As Gabon advances gas-to-power projects, the upcoming Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum in Paris provides the premier platform to discuss the country’s role in the regional energy landscape. The forum unites key stakeholders to explore the latest developments in gas-to-power and electrification, with Gabon’s progress serving as a focal point.

The Owendo gas power plant project, which will commence construction in June, is expected to play a vital role in Gabon’s goal of increasing its electricity generation by 50% by 2025. Developed by Gabon Power Company in partnership with Wärtsilä under a build-own-operate-transfer IPP model, the plant will primarily utilize natural gas from Gabon’s offshore fields to generate electricity, addressing both growing domestic demand and facilitating regional energy trade.

Meanwhile, U.S. oil and gas company VAALCO is solidifying its presence in the country with plans to increase production, backed by a $300 million investment aimed at raising its oil output to 30,000 barrels per day by early 2026. This strategy includes a new drilling campaign scheduled for 2025, with 5-10 wells planned on a $200 million budget. The expansion of VAALCO’s operations further enhances Gabon’s ability to capitalize on its natural gas resources, contributing to the feedstock needed for its growing gas-to-power sector. These developments underscore Gabon’s strong resource base and highlight the increasing confidence in its energy potential.

Additionally, Gabon saw the operational launch of Karpower’s floating power plants last month, delivering an immediate boost to the country’s power grid with an additional 70 MW of electricity generation to Libreville. These floating plants offer a flexible, scalable solution to power generation, complementing Gabon’s efforts to modernize its energy infrastructure and extend electricity access to underserved communities. The plants are expected to serve both industrial demand and residential needs, offering a reliable and environmentally-friendly solution to the country’s energy shortfall.

Maximizing Returns for Investors

Gabon’s accelerated focus on gas-to-power presents significant investment opportunities, driven by its growing energy market and strategic push to diversify its energy mix. The country’s gas resources, primarily associated gas, with over 90% of production either re-injected or flared due to a lack of better alternatives, combined with its relatively low-carbon footprint, make it an attractive destination for investors. As Gabon transitions from oil dependency to cleaner energy, gas-fired power generation will bridge the gap and support the country’s shift. Key infrastructure developments, such as the Owendo plant and floating power solutions, position Gabon for long-term energy security and enhance its potential as a regional energy hub.

This electrification push also creates a wealth of opportunities for service companies specializing in gas-to-power infrastructure and operations. The demand for advanced technology, skilled labor and power generation services will continue to rise as Gabon expands its electricity generation capacity, presenting significant opportunities for companies in gas extraction, power generation and transmission.

IAE 2025 is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors.Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.invest-africa-energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.