Angola has shifted its liquefied natural gas (LNG) export patterns, sending more LNG to Europe and less to Asia in 2022 and 2023, according to the Statistical Review of World Energy. This change follows Europe’s increased LNG imports as it sought to reduce reliance on Russian natural gas after the Russia-Ukraine war began.
Before 2022, most of Angola’s LNG exports went to the Asia-Pacific region, particularly to India. However, in 2023, Europe took 75% of Angola’s total 175 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of LNG exports. France and the United Kingdom were the largest recipients, receiving about 32 Bcf and 28 Bcf, respectively. The remaining 25% went to the Asia-Pacific region, with India being the largest buyer, importing about 35 Bcf for the year.
Angola’s natural gas is mainly produced as associated gas from its offshore oil fields. A significant portion of this gas is flared or reinjected to boost oil recovery. The country does not import natural gas, as it produces enough to meet domestic demand. The gas that is not consumed or flared is exported as LNG.
Angola LNG Limited (ALNG) operates the country’s sole LNG export terminal in Soyo, with a liquefaction capacity of 250 Bcf per year. The terminal started production in 2013 but faced technical issues, halting operations until 2016. ALNG uses associated gas from Angola’s offshore fields as feedstock and plans to expand its supply with non-associated gas from new projects. One such project, the Northern Gas Complex, is set to begin production in 2026. This project, led by operator Eni, will develop two offshore platforms and an onshore processing plant, with the goal of peak production at 141 Bcf per year.
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