TotalEnergies Companies in Nigeria have reaffirmed the energy giant’s commitment to reducing emissions and increasing the company’s sustainable energy stock, with a 2050 target to achieve this objective.
According to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TotalEnergies, Matthieu Bouyer during the management session of the ongoing 42nd Annual Conference of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), through strategic projects designed to increase energy output while minimizing environmental impact, TotalEnergies’ commitment to lower emissions remains steadfast.
Bouyer, who was represented by the Executive Director, Corporate Services, Mr Olatunji Akinwunmi, stated that a significant milestone has been the elimination of routine flaring across all upstream operations in Nigeria; alongside the deployment of the AUSEA methane detection technology, which has been shared with the NNPC Limited to strengthen monitoring and reduce emissions.
Currently one of the most accurate technologies in the world to detect and measure methane emissions, the Airborne Ultralight Spectrometer for Environmental Applications (AUSEA) technology was developed in cooperation with the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and the University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne.
Commissioned in 2022, the AUSEA technology comprises a drone-mounted ultralight CO2 and CH4 sensor for ensuring access to hard-to-reach emission points while delivering readings with the highest precision. The sensor features a diode laser spectrometer and is capable of detecting and quantifying methane emissions with a high level of accuracy (> 1 kg/h).
Since its commissioning, AUSEA has covered over 95% of TotalEnergies operated sites in the upstream sector in real-life conditions. Over 1,200 AUSEA flights have been carried out in 8 countries to cover 125 sites. The long-term objective is to use the technology as part of a seamless and autonomous system.
Bouyer stated this is a part of the energy company’s unwavering commitment to ensuring zero methane emissions. The TotalEnergies’ boss enumerated other key initiatives supporting this mission to include:
- Integrating power supply from the OBITE treatment center, complemented by a planned integration of 5MW solar energy solution into the mix
- Maintaining zero routine flaring in all Nigerian upstream activities
- Electrifying rigs to cut down on liquid fuel use
TotalEnergies’ commitment to Nigeria is further underscored by its long-term investments in the country’s energy sector.
Over the past decade, it has completed large-scale projects such as Egina, Ofon Phase 2, the OML 58 Upgrade, and the Ikike field, which launched in 2022.
Recent exploration successes, including the Ntokon discovery in 2023, reinforces TotalEnergies’ dedication to sustainable energy development and responsible exploration in Nigeria.
