The Republic of Mozambique Pipeline Investments Company (ROMPCO), a joint venture between the Government of South Africa, the Government of Mozambique and Sasol, is looking to maintain uninterrupted gas supply to customers in 2024 after achieving the feat in 2023
Motlokwe Sebake, general manager commercial & customer affairs at ROMPCO, said the company is angling to achieve this – alongside zero fatalities which it also celebrated in the previous year – despite an expected decline in gas supply from the Pande and Temane gas fields in Mozambique.
“Our strategy for 2024 involves partnering with both gas suppliers and users to promptly seek alternative solutions and ensure a continuous and reliable gas supply,” said Sebake, before adding it is also seeking to expand its customer base through new sign-ups.
Natural gas and the energy transition
Continuing, Sebake noted that there has been a growing emphasis on natural gas as a transitional or bridge fuel as it boasts lower carbon emissions compared to coal and oil. As such, the global demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) is rising and is being increasingly utilised in power generation, industry and transportation. This is resulting in major investments in LNG infrastructure to facilitate international trade.
“The natural gas industry is currently grappling with significant challenges, including alternative gas supply concerns, elevated gas prices, and uncertainties stemming from the anticipated decline of the Pande and Temane gas fields,” commented Sebake. “To address these issues, the private sector can play a pivotal role by fostering collaboration and actively working to aggregate gas supply.”
This effort has the potential to lower gas prices, he explained, and facilitate the final investment decision on the Matola Floating Storage Regasification Unit project off the coast of Mozambique. Alongside such major infrastructure projects, Sebake also said that prioritising training, sustainability and community empowerment is vital for economic growth.
“Community empowerment, through job creation and support, contributes to overall economic well-being. These initiatives create a win-win scenario, fostering business success and generating jobs for a thriving economy,” surmised Sebake.
In 2024, ROMPCO will sign up new shippers and customers, Sebake concluded and added that the organisation will continue to play a vital role in facilitating the transportation of gas into South Africa to meet regional energy needs.
