Representational image. Credit: CanvaTotalEnergies and OQ Exploration & Production (OQEP) officially broke ground on the Marsa LNG project in northern Oman’s Sohar Port on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in the region’s energy transition.
The ceremony, held under the patronage of Eng. Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Oman’s Minister of Energy & Minerals, was attended by Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, and Ahmed Al Azkawi, CEO of OQEP. The event comes one year after the final investment decision was made.
1 Mt/y LNG Plant to Begin Operations in 2028
The Marsa LNG plant, developed by Marsa LNG LLC—a joint venture between TotalEnergies (80%) and OQEP (20%)—will have an annual production capacity of 1 million tons of LNG. Commercial operations are expected to commence in Q1 2028, with the output primarily targeted for the marine fuel (LNG bunkering) market in the Gulf.
Global Benchmark for Low-Carbon LNG
Designed to be one of the lowest carbon intensity LNG facilities in the world, the Marsa LNG plant will be fully electrified and powered by a dedicated 300 megawatt-peak (MWp) photovoltaic solar farm. The plant’s carbon emissions are expected to remain under 3 kg CO₂e/boe—roughly 90% lower than the global average of 35 kg CO₂e/boe for LNG facilities.
First LNG Bunkering Hub in the Middle East
Strategically located at the Gulf’s entrance, Marsa LNG is set to become the Middle East’s first LNG bunkering hub. The company has chartered an LNG bunkering vessel, Monte Shams, named after Oman’s highest peak, Jabal Shams. The vessel will be stationed in Sohar from 2028 and supply LNG to various ships including container carriers, tankers, and cruise liners.
Industry experts note that LNG is a transition fuel that reduces greenhouse gas emissions by about 20% compared to traditional marine fuels. With its low-emission production and localized supply chain, Marsa LNG offers further GHG reduction benefits for the maritime sector.
Leadership Statements Emphasize Strategic Importance
Patrick Pouyanné of TotalEnergies described the project as a “flagship” for low-emission LNG production. “With an ambitious technical design, we intend to set the standard and pave the way for the next generation of low-emissions LNG plants,” he said.
Minister Al Aufi reaffirmed the government’s support for downstream energy projects, highlighting Marsa LNG as an example of Oman’s efforts to create a clean maritime fuel ecosystem. “It aligns with Oman Vision 2040 goals in sustainability and industrial innovation,” he said.
Ahmed Al Azkawi of OQEP echoed the sentiment, calling the project a “pivotal step” in reducing shipping industry emissions and advancing Oman’s role in global energy markets.
Strategic Vision for Clean Energy
The Marsa LNG project reflects Oman’s broader ambitions to diversify its energy portfolio and strengthen its position as a clean fuel provider. By combining innovation, sustainability, and international collaboration, it sets a new benchmark for low-carbon energy infrastructure in the region.
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