Nigerian offshore fields reach new decarbonization heights with 96% cut in routine gas flaring

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) has tucked a new milestone in the reduction of routine flaring of associated gas (AG) from two shallow-water oil and gas fields located off the coast of Nigeria.

NNPC has celebrated the achievement of a 96% reduction in routine gas flaring from the Anyala field in OML 83 and the Madu field in OML 85, which was accomplished by the firm’s joint venture (JV) with First Exploration & Petroleum Development Company (First E&P).

The Nigerian player sees this decarbonization accomplishment as a “remarkable milestone” and “a significant stride” towards supporting the country’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20% unconditionally and 47% conditionally, as stipulated in the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.

Mele Kyari, NNPC’s Chief Executive Officer, commented: “This achievement underscores our commitment to leveraging resources responsibly and optimising production to meet energy needs and sustainability goals. It reflects our commitment to aligning our operations with global standards and environmental best practices.”

According to the company, the reduction was attained through the implementation of an AG reinjection strategy into a designated underground storage reservoir at the Madu field offshore Bayelsa State. The initiative is said to ensure that gas, which would have otherwise been flared, is stored, significantly mitigating environmental impact.

Curbing the AG flaring level aligns with the regulatory framework set forth by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), underscoring the JV’s compliance with national environmental standards and global best practices.

Ademola Adeyemi-Bero, MD/CEO of First E&P, remarked: “This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible energy production. By substantially reducing our carbon footprint, we are contributing to a sustainable energy future that benefits both the environment and the communities we serve.”

NNPC claims the JV remains focused on commercializing the stored gas and other stranded gas resources within the Niger Delta, reinforcing its dedication to environmental stewardship and the advancement of sustainable energy solutions.

The NNPC and First E&P joint venture has decided to implement Baker Hughes’ Leucipa automated field production solution at offshore operations in the Niger Delta to manage production and slash carbon emissions.

The solution’s core workflows will be used to boost well performance and enhance efficiency.