UK-Africa Collaboration: Shaping the Future of Energy
The recent Wider African Energy Summit (WAES) in Aberdeen highlighted the significant role of UK technical and service collaboration in Africa’s evolving energy landscape. Industry leaders and operators emphasized the importance of drawing on North Sea engineering expertise and offshore delivery experience as African nations aim to progress in gas monetization, streamline project execution, and enhance emissions performance. With a well-established ecosystem, the UK is poised to offer essential tools and capabilities to support Africa’s upcoming growth phase.
Transforming Energy Systems: A Case Study
Nigerian independent energy company Seplat Energy showcased how strategic investment and technical capabilities can transform a national energy framework. The firm’s revival of OML 40, which involved turning a non-producing onshore field in the Niger Delta into a functioning asset, exemplifies how focused operational investments can not only restore output but also create new opportunities for international service providers, including those from the UK.
Jason White, General Manager for Exploration at Seplat, reinforced the company’s aspirations to become a leading gas producer in Nigeria. He pointed out the potential for growth in power generation and LNG exports while noting that ongoing divestments by international oil companies (IOCs) present openings for local entities to deploy resources and expertise more nimbly than the major players.
A Continental Call for Collaboration
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (AEC), provided a broader perspective on the need for Africa to keep pace and remain competitive. He acknowledged how North Sea expertise has been foundational in several African projects, and reiterated its significance as the continent aims to optimize production. “What has been developed here in Aberdeen can indeed transform our continent,” said Ayuk. He underscored Africa’s commitment to leveraging all viable hydrocarbon resources, with the backing of skills, technology, and services to facilitate efficient, low-carbon operations. However, he also warned against policy moves in more mature markets, like limitations on exploration and licensing delays, which could indirectly harm African oil and gas investments. “We support the transition, but it needs to be just, orderly, and fair,” he emphasized.
Accelerating Development with Innovative Models
Speakers at the summit also discussed various delivery models that can expedite project timelines while advancing lower-carbon operational goals—an area where UK expertise stands out. For instance, Altera Infrastructure, a specialist in floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) units, is leveraging long-term lease-and-operate agreements to bring first oil online sooner while simultaneously contributing to local skills development. “This presents a unique training ground for local engineers,” stated Stig Bøtker, Director of Business Development at Altera. He cited the success of the company’s collaboration with Eni on the Baleine field in Ivory Coast, achieving delivery of the first FPSO within 18 months post-final investment decision. Bøtker added that contemporary FPSOs are increasingly designed to enhance lower-emission operations, thanks to improved gas management and minimized flaring.
Harnessing Engineering Expertise for Energy Needs
Such innovative models resonate well with the UK’s strengths in offshore engineering, project management, and safety regulations, revealing ample opportunities for enhanced service collaboration. Ollie Folayan, Co-Founder of AFBE-UK, articulated the essential nature of this symbiotic relationship, wherein the needs of expanding markets align with the capabilities of a mature industry, ready to extend its reach. He urged the UK to capitalize on its esteemed global reputation in engineering education and professional development, long-standing assets that could help address the multifaceted challenges of the energy trilemma.
A Platform for Partnerships
WAES, organized in collaboration with several industry partners including the AEC, the Society of Petroleum Engineers, and the Scottish African Business Association, serves as a pivotal venue for showcasing Africa’s dynamic oil and gas opportunities to UK and European stakeholders. The summit fosters the development of new partnerships and investment, helping ensure the sustainable advancement of Africa’s energy sector.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
