Gas-to-power generation first in Botswana

Tlou Energy has generated its first power from coal bed methane (CBM) at its Lesdei development in Botswana following the installation of a gas generator at the Selemo pilot project. The Lesdei development has contingent gas resources of some 3.2tn cf.

According to Tlou’s Managing Director Tony Gilby: ‘First gas-to-power via CBM in Botswana is an extremely significant milestone… and in effect a proof of concept of “first gas monetisation”. This is the first power generated from CBM in the country. CBM gas is a cheaper and cleaner alternative to diesel generation and is significantly cleaner than coal fired power generation.’

Power required to run pumps and metering at the Selemo pilot had been supplied solely from diesel generators. However, a gas generator replaced one of the diesel generators, allowing gas produced from the Selemo pilot wells that was previously flared to now be redirected to the gas generator. Using this indigenous gas provides a saving to the company due to the reduced diesel requirement, effectively 'first gas monetisation', says Gilby. Tlou plans to replace another diesel generator in the near term which would provide further savings on diesel costs.

It is expected that the conversion of generation from diesel to gas will initially reduce the company's diesel requirement by approximately 50,000 litres per year. These savings should grow with time given that a second gas-to-power generation unit is planned to be installed.