South Africa: ZX Lidars Deploys ZX TM Wind Lidar To Optimize Wind Farm Performance

ZX Lidars and Globeleq South Africa Management Services have announced the deployment of a ZX TM wind Lidar at the Klipheuwel Wind Farm in South Africa. This installation aims to provide critical insights into complex wind conditions affecting turbine performance and maintenance. The ZX TM wind Lidar will assess approaching wind flow patterns, helping to understand factors contributing to component degradation. Additionally, the technology will be used for power curve verification and yaw misalignment checks, supporting enhanced operational efficiency and asset longevity. Chris Slinger, Senior Scientist at ZX Lidars, commented on the project: “Our technology delivers precise wind data in real-time, informing optimizations to yield improved performance, reduced component stress, and greater reliability. The data collected to date has been invaluable, and we look forward to working together with the team as the project progresses.” Nico Lombard, Asset Manager at Globeleq South Africa Management Services, added: “The ZX TM wind Lidar has been operational on this complex site for several months, and we are delighted to have already identified some areas for improvement. The ZX TM helps analyze wind shear, turbulence intensity, and directional changes, providing a deeper understanding of wind behavior at the site. This information is crucial for optimizing turbine performance and minimizing mechanical stress.”       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Global Renewable Power Installed Capacity To Surge To 11.2TW By 2035, Forecasts Globaldata

The power sector globally is experiencing a notable growth in renewable energy sources, propelled by an array of factors such as technological progress, policy incentives, and a heightened awareness of the imperative for sustainable energy solutions. Consequently, renewable energy sources, particularly solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy, are gaining a larger share in the energy portfolio. Driven primarily by declining costs and strong policy support, particularly for solar PV and wind energy, the global renewable power installed capacity is estimated to surge from 3.42TW in 2024 to 11.2TW by 2035, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company. GlobalData’s latest report, “Renewable Energy: Strategic Intelligence”,  reveals that the global renewables market expanded from a cumulative installed capacity of 0.93TW in 2015 to 3.42TW by the end of 2024, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16%. The total cumulative installed capacity is projected to record a CAGR of 11% during the period 2024-35. Solar PV and wind power were significant contributors to the renewable energy sector, accounting for 56% and 33% of the total installed capacity in 2024, respectively. The Asia Pacific (APAC) region has emerged as the largest market for solar PV and wind installed capacity, boasting 1.18TW and 0.67TW in 2024, respectively. Rehaan Shiledar, Senior Power Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “As the costs of solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind technologies continue to decline, these renewable energy sources are increasingly appealing to investors. Also, energy transition strategies, coupled with a rising demand for electricity—partly fueled by the emergence of hydrogen energy and the advent of artificial intelligence—will propel the market growth for renewable energy sources.” Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the renewable energy sector by enhancing generation optimization, advancing grid management, and increasing efficiency across multiple systems. AI algorithms possess the capability to forecast renewable energy production, oversee grid operations in real-time, and refine energy storage strategies. These advancements contribute to heightened reliability and efficiency, thereby rendering renewable energy more effective and economical. Leading offshore wind developers such as TotalEnergies, Corio Generation, EnBW, RWE, and Statkraft are leveraging digital platforms to enhance the efficiency of wind farm project development. Similarly, solar power developers such as NextEra Energy, EDF and ENGIE are employing machine learning models to enhance the efficiency of solar PV facilities. Shiledar continues: “The renewable energy sector stands on the cusp of substantial growth, with the solar PV and wind power industries at the forefront. Moreover, the worldwide pledge to curtail carbon emissions has cultivated a regulatory landscape conducive to investments in these sustainable energy alternatives.” Solar PV systems are poised to spearhead new investments, outpacing both onshore and offshore wind sectors. In 2024, solar PV garnered $329.1 billion in investments. In contrast, onshore wind investments stood at $151.2 billion, while offshore wind investments reached $69.6 billion by the end of 2024. Looking ahead, the onshore wind sector is forecasted to grow to $186.9 billion and the offshore wind sector to $150.4 billion by 2030. These figures correspond to a CAGR of 4% for onshore wind and an impressive 14% for offshore wind, signaling robust growth trajectories for these renewable energy sources.” Shiledar concludes: “Solar and wind power stand at the vanguard of the renewable segment, rapidly becoming cost-competitive with traditional fossil fuels. They are anticipated to dominate electricity generation in the near future. While the global community is committing to the expansion of renewable energy sources, the US appears to be slowing the pace of renewables growth in favor of prioritizing fossil fuels. “Tariffs and offshore wind lease restrictions policy by the Trump administration are significantly impacting the renewable energy industry. Nonetheless, the global commitment to reduce carbon emissions, technological advancements, and demand for cleaner energy solutions will accelerate the adoption of renewable energy across the globe.”         Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Ghana: Eni And OCTP Partners Kick-Start Drilling Campaign In Sankofa East 1X Side Track 2

Eni Ghana, a subsidiary of the Italian oil and gas major, together with its OCTP partners Vitol Upstream Ghana Ltd (Vitol) and Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), has started a drilling campaign in the Sankofa East 1X Side Track 2. This milestone marks a significant step in the further development of Ghana’s upstream energy sector. The drilling activities began following the arrival of the Deep Value Driller (DVD), a state-of-the-art drillship, after completing operations in Côte d’Ivoire. Equipped with advanced automated technology, the rig ranks among the most advanced in the world in terms of operational performance and safety. According to Eni, this activity reflects the partners’ ongoing commitment to unlocking additional value from the Offshore Cape Three Points (OCTP) block, ensuring long-term production sustainability, and contributing to Ghana’s energy security. Ahead of the campaign, Eni and its OCTP partners carried out comprehensive stakeholder engagement programs along Ghana’s coastline, engaging over 800 fishermen and local leaders. These programs were conducted in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Petroleum Commission (PC), Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), Ghana Navy, Fisheries Commission, and the Ghana National Canoe Fishermen Council (GNCFC). Eni has been present in Ghana since 2009, with offshore hydrocarbon exploration and production activities, and an equity production of about 34,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day. The company operates the OCTP project with a 44.4% share, in partnership with Vitol (35.6%) and GNPC (20%). The joint venture’s portfolio includes initiatives in training, economic diversification, access to water and sanitation, and access to energy.         Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Ghana: One Person Killed After Fuel Tanker Collides With Truck

One person was killed on Wednesday after a Man-Diesel fuel tanker and a HOWO truck collided at the Kintampo Waterfalls junction on the Kintampo-Tamale highway. According to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the service received a distress call at about 12:14 pm regarding the collision between a Man-Diesel fuel tanker with registration number GN-4895-20 and a HOWO truck with registration number GE-555-23. The GNFS responded quickly, dispatching a crew led by ASTNO Bismark Bonnah Frimpong. Upon arrival, the crew rescued one of the drivers who was trapped alive. The GNFS explained that four injured passengers had been rescued earlier and transported to the hospital, while one motionless person was retrieved from the HOWO truck at the scene. Both vehicles’ cowls were damaged beyond repair, although the fuel tanker was empty at the time. The GNFS has launched an investigation into the accident to determine its cause       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Tanzania: Puma Energy Eyes LNG, LPG Opportunities With New Strategy

Puma Energy Tanzania is set to revamp its strategic business plan, focusing on emerging opportunities in the energy sector, particularly in liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The company’s global CEO, Mark Russel, led a delegation to the Office of the Treasury Registrar on May 27, where they met with Treasury Registrar Nehemiah Mchechu. Mchechu emphasized the importance of timely strategic realignment for sustained performance and enhanced shareholder value, directing the company to review its business strategy within the year, with implementation expected to commence in January 2026. Puma Energy Tanzania is a joint venture between the government of Tanzania and Puma Investments Limited, with each party holding a 50% stake. Mchechu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to its investment, describing Puma as a strategic national asset that ensures government presence in the energy sector. Russel expressed confidence in Tanzania’s growth potential, citing opportunities in LNG and LPG projects. He stated that the company aims to expand its distribution network and retail product offerings, working closely with the government to identify and unlock these opportunities. The Head of Africa, Ben Quattara, highlighted Tanzania’s strategic importance within Puma Energy’s African operations, emphasizing the company’s commitment to investing, growing, and enhancing its portfolio in the country. The Managing Director of Puma Energy Tanzania, Fatma Abdallah, reported strong local performance, including a 51% increase in profit for 2024, with dividend announcements expected in June 2025. She outlined key projects, such as the construction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations and the expansion of the LPG business to new regions, including Dodoma, Mwanza, and Arusha.           Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Uganda, Korea Sign Site Evaluation Contract For Nuclear Plant In Buyende

The Government of Uganda has taken a major step towards realizing its nuclear power generation plan by signing a site evaluation service contract with the Korean firm, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co. Ltd (KHNP), for the proposed 8,400 MW Buyende nuclear power plant. This brings the country closer to its ambitious Vision 2040 energy goal of generating 52,481 MW, of which 24,000 MW is expected to come from nuclear power. The agreement was signed on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in Entebbe, and was presided over by Ugandan Minister for Energy and Minerals Development Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu and the Korean Ambassador to Uganda, Sung-Soo Park. The contract stipulates that at least 30% of the site evaluation work will be subcontracted to Ugandan companies. Additionally, KHNP will provide capacity-building opportunities by training MEMD staff and local firms, ensuring knowledge transfer and promoting local content. Speaking at the event, Nankabirwa emphasized the critical role of nuclear energy in Uganda’s future energy mix. “Nuclear is not just an option; it is a necessity,” she declared. “Since 2016, we’ve been conducting studies and acquiring land, and now we are one step closer to a clean, reliable energy future. We are grateful to KHNP, KEPCO E&C, Dohwa, and all the technical teams for their unwavering support.” Nankabirwa also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the highest standards of nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation, noting that Uganda is following a robust legal and institutional framework aligned with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) guidelines. “Through inter-agency coordination and adherence to international standards, we are building a credible and responsible nuclear power program,” she said. Currently, the energy ministry is in the process of acquiring 30.1 square kilometers of land in Buyende for the project. The Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) studies are expected to conclude in the coming weeks, paving the way for actual site work. The site evaluation process is a critical requirement under IAEA Safety Standards. It involves analyzing physical characteristics, environmental risks, seismic activity, groundwater flow, and potential hazards that may affect the safety of the nuclear power facility. These comprehensive studies will inform the feasibility of the Buyende project by examining technical, social, environmental, and radiological factors. Once complete, the Buyende Nuclear Power Plant will play a transformative role in Uganda’s energy sector. It promises to stabilize electricity supply, reduce outages, power industrial growth, and help meet future domestic and regional energy demands. “Picture a Uganda where factories run smoothly, homes have consistent power, and children study under lights powered by safe, modern nuclear technology. That is the future we are building,” Nankabirwa concluded.   Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Tanzania: Energy Experts And Innovators Gather At Africa Technology Conference 2025 In Dar es Salaam

Energy leaders, policymakers, and innovators have convened at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Dar es Salaam for the inaugural Africa Technology Conference (ATC) 2025, hosted by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE). This landmark 3-day event marks a historic first: the largest technology-driven gathering of its kind by SPE on African soil, drawing over 500 delegates from across Africa, Europe, the United States, and the Middle East. Under the theme “Navigating the Future: Building Technological Excellence for Sustainable Energy in Africa,” the conference aims to catalyze solutions and partnerships critical to Africa’s energy transformation. It serves as a continental platform to showcase innovation in oil, gas, and emerging renewable energy fields, with sessions focusing on artificial intelligence, geothermal potential, data science, local content, and diversity in the energy workforce. In his address, the SPE Africa Regional Director Dr. Riverson Oppong reflected on his vision since assuming leadership eight months ago, one rooted in unity, collaboration, and bridging the gaps between professionals, governments, academia, and industry across Africa. He emphasized that ATC 2025 is the manifestation of this vision: a strategic platform where policy meets innovation and where Africa boldly asserts its voice on the global energy stage. The ATC 2025 also highlights young professionals engagement and future leadership, celebrating remarkable efforts through the SPE Africa Regional Awards and awarding five outstanding students scholarships under the Dr. Victor Ekpenyong Africa Scholarship Scheme. By bringing together diverse stakeholders to address shared challenges and unlock opportunities, the conference embodies SPE’s global mission to advance technical and professional competence in energy development. True to SPE’s annual theme, “Solutions. People. Energy,” the event has successfully delivered actionable solutions to empower people and strengthen Africa’s energy future. Below are some pictures from ATC 2025.             Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Kyushu Electric To Sign 20-Year Deal To Buy LNG From US Firm Energy Transfer

Japan’s Kyushu Electric Power (9508.T), said on Thursday it will sign a 20-year purchase contract with U.S. energy firm Energy Transfer (ET.N), to buy up to 1 million metric tons of liquefied natural gas a year from its Lake Charles LNG project. It marks the Japanese utility’s first long-term LNG purchase deal from the United States and is expected to diversify the company’s procurement sources and contribute to stable supply, the company said in a statement. A company spokesperson declined to disclose the contract’s terms or the timing of the signing, but said that imports are expected to start in 2030, if the project proceeds as planned. Although Kyushu Electric had also considered investing in the Lake Charles project, the spokesperson said it ultimately decided against it, citing a “lower priority compared to other internal investment opportunities”. The contract is on free-on-board (FOB) terms with no destination restrictions, allowing the utility to procure LNG flexibly in response to fluctuations in electricity supply and demand, such as adjusting receipt timing at its discretion or selling to other companies when demand is low. Earlier this month, Energy Transfer said it was nearing a go-ahead on its Lake Charles LNG project after an unnamed Japanese company agreed to buy 1 million metric tonnes of LNG from the proposed export facility. Energy Transfer said at that time it had 10.5 MTPA of its targeted 16.5 MTPA in committed LNG sales and that it was confident it could reach a final investment decision by the end of the year. U.S. President Donald Trump has pushed allies like Japan and South Korea to buy U.S. oil and gas while threatening tariffs on their exports. When asked whether Kyushu Electric had received a request from the Japanese government to purchase U.S. LNG, the company spokesperson said it had not.       Source: Reuters

Nigeria: NERC Sets Up Transmission Infrastructure Fund With N2.17/kWh Tariff Charge

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has established a Transmission Infrastructure Fund (TIF), which will be financed through a N2.17/kWh charge on energy consumed by electricity customers, marking a significant era in ensuring reliable power transmission. According to the May 2025 Multi-Year Tariff Order (MYTO) released on Tuesday, the TIF will support critical projects aimed at strengthening the transmission network. “This Order (MYTO May 2025) provides for the establishment of a Transmission Infrastructure Fund to support the financing of essential transmission infrastructure projects and innovative initiatives needed to enhance transmission services within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI),” the Commission stated. NERC explained that the fund will be centrally managed and could also be used to secure vendor financing and other Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements to bridge infrastructure gaps in the transmission network. “A provision of N2.17/kWh of energy delivered to grid off-takers has been made as a contribution toward building the TIF in 2025,” the Order noted. Despite the new levy, the government has retained the current electricity tariffs across all customer bands for the month of May. Customers in Band A will continue paying N209.5/kWh, while Bands B to E will maintain the frozen tariffs set in December 2022. Commenting on the development, the Executive Director of PowerUp Nigeria, Adetayo Adegbemle, clarified that the creation of the TIF would not affect the actual amount consumers pay for electricity. According to a report by Vanguard, Adegbemle said, “I think it is like the Meter Acquisition Fund, which was introduced into the MYTO by NERC without changing the tariff payable by consumers.” “The N2.17 will be contributed by the market in a manner similar to how the contributory pension scheme operates.” Adegbemle emphasized that the main concern lies not in financing the fund but in ensuring its effective management. “I strongly believe it will enhance the market’s capacity to improve transmission infrastructure by accumulating significant capital for the sector, just like the Meter Acquisition Fund has done,” he said. “The key challenge is in the implementation and administration of the fund. Investments must be directed at projects that genuinely enhance transmission infrastructure,” he added.         Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Nigeria: NERC Holds Hearing On Application For IEDN License By Green Power Distribution Nigeria Ltd

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission held a hearing on Monday, May 26, regarding an application filed by Green Power Distribution Nigeria Limited seeking an Independent Electricity Distribution Network (IEDN) license. The hearing, held at the NERC headquarters, was chaired by the Vice Chairman, Dr. Musiliu Oseni. The license would enable the applicant to distribute electric power to three off-takers: Good Band Industry Nigeria Limited, Longxiang Industrial Company Limited, and Nitong Material Company Limited. Following a final review of the application, the Commission convened the hearing to allow the applicant to address identified concerns regarding the grant of an IEDN license.           Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Ghana: Engen Ghana MD Honoured With Leadership Excellence Award At 9th Ghana CEO Summit

The Managing Director of Engen Ghana, Mr. Brent Nartey, has received the prestigious Leadership Excellence 2024 Award in the oil marketing sector at the recently concluded 9th Ghana CEO Summit. This remarkable accolade marks Mr. Nartey’s second consecutive win at the summit, further solidifying his position as a visionary leader in the industry. Mr. Nartey’s consistent recognition at the Ghana CEO Summit underscores his unwavering dedication and profound impact on the oil marketing landscape. His previous triumph, the CEO Leadership Excellence Award for 2023/2024 in the same category at the 8th Ghana CEO Summit, set a precedent for his continued success. This back-to-back achievement is a powerful testament to his exceptional hard work, strategic foresight, and remarkable resilience in steering Engen Ghana toward sustained growth and heightened operational excellence. Under Mr. Nartey’s astute leadership, Engen Ghana has not only navigated a dynamic market but has also consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and corporate responsibility. His ability to inspire and lead the organization through various challenges, while continuously striving for greater success, truly embodies the spirit of excellence. This latest award is not merely a personal triumph for Mr. Nartey; it also reflects the collective dedication and robust spirit of the entire Engen Ghana team. It reinforces the company’s commitment to setting high standards within the oil marketing sector and contributing significantly to Ghana’s economic development. The management and staff of Engen Ghana congratulated Mr. Brent Nartey on this outstanding and well-deserved recognition, praying that his leadership continues to be an invaluable asset, driving the company’s progress and inspiring its employees to achieve new heights.         Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Exxon To Sell French Business To Canadian Firm

ExxonMobil intends to sell its 83% stake in its French business Esso SAF to Canada-based energy firm North Atlantic, the U.S. supermajor said on Wednesday. ExxonMobil France Holding has entered into exclusive negotiations with North Atlantic’s French subsidiary for both the proposed sale of its 82.89% majority shareholder interest in Esso SAF and the proposed sale of ExxonMobil Chemical France SAS. The sale includes the Gravenchon refinery in Normandy, currently owned by Esso SAF and ExxonMobil Chemical France, and related assets. The final price of the transaction will be fixed before the completion of the deal, which is expected to occur in the fourth quarter of 2025, Exxon and Esso said in separate statements. ExxonMobil noted that with the exception of those part of the previously announced redundancy plan, all of the approximately 1,350 employees in France will be retained and remain on the same employment terms and conditions. The Esso brand will remain at retail fuel stations, said ExxonMobil, which also noted that the proposed sale is aligned with its business strategy. Ted Lomond, President and CEO of North Atlantic, commented, “We are eager to consolidate Gravenchon’s role as a vital center of French energy and industry for decades to come and grow North Atlantic into a premier transatlantic energy company.” Last year, ExxonMobil completed the sale of the Fos-sur-Mer refinery in France to a consortium composed of Entara and Trafigura. The deal included the Toulouse and Villette-de-Vienne terminals, operated by Esso. With the sale of the 140,000 barrels per day refinery, Exxon reduced its total refining capacity in Europe to about 1.1 million bpd, according to estimates compiled by Bloomberg. Still, Exxon remains the second-largest refining capacity holder in northwestern Europe, after France’s TotalEnergies. In Wednesday’s statement to announce the intention to sell its entire majority stake in Esso, Exxon said that “Europe is an important region for ExxonMobil where there will continue to be a meaningful presence.”     Source: Oilprice.com

Ghana: ECG To Deploy 200 New Transformers In Accra And Other Cities To Boost Electricity Stability

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) will soon deploy about 200 new transformers with higher capacity to replace the existing ones and ensure a reliable power supply in Accra and other cities, Energy and Green Transition Minister John Abdulai Jinapor has revealed. Accra, the capital city of Ghana, and other towns have been experiencing power outages, which have become a major concern for many Ghanaians. Experts have blamed the situation on a lack of investment in power distribution infrastructure, leading to the overloading of transformers. Minister Jinapor, who took office about four months ago, has tasked ECG to inject new transformers into the distribution system to ease the pressure on the existing ones with low capacity. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2025 West African Mining and Power Expo (WAMPEX) in Accra, Minister Jinapor reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving energy reliability and infrastructure as a key enabler of sustainable investment in the region. “I’m happy to note that despite the challenges we inherited, the recent report I got is that recent power generation has been stable, and we have even begun exporting some power,” the Minister said. “What we need to do is to continue to improve the transmission network and the distribution network.” He revealed that he had given urgent approval to ECG to inject approximately 200 new transformers across the country’s major urban centers. This is expected to enhance electricity transmission and distribution, helping to reduce outages and voltage fluctuations that have plagued several communities. “In this regard, I have granted approval to the ECG to, as a matter of urgency, inject about 200 new transformers in our major capital cities in order to ensure that we do not just generate power, but we’re able to transmit power and distribute that to consumers in an effective and efficient manner,” he stated.             Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Kenya: MojaEV, Green Max Capital Partner To Accelerate Kenya’s EV Adoption

Kenya’s electric mobility drive has received a major boost following a strategic partnership between MojaEV, a leading electric vehicle (EV) distributor, and Green Max Capital Advisors, aimed at easing access to EVs for public transport operators. The landmark agreement seeks to roll out electric taxis, matatus, and buses by offering affordable, flexible financing solutions that lower the barrier to EV ownership, particularly for low-income drivers. Green Max Capital will provide concessional funding backed by the IKEA Foundation, absorbing the initial risk of defaults in a bid to de-risk the lending model for future investors. “This is the first large-scale financing initiative that enables Uber drivers to ultimately own electric vehicles,” said Clifford Aron, CEO of Green Max Capital Group. “By taking on the first-loss risk, we’re creating a framework for MojaEV and eventually local financial institutions to provide sustainable EV financing.” The pilot phase will begin with 20 Uber drivers, with Green Max covering 20% of the vehicle cost at concessional interest rates, while MojaEV covers the remaining 80%. The program includes a lease-to-own structure, allowing drivers to gradually pay off the cost of the vehicle and eventually gain full ownership. The initiative directly tackles major hurdles to EV adoption in Kenya, including high upfront costs, range anxiety, and scarce financing options. It also aligns with national and global climate goals by reducing emissions from the transport sector. “Electric vehicles are the future of transportation,” said MojaEV CEO Wang Ai Ping. “This partnership is a critical step toward building a cleaner, greener future for Kenya.” Ken Obuya, Chairman of the Drive Electric Group SACCO, hailed the agreement as a breakthrough for EV drivers across the country, signaling a scalable model that could transform the entire public transport ecosystem. If successful, the pilot will expand to include matatus and buses, accelerating Kenya’s transition to a climate-resilient, low-emission transport system.         Source: https://energynewsafrica.com