British energy giant BP and Mauritania’s environment ministry have reported a gas leak at the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) gas project, a major offshore development shared between Senegal and Mauritania.
BP disclosed that the leak was discovered during a planned commissioning test at the GTA A02 well, adding that the environmental impact is expected to be minimal and production activities remain unaffected.
In an email to Reuters, BP stated: “As part of a planned commissioning test, we discovered low rate subsea gas bubbles at the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) A02 well. We have a plan to stop the bubbles.”
The GTA project, operated by BP in partnership with U.S. listed Kosmos Energy, is one of Africa’s most significant offshore gas developments.
The floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) facility, located at the maritime border between Senegal and Mauritania, produced its first gas earlier this year and is expected to generate 2.3 million metric tons of LNG annually in its first phase.
BP and Kosmos have invested billions of dollars into the project, which is seen as a key driver of economic growth for both countries.
Senegal and Mauritania have positioned GTA as a major supplier of natural gas, particularly as global demand for LNG rises following disruptions in the energy market.
In addition, Mauritania’s environment ministry confirmed that investigations are ongoing in collaboration with the country’s oil and fisheries ministries, as well as Senegalese authorities.
Officials are working to prevent any environmental damage and ensure a swift resolution.
Ahmed Vall Ould Mohameden, an adviser at Mauritania’s oil ministry, noted that such incidents are common during the early stages of production.
“Last week, a plane carrying equipment to plug the leak was sent to the site to repair it,” Mohameden said.
Energy analysts suggest that while the leak is not expected to disrupt production.
It, however, raises concerns over safety and maintenance protocols at the site.
The GTA project is expected to play a critical role in West Africa’s energy security, and authorities remain committed to addressing any operational challenges as they arise.
Despite the incident, BP reiterated that production at GTA remains unaffected, and mitigation measures are in place to manage the situation effectively.
