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Gabon’s Gas Agenda Amplified with Recent Independent-led Power Projects

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Gabon Power Company

A recently signed MoU between Perenco and the Gabon Power Company lays the foundation for a new gas-fired power plant that will help electrify the country and compliment the government’s broader plans to utilize its abundant but overlooked gas resources

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, April 11, 2023/APO Group/ — 

Demonstrating the significant role natural gas continues to play in electrifying Africa, Anglo-Swiss oil and gas heavyweight Perenco together with representatives of the Gabonese government signed a groundbreaking memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the construction of a gas-fired power plant aimed at electrifying the country’s remote southern provinces. The development comes amidst broader plans to harness the country’s unmet potential as a natural gas producer and confirms Perenco’s central role in the region’s ambitions.

In the presence of Vincent de Paul Massassa (https://apo-opa.info/3zPIwOk), Gabon’s Minister of Oil and Gas, the MoU was signed by Perenco’s Gabon Director General, Adrien Broche, and Joseph Diboma, Director of Development at Gabon Power Company (GPC) in the capital Libreville. Under the terms of the MoU, the two companies will co-develop a state-of-the-art power plant in Mayumba on the south coast to supply the southern provinces of Nyanga and Ngounié with electricity generated using gas, which will be extracted from Perenco’s nearby offshore oil and associated gas fields.

The initial phase of the project will see an investment of 24 billion CFA from Perenco to build the infrastructure for gas compression and transport via sub-sea pipeline to the site, where GPC has committed to invest a further 50 billion CFA in the power plant itself. This should provide approximately 20 MW of installed capacity, amounting to 180 GWh per year. This will go a long way towards meeting the 150 MW that the government’s Acceleration and Transformation Plan estimates is required to meet the energy needs of the southern country. To help meet this potential, GPC will build a 90 kV high-voltage line, a 20 KV low-voltage line, and a lifting station to supply the main cities of Tchibanga in Nyanga, and Mouila in Ngounié. The second phase of the project will see a 50 MW extension to supply the town of Lambaréné in Moyen Ogooué province. Phase one is expected to electrify 80,000 households and generate some 450 jobs.

The initial phase of the project will see an investment of 24 billion CFA from Perenco to build the infrastructure for gas compression and transport

The model for this development is similar to projects further north, in which gas from Perenco’s offshore Mbia field is being harnessed to power the country’s two main cities, the capital Libreville, and Gabon’s main offshore oil and gas hub Port Gentil. In addition to unlocking significant economic benefits, the project demonstrates the role natural gas and independent oi and gas companies will play in electrifying, industrializing and growing both Gabon and Africa’s broader economy. The project itself is but the latest demonstration of Perenco’s long-standing commitment to the Gabonese energy sector, where the company’s forte for revitalizing mature fields is particularly relevant in the local environment, where oil production has been steadily declining since its peak in 1996. The company entered Gabon in 1992 with the acquisition of offshore oil fields off Port-Gentil and has since acquired more assets both on and offshore. Exploitation of these assets has been accompanied by Perenco’s further investment in pipelines and Floating Storage and Offloading vessels. The company’s contribution to infrastructure reached a climax in February of this year when Perenco announced a final investment decision for the creation of the $1-billion Cap de Lopez liquified natural gas (LNG) facility, which will have a capacity of 700,000 tons of LNG, with production expected to come online in 2026.

These developments showcase a much broader ambition laid out in the government’s Gas Master Plan, aimed at diversifying Gabon’s energy mix by tapping into the country’s previously unexploited natural gas potential. Gabon has an estimated 1.2 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, largely located offshore in the form of associated gas in the country’s oil fields. Gas production peaked in 2021 at 70 billion cubic feet, however this figure is set to rise as the government aims to eliminate flaring and instead harness its gas assets to electrify local homes, address climate change, and boost export revenues by meeting growing demand for LNG in wealthy European markets.

As Gabon ushers in a new era of economic growth on the back of natural gas, the country is set to sign new deals and kickstart further development during the continent’s premier event for the oil and gas sector, African Energy Week (AEW) 2023 (www.AECweek.com) – which is organized by the African Energy Chamber (the voice of the African energy sector) and taking place from October 16-20 in Cape Town. During AEW 2022, the country made a strong play for investment, with a Gabonese delegation led by H.E. Minister Massassa engaging with investors, driving discussions and connecting E&P players with Gabonese opportunities. This year, this trend will only continue as opportunities presented by the Gas Master Plan entice new financiers and players to the emerging gas market. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Canon releases LI7070SAC / LI7070SAM Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) sensors

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Canon

The LI7070SAC can capture full-HD video even in low-illumination environments measuring 0.08 lux, whereas the LI7070SAM operates at a minimum of 0.04 lux

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, November 25, 2024/APO Group/ — 

Canon Inc. (Canon-CNA.com) and Canon Marketing Japan Inc. announced today the release of two new 1/1.8-inch CMOS sensors, the LI7070SAC (color) and LI7070SAM (monochrome), with approximately 2.12 (1,936 x 1,096) effective megapixels, for security, industrial, and medical uses. They boast enhanced near-infrared shooting capability, which is increasingly in demand, in addition to a high-dynamic-range capturing function for operating in environments with significant contrasts between light and dark, and high-sensitivity shooting capability under low-illumination environments.

In recent years, there has been growing demand for near-infrared imaging capabilities applied to surveillance cameras and industrial cameras. Accordingly, there has been an increase in uses for CMOS sensors with near-infrared capability including monitoring traffic and industrial applications. The near-infrared sensitivity of the LI7070SAC has been increased by roughly 2.4 times [1] in comparison to the LI7050 [2] (released in October 2020) which similarly measures 1/1.8 inches and features approximately 2.12 effective megapixels. This enables monitoring in dark environments which cannot be performed by the naked eye. The sensors can also be applied for industrial usages such as inspections in dark areas and medical uses such as fluorescein angiography.

In addition to the aforementioned near-infrared capability, both sensors feature an HDR drive mode that extends 120dB through a double exposure method which layers two images with differing exposure times. This makes it possible to capture images in high quality while restricting overexposure and crushed shadows in conditions where there is a large difference in brightness, such as when illuminating a light for inspections within tunnels. The sensor achieves a range of 75dB even when operating during normal drive operation.

The outstanding low-illumination shooting capability of these sensors further enhances their applicability. Although the sensor size is compact, the pixel composition has been engineered to enable high sensitivity, while suppressing noise level. The LI7070SAC can capture full-HD video even in low-illumination environments measuring 0.08 lux, whereas the LI7070SAM operates at a minimum of 0.04 lux [3], making them particularly suitable for nighttime surveillance of public facilities, roads, and transportation facilities, etc., in addition to cameras equipped to underwater drones and cameras used in microscopes, which require compact image sensors with a high degree of sensitivity.


[1] The quantum efficiency of the LI7070SAC at a wavelength of 850 nm (near-infrared wavelength) is 33%, whereas that of LI7050 is 14%.

[2] Colour sensor only

[3] The estimated illumination level from a full moon is 0.3 lux, while that of a crescent moon is 0.01 lux.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

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Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) Leads Key Discussions on Sustainable Development and Green Finance at Conference of the Parties (COP29)

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COP29

On November 18, ICD organized a session on financing women and youth-led businesses in post-conflict regions

BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 25, 2024/APO Group/ — 

The Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) (www.ICD-ps.org), part of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, hosted several high-level sessions at COP29 in Baku, focusing on sustainable economic development, climate finance, and the private sector’s role in green growth.

On November 18, ICD organized a session on financing women and youth-led businesses in post-conflict regions. Eng. Hani Sani Sonbol, Acting CEO of ICD, emphasized the importance of inclusive financing for long-term peace. Remarks were also made by Ms. Nigar Arpadarai, COP29 High-Level Champion, and Dr. Emin Huseynov, Special Representative of the President of Azerbaijan. The panel featured experts such as Dr. Sahar Nasr, Executive Director of the Zakat Fund, Ms. Jhale Hajiyeva, Executive Director of AMFA Azerbaijan, Dr Elvin Afandi, Division Manager of ICD and Mr. Dayanat Sadullayev, President of AMCHAM addressing the barriers women and youth face in accessing finance.

ICD also hosted two other key sessions. On November 16, a panel discussed leveraging multilateral climate funds to support sustainable projects through public-private partnerships, featuring experts like Dr. Mohammed Alyami, General Manager of the Development Effectiveness Office at ICD, and David A. Dodd, CEO of the International Sustainability Resilience Center. On November 19, a session explored how financial institutions can promote green finance, with participants including Dr. Fatih Yilmaz, Senior Fellow at KAPSAR,Mr. Shahin Mahmudzade, Executive Director at the Central Bank of Azerbaijan, Dr Elvin Afandi , Division Manager of ICD and Mr Nabil Kadri, Managing Director of BNDES.

ICD’s participation at COP29 highlights its commitment to advancing sustainable development, green finance to private sector, and empowering marginalized business communities. Through collaborative initiatives, ICD continues to drive the role of the private sector in achieving global sustainability goals.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD).

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HELI Aims for #1 Position in Middle East and Africa with New Forklift Models and Strategic Investments

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HELI

Company Expands Regional Footprint, Hosts 40 Regional Partners at Exclusive Distributors’ Conference in Dubai

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, November 22, 2024/APO Group/ — 

HELI (www.HELIChina.net), China’s leading forklift manufacturer and a global player in the material handling industry, has unveiled three new forklift models at the opening of its UAE distributor Hala’s state-of-the-art showroom and workshop in Dubai Industrial City.

This launch marks another significant step in HELI’s ongoing expansion in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, as the company continues its drive to become the leading forklift brand across the region.

HELI’s mission, Lifting the Future, is driven by a vision to become a global leader, and a singular aim to be ranked among the world’s Top 5 forklift manufacturers. Founded in 1958, HELI has consistently delivered innovative, intelligent logistics solutions, establishing itself as a global first-class integrator of industrial vehicles and intelligent logistics systems. With a people-oriented approach and a commitment to repaying society through high-quality products, HELI’s brand proposition—Empower the World—reflects the company’s dedication to empowering industries worldwide.

Ranked among the top ten forklift manufacturers globally since 2006, HELI’s streamlined strategies in capital, industrial, and innovation chains have fueled rapid growth. Today, HELI’s products are sold in over 150 countries, and in the MEA region, the company has already secured the leading position in 15 African countries, with an expanding presence in the Middle East. With continued investment in new product launches and strategic partnerships, HELI is on track to achieve its ambitious goal of becoming the leading forklift brand across the region.

The new HELI G Series 2.0-ton lithium battery forklift, specifically engineered for the beverage industry, was also introduced at the event. Building on the proven reliability and advanced technology of HELI’s G Series, this model incorporates several innovative features tailored to the unique demands of beverage logistics. These include a flexible adjustable cab height for enhanced operator visibility and safety, an intelligent steering system that prevents sharp turns for smoother operations, and an active safety protection system that decelerates or brakes when personnel approach danger zones, reducing workplace risks. Designed with beverage industry needs in mind, it includes features like single/double pallet forks and a 360-degree vision optimization system for better maneuverability.

The G3 Series forklifts, available in 2-3.5 Ton and 5-10 Ton models, offer key shared advantages that enhance efficiency, safety, and performance. Both models are energy-efficient, with the 2-3.5 Ton version reducing consumption by 15% and the 5-10 Ton featuring a low-noise system. They incorporate advanced safety features, such as pedestrian detection, AI-powered collision warnings, and an optional reversing camera, ensuring a safer work environment. Designed for high performance and reliability, both models require minimal maintenance and are built to handle demanding industrial tasks. The 2-3.5 Ton version offers an enhanced load capacity up to 4.5 meters, while the 5-10 Ton excels in climbing performance. Additionally, ergonomic features like reduced steering effort and low-noise operation improve operator comfort and productivity.

With the increasing focus on electrification, we are providing customers with clean energy alternatives that align with global sustainability goals

Together, the G3 Series forklifts deliver a reliable, cost-effective solution for businesses seeking safety, efficiency, and durability in their material handling equipment.

“These new models reflect HELI’s commitment to addressing the growing demand for sustainable and efficient material handling solutions in the region. With the increasing focus on electrification, we are providing customers with clean energy alternatives that align with global sustainability goals and empowering our partners to achieve #1 status in their respective markets,” said Guan Lei, General Manager of HELI Middle East FZCO.

During the showroom opening, Mathew Abraham, Managing Director of Hala, HELI’s UAE distributor, emphasized the potential of the partnership, noting, “With HELI’s world-class technology and our deep understanding of the regional market, we are well-positioned to offer comprehensive solutions, ensuring the highest standards of after-sales support and sustainability.”

HELI’s growth in the region is underscored by its ongoing investment in infrastructure. The company is currently leasing between 6,000 and 8,000 square meters of space in the Middle East to expand its service capabilities and provide quicker, localized support. These efforts are aligned with HELI’s strategic goals and reinforce its position as a key player in the material handling and logistics sectors.

At a closed-door distributors conference held this week, 40 partners from across the region gathered to discuss HELI’s product innovations and regional growth strategies. The conference highlighted the company’s vision for the future and its strong partnerships with regional distributors. The theme of the conference, “Together We Thrive, Limits We Defy,” reflected the shared ambition to work harder with determination, pushing past boundaries and striving for excellence.

Recent industry data from the World Industrial Truck Statistics (WITS) shows HELI’s growing presence in the UAE, where it is now the second-largest forklift brand. This growth, coupled with a rising shift toward electrification, further positions HELI as a leader in the MEA region. The company’s success in Africa, where it holds the #1 position in 15 countries, demonstrates the strength of its offering and its ability to meet local market needs.

Chen Xianyou, Vice General Manager of Anhui HELI Co., Ltd, emphasized, “Our continued investment in the MEA region is a testament to our long-term vision. We are focused on achieving sustainable growth, backed by our strong after-sales service network, and building lasting relationships with our regional partners.”

With its leadership position in China for 33 consecutive years and a growing footprint in the Middle East and Africa, HELI is poised to become a globally recognized brand in the material handling industry.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of HELI.

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