Mozambique LNG Project Set for Summer Restart After Four-Year Suspension
Italy’s Saipem expects TotalEnergies’ $20 billion liquefied natural gas project in Mozambique to resume operations by the end of summer 2025, following a four-year suspension due to insurgent attacks. The project has been under force majeure since 2021, but recent security improvements have paved the way for renewed development activities.
Saipem CEO Alessandro Puliti expressed confidence during a press briefing following second-quarter results, stating that “the restart is made of a progression of activities that will take place this summer, with lifting the force majeure being one of these steps.” The announcement aligns with earlier statements from TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne, who indicated similar expectations for summer resumption.
The Mozambique LNG project involves developing the Golfinho and Atum natural gas fields in the Offshore Area 1 concession and constructing a two-train liquefaction plant. For Saipem, the contract represents approximately 3 billion euros ($3.5 billion) in value, making it a significant component of the company’s project portfolio.
Puliti addressed media concerns about site accessibility, clarifying that equipment transport by sea is primarily for logistical rather than security reasons. The project site’s coastal location naturally facilitates marine transportation for the heavy equipment required for LNG plant construction.
The restart comes as Saipem prepares for a major merger with Norwegian rival Subsea7, creating what will become a leading global player in offshore energy services. The merger, announced earlier this year, is expected to complete in the second half of 2026 following regulatory approvals.
Source: reuters.com
