Oman LNG, a leading liquefied natural gas (LNG) company with majority ownership by the Omani government, is set to spearhead a pilot project for the production of e-methane. This initiative, recently outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Japanese energy firms, signifies a significant step towards decarbonization within the company's operations and the potential for cleaner LNG exports.
The planned e-methane production facility, envisioned for close proximity to Oman LNG's existing liquefaction plant at Qalhat, targets a capacity of 1,200 normal cubic meters per hour (Nm3/h). The core technology behind e-methane production is a process known as methanation. This process combines captured carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from Oman LNG's operations with green hydrogen, obtained through water electrolysis powered by renewable sources. The resulting synthetic gas, e-methane, boasts properties similar to conventional natural gas but with a considerably reduced carbon footprint.
The MoU with Japanese firms presents Oman LNG with two distinct pathways for utilizing the generated e-methane. Firstly, the company can explore marketing e-methane as a standalone renewable fuel source. This would cater to the growing demand for cleaner energy alternatives across various industries. Secondly, e-methane can be directly injected into Oman LNG's existing liquefaction process. This would enable the production of a greener form of LNG, with a lower lifecycle carbon intensity compared to traditional LNG.
The e-methane pilot project aligns with a broader vision for collaboration on clean energy solutions, established through a separate Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) signed in December 2022. This MoC, formalised between Oman's Ministry of Energy and Minerals and Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, underscores the commitment of both nations to accelerate the development and deployment of innovative decarbonization technologies within the energy sector.
Oman LNG's venture into e-methane production holds promising prospects for the future of the company's operations. By embracing this green technology, Oman LNG can potentially reduce its environmental impact, cater to the evolving global energy landscape, and solidify its position as a frontrunner in the production of cleaner LNG. The success of the pilot project could pave the way for a large-scale implementation of e-methane production, not only for Oman LNG but for the broader LNG industry as a whole. This would represent a significant milestone on the path towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future for the global natural gas trade.