Oman's Sohar Port Joins Sea/LNG

Sea/LNG, the multi-sector industry coalition accelerating the widespread adoption of LNG, said April 20 that Oman’s Sohar Port and Freezone has become its first port member from the Middle East.

Marsa LNG, a venture comprised of Total and energy and petrochemicals company OQ, is developing a gas liquefaction plant and bunkering facility in Sohar Port. It will supply LNG sourced locally in Oman.

“This major LNG bunkering project will generate in-country value and job opportunities, and will support industry diversification efforts by promoting shipping activities in Oman.  The establishment of this facility will make Sohar one of the key LNG bunkering facilities on the main shipping trade routes, alongside other strategic ports, many of whom are already Sea/LNG members, such as the Port of Singapore,” Mark Geilenkirchen, CEO of Sohar Port said.

The switch from traditional marine fuel oils to LNG has accelerated following the implementation of new sulphur emission limits by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in January 2020 and the IMO greenhouse gas emission targets set for 2030 and 2050.

“From our perspective, this is an opportune time to develop LNG capabilities in Oman given the expansive growth of marine activity within the region.  We welcome Sohar to our cause of furthering the use of LNG as an important, environmentally superior maritime fuel,” Peter Keller, chairman of Sea/LNG said.

Among the sources of gas that could be used is the BP-operated Khazzan field, which is now at its second phase ahead of schedule. This will lift production to 1.5bn ft³/day, or about 15.5bn m³/yr. Oman already has an LNG export facility.