Energy Transition & Decarbonization

Kaminho as a Transition Benchmark

The Kaminho project is positioned at the intersection of hydrocarbon development and the energy transition. Its environmental design features — all-electric operation, zero routine flaring, gas reinjection, and CCS readiness — make it a benchmark for how new deepwater developments can minimize their carbon footprint while remaining commercially competitive. The project's breakeven below $30/bbl and carbon intensity of 16 kg CO2e/boe demonstrate that low-emission design is economically viable.

Angola's Decarbonization Context

As a major oil producer dependent on petroleum revenues for approximately 60% of government income, Angola faces the challenge of maintaining production while reducing emissions. The country has committed to the World Bank's Zero Routine Flaring by 2030 initiative — and Kaminho's zero-flaring design provides a template. The TotalEnergies-Sonangol R&D MOU focuses on methane emissions reduction, renewable energy integration, and the development of Sonangol's Sumbe R&D center capabilities in photovoltaics — signaling a dual-track approach of cleaner hydrocarbons alongside renewables development.

CCS Potential

The FPSO Kaminho's design includes potential for post-combustion carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology that could prevent approximately 8 million tonnes of CO2 over the project's operational life. The deep geological formations of the Kwanza Basin offer potential CO2 storage sites. If deployed, Kaminho would be among the first offshore CCS implementations in West Africa.

Gas Monetization Potential

While the initial Kaminho concept reinjects all associated gas, the broader Kwanza Basin contains significant gas-condensate resources. Ongoing appraisal at fields like Lontra and Zalophus could build a resource base capable of supporting future gas supply — though infrastructure remains a bottleneck. Potential gas evacuation from Kwanza developments would require pipelines to shore near Caboledo, connections to Luanda for domestic use, and possibly extensions to Soyo to access Angola LNG.

For the production context, sector overview, and strategic outlook, see our dedicated pages.