Energy

In a global environment of low oil prices, the Emerging Gabon Strategic Plan has sought to diversify the economy away from hydrocarbons since 2010. As such, over recent years the government has increased development of the hydropower sector, as well as expanding the country’s large natural gas supplies. Despite the oil crisis, Gabon remains very much dependent on oil revenues. The government is counting on the 11th licensing round to generate renewed interest in the industry and boost declining national production. Perhaps the biggest upcoming change expected to alter the energy sector is the growth of gas production, with new offshore deposits paving the way for output to increase. While the complexity of the deposits may limit export competitiveness, the steadily rising domestic need for power and the launch of new petrochemicals and fertiliser plants should ensure ample demand for deepwater gas.

This chapter contains interviews with Etienne Dieudonné Ngoubou, Minister of Petrol and Hydrocarbons; Guy Maurice, Senior Vice-President for Africa, Total E&P; Jean Paul Camus, Director-General, Société d’Energie et d’Eau du Gabon.