Angola’s Natural Gas Agenda: A Key to a Just Energy Transition

Angola is accelerating its shift towards a cleaner energy future by increasing natural gas’s share in its energy matrix to 25% by 2025.

This strategic push prioritises both associated and non-associated gas projects, enhancing production and investment across the natural gas value chain. With proven reserves of 11 trillion cubic feet and a robust project portfolio, Angola positions gas as the cornerstone of its decarbonisation strategy. This transition aligns with global sustainability goals while securing energy security and economic resilience.

Navigating Angola’s Energy Transition

The Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2025 conference, set for September 3-4 in Luanda, will spotlight the role of natural gas in Angola’s energy transition. Industry leaders will explore challenges and opportunities, discussing innovative projects and low-carbon FPSO solutions that aim to reduce emissions while boosting production. The discussions will underscore how Angola’s gas-driven approach strengthens its position as a leader in Africa’s energy transformation.

Expanding Natural Gas Production

Since becoming an LNG producer in 2013, Angola has focused on monetising previously flared gas. Alongside associated gas, the country is actively developing non-associated gas projects. The Quiluma and Maboqueiro (Q&M) fields, operated by the New Gas Consortium, are set to begin production in early 2026, increasing feedstock for the Angola LNG project. The completion of platform installations this month marks a milestone in the country’s efforts to scale up gas output.

Additionally, the Sanha Lean Gas Connection project, developed by Chevron’s Cabinda Gulf Oil Company, started production in late 2024. Representing a $300-million investment, this initiative delivers 80 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscf/d) in its first phase, with plans to expand to 220 mmscf/d. The project integrates offshore blocks 1 and 14 with the Angola LNG plant, enhancing gas supply efficiency and sustainability.

Pioneering Decarbonisation Efforts

Beyond gas expansion, Angola is embedding decarbonisation at the heart of its energy transition. Sonangol, alongside international oil companies (IOCs), is adopting cutting-edge emissions reduction strategies. Chevron is investigating biofuels and nature-based carbon offsets, while Sonangol and TotalEnergies leverage drone technology to quantify and mitigate emissions across operations.

Innovative offshore infrastructure further supports decarbonisation. The Agogo Integrated West Hub project in Block 15/06 features the world’s first offshore post-combustion CO2 capture plant. Installed on the Agogo FPSO, this system integrates carbon capture, storage, electrification, and automation technologies to enhance efficiency while reducing emissions. The vessel is currently preparing for deployment in Angola, marking a significant advancement in sustainable oil and gas production.

Regulatory Reforms and Future Prospects

Angola is reinforcing its energy transition with regulatory reforms to attract foreign investment. The country’s Gas Master Plan, launching in 2025, outlines a 30-year roadmap to develop, utilise, and monetise gas resources, fostering a competitive market for global investors. At the same time, Angolan operators are deploying next-generation technologies such as all-electric FPSOs to minimise emissions and flaring.

A prime example is the Kaminho Deepwater development in Block 20/11, led by TotalEnergies. This project, set to commence production in 2028 after achieving a Final Investment Decision (FID) in 2024, features an FPSO that reinjects associated gas into reservoirs. These innovations underscore Angola’s commitment to sustainable energy practices while ensuring long-term economic stability.

Angola’s Role in Africa’s Energy Future

By prioritising natural gas and decarbonisation initiatives, Angola is positioning itself as a benchmark for energy transition in Africa. Its strategic investments, regulatory enhancements, and technological innovations create a model for balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. As the nation progresses towards its 2025 energy targets, it strengthens its role in shaping the continent’s sustainable energy landscape.