Oman Celebrates Groundbreaking of Marsa LNG: A Step Towards Sustainable Energy
TotalEnergies and OQEP have commenced construction of the Marsa LNG plant in Oman, projected to be operational by 2028. It will be notably low in carbon emissions and serve as the first LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East, promoting cleaner fuel for the maritime industry. The project reflects a significant commitment to sustainability and supports Oman’s economic goals under Vision 2040.
In a significant milestone for the Sultanate of Oman’s energy sector, the groundbreaking of the Marsa LNG facility took place under the patronage of His Excellency Eng. Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Oman’s Minister of Energy and Minerals. This event, celebrated on May 1, 2025, involved key figures such as Patrick Pouyanné, the Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, and Ahmed Al Azkawi, CEO of OQ Exploration and Production. The Marsa LNG plant, located in Sohar, is expected to commence operations in the first quarter of 2028, producing up to one million tons of liquefied natural gas (LNG) annually.
The plant is noteworthy for its commitment to sustainability, being fully electrified and combined with a solar farm boasting a peak capacity of 300 megawatts. Markedly, the Marsa LNG facility aims to achieve some of the lowest carbon intensity emissions in the world, projecting less than 3 kg of CO₂e per barrel of oil equivalent (boe). For context, this is around 90% less than many typical LNG facilities that register emissions close to 35 kg CO₂e/boe.
Marsa LNG aspires to be the first marine LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East, strategically positioned at the Gulf’s entrance. A charter for a specialized LNG bunkering vessel—named Monte Shams, which draws inspiration from the renowned Jabal Shams—has been signed and is expected to operate in Sohar by 2028, supplying LNG to various types of vessels, including container ships and cruise liners. This move could lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping industry, with LNG fuel potentially cutting emissions by about 20% compared to traditional fuel oil.
Patrick Pouyanné expressed pride in the project, stating, “This flagship project demonstrates that LNG production can be very low carbon, contributing to making gas a long-term transition fuel. We intend to set the standard for the next generation of low-emissions LNG plants.” His Excellency Al Aufi echoed this sentiment, remarking on the project’s alignment with Oman Vision 2040 and its role in fortifying Oman’s position as a hub for clean maritime fuel.
Ahmed Al Azkawi also highlighted the strategic importance of the Marsa LNG project, emphasizing its innovative approach and potential to support sustainable energy solutions. This collaboration between TotalEnergies and OQEP aligns with broader trends in the maritime sector toward more eco-friendly fuels.
TotalEnergies has deep roots in Oman, having established operations in 1937. The company launched the Marsa LNG project, which includes not just liquefaction facilities, but also solar energy production to ensure its sustainability. With ambitions to bolster natural gas’s share in its portfolio to nearly 50% by 2030, TotalEnergies is committed to reducing carbon emissions and promoting a transition from coal to natural gas.
Moreover, TotalEnergies recently reported a production rate of 65,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in Oman and is actively pursuing renewable energy projects in the region. The company’s position as a major LNG player globally further strengthens its role in aiding the industry’s sustainability efforts.
Overall, the Marsa LNG facility represents a pivotal step for both TotalEnergies and OQEP in leading the charge towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for the maritime sector, while also propelling Oman as a key player in this evolving landscape.
The Marsa LNG project signifies a crucial development for Oman’s energy sector, promising to deliver cleaner and more sustainable LNG solutions for the shipping industry. With its unprecedented low carbon intensity and strategic location as the first marine LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East, Marsa LNG is emblematic of Oman’s commitment to energy innovation. This initiative aligns with broader goals to enhance sustainability and support economic growth in the region, reaffirming the partnerships and technological advancements necessary for a successful transition to low-emission energy alternatives.
Original Source: totalenergies.com
