Angola is intensifying its efforts to integrate natural gas into its energy mix, targeting a 25% share to reduce reliance on diesel and improve energy security.
While significant developments in the gas sector are expanding domestic supply, challenges such as infrastructure gaps, regulatory hurdles, and investment constraints need to be addressed for the country to fully realize its gas-to-power potential.
A key part of Angola’s gas-to-power initiative is the expansion of gas-fired power generation, including the Soyo II Combined Cycle Power Plant.
Currently in the permitting phase, the 750 MW dual-fuel plant is expected to begin commercial operations in 2025.
The project aims to increase the country’s gas processing capacity from 75 million to 125 million cubic feet per day, further supporting the Soyo area’s energy infrastructure.
The Soyo II plant will complement the existing Soyo I Combined Cycle Power Plant and the Falcao Phase 2 Project in Zaire Province.
These facilities have been operational since 2017 and 2023, respectively. The Falcao project benefited from the construction of a gas reception and distribution unit by engineering company Mecwide, while China National Machinery Industry Corporation was responsible for the development of the Soyo plant.
To strengthen its upstream natural gas industry, Angola is advancing both associated and non-associated gas projects.
Historically, Angola has relied on associated gas for feedstock for the Angola LNG project and Soyo power plants.
However, the development of the first non-associated gas project is expected to significantly increase the nation’s production capacity.
Spearheaded by the New Gas Consortium, led by Azule Energy, this project will extract gas from the Quiluma and Maboqueiro shallow-water fields, with first gas expected in 2026.
The offshore well platforms were completed six months ahead of schedule in February 2025.
The Sanha Lean Gas Connection Project, operated by Chevron’s Cabinda Gulf Oil Company, further enhances gas supply for both the Angola LNG and Soyo power plants.
The project achieved first gas in December 2024, delivering 80 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscf/d) from Block 0. The second phase of the project will increase capacity to 300 mmscf/d.
Angola’s push for gas-to-power faces several challenges. Infrastructure underinvestment has impacted both power generation and transmission capabilities, while the country’s gas industry has traditionally been export-driven, resulting in feedstock inconsistencies. However, initiatives are underway to address these issues and ensure a more reliable energy supply.
The country’s focus on gas-to-power projects, especially those in the Soyo region, will be crucial in overcoming these obstacles.
The development of non-associated gas projects will ensure a more stable feedstock for power generation.
Moreover, Angola’s upcoming Gas Master Plan (GMP), set for implementation in 2025, will tackle infrastructure constraints through a comprehensive strategy for the natural gas value chain.
Covering a 30-year period, the GMP is designed to foster a more competitive market and attract foreign investment.
With its ambitious goals and strategic focus on gas-to-power development, Angola is well on its way to becoming a key player in the global energy sector.
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