African countries are increasingly expanding the domestic use of natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) to support power generation, industrial growth and energy security, according to the State of African Energy: 2026 Outlook Report released this week.
The report argues that gas-producing nations are shifting away from treating natural gas primarily as an export commodity, instead integrating it into national energy strategies to drive economic development.
Natural gas currently supplies about 40% of Africa’s electricity, with total production expected to reach roughly 331 billion cubic metres in 2025, led by Algeria, Nigeria and Egypt. Gas-fired power capacity across the continent could expand by more than 77 gigawatts by 2050, supporting grid stability as renewable energy capacity increases.
Speaking on the report, NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, said natural gas offers African countries a practical pathway to energy independence while supporting long-term sustainability goals.
Angola Expands Gas-to-Power and Industrial Use
Angola is cited as a leading example of the shift toward domestic gas utilisation. Gas supplies already support the 750-megawatt Soyo combined-cycle gas turbine power plant, which has helped stabilise electricity generation during periods of hydropower shortfall.
According to Ayuk, Angola’s Gas Master Plan, which includes plans for fertilizer, ammonia and methanol facilities by 2030, demonstrates how gas development can anchor industrial expansion while reducing reliance on imported fuels.
Ongoing upstream developments, including the Sanha Lean Gas project and non-associated gas discoveries, are expected to strengthen long-term supply for both domestic use and LNG exports.
Mauritania and Senegal Join LNG Export Market
Mauritania and Senegal became LNG exporters in 2025 following the start-up of the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project, a joint offshore development. The project has generated thousands of local jobs and involved hundreds of domestic companies across both countries.
Ayuk noted that the inclusion of domestic gas obligations in the GTA project highlights how LNG developments can be structured to support local power generation and industrial activity alongside exports.
Each country is expected to receive about 35 million standard cubic feet of gas per day for domestic use, with Senegal planning to channel supplies into gas-fired power plants starting in 2026.
Regional Power Pools to Amplify Impact
The report also highlights the role of Africa’s regional power pools in maximising the benefits of gas-to-power investments. The Southern African Power Pool remains the most advanced, while West and East African pools continue to expand cross-border electricity trade.
Ayuk said greater regional integration could help link gas-producing countries with power-deficit markets and improve overall energy access across the continent.
Gas as a Transition Fuel
Natural gas is increasingly being positioned as a transition fuel that can support economic growth while producing fewer emissions than coal or oil. Expanding LNG capacity alongside domestic gas use, Ayuk said, will be critical to ensuring reliable power supply as Africa scales up renewable energy.
