Firm Begins EIA Survey On Gas Infrastructure Devt To Impact Local Communities

Ace Gas & FLNG Company Ltd (ACE FLNG) at the weekend disclosed that it commenced the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study for the Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) project in the country to enhance Nigeria’s position as a global gas hub, contributes to job creation, economic growth and foster long-term benefits for local communities.

The group managing director/chief executive officer of Ace Gas, Engr. Christopher Nwokolo, who revealed this to journalists in Lagos, noted that the commencement follows the signing of a contract with Quaternary International Co. Limited, a leading environmental consultancy firm, to provide comprehensive EIA services that will guide the sustainable development of the FLNG facility and its supporting upstream gas gathering infrastructure in the country.

He emphasised that the exercise would enhance Nigeria’s position as a global gas hub, contribute to job creation, economic growth, and improved energy security, and foster long-term benefits for local communities and the national economy.

“This initiative not only enhances Nigeria’s position as a global gas hub but also contributes to job creation, economic growth, and improved energy security, fostering long-term benefits for local communities and the national economy.

“This is another milestone after the signing of FEED with Wison Energy in Shanghai, China, in December,” Nwokolo asserted.

He noted that the EIA study is a critical step in ensuring that the project adheres to national and international environmental regulations while aligning with best practices for sustainable energy development.

According to him, the assessment will also evaluate the potential environmental, social and economic impacts of the FLNG facility and associated infrastructure and ensure that all necessary measures are implemented to mitigate risks and enhance sustainability.

He pointed out that in addition to the conventional environmental impact studies, the EIA will incorporate detailed surveys, metocean studies, and bathymetric data acquisition to support key engineering and design decisions.

He stressed that collecting met ocean data as part of the study will provide valuable insights into offshore environmental conditions such as wind patterns, wave dynamics, ocean currents, and tidal movements.

“These findings will be instrumental in optimising the design, construction and operational safety of the FLNG facility. Comprehensive bathymetric and geophysical surveys will also map the seafloor and assess subsurface conditions.

“These studies will be essential for determining the optimal placement of subsea infrastructure, including pipelines and other critical components necessary for feedstock gas transportation,” he said.