Africa’s natural gas demand is projected to increase by 60 percent by 2050, and floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) technology is expected to play a key role in delivering efficient supply chain capacity, according to a new report by the African Energy Chamber (AEC).
The State of African Energy 2026 Outlook highlights FLNG as a central component of Africa’s strategy to meet growing energy needs while minimizing the risks and delays associated with traditional onshore LNG projects. Offshore Nigeria, UTM Offshore is progressing toward a final investment decision on a $5 billion FLNG facility at the Yoho field.
Africa currently hosts the world’s highest concentration of FLNG infrastructure, positioning the continent as a global testbed for floating gas solutions. FLNG technology allows offshore gas resources to be processed and exported directly at sea, reducing the need for extensive onshore infrastructure and mitigating challenges such as security risks, land access issues, and logistical delays.
Cameroon’s Hilli Episeyo remains Africa’s first operational FLNG facility and is widely regarded as a global benchmark, having achieved production in record time. In West Africa, the Gimi FLNG vessel began commercial operations in 2025 at the bp-led Greater Tortue Ahmeyim project on the maritime border of Senegal and Mauritania. Operated by Golar LNG, the facility is expected to monetize up to 15 trillion cubic feet of gas over a 20-year lease.
Additional projects are advancing across the continent. In Gabon, Perenco is developing the Cap Lopez FLNG project with a planned capacity of 700,000 tons per year, scheduled to commence in 2026. The modular and scalable design of FLNG reduces upfront capital costs and shortens development timelines, as demonstrated by Eni’s Congo LNG project, where phase two production began in 2025, just 35 months after construction started.
FLNG has also proven resilient in high-risk environments. In Mozambique, offshore projects such as Coral Sul, which began operations in 2022, continued largely uninterrupted despite security challenges affecting onshore LNG projects. A final investment decision for the Coral Norte FLNG project was reached in 2025.
Beyond export markets, FLNG is expected to support gas-to-power initiatives, petrochemical development, and regional energy security, contributing to broader economic growth across Africa. However, the AEC emphasizes that successful deployment requires clear regulatory frameworks, stable fiscal terms, and alignment with national development strategies.
“These discussions will be central at African Energy Week 2026, where governments and industry leaders will explore how floating solutions can unlock Africa’s gas potential while managing risk and accelerating timelines,” the chamber said.
AEC Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk added, “FLNG is changing the game for African gas producers by reducing exposure to security and infrastructure risks and generating revenues that can be reinvested into broader development.”
