TotalEnergies has announced the development of the Gran Morgu field, located offshore Suriname, with a production goal of 220,000 barrels per day (b/d). The project marks a significant step in the company’s strategy to expand its presence in South America and tap into new hydrocarbon reserves. Suriname’s Atlantic coast, rich in untapped potential, has been strategically chosen for this venture.
The Gran Morgu field will utilize a floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) unit—technology frequently deployed in offshore operations that allows for the processing and storage of oil directly at the extraction site. This method offers the operational flexibility needed for fields located far from land-based infrastructure.
Potential Collaboration with Petrobras
As part of the project, TotalEnergies is in discussions with Petrobras, the Brazilian oil company, to explore potential collaboration. These discussions aim to leverage the strengths of both companies to maximize project profitability. Petrobras, which has been refocusing on its domestic assets, sees this as an opportunity to diversify its portfolio and re-establish its international presence.
TotalEnergies, already well-established in Brazil through its involvement in pre-salt oil production, is keen to integrate Petrobras into future initiatives. By joining forces, the companies could share risks and optimize their resources and expertise, contributing to the success of this large-scale international project.
Diversified Investments in the Energy Mix
TotalEnergies is committed to a diversified energy investment strategy, with plans to balance its portfolio between oil, gas, and electricity. The company has set a target for 2030: 40% oil, 40% gas, and 20% electricity. This strategy aligns with the global shift in energy markets and TotalEnergies’ goal to maintain a high-performing energy portfolio.
In Brazil, a key area for renewable energy projects, TotalEnergies has partnered with Casa dos Ventos, a major player in onshore wind power. This partnership includes an investment of approximately $764 million in projects that aim to generate 12 GW of capacity. Such investments help the company diversify while tapping into Brazil’s abundant natural resources.
Expanding into the African Market
Beyond South America, TotalEnergies is eyeing Africa for future operations, particularly in Angola, Namibia, and South Africa. These regions, rich in under-explored resources, present attractive opportunities for oil companies seeking new fields. TotalEnergies plans to apply similar high-performance offshore infrastructure as it does in the Gran Morgu field to maximize productivity.
Carbon Capture and Regulatory Requirements
As regulatory pressures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions increase, TotalEnergies is also focusing on decarbonization efforts. In addition to its renewable energy initiatives, the company is exploring carbon capture projects, particularly in Brazil, through reforestation efforts in the Amazon. Although the estimated cost of these projects is approximately $15 per metric ton of CO2, their success hinges on a stable regulatory framework and the establishment of certifiable carbon credits.
These carbon capture initiatives, while important, are viewed as complementary to TotalEnergies’ core business of hydrocarbon production. The company continues to work closely with local authorities and industry partners to create favorable conditions for long-term investment in decarbonization while maintaining its traditional energy projects.