25th September 2024
Algiers, Algeria
AFREC Successfully Holds First In-Person Methane Mitigation Training for Algerian Oil and Gas Experts in Boumerdes, Algeria (23-25 September 2024)
The African Energy Commission (AFREC) successfully conducted its first in-person methane mitigation training for experts from Algeria’s oil and gas sector. The training was held from 23 to 25 September 2024 at the Sonatrach Training Institute (Institute Algérien de Pétrole) in Boumerdes, the training brought together thirty-five (35) participants, including engineers and scientists from Sonatrach, Sonelgaz, and the Ministry of Energy and Mines, among others. The training aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to detect, measure, and mitigate methane emissions across the oil and gas value chain.
The opening session of the training was honored by the presence of Mr. Medjelled Miloud, Director General of Prospective Studies at the Ministry of Energy and Mines, Mr. Elaib Khalil, representative of Institute Algérien de Pétrole and Mr. Mohamed Lamine Makhlouf, Director of the Training Institute. All the dignitaries welcomed the participants and expressed their gratitude to AFREC for selecting Algeria as a beneficiary of this important training.
Speaking on behalf of AFREC, Mr. Bob Felix Ocitti, Senior Policy Officer in charge of the Research Oil and Gas Programme, expressed appreciation to the Director General for embracing the initiative and to the Sonatrach Training Institute for providing state-of-the-art facilities. He also extended thanks to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and Carbon Limits for their partnership, which ensured the successful delivery of the training to the Algerian experts.
Methane is responsible for at least 30% of the current rise in global temperatures, and its emissions present a significant challenge for oil and gas-producing nations. This challenge is further compounded by limited investments in early detection and mitigation systems, leading to excessive emissions into the atmosphere. Given Algeria’s role as a major oil and gas producer, this methane mitigation training was both timely and essential.
The training covered key topics, including an overview of methane emissions in the oil and gas sector, detection, measurement, and quantification techniques, mitigation strategies, and advanced upstream methane emissions. The use of satellite technology for methane detection, measurement, and quantification was also explored.
Participants who successfully completed the training were awarded certificates of attendance, recognizing the skills and knowledge they acquired.
AFREC remains committed to supporting African Union Member States in their efforts to decarbonize the oil and gas sector. Through continued training and collaboration with global partners, AFREC seeks to advance Africa’s aspiration for sustainable development in the natural resources sector.
For any further inquiry please contact the Executive Director, African Energy Commission (AFREC) on email afrec@africa-union.org