Senegal and Mauritania already have ambitions for phase 2 of the GTA project

Senegal and Mauritania are considering a significant expansion of their joint Greater Tortue LNG project, with the aim of increasing gas volumes for domestic consumption, according to information published by Energy Intelligence. The move comes as both countries seek to strengthen their energy security while capitalising on the region's gas resources.

The recently launched Greater Tortue Ahmeyim project, located on the maritime border between Senegal and Mauritania, marks a key stage in the development of West Africa's offshore gas resources. The first phase of the project, which began operations in 2024, focuses primarily on the export of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to meet global demand. However, the Senegalese and Mauritanian governments now wish to direct a larger proportion of production towards local markets.

The planned phase 2 is designed to meet the growing energy needs of the two nations, where access to electricity remains a challenge for part of the population. By increasing the volumes of gas allocated for domestic consumption, Senegal and Mauritania aim to boost their economic development while reducing their dependence on imports of expensive fuels. "This expansion will make it possible to provide more affordable and reliable energy to our citizens, while supporting industrialisation", said a representative of the Mauritanian Ministry of Energy.

The Greater Tortue project, operated by BP in partnership with Kosmos Energy, Société Mauritanienne des Hydrocarbures (SMH) and Petrosen, Senegal's national oil company, has a production potential estimated at several billion cubic feet of gas. Part of this resource could supply local power stations and support energy infrastructure projects in the region.

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding this expansion, challenges remain. Financing phase 2, which will require substantial investment in processing and distribution infrastructure, remains a priority. In addition, the two countries will need to coordinate their energy policies to ensure that the benefits of the project are shared fairly.

Internationally, the Greater Tortue LNG project is attracting attention from investors and business partners as global demand for natural gas continues to grow. This expansion could also position Senegal and Mauritania as key players in the African LNG market, in competition with countries such as Nigeria and Algeria.

The announcement of this potential phase 2 comes at a favourable time for the West African energy sector, where several gas and oil projects are under development. By diversifying the use of their gas resources, Senegal and Mauritania could not only meet the energy needs of their populations, but also strengthen their strategic role in the global energy transition.

For the time being, discussions between the stakeholders are continuing, with a clear objective: to make the Greater Tortue project a model of sustainable and inclusive energy development for the region.