Cape Town: Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) technology is emerging as a transformative force in Africa's energy sector, offering a flexible solution for accelerated liquefied natural gas (LNG) development across the continent.
According to African Press Organization, Africa's natural gas demand is projected to rise by 60% by 2050, highlighting the urgent need for efficient and large-scale supply solutions. The continent, already hosting the highest concentration of FLNG infrastructure globally, serves as a natural testbed for floating solutions that capitalize on offshore resources while reducing above-ground risks.
Early FLNG successes are reshaping development models in Africa. Notably, Cameroon’s Hilli Episeyo FLNG project, Africa’s first operational FLNG facility, demonstrated how FLNG can swiftly unlock gas exports from modest reserves. The FLNG market in Africa has since expanded, with several projects in various stages of development or operation. The Gimi FLNG vessel, located at the maritime border of Senegal and Mauritania and part of the bp-led Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG development, became commercially operational in 2025. It is the first FLNG unit in the MSGBC region and is expected to monetize up to 15 trillion cubic feet of gas over a 20-year Lease and Operate Agreement.
In Gabon, Perenco is advancing the Cap Lopez FLNG project with a projected capacity of 700,000 tons per year, set to begin in 2026. Offshore Nigeria, UTM Offshore is working on an FLNG facility at the deepwater Yoho field, a $5 billion endeavor moving toward a final investment decision. FLNG stands out as a practical solution aligning technical innovation with Africa's development needs and long-term energy goals.
One of the notable advantages of FLNG is its scalability. Unlike onshore LNG developments requiring significant land acquisition and infrastructure, FLNG facilities can be deployed in phases and adjusted based on reservoir performance and market demand. This modular approach reduces initial capital outlay and accelerates the timeline to first gas. The Congo LNG project is an example of this strategy; after beginning phase one operations in 2023, operator Eni quickly moved to phase two, bringing production online in 2025, six months ahead of schedule.
FLNG also helps mitigate above-ground risks, a critical factor in Africa's gas development strategies. In Mozambique, security challenges have delayed major onshore LNG projects, but offshore FLNG developments have fared better. Eni's Coral Sul FLNG project became operational in 2022, and the Coral Norte FLNG project reached a $7.2 billion final investment decision in 2025, illustrating FLNG's resilience in challenging environments.
Beyond speed and resilience, FLNG could significantly contribute to Africa’s economic development by reducing capital intensity, shortening timelines, and improving project bankability. This approach attracts more investors and supports gas-to-power strategies and regional energy security. However, successful FLNG deployment requires robust regulatory frameworks, clear fiscal terms, and strong collaboration between stakeholders.
These topics will be central at the African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, where leaders will discuss how floating solutions can unlock Africa’s gas potential while managing risks and accelerating project timelines. FLNG is changing the landscape for African gas producers by monetizing resources faster and reducing exposure to risks, ultimately contributing to energy security and industrial growth.