Mozambique’s government is expected to launch the $7.2 billion Coral Norte LNG project in October, one of Africa’s largest. The project will be unveiled next month in the Rovuma Basin’s Area 4 as announced by President Daniel Chapo. He noted this during the Global Energy Alliance meeting in New York. Chapo told the meeting held on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly that construction of the project would commence in October. Led by Italian energy giant Eni, Coral Norte marks a fundamental point in Mozambique’s LNG transition.
It is the country’s second floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) initiative. Moreover, it is expected to produce 3.55 million metric tonnes of LNG annually over the next 30 years. The commencement of the project follows government approval of Eni’s development plan earlier this year. Its scope also builds on the success of the Coral Sul, the country’s first FLNG facility which began exports in 2022.
Project Factsheet
Significance:
- $7.2 billion project, one of Africa’s largest LNG developments.
- Expected to produce 3.55 million tonnes of LNG annually for 30 years.
- Builds on Coral Sul’s success, positioning Mozambique as a global LNG hub.
Infrastructure:
- Located in the Rovuma Basin’s Area 4 offshore Mozambique.
- Will use a new FLNG unit fed by six subsea wells.
- Gas reserves estimated between 450–500 billion cubic meters.
Developer/Consortium:
- Led by Italian energy major Eni as operator.
- Backed by Mozambique’s government under President Daniel Chapo.
- Builds on existing Coral Sul FLNG facility (operational since 2022).
Funding/Timeline:
- Estimated investment: $7.2 billion.
- Construction to commence October 2025.
- First LNG production targeted for Q2 2028.
Challenges:
- Security risks from insurgency affecting onshore LNG projects (e.g., Mozambique LNG in Afungi).
- Large-scale offshore execution and subsea infrastructure deployment.
- Ensuring stable global LNG demand amid energy transition shifts.
The Scope of Implementation on the Coral Norte LNG Project in Mozambique
The Coral Norte LNG Project will replicate the Coral Sul model, drawing gas from the same reservoir. The reserve is estimated to hold between 450 and 500 billion cubic meters. Moreover, the NEW FLNG unit will be fed by six subsea wells. Production is also expected to commence by the second quarter of 2028. Mozambique’s offshore LNG ambitions have gained momentum despite setbacks to onshore projects. Projects such as its more ambitious Mozambique LNG project has been held back over the years due to factors such as conflict.
The TotalEnergies-led project is one that is expected to have a significant impact as Africa’s largest and costing $20 billion. Despite this, the project in Golfinho and Atum development in Area 1 remains suspended under force majeure due to militant activity on the Afungi Peninsula. However, once completed, it will play a critical role in bolstering Mozambique’s LNG development and positioning the country as an LNG hub.
