Angola has taken a major step in reshaping its energy future with the launch of its first non-associated gas project, the New Gas Consortium (NGC) Gas Treatment Plant in Soyo. Commissioned in November 2025, the $4 billion onshore facility is designed to process around 400 million standard cubic feet of gas per day and 20,000 barrels of condensate from the offshore Quiluma and Maboqueiro fields.
The start-up marks a strategic shift for Angola, which has long relied on oil production. By developing standalone gas resources, the country is laying the groundwork for a more diversified and resilient energy economy. The African Energy Chamber (AEC) hailed the project as a transformative moment for Angola and for Africa’s wider gas ambitions.
The construction and commissioning phases mobilised thousands of workers, with more than 4,500 people employed at peak activity and another 1,200 involved in fabrication and infrastructure support. Local capacity building and skills development were central to the project’s execution.
Gas from the Soyo plant flows directly into the Angola LNG facility, supporting exports, domestic power supply and potential future industries, including fertiliser production for agriculture. The project is operated by Azule Energy, a joint venture between bp and Eni, in partnership with Cabinda Gulf Oil Company, Sonangol E&P and TotalEnergies. Full operations were achieved six months ahead of schedule, underscoring Angola’s growing capability to deliver complex, large-scale infrastructure.
Non-associated gas differs from gas produced alongside oil and offers long-term industrial advantages, including cleaner energy, export potential and stable supply for downstream development. Angola’s momentum in the sector continued with the July 2025 Gajajeira-01 discovery in offshore Block 1/14. The well, operated by Azule Energy with Equinor, Sonangol E&P and Acrep, confirmed potential reserves of more than 1 trillion cubic feet of gas and up to 100 million barrels of condensate, reinforcing the Lower Congo Basin’s promise.
President João Lourenço noted that non-associated gas enables Angola to expand production while reducing reliance on oil-linked gas volumes. He emphasised that gas is in high demand globally, is less polluting than diesel and offers competitive pricing. Angola’s Minister of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas, Diamantino Azevedo, added that the government’s modernised legal and fiscal framework played a crucial role in enabling the project.
The AEC highlighted the Soyo development as proof that African countries can execute complex energy projects efficiently while generating economic and social value. The consortium’s achievement demonstrates Angola’s ability to strengthen energy security, boost industrialisation and attract long-term investment.
According to AEC Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk, Angola’s first non-associated gas project represents a decisive turning point for the country. He said it showcases the potential unlocked when clear policy, strong partnerships and investor confidence work together to drive growth in Africa’s rapidly evolving gas market.