Belgian company Exmar has signed a 10-year contract to establish floating LNG (FSRU) infrastructure in Abidjan, the capital of Ivory Coast. This contract was signed in collaboration with CI-Energies and Petroci, state-owned companies of Ivory Coast, and shapes years of planning to establish an LNG import terminal in the region.
Details of the FSRU project in Abidjan
This project allows Ivory Coast to operationally acquire the capability to import floating LNG. Given the country's need for gas supply for electricity generation, this infrastructure is considered a vital source for future energy supply. The port of Abidjan has been chosen as the location for this infrastructure, with a capacity of 152,000 cubic meters.
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Link to previous and future projects
Previously, in 2018, a consortium led by Total had agreed to develop LNG facilities in Vridi, which never reached operational status. However, the FSRU plan remains part of the energy programs of the Ivory Coast government and has been introduced as part of public-private partnership projects for the period 2026-2030.
Exmar is also seeking to develop LNG infrastructure in other parts of the world. The company recently purchased three LNG vessels, one of which will be converted to FSRU for the development of the LNG terminal in Eemshaven, Netherlands. This project is scheduled to be implemented from 2028 to 2036. Additionally, another vessel with a capacity of 146,000 cubic meters is being converted into a floating storage unit for the LNG import project in Buenaventura, Colombia, and this unit is expected to become operational this year.
Ultimately, Exmar, as a key player in the floating LNG market, is striving to increase its share in the industry by establishing long-term contracts. The recent contract in Abidjan is seen as an important step towards ensuring sustainable energy for Ivory Coast and expanding the international activities of the company.
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