BP has initiated gas flow from wells at the GTA Phase 1 liquefied natural gas (LNG) project to its floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel as part of the next phase of commissioning. Located offshore Mauritania and Senegal, the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project is one of Africa’s deepest offshore developments, with gas reserves found at depths of up to 2,850 meters. Once fully operational, Phase 1 is expected to produce around 2.3 million tonnes of LNG annually. In 2021, the project was declared "a project of strategic national importance" by both host governments.

Today's announcement marks a significant step toward unlocking the potential of gas resources in Mauritania and Senegal, positioning the countries as key players in global LNG production. Gordon Birrell, EVP of Production & Operations, highlighted the milestone, noting, "First gas flow is a clear demonstration of supporting global energy needs and reaffirms our commitment to help Mauritania and Senegal develop their natural resources." He also emphasized Africa’s growing importance in the global energy landscape.

Gas from Phase 1 is being directed to the FPSO around 40 kilometers offshore, where impurities are removed before being transferred to a floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) vessel 10 kilometers offshore. There, the gas will be cooled, liquefied, stored, and then exported via LNG carriers. Some gas will be allocated to meet the growing energy demands of the host countries.

Dave Campbell, SVP of Mauritania and Senegal, remarked, “This milestone marks an exciting new chapter for Mauritania and Senegal as gas-exporting nations. The resilience and dedication of the BP team, partners, and the people of both countries made this possible.”

The project has created over 3,000 local jobs and engaged around 300 local companies in Mauritania and Senegal. BP and its partners have also invested in workforce development, including a four-year apprenticeship program, and launched a multi-million-dollar social investment initiative aimed at improving local quality of life and fostering long-term development opportunities.

The FPSO, which arrived offshore Mauritania and Senegal in the second quarter of 2024, is designed to process over 500 million standard cubic feet of gas per day. The Gimi FLNG vessel, responsible for liquefying the GTA gas, is owned and operated by Golar LNG. As part of its commitment to local communities, BP has launched a multi-million-dollar social investment program in Mauritania and Senegal, focusing on community health, economic development, environmental awareness, and education. The company also runs an apprentice training program aimed at developing local talent, with 47 apprentice technicians currently being trained to become the next generation of offshore operators. BP further supports local economic development through investments in fishing, women’s cooperatives, health, micro-finance, and business skills training. BP operates the GTA project with a 56% working interest, alongside partners Kosmos Energy (27%), PETROSEN (10%), and SMH (7%).