Senegal: Sicilsaldo in pole position to build the GTA-Gandon gas pipeline

Senegal is preparing to enter a new phase in the exploitation of its gas resources with the construction of a gas pipeline linking the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) field on the maritime border with Mauritania to the Gandon power station near Saint-Louis. The project, which is part of the country's "Gas to Power" and "Gas to Industries" strategies, aims to reduce the country's dependence on expensive and polluting fuels, while strengthening its energy infrastructure. The Italian company Sicilsaldo, through its joint venture Sicilsaldo West African Contracting, is currently the favourite to win the construction contract.

The GTA field, developed by BP and Kosmos Energy, marked a turning point for Senegal with the start of production in December 2024. This cross-border resource, some of which is destined for domestic use, will soon supply power stations thanks to the pipeline supervised by Réseau Gazier du Sénégal (RGS). This entity, 51% owned by PETROSEN, 39% by Fonsis and 10% by Senelec, plays a central role in implementing this ambitious energy strategy.

The GTA-Saint-Louis pipeline, estimated to be 100 km long (15 km offshore and 85 km onshore), is a key component of a wider national gas network. Valued at FCFA 650 billion (around USD 1 billion), this network aims to connect fields such as GTA, Sangomar and Yakaar-Teranga to centres of consumption, reducing energy costs for industry and households. A potential extension to places like Tobène, Dakar and Mbour could bring its total length to 400 km, amplifying its impact on a national scale.

Sicilsaldo, an Italian company founded in 1994 and specialising in EPCIC projects (engineering, procurement, construction, installation and commissioning), is in pole position to win this contract. Through its joint venture with Oilserv, Sicilsaldo West African Contracting, it already operates in several West African countries, including Senegal. According to an Africa Intelligence article dated 3 March 2025, the company is ahead of two Chinese consortia in the race for the award, although the official announcement is still pending. Its experience, including a gas pipeline project in Mexico worth €80 million, adds to its credibility.

This gas pipeline is crucial to Senegal's ambition to become an energy hub in West Africa. By supplying a power station with an initial capacity of 250 MW, expandable to 500 MW, it will contribute to the country's energy security and reduce its carbon footprint. However, challenges remain: cross-border coordination with Mauritania, management of environmental and social impacts, and finalisation of feasibility studies. Earlier delays in the timetable have been overcome with the start-up of GTA, providing a solid basis for moving forward.

The project is currently in the contractor selection phase, with work scheduled to start in 2025. The cost of the GTA-Saint-Louis segment is part of an overall budget estimated at USD 300 million for the first phases of the network, according to available data.

If confirmed, Sicilsaldo's involvement would mark a decisive step in this structuring project. "This pipeline illustrates Senegal's determination to make the most of its gas resources to support its economic development," notes an anonymous source involved in the project. With possible extensions to other regions, this infrastructure could transform the national energy landscape, positioning the country as a key player in the regional energy transition.