TotalEnergies and OQ have embarked on a significant venture with the launch of the Marsa LNG project in Oman, which is geared towards low-emission liquefied natural gas (LNG) production. TotalEnergies holds an 80% stake in this joint venture, while OQ owns 20%. The project combines upstream gas production, downstream liquefaction, and renewable energy generation, marking an innovative step in sustainable energy development, as noted by Reuters.
The Marsa LNG project involves producing 150 million cubic feet of natural gas daily from the Mabrouk North-East field. Gas production commenced in January 2023, reaching its peak by April 2024. Complementing this development, a 1 million metric tons per year capacity LNG liquefaction plant will be established at the Port of Sohar, with operations expected to begin in early 2028. The LNG will cater primarily to the marine fuel market in the Gulf, with any surplus taken up by TotalEnergies and OQ.
Integral to the project is a 300 MWp photovoltaic solar plant, providing 100% of the LNG plant's power needs and significantly lowering its greenhouse gas intensity to below 3 kg CO₂e/boe. This represents a drastic reduction compared to the industry average. The venture is poised to bring long-term employment and economic benefits to Sohar and its environs, while positioning Oman as a key player in offering LNG as a clean maritime fuel alternative, cutting emissions substantially.
