakmann commented: “Traditionally, larger vessels are required to deliver a comfortable passenger experience as they can handle the impact of waves and wake. By flying above the waves the VS—9 delivers a large vessel experience on an agile platform that can be berthed and charged in nearly any marina.
“The development and commercialization of the VS-9 unlocks entirely new possibilities on the water enabling a shift toward more efficient, more reliable and more comfortable marine transport. The VS-9 will enable thousands of new routes around the world that are currently impractical for traditional vessel.
“The cost of maintaining and fueling commercial fossil fuel vessels is quite substantial. We expect that in almost any commercial application, the lifetime cost of ownership of these vessels will be substantially less than comparable fossil fuel vessels. That is not including any additional revenue for operators which may come from operating vessels that deliver the best possible passenger experiences’.
Laakmann further commented: “The benefits of the VS-9 scale up to larger vessels. We are already working to develop the VS-18, a 100-passenger vessel using the same technology and design of the VS-9, which will have additional seakeeping capability and unlock even more opportunities”.
Incredibly Efficient Foiling Technology
The VS-9 features ultra-high authority hydrofoil systems, where the foils change shape using high precision flaps under the water to optimize efficiency. This enables the VS-9 to handle adverse weather and provide far better seakeeping than other technologies. Vessev’s engineers used some of the same techniques employed by winning America’s Cup teams to make its systems ultra-efficient and resilient.
“To our knowledge, the VS-9 will be the only certified passenger electric hydrofoiling vessel to utilise this technology. We use techniques similar to America’s Cup vessels which provide very high control authority when compared to other systems. That means we can handle more wind and bigger seas. The system is more difficult to engineer up-front, but results in a very performant vessel that is both more capable and more efficient,” Says Laakmann.
“The VS-9 is so efficient that we are able to use very safe and longer lasting battery technologies when compared to other vessels of this type”.
Vessev’s technology reduces energy consumption by up to 95%, facilitating a range of up to 50 nautical miles at a service speed of 25 knots and significantly reduced operational costs. The energy efficiencies deliver much faster charging, more range and energy cost savings already evident after just two weeks of sea-trials.
“To put it into perspective, the VS-9 is undergoing on-water testing with a petrol-powered chase boat following, doing the same motions and distance. At the end of each day, the cost of the petrol fueling the chase boat is 25 times the cost of the electricity used to charge the VS-9”, explains Laakmann.
Fullers360 CEO Mike Horne says the business is thrilled to partner with Vessev as part of its transition to zero emission solutions.
Mike Horne, Fullers360 CEO, commented: “It’s our intention for Fullers360 to be 100% electric or hydrogen operated by 2040 and foiling is absolutely a part of that vision for us. The establishment of NetZero Maritime has enabled us to dedicate a team to enabling zero emissions projects with the VS-9 being the first fully electric passenger vessel to operate in Auckland.
He continued; “Auckland is quickly becoming a case study for the adoption of green technology and the IP within NetZero Maritime is playing a fundamental role in accelerating the understanding and adoption globally. Seeing this project come to fruition reinforces our move to establish NetZero Maritime to enable the commercialization of new technology such as the VS-9.
“The VS-9 combines the first fully electric passenger vessel to operate in Auckland with the latest hydrofoiling technology to deliver premium tourism experiences. Our understanding is there are currently no electric hydrofoiling vessels certified for commercial tourism use in the world and the testing done here in New Zealand will set a new standard for bringing this new class of vessel into service globally”.
Enhanced Stability To Master Any Sea Condition
The VS-9’s foils enable it to ride completely above the waves, providing an infinitely smoother passenger experience than conventional vessels and enhancing its operational capability. The VS-9 takes off at 18-19 knots, transitioning from foil assist to full foiling mode, and cruises with optimum efficiency between 22-25 knots. The foil stabilization systems enter operation at 12 knots – actively reducing pitch and roll motion, even when not fully on foils and ‘flying’.
Constructed using carbon fibre laminates, the VS-9 is incredibly resilient and built to last. For maximum durability, the VS-9’s foils are fully retractable which enables the vessel to operate in shallow water and protect the foils so the vessel can be transported on a trailer.
“The ability to remove the foils from the water completely is a design element we’re particularly proud of. We were told it would be impractical, but we’ve delivered a system which makes it easy for operators to maintain pristine foils for maximum efficiency. To our knowledge, the VS-9 will be the only certified passenger electric hydrofoil in the world capable of this”, says Laakmann.
Accessible charging capability
The VS-9 is so efficient it can be charged using existing electric charging infrastructure commonly available in most marinas, accelerating the speed to service. Once highspeed DC charging is in place, recharge times will be up to 0.8 nautical miles of range per minute of charging.
Laakmann said, “Our objective is to break down the barriers to adopting electric vessels. From the outset, our goal was to design a commercial electric vessel that can use the charging capacity already available in many marinas to run serious commercial businesses. Through a combination of size and efficiency, we have succeeded with the VS-9. During sea-trials we have been running up to three test sessions a day using a standard AC 3-phase connection. We think that operators and tourism businesses around the world will see the benefit in that.”
Not Just An Electric Boat Experience – A Better Boat Experience
With seating for ten passengers, the VS-9 will deliver premium experiences and completely transform how people travel on the water. Vessev’s hydrofoilling technology enables the vessel to glide above waves at 25 knots providing an experience more similar to travelling in a quiet airplane to deliver previously undreamt-of premium tourism experiences.
“Customers will glide across the Hauraki Gulf enjoying smooth travel that feels more like flying than sailing thanks to the foils that slice through waves usually uncomfortable for a vessel of this size to operate in. This means that rolling sensation you feel on traditional boats just disappears when the VS-9 enters foiling mode, creating an onboard experience unmatched by conventional vessels,” explained Horne.
An Exciting Voyage Ahead
Utilizing the design of the VS-9, Vessev is already working through further enhancements to the vessel performance and applying this to larger foiling vessels with capacity for more passengers suitable for a range of routes.
“We eagerly anticipate our continued partnership with Vessev to deliver zero-emission foiling vessels, cementing Auckland’s position as a global leader in innovation and sustainability,” concluded Horne.
“We are honored by our partnership with Fullers360. They are one of the most innovative operators in the world and are leading the way in genuine decarbonization of marine transport. We thank both Fullers360 and NetZero Maritime for their support and their vision,” finished Laakmann.
The VS-9 entered the water for the first time earlier this month at Auckland’s Westhaven Marina where it is undergoing robust sea trials and risk mitigation testing before gaining certification by Maritime New Zealand. The VS-9 is on track to be the first vessel of its kind in the world to be certified for commercial use.
Intended for premium tourism services the VS-9 signifies a defining moment in Auckland’s decarbonization journey as the city welcomes its first fully electric passenger vessel.
Energy Investments Are Propelling An African Natural Gas Revolution In Angola(Opinion)
Africa is witnessing a natural gas drive in Angola that is set to revolutionize the continents natural gas industry. From exploration to production to exports, the Angolan oil and natural gas industry is bustling with new initiatives.
This past year alone, international oil companies and the Angolan government partnered to award numerous regional operators with service contracts worth billions of dollars in combined value.
The African Energy Chamber has been particularly pleased to see Angola driving its natural gas industry forward.
In August 2022, solidified plans to develop the Quiluma and Maboqueiro gas fields in the Lower Congo Basin offshore Angola saw Italian multinational oilfield services company Saipem granted USD900 million between three engineering, procurement and construction contracts for both onshore and offshore work associated with the project at three separate sites.
Movement on these endeavors is due in part to the establishment of the New Gas Consortium (NGC) and its relationship with Angola’s National Agency for Oil, Gas & Biofuels.
Investment in the NGC is multi-national, with Italian hydrocarbon giant ENI at the helm and France’s TotalEnergies, Britain’s BP, Angola’s Cabinda Gulf Oil Company and Sonangol signed on as shareholders.
The NGC expects production at the Quiluma and Maboqueiro fields to begin in 2026 and to produce at an estimated rate of four billion cubic meters (bcm) of liquefied natural gas (LNG) per year.
The Right Approach
This success story, just one among many in Angola, wouldn’t be possible without the welcoming and investment-friendly environment that Angolan leadership has worked to cultivate in recent years.
Despite its status as sub-Saharan Africa’s second-largest oil producer, boasting an approximate output of 1.1 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil – a similar level to its output before it left the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) -,it expects to increase production in the near future especially with ExxonMobil’s Block 15 deepwater discovery at the Kizomba B area.
The working interest partners in the block – Azule Energy, Equinor and Sonangol – have not held back on investing in this project.
Angola rejects complacency and strives to grow those numbers by starting new wells while reevaluating its more mature facilities. Angola’s approach and its commitment to continued progress should serve as a template for every other African country to follow.
Angola sits atop 27 trillion cubic feet of natural gas — a largely untapped wealth of resources that represents a path toward vast employment opportunities, a route away from energy poverty, and a bridge to an eventual energy transition.
One of the key elements ensuring that this economic development evolves in both Angola’s and Africa’s favor is a competent administration to help guide it.
Political Will And Leadership Is Key.
Since taking office in 2017, President João Lourenço has maintained a positive bearing on strengthening and enhancing Angola’s oil and gas sector and focusing on enriching its population.
Employing a rational, long-term mindset in the effort to expand Angola’s LNG exports and further develop its gas industry, President Lourenço has been managing a multi-faceted master plan that he hopes will set Angola in an exponentially more prosperous position over a 30-year timeframe.
Lourenço’s actions in this regard have been proactive and comprehensive and performed in support of a healthy national oil and gas industry.
By working to improve Angola’s business environment and rooting out internal corruption, Lourenço has made the nation much more attractive and favorable to foreign investment.
The reappointment of Diamantino Pedro Azevedo as Minister of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas — a key player in Angola’s regulatory overhaul and an outspoken advocate for the African energy industry — demonstrates Lourenço’s commitment to preserving a cabinet that produces meaningful results.
President Lourenço’s outlook includes much more than the successful export of Angola’s hydrocarbon resources.
His plan includes provisions for expanding the country’s refining and storage facilities as well as preparations for the transition to a low-carbon economy through the implementation of photovoltaic power plants, the production of green hydrogen, and a pledge to increase Angola’s own use of energy from clean sources like hydroelectric.
Lourenço has confidence that his country will be able to achieve these goals in part by fostering productive international relationships, a practice that he contends will also secure future business partnerships.
A Ready-Made Market
President Lourenço’s 2023 Whitehouse meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden saw a declaration of Angola as a strategic partner and the announcement of billions of U.S. investment in a system that will supply four provinces in southern Angola with photovoltaic power.
The wide-ranging difficulties extending from the ongoing war in Ukraine have put Europe in a precarious situation concerning its natural gas provisions, the bulk of which came from Russia until the start of the conflict.
President Lourenço has confidence that Angola can offer Europe an alternative source of LNG through European investment in the country and cooperative relations between the two regions.
Angola may get to a more sizeable position in the global LNG market, and sooner than expected, even without Europe’s immediate support.
Lourenço foresees an economic boom on the horizon that will put Angola’s LNG production and export on the fast track in the coming years.
System-Wide Improvements
In addition to the developments at the Quiluma and Maboqueiro fields, other Angolan natural gas projects are well underway.
The Angola LNG Project, a joint venture led by Chevron and Sonangol north of Luanda in the province of Soyo, processes and monetizes 1.1 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day while reducing gas flaring and greenhouse gas emissions.
Sonangol has also been hard at work in Cabinda, modernizing, automating and subsequently tripling their plant’s gas filling capabilities from 3,000 12-kilogram gas cylinders per day to 9,000 cylinders per day, which should increase regional gas availability by 28%.
By next year, Angola expects the 750 MW Soyo II combined-cycle power plant to be operational, which will contribute to a nationwide effort to expand the population’s electricity access by nearly 20% via gas-to-power generation.
Angola’s Falcão Natural Gas Project promises to diversify the country’s stake in the natural gas industry by providing a means of producing fertilizer, reducing reliance on importation while cutting overall agricultural costs.
These developments — paired with Minister Diamantino Azevedo’s assurances at the 2022 International Conference on Angola Oil and Gas that Angola will soon have floating liquid natural gas platforms off its shores — paint a positive picture for Angola’s energy future.
The African Energy Chamber celebrates Angola’s progress in the LNG sector. Natural gas offers a clean and practical energy source with the power to eradicate energy poverty and boost local economies across the continent while also providing a pathway toward a just energy transition. We encourage all the nations of Africa to join Angola on the trail they are currently blazing.
Source: https:// energynewsafrica.com