EACOP opens thermal insulation plant to facilitate crude oil transport
The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) has opened up a high tech insulation plant that will facilitate the transportation of Uganda’s crude oil from the Albertine region to the port of Mwanza when the actual drilling starts next year.
This plant which is located in Sojo village, Nzega district, Tanzania was inaugurated on Tuesday by EACOP level one contractors and officials from partner states, Uganda represented by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa.
According to EACOP, the TIS plant receives all line pipes to be used in Tanzania and Uganda and it will apply thermal insulation to all 86,000-line pipe joints prior to their dispatch and installation along the route from Uganda to Tanzania.
Experts explained that the purpose of the insulation is similar to a thermos flask which retains the warmth of the fluid inside the pipe whilst simultaneously keeping the external environment cool.
Speaking at event, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa, commended EACOP.
"The inauguration of the Thermal Insulation Workshop signifies a significant milestone in the collective efforts by Tanzania and Uganda to strengthen energy infrastructure," Nankabirwa said.
She said that such initiative underscores both country’s commitment to enhancing energy security and promoting regional cooperation.
The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) and Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) also signed official land lease agreements concurrently with the inauguration event.
The Managing Director of EACOP, Martin Tiffen, revealed that the land leases and the production of thermally insulated pipe are two key precursors for construction activities starting along the right of way.
He said that following a ramp-up period, the workshop will boast an impressive production capacity of 110-117 kilometers of insulated line pipe per month.
“The establishment of this plant not only signifies technological advancement but also creates numerous employment opportunities within the region. During the construction phase, a total of 500 personnel on site were employed,” he said
Adding that “During the production phase, 270 workers will be involved in front line site activities, including running the thermal insulation production lines, pipe handling, logistics, maintenance and inspection. While personnel will be involved in supporting activities spanning various fields such as catering, camp operation, security and administration.”
Doto Mashaka Biteko, Tanzania's deputy prime minister and minister for eergy, reiterated that the Thermal Insulation Workshop is a testament to the country's commitment to advancing infrastructure capabilities, noting that it will not only facilitate efficient crude oil transportation but will also foster regional economic growth and development.
