NLNG plans to transition all ships to modern vessels in 10 years – Anowi
By Yunus Yusuf reporting from Berlin in Germany
Mr Nnamdi Anowi, the General Manager of Production at NLNG says that the company’s ambitious plan to replace all its vessels with modern ships within the next decade.
Anowi shared this vision during the World Leaders’ Panel session on Tuesday in Berlin, Germany as part of the 2024 World LNG Summit and Awards
The Business Intelligence (TBI Africa) reports that 2024 summit is themed “Achieving the Balance Between Energy Security and Decarbonisation.”
He stated, “We are making significant strides in our shipping operations. Over the next 10 years, we aim to transition from our current steam-powered vessels to modern ships.
“Earlier this year, we took a major step by entering into a long term chapter of our first modern ship Aktoras, and we are already planning to acquire a second ship next year, ” he said.
On the critical issue of net zero (NZE) emissions, Anowi emphasised NLNG’s aspiration to achieve net zero emissions by 2040, highlighting that this goal is attainable through the implementation of a combination of solutions that include operational efficiency, natural sinks/offset projects, CCS, net zero expansion, digital solutions and shipping efficiency.
“Our pathway to net zero aligns with Nigeria’s target of reaching net zero by 2060, while many major players in the industry are aiming for 2050.
“We are actively expanding our initiatives in this area, including several low-carbon projects,” he explained.
Regarding Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Anowi remarked that the company has committed 100% of its LPG production (propane and butane) to the Nigerian market.
He pointed out the urgent need for cleaner energy, citing a report that revealed approximately 100,000 Nigerians died yearly from smoke inhalation caused by cooking with firewood, predominantly affecting women and children.
“This underscores our commitment to sustainability,” he said.
Anowi added, “It’s important to recognize that about 80% of Africans lack access to cleaner energy.
“When discussing sustainability, we cannot overlook the necessity of providing energy to these communities.”
He further elaborated on NLNG’s strategy, stating, “Our objective at Nigeria LNG is to maintain safety, enhance capacity, foster growth, and future-proof our business.
” The recent transformation program includes a rebranding initiative, evidenced by the unveiling of a new logo and the company’s renewed purpose: “Providing energy for lifes sustainability.”
Anowi noted that NLNG is working diligently to improve its production capacity from 23 million tons to 30 million tons through its Train 7 project.
“We are actively engaging with stakeholders and the government to ensure our LNG trains are filled by the end of next year,” he said.
On sustainability, Anowi explained that 75% of NLNG’s emissions result from its operations, with the remaining 25% coming from its shipping activities.
He emphasised the importance of measurement, reduction, avoidance, and mitigation strategies in their sustainability efforts.
He said that the company is also exploring carbon capture and storage (CCS) opportunities through partnerships with the government and other international oil companies.
“We are in the early stages of CCS implementation, assessing potential reservoirs for this purpose,” he added.
In terms of renewable energy, Anowi shared that NLNG is investigating in solar power projects at its offices in Abuja and Port Harcourt as part of its broader sustainability initiatives.
“We are committed to abatement efforts and are collaborating with experienced private companies to explore carbon credit opportunities,” he said.
Anowi concluded, “We must balance sustainability with affordability and reliability in energy supply.
“The African region must progress at its own pace, prioritising immediate energy needs before addressing long-term sustainability goals,.” he emphasised.
