Depleting gas reserves threaten future gas security

Future security of supply is a major concern for pipeline operator Republic of Mozambique Pipeline Investments Company (Rompco), as gas supply from the Pande and Temane gasfields, operated by energy company Sasol in Mozambique, is expected to decline from 2026.

The Pande and Temane gasfields have an anticipated 25-year lifespan. Production began in 2004, making Pande the first gas production field in Mozambique, followed by Temane in 2009.

Owing to depleting gas reserves from these fields, Sasol is anticipated to cease supplying gas to third parties by the end of June 2026. While other gas discoveries in Mozambique are in early stages of development, there are no viable alternatives at present, according to Rompco.

While the Matola liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage facility in Mozambique has the potential to guarantee uninterrupted natural gas supply to over 30 industries in the Matola area and facilitate exports to other countries in the Southern African Development Community region, the major infrastructure project is currently in the financial viability stage.

The Matola project will use the existing Rompco gas pipeline network to meet growing demand for natural gas in Southern Africa. The project will comprise a permanent floating storage regasification unit, onshore infrastructure, and a new gas pipeline. An onshore LNG truck loading facility will provide gas to outlying areas, even those not near existing natural gas infrastructure.

Further, adopting advanced recovery technologies such as Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) in Pande and Temane could extend their productive life. Integrating renewable-energy sources such as solar or wind power can also supplement gas supplies and reduce overall demand, balancing the energy mix and ensuring a steady energy supply even as gas reserves diminish, Rompco says.

Infrastructure Upgrades
A major focus of Rompco at present is upgrading existing infrastructure and expanding pipeline capacity to improve the efficiency and reliability of gas transportation, Rompco technical manager Luis Gudo says.

“This ensures that gas from alternative sources can be integrated seamlessly into the existing supply network,” he explains.

Developing additional gas storage facilities can assist to manage supply fluctuations and provide a buffer against potential disruptions. Gudo adds that Rompco is also looking at latest trends such as digitisation and automation to obtain real-time data to assist with long-term maintenance planning.

“One of our main goals is to provide an uninterrupted gas supply to our customers, which is a massive undertaking. On the other hand, we have increasing demand, which we need to respond to and manage. This is because gas is a viable alternative energy source for South African industry in particular to cut costs and meet its [environmental, social and governance] goals,” Gudo says.

Preventative Maintenance
Another significant focus of Rompco has been its preventative maintenance strategy, which has significantly reduced its overall breakdown percentage, Gudo says.

“Our team follows what is happening in the market and keeps up to date with the latest technology,” adds Gudo.

He notes that ensuring uninterrupted gas supply to customers over an 865-km pipeline that runs through two countries is “no mean feat”.

Rompco conducts a variety of preventative maintenance activities to ensure the safety and efficiency of its Mozambique-Secunda Pipeline. This includes regular inspections, monitoring, and maintenance of the pipeline and associated infrastructure. The Komatipoort Compressor Station plays a crucial role in maintaining the necessary pressure for the gas transported through the pipeline, ensuring consistent supply and operational efficiency.

Regular visual, technical and statutory inspections are carried out along the pipeline to detect and address any potential issues before they escalate. Rompco employs advanced integrity management programmes that use technology to monitor the pipeline’s condition continuously, allowing for early detection of any anomalies.

Cathodic protection prevents corrosion in the pipeline, which is critical to ensure its longevity and safety. In terms of emergency response preparedness, Rompco has a robust emergency response plan in place to handle any incidents quickly and effectively, minimising potential impacts on the environment and local communities.

“These measures are part of our commitment to safe, reliable and environmentally responsible gas transportation, contributing to the economic growth and energy security of both Mozambique and South Africa,” Gudo concludes.