May 6, 2025
TotalEnergies has started construction on the first LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East.
TotalEnergies and Oman’s OQ Exploration and Production (OQEP) have begun construction of the Marsa LNG plant at Sohar port, moving closer to creating the Middle East’s first LNG bunkering hub. This milestone was marked by a ground-breaking ceremony, occurring a year after the final investment decision on the 1 million ton per year liquefaction facility. Built by Marsa LNG LLC, a joint venture with TotalEnergies holding 80% and OQEP 20%, the plant is set to commence LNG production in early 2028, primarily serving the marine fuel market in the Gulf.
Developers claim Marsa LNG will be among the lowest carbon intensity LNG plants globally, with emissions below 3 kg CO2e/boe for scope 1 and 2. The facility will be fully electrified and will feature a 300 megawatt-peak photovoltaic solar farm to meet its annual energy requirements.
TotalEnergies’ joint venture has also secured a charter for a new LNG bunkering vessel named Monte Shams, which will be constructed and stationed in Sohar from 2028, providing LNG to various vessels, including containerships, tankers, and large cruise ships.
Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, expressed pride in the project alongside OQEP, with support from Omani authorities. He noted that this flagship initiative highlights the potential for low-carbon LNG production, serving as a transition fuel for the future.
Oman’s Minister of Energy and Minerals, Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, remarked that the project represents a crucial advancement in low-emission energy solutions, reinforcing Oman’s role as a reliable hub for clean maritime fuel, aligned with Oman Vision 2040 and the country's commitment to responsible energy solutions and reducing its carbon footprint.
Developers claim Marsa LNG will be among the lowest carbon intensity LNG plants globally, with emissions below 3 kg CO2e/boe for scope 1 and 2. The facility will be fully electrified and will feature a 300 megawatt-peak photovoltaic solar farm to meet its annual energy requirements.
TotalEnergies’ joint venture has also secured a charter for a new LNG bunkering vessel named Monte Shams, which will be constructed and stationed in Sohar from 2028, providing LNG to various vessels, including containerships, tankers, and large cruise ships.
Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, expressed pride in the project alongside OQEP, with support from Omani authorities. He noted that this flagship initiative highlights the potential for low-carbon LNG production, serving as a transition fuel for the future.
Oman’s Minister of Energy and Minerals, Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, remarked that the project represents a crucial advancement in low-emission energy solutions, reinforcing Oman’s role as a reliable hub for clean maritime fuel, aligned with Oman Vision 2040 and the country's commitment to responsible energy solutions and reducing its carbon footprint.