GasMeth Energy Ltd has announced an additional investment of Rwf230 billion in its ongoing methane gas extraction and processing project on Lake Kivu, bringing the total investment to more than Rwf810 billion.
The first phase of the project, valued at Rwf521 billion, focuses on extracting and processing methane gas for both domestic and industrial use. According to Stephen Tierney, GasMeth’s Chief Executive Officer, the overall project budget is projected at $560 million, with the first phase accounting for approximately $360 million.
“At this stage, most of the lake and onshore infrastructure is complete, and offshore construction has already begun,” Tierney said. “The main barge hull is currently being fabricated, along with pumps, compressors, and other essential long-lead equipment.”
Once fully operational—expected by 2027—the plant will produce 40 million cubic feet of gas per day, helping to meet Rwanda’s rising demand for cooking gas and automotive fuels, while also reducing reliance on imported energy sources.
The project, initiated in 2019 through a partnership between GasMeth Energy and the Government of Rwanda, faced earlier delays due to funding challenges and global supply chain disruptions.
“To secure financing, we first had to obtain long-term agreements with confirmed gas off-takers, which was a time-consuming process,” Tierney explained. “Additionally, sourcing key international equipment took longer than expected due to supply chain bottlenecks.”
Despite these challenges, Tierney confirmed that the project is now advancing steadily, supported by the Government of Rwanda and a consortium of international financiers led by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank).
“We anticipate a reliable and affordable supply of cooking gas, automotive fuels, and industrial gas once production begins,” Tierney added. “The project will contribute to lower CO₂ emissions, improved air quality, and a reduced dependence on wood and charcoal—major drivers of deforestation in the region.”
Currently, around 250 workers are employed directly and indirectly by the project, with that figure expected to grow to 600–800 workers in 2026 as construction activity peaks.
Located in Bwishyura Sector, Karongi District, the plant began preliminary work in 2022 and is set to supply gas to Rwandan households by 2027. This development is expected to provide a cheaper and cleaner alternative to imported liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
According to the 2024 Integrated Household Living Conditions Survey (EICV7), 75% of Rwandan households still rely on firewood for cooking, 18.8% use charcoal, and only 5.4% depend on gas, biogas, or electricity.
Rwanda currently operates two methane gas plants—KivuWatt and Shema Power Lake Kivu. GasMeth Energy’s facility will become the third operational methane extraction project on Lake Kivu, further strengthening the nation’s commitment to sustainable energy development.
