Hydrocarbon storage: "With domestic production, needs are changing on three levels" (DG Senstock)

In Senegal, hydrocarbon storage capacity was primarily geared towards imports. This essentially involved receiving, storing, and distributing petroleum products, mainly by sea. "With domestic production, needs are changing on three fundamental levels: volumes are different, there are new types of products to store (crude oil), and a reconfiguration of storage capacity is necessary," explains Daouda Ndiaye, CEO of the Senegalese storage company (Senstock), in an interview with the business daily Lejecos.

According to him, this shift from an import and distribution system to an internal flow management system requires "more integrated logistics planning, diversification of equipment, and closer coordination between public and private actors."

In its energy strategy, Senegal relies heavily on gas for electricity generation and industrial use. But is Senegal in terms of infrastructure ready? "To be honest, not quite yet," replies the CEO of Senstock. This is why the storage company isn't overly concerned: it remains focused on its core business, namely the storage of crude and refined oil.

However, adds Daouda Ndiaye, efforts are being made regarding gas transportation. “Significant projects are underway, notably the development of the national gas network led by the Senegal Gas Network, which aims to transport gas from offshore fields. But beyond transportation, there is still a gap to fill in terms of downstream storage and distribution infrastructure, both in terms of suitable storage units and distribution systems for industrial users, power plants, and other users.”

Significantly more investment will be needed to ensure the energy transition from fuel oil to gas. This includes transporting the product, ensuring its availability throughout the country, and addressing related safety issues.