LNG Handbook Workshop 1: Maputo, Mozambique: "Understanding Options for Natural Gas and LNG Development”

The U.S. Department of Energy Offices of International Affairs and Fossil Energy in partnership with Power Africa, the U.S. Energy Association, and Mozambique’s oil and gas regulatory agency, INP, held a workshop on 26-27 April 2017 in Maputo Mozambique. This workshop was inspired by the LNG Handbook “Understanding Natural Gas and LNG Options” released in December 2016.  This gathering facilitated capacity building for sub-Saharan Africa governments to realize - and accelerate – natural gas development projects for power generation and industrial development. In turn, natural gas development could provide opportunities for U.S. exports of energy technology and expertise.  

The handbook and follow-on workshops are intended to inform decision-makers of the various factors related to development of natural gas and LNG projects and associated gas markets. The goal of this workshop was to highlight the handbook to key African government and private sector stakeholders and facilitate a discussion of lessons and common goals for natural gas and LNG development. Representatives from Mozambique, Tanzania, South Africa, Senegal, Ghana, and Nigeria shared their experiences in natural gas and LNG development and were urged to identify potential solutions with the goal of developing international partnerships and regional cooperation. Experts from the group of handbook authors shared their insights on legal issues, local content, local market development and finance, as did representatives from several oil and gas companies, commercial banks, and multilateral development banks.

We hope that our series of workshops will build a common understanding of the challenges and opportunities for natural gas development in Africa and create a sustainable dialogue among key officials across the continent, the business community, and other stakeholders. Greater common understanding should in turn improve project execution and smooth the way for greater U.S. energy investment in and exports to Africa.

For further information on the Handbook please visit the main handbook page at https://energy.gov/ia/articles/understanding-natural-gas-and-lng-options.