AEW: GOIL PLC Plans To Expand LPG Storage Capacity By Additional 12,000 Metric Tons Amid Growing Demand

GOIL PLC, Ghana’s largest indigenous oil and gas marketing company, is set to add 12,000 metric tons of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) storage capacity within the next year, anchored by a $5 million investment, according to Group CEO and Managing Director Edward Abambire Bawa.

Speaking during a panel discussion on the topic “Monetising LPG to Enhance the Value of the Barrel in Africa’s Inland Markets” at African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025, Bawa said the company is spearheading a transformative expansion in LPG storage capacity to meet rising domestic demand and strengthen the country’s energy security.

Guided by the 2024 baseline consumption of 340 million kilograms of LPG sold nationally, the expansion seeks to bridge critical supply gaps, given that current storage capacity covers only two to three weeks of national demand.

“This storage limitation is both a challenge and a prime investment opportunity. Expanding infrastructure is fundamental to unlocking the full monetisation potential of LPG, benefiting producers, distributors, and end consumers alike,” Bawa noted.

GOIL’s latest initiatives reflect its broad commitment to infrastructure development. These include the rollout of multiple Autogas stations across five regions, including Accra and Kumasi, as well as the inauguration of a polymer-modified bitumen terminal in Tema to support related energy needs.

The company’s distribution network spans the entire country, servicing diverse consumer segments while driving sustainable growth and strategic investment partnerships. Recognising the challenges posed by limited LPG infrastructure—especially in rural areas—GOIL remains committed to expanding access through well-designed policies, increased investment, and innovative business models, including digital payment solutions that align with household cash flows.

Mohammed Amin Naderian, Head of Energy Economics & Forecasting at the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), stressed LPG’s critical role in sustainable development:
“Our research at GECF highlights that LPG is a vital component within the broader narrative of gas’s role in sustainable development. Monetising gas is not just about producing more volumes, but about creating value along the entire supply chain—from production, storage, and transportation to distribution and ultimately the household consumer. In Africa particularly, market creation and capacity development are two sides of the same coin.”

He added: “We caution against mistaking policy as the solution itself. Policy acts as a catalyst to break poverty and energy poverty traps, accelerating monetisation through industrialisation and job creation for Africa’s youth. However, poorly designed or inconsistent policies risk causing market distortions or sudden collapses. Stable, transparent, and well-structured regulations are essential to reduce investment risks and provide predictability for investors and consumers.”

Sebastian Wagner, Managing Partner at DMWA Resources, drew lessons from Rwanda’s successes, stressing the importance of stable regulations, transparent investor incentives, and innovative business models—such as digital payments tailored to household cash flows. He highlighted LPG’s growing role in Africa’s energy transition:
“LPG often flies under the radar compared to LNG, but it is gaining momentum through well-structured investments and government partnerships aimed at reducing gas flaring and capturing value.”

Adding a South African perspective, Sesakho Magadla, CEO of PetroSA, said:
“LPG demand in South Africa is largely driven by population growth and rising energy needs, yet infrastructure development continues to lag behind. Consumption stands at about 350,000 metric tons annually, with peak demand reaching up to 550,000 metric tons in winter and summer.

“New investments in reverse flow pipelines and terminals in Durban are therefore crucial to meeting national demand. But it is only through close collaboration between the public and private sectors, with projects such as SANPC and Avedia Energy, that we can enhance LPG importation and distribution capacity, ensuring greater market stability and access.”

            Source: https:// energynewsafrica.com  

Senegal To Review Oil And Gas Codes Ahead Of MSGBC 2025

Senegal’s Minister for Energy and Mines, Hon. Birame Souleye Diop, has announced that the country will review its oil and gas codes ahead of the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 Conference and Exhibition, scheduled to take place in Dakar from December 9–10.

The Minister made the disclosure during a press briefing at the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference in Cape Town, South Africa on Thursday.

“Senegal is currently reviewing all of its codes, as well as developments in the electricity sector, in order to create a framework for industrialization,” Minister Diop stated.

According to him, the revisions will place emphasis on transparency, local content, and ensuring that revenues more directly benefit Senegalese citizens.

Meanwhile, Lamin Camara, Permanent Secretary at The Gambia’s Ministry of Petroleum and Energy, revealed that the country is in the advanced stages of negotiations for well licenses.

“By the time we get to the MSGBC conference, we will announce that we have signed licenses for our oil wells,” Camara said, adding, “We are in the advanced stages of negotiation, which we expect to complete before the conference.”

        Source: https:// energynewsafrica.com 

AEW: Global Energy Giants Eye Gabon’s Upstream Opportunities

Gabon is attracting renewed interest from major international energy companies as it looks to expand oil and gas development across the country’s largely untapped reserves. Minister for Oil & Gas, Sosthène Nguema Nguema, disclosed this at the OPEC-Africa Roundtable during African Energy Week 2025. He, however, did not name the companies that have shown interest. “We have international partners who have expressed interest in coming to Gabon,” Nguema said, noting that 72% of the nation’s resources remain unexploited and that gas will be a key component in driving industrialization. He added that the country expects to formalize a major agreement in the coming month. The discussions highlighted Africa’s growing significance in the global energy landscape. OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais noted that the continent is both a rising consumer and a critical supplier. “Africa is not just on the supply side – it’s a rapidly growing consumer. The continent’s crude consumption is expected to reach 4.5 million barrels per day by 2050,” he said, stressing that inclusive energy strategies must account for both development and climate considerations. Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, underscored the scale of investment required. “We need approximately $540 billion annually in upstream oil and gas alone,” he said, adding that Africans must develop local solutions for sustainable growth. He highlighted gas as a clean fuel critical to expanding LPG availability and industrial development. Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons for the Republic of Congo, emphasized the role of investment in Congo’s production expansion. “In five years, we will double production from around 260,000 to 500,000 barrels per day,” he said, while highlighting continued collaboration with OPEC to maintain market stability. “More production coming from OPEC members is good news… if OPEC members are bringing more investment, it’s the best way to stabilize markets.” The session also explored Africa’s energy security and the potential for local solutions. Al Ghais noted OPEC-backed studies on LPG, clean hydrogen, and the cost of renewables, emphasizing the need for country-specific approaches. “It is really unjust to deny developing regions the right to develop and use their energy resources. We need a country-by-country approach to energy security, affordability, and tackling climate change,” he said.     Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

US: Department Of Energy Cancels Another $7.6 Billion In Energy Project Funding

The U.S. Department of Energy has canceled $7.6 billion in funding for previously approved energy projects on the grounds that they would not produce any palpable benefits for Americans. The canceled projects are 223 in total, approved by various agencies from the Department of Energy during the previous administration. Per this one, however, “these projects did not adequately advance the nation’s energy needs, were not economically viable, and would not provide a positive return on investment of taxpayer dollars.” “On day one, the Energy Department began the critical task of reviewing billions of dollars in financial awards, many rushed through in the final months of the Biden administration with inadequate documentation by any reasonable business standard,” Energy Secretary Chris Wright said. The Department of Energy reported that 26% of all the projects canceled were awarded between Election Day, in November 2024, and Inauguration Day, in January this year. “President Trump promised to protect taxpayer dollars and expand America’s supply of affordable, reliable, and secure energy. Today’s cancellations deliver on that commitment. Rest assured, the Energy Department will continue reviewing awards to ensure that every dollar works for the American people,” Wright added. This is not the first project cancellation since the new administration took over. Earlier this year, the DoE canceled another 24 energy projects worth over $3.7 billion in government funding. The list, by the way, included a project proposed by Exxon for the production of low-carbon hydrogen at a petrochemicals facility. Meanwhile, the government shutdown that began yesterday has paused approvals for new wind and solar projects, although oil and gas leases are still on schedule, according to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management. The agency said it would use carryover funds to maintain work on “priority conventional energy projects,” including offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico and Alaska, even as more than 70% of its staff are furloughed.   Source: Oilprice.com

Ghana: NEDCo Records 10% Growth In Revenue Collection In Tamale

The Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) has announced a 10-percentage-point improvement in its revenue collection performance in Tamale, reducing distribution losses from 57% in January 2025 to 47% as of September 2025. According to management, this progress follows intensified revenue mobilization efforts and growing cooperation from the public. Speaking on the development, NEDCo’s Managing Director, Ing. Yamoah, described the results as an encouraging milestone but cautioned that the company still has a long way to go in meeting its overall targets. “This achievement is encouraging, but we are still far from our goal. We need even greater collaboration from residents and traditional leaders to improve revenue collection and ensure reliable power supply across our operational zones,” he stated. He explained that improved revenue generation is crucial for sustaining operations. “Revenue generation is very critical because it allows us to pay power producers and also invest in infrastructure to improve power supply,” Ing. Yamoah said. Despite the gains, the MD acknowledged persistent challenges, particularly illegal electricity connections in some communities. He noted that such practices not only deprive the company of much-needed funds but also overload transformers, resulting in frequent breakdowns. “Illegal connections cause transformers to overload, which often leads to them blowing up. This disrupts power supply, inconveniences entire communities, and increases maintenance costs. We are appealing to those involved in such practices to stop immediately—not just because it’s illegal, but because it hurts all of us,” he added. To consolidate recent progress, NEDCo plans to roll out a community engagement programme in collaboration with traditional authorities, local leaders, and residents. The initiative will focus on raising awareness about the economic and social consequences of illegal connections and non-payment of electricity bills. The company reiterated its commitment to improving service delivery but emphasized that long-term progress will depend on customer compliance, timely payment of bills, and collective efforts to tackle power theft.       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

AEW: Angola’s ETU Energias Secures Financing For Block 17/06 Development

ETU Energias, Angola’s largest private energy company, has announced the successful signing and closure of a structured disbursement agreement to finance its capital expenditure and development activities for its 7.5% participating interest in Block 17/06. The announcement was made during the 2025 edition of Africa Energy Week (AEW) in Cape Town, highlighting ETU Energias’ continued growth momentum and ability to secure competitive financing in support of strategic energy investments. Located approximately 150 kilometers off the Angolan coast, the Begonia development is Angola’s first inter-block project, integrating production facilities across Block 17 and Block 17/06 to unlock efficiencies and optimize resource utilization. With an expected total output of 30,000 barrels per day, Begonia represents a significant milestone in deep offshore collaboration and innovation. The financing agreement ensures ETU Energias’ full participation in this high-impact development, reinforcing the company’s financial strength, operational credibility, and long-term commitment to Angola’s energy sector. The deal was arranged by a financial consortium including MCB (Mauritius Commercial Bank), acting as lead arranger, lender, and transaction bank, alongside TOTSA (TotalEnergies Trading SA). “This project sets a benchmark for future inter-block developments in Angola. It illustrates the power of strategic partnerships, innovative financing, and shared infrastructure in delivering value to stakeholders and advancing national energy goals,” said Edson R. dos Santos, CEO of ETU Energias. “This agreement reflects our growing strength as an independent company and our unwavering commitment to Angola’s energy future.” ETU Energias joins a robust and experienced consortium led by TotalEnergies (30%, operator), alongside Sonangol E&P (30%), SSI (27.5%), and Falcon Oil (5%). Together, the partners bring complementary expertise and resources to execute this offshore development with efficiency, safety, and sustainability at its core. “By supporting innovative and collaborative projects, we not only enhance national energy security, but also help foster new models of partnership that can be replicated across the region,” added dos Santos. With first oil already achieved, ETU Energias remains fully committed to supporting ongoing operations and the future expansion of Block 17/06. The block also holds considerable gas potential, presenting a strategic opportunity for Angola’s energy diversification and long-term sustainability. “Our financial commitment extends beyond oil production. We’re investing in the full hydrocarbon potential of Block 17/06, including natural gas resources vital to Angola’s energy future,” dos Santos emphasized.       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Ghana: Heavy Rainstorm Causes Power Outage Across Greater Accra

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has reported power outages in parts of the Greater Accra Region following a heavy rainstorm on Wednesday.

According to ECG, the storm caused faults on its network, resulting in outages across parts of the region.

Several areas in the capital, Accra, were also flooded, leading to heavy traffic congestion.

In a statement, ECG assured residents in the affected areas that its team of engineers is working diligently to repair the faults and restore power supply.

AEW: Clean Cooking Is A Big Issue, We Must Tackle It – NJ Ayuk

The Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, Mr. NJ Ayuk, has emphasized the need for Africa to increase liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) production and promote clean cooking solutions to save families from the harmful effects of unsafe cooking practices. According to him, access to clean cooking remains one of the biggest challenges in Africa, stressing that the time has come for the continent to take urgent action. Nearly 900 million people across Africa lack access to clean cooking fuel, with about 1.2 billion affected by the consequences. Delivering his welcome address at the opening of the four-day African Energy Week in Cape Town, South Africa, on Tuesday, September 29, 2025, Mr. Ayuk said Africa must leverage its natural resources, particularly hydrocarbons, to address this pressing issue. “Clean cooking is a big issue. We must not forget that people are dying every day because of lack of access to clean cooking. We must address this issue. Let us use Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) to solve our problem,” Mr. Ayuk stated. Mr. Ayuk, who is also an attorney, underscored the need for regulatory bodies in the energy sector to cut delays and reduce bureaucracy in approving energy, oil, and gas projects.   Source: https:// energynewsafrica.com

Nigeria: Dangote Refinery To Recall Dismissed Workers

Africa’s largest petroleum refinery, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals, is set to recall staff it recently disengaged following allegations of sabotage within the facility—a development that sparked protests by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).

The refinery’s decision to lay off over 800 workers was strongly opposed by the union, which directed its members to halt crude oil supplies to the refinery in protest.

After days of accusations and counter-accusations—including a lawsuit filed by Dangote Refinery against the union—the Federal Government has successfully brokered peace between both parties.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Mohammed Maigari Dingyadi, confirmed the resolution of the dispute between PENGASSAN and the refinery.

According to him, the disengaged workers will be recalled and redeployed without any loss of pay.

He said:“After examining the procedure used in the disengagement of workers, the meeting agreed that the management of Dangote Group shall immediately begin the process of redeploying the disengaged staff to other companies within the Dangote Group, with no loss of pay.

“No worker will be victimised for their role in the impasse between Dangote and PENGASSAN.”

The minister further noted that both sides had reached a compromise, explaining that PENGASSAN had agreed to begin the process of calling off its strike.

“Both parties agreed to this understanding in good faith,” he added.

He also stressed that unionisation is the right of every worker under Nigerian law, and that this right must be respected.

The conciliation meetings followed a breakdown in earlier talks between the refinery’s management and PENGASSAN, which had ended in a deadlock on Monday.

The dispute began after PENGASSAN raised concerns over what it described as mass transfers and dismissals of union members by Dangote Refinery’s management.

The union also accused the company of replacing Nigerian staff with foreign workers, arguing that such actions violated labour laws and undermined local employment rights.

The refinery’s management, however, denied these claims, insisting that the workforce reorganisation was based on operational requirements and not union-related.

The standoff escalated when PENGASSAN took industrial action by halting gas and crude oil supplies to the refinery, sparking fears of potential disruptions to Nigeria’s energy supply and economic stability.

The Federal Government intervened, citing the risk of “adverse effects on the economy and energy security,” and convened high-level talks to resolve the impasse.

      Source: https:// energynewsafrica.com

AEW: Nigeria’s Heirs Energies Eyes Congo For Expansion

Nigerian oil company Heirs Energies, sole operator of OML 17 in the Niger Delta, is seeking to expand its operations into the Republic of Congo.

Executive Director and CFO Samuel Nwanze revealed the company’s growth strategy during a press briefing at the ongoing African Energy Week in Cape Town, South Africa.

He emphasized that Heirs Energies remains committed to African-led energy solutions.

“Yes, we are interested in expanding our business model in Nigeria and other African countries, and Congo is on the map,” he stated.

Nwanze explained that the company’s philosophy is anchored on maximizing the potential of mature fields and driving production efficiency.

He noted that Heirs Energies has achieved significant growth at OML 17 without drilling new wells or acquiring additional assets, relying instead on reworking existing infrastructure to extend the life of mature fields.

The company also underscored its role in promoting Africapitalism.

According to Nwanze, Heirs Energies is a 100% indigenous brand, with 95% of its contractors also indigenous. He added that the company’s in-house development approach and control over its resources enable it to deliver meaningful impact.

“All of the gas we produce in Nigeria goes into the domestic market to power industry,” he concluded.

    Source: https:// energynewsafrica.com

AEW: Central Africa Pushes Ahead With Multi-Billion-Dollar Gas Expansion

Equatorial Guinea has signed new multi-billion-dollar agreements to sustain its Gas Mega Hub over the next two decades, as Central African leaders outlined ambitious gas projects and discussed measures to safeguard energy assets while meeting rising regional demand.

Speaking during a fireside chat moderated by NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, at the ongoing African Energy Week 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa, H.E. Antonio Oburu Ondo, Minister of Hydrocarbons for Equatorial Guinea, highlighted the latest deals.

These include a multi-billion-dollar Heads of Agreement for the next phase of the Gas Mega Hub and a multi-million-dollar agreement with Chevron for the Aseng gas project.

“The Gas Mega Hub aims to ensure that the Punta Europa Gas Complex survives over time,” he said.

“It is a constant fight to make sure we tap into new gas resources to guarantee the survival of the gas complex.”

Ondo also emphasized Equatorial Guinea’s investor-friendly approach. “We have been very successful with our open-door licensing policy and announced our new EG Ronda licensing round yesterday. Our aim is to be one of the top countries in terms of regulation,” he stated.

Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons for the Republic of Congo, echoed the region’s focus on gas, stressing domestic energy access before exports.

“Every drop of oil and gas counts. We have decided to make gas a priority. We will only export once we cover the needs of the country. The target is to provide electricity access to all Congolese people in the next five years, especially clean cooking gas,” he said, noting that national projects will produce LNG, LPG, butane, and propane.

Erik Prince, founder of Blackwater, framed energy development across the continent—and in the Gulf of Guinea in particular—as inseparable from strategic security. “Because precision is now so cheap, it has greatly increased the threat envelope… There is a lot of private sector capability available to help governments maintain their sovereignty and restore their border integrity.”

Prince also highlighted the role of AI and data centers in driving global energy demand. “The demand signal for energy production for the world is rapidly accelerating. Invest accordingly, prepare accordingly, logistically. It’s going to be an all-fronts effort to get it done.”

      Source: https:// energynewsafrica.com

Nigeria: Industrial Court Restrains Union From Halting Crude Oil Supply To Dangote

Nigeria’s National Industrial Court in Abuja has restrained the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) from embarking on its planned industrial action against Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals.

The Court, presided over by Justice Emmanuel Danjuma Subilim, in a ruling barred the defendants from halting crude oil and gas supply to the Dangote Refinery.

The applicant, Dangote Refinery, through its counsel George Ibrahim, listed as defendants the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). The Court granted the applicant an interim order against the defendants.

In his motion, Ibrahim sought an interim injunction restraining the 1st Defendant (NNPCL)—its members, agents, servants, privies, representatives, or assigns—from halting the supply of crude oil and gas to the Claimant.

He further prayed the Court to restrain the defendants from embarking on any industrial action against the Claimant with the intention of crippling operations, blocking access roads, obstructing vehicular movement, or otherwise disrupting operations at the Claimant’s facility or the licensees of the 2nd to 4th Defendants, as contained in directives issued by the 1st Defendant on September 26, 2025, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

Ibrahim also sought “an order of interim injunction restraining the 2nd–4th Defendants, their employees, members, agents, servants, privies, representatives, licensees, or assigns from giving effect to the directives of the 1st Defendant to halt the supply of crude oil and gas to the Claimant; or joining, continuing, embarking on, or in any manner participating in the planned industrial action of the 1st Defendant and its affiliates or cronies, or any other strike whatsoever against the Claimant/Applicant, with a view to frustrating its business and operations, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.”

He argued that the Applicant is a duly licensed petroleum production and distribution company engaged in refining and producing petroleum and petrochemical products for public consumption in Nigeria. He stressed that the company provides essential services critical to the Nigerian economy and the wellbeing of the public.

Ibrahim further contended that recent incidents of sabotage by some employees at the Claimant’s plant had raised grave health and safety concerns, necessitating a re-organisation exercise that led to the disengagement of some staff. This decision, he noted, was communicated to all employees through a memo dated September 25, 2025.

According to him, in the early hours of September 26, 2025, the Claimant became aware of reports circulating online alleging that Nigerian workers were dismissed simply for joining the 1st Defendant’s union.

The management of the Claimant promptly issued a press statement refuting the allegation, clarifying that the company was not opposed to unionisation, which it recognises as a constitutional right. He emphasised that the refinery has over 3,000 Nigerians in its workforce, and that only a negligible number of staff were affected by the reorganisation exercise, which was necessitated by acts of sabotage and safety concerns.

Counsel further told the Court that, by a letter dated September 26, 2025, the 1st Defendant, through its General Secretary, Comrade Lamumba Ighotemu Okugbawa, wrote to the Honourable Minister of Petroleum and Gas threatening that unless the affected staff—allegedly over 800—were reinstated, the union would take steps to cripple the Claimant’s operations.

“The 1st Defendant issued a press statement on September 26, 2025, erroneously describing the disengagement exercise as anti-labour practices and alleging that the workers were victimised for joining the union, which is patently incorrect,” Ibrahim submitted.

He added that, notwithstanding the Claimant’s clarifications, the 1st Defendant became further incensed and directed its executives and members in the licensees of the 2nd–4th Defendants, who supply crude oil and gas to the Claimant, to halt such supply as a means of paralysing its operations.

“The Claimant’s plant was constructed at a cost exceeding 20 billion US dollars by its promoters to address Nigeria’s decades-long energy challenges. The refinery has been making substantial contributions to the economy and meeting consumer demand. If the 1st Defendant’s threat is carried out, Nigeria would be plunged back into the dark days of energy shortages, with devastating consequences for consumers and the economy,” he argued.

The Court held that the order shall subsist for seven days only.

The matter was subsequently adjourned to October 13 for the hearing of the motion on notice.

 

 

Source: https:// energynewsafrica.com

AEW: Sierra Leone Joins International Energy Forum As Full Member

Sierra Leone has signed an instrument of accession to officially join the International Energy Forum (IEF) as a full member. The Director General of the Petroleum Directorate of Sierra Leone (PDSL), Mr. Foday Mansaray, signed the instrument of accession with IEF Secretary General Jassim Al-Shirawi in Cape Town, South Africa, during the 2025 African Energy Week at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. The IEF brings together energy ministers from producing, consuming, and transit countries worldwide, including both OPEC producers and IEA consumers, to foster dialogue on energy policy and security, data transparency, and inclusive, affordable energy transitions. “Sierra Leone is proud to join the International Energy Forum at this important moment in our country’s development. We are determined to tackle energy poverty and expand access to modern energy services while ensuring our resources contribute to sustainable growth and stability for our people,” said Mr. Mansaray. “Membership of the IEF will help us exchange knowledge, attract investment, and strengthen cooperation with global partners to achieve these goals,” he added. IEF Secretary General Jassim Al-Shirawi welcomed Sierra Leone’s membership, stating: “We warmly welcome Sierra Leone to the International Energy Forum. African Energy Week has become an important platform to highlight Africa’s priorities, and today’s accession underlines Sierra Leone’s commitment to partnership and progress. The IEF looks forward to working closely with Sierra Leone to advance energy security, promote investment, and ensure inclusive growth across the continent and beyond.”   Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Russian LNG Sales Earn Moscow Billions – Report

Russia is profiting significantly from liquefied natural gas sales to companies in the European Union, according to a study by the environmental organisation Greenpeace published on Tuesday. Oil and coal imports from Russia were virtually banned under EU sanctions over Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and pipeline gas imports. These fell sharply after the destruction of the Nord Stream pipelines in September 2022. LNG imports were, however, so far, exempt from sanctions. Greenpeace estimates that Yamal LNG, Russia’s main exporter of LNG, earned a total of $40 billion from global exports between 2022 and 2024. It has an estimated $9.5bn which was paid into the Russian treasury in tax revenues. EU companies ranked among the biggest clients of Russia’s Yamal LNG, with France’s TotalEnergies topping the list. China’s state-owned CNPC took second place, followed by Germany’s SEFE in third and Spain’s Naturgy in fourth place. TotalEnergies contributed an estimated 2.5 billion dollars to the Russian government’s tax income, SEFE 1.45 billion dollars and Naturgy $1.25 billion, Greenpeace said. With the total of $9.5 billion in profit tax revenues from Yamal LNG’s exports, Moscow could afford an estimated 271,000 Shahed combat drones. A 2,686 T-90M main battle tanks, or 9.5 million 152-millimetre artillery shells, Greenpeace said. The stated amount of artillery shells corresponds to approximately three years of Russia’s current annual production of three million rounds. The cited number of drones represented the quantity roughly 271 times greater than what Russia deployed against Ukraine in one week. Greenpeace also noted that the EU’s main importers of Russian LNG – France, Spain and Belgium and the Netherlands have spent more on importing Russian gas than on support for Ukraine. From 2022 to June 2025, the four countries have imported 34.3 billion euros (40.3 billion dollars) worth of Russian LNG while providing 21.2 billion euros in support of Ukraine. This is according to the report released. The study also points out that the French group TotalEnergies holds a 20 per cent stake in Yamal LNG and a 19.4per cent stake in its parent company Novatek. Since 2022, TotalEnergies has received an estimated 5.06 billion dollars in dividends from Yamal LNG and an additional 1.74 billion dollars in dividends from Novatek, the authors wrote. European energy companies defended their continued business with Yamal LNG by pointing to demand and long-term contracts. German company SEFE is tied to Yamal LNG through contracts until 2038. The company was formerly known as Gazprom Germania and was a subsidiary of the Russian state-owned company Gazprom. It was nationalised as a result of the Russian war against Ukraine and the subsequent energy crisis in Germany.   Source: Punch News