ZMS CABLE has entered into a partnership with global engineering firm Worley to supply the cable infrastructure for the East African Crude Oil Pipeline project (EACOP, for its acronym in English). This collaboration aims to provide essential support for energy distribution in the region through the EACOP project, which is expected to play a key role in the development of the energy sector in East Africa.
Table of Contents
- EACOP Project
- ZMS CABLE y Worley: Strategic Partners in the EACOP Project
- ZMS CABLE Perspective
- Impact of the EACOP Project
- Addressing the Challenges
- Future Outlook
- Additional Resources or Contact Information
EACOP Project
The East African Crude Oil Pipeline Project (EACOP) represents a monumental infrastructure development designed to transport oil from the Lake Albert oil fields in Uganda to the world market via the port of Tanga in Tanzania. Extended for more than 1,443 kilometres, EACOP traverses from Kabaale in the Hoima district of Uganda to the Chongoleani peninsula near the port of Tanga in Tanzania, with the route mainly (80%) within the borders of Tanzania. This buried and thermally insulated pipeline 24 inches is complemented by six pumping stations (two in Uganda and four in Tanzania) culminating in a terminal and pier in Tanga where the crude oil will be loaded onto tankers for international distribution.
EACOP is not just a pipeline; is a strategic initiative to unlock the economic potential of Uganda's natural resources, with a significant investment of approximately $4 billion in Uganda and Tanzania. This investment is anticipated to generate substantial economic benefits., including infrastructure development, logistics improvement, technology transfer and livelihood improvement for communities along its path. The project thus creates a new economic corridor between Uganda and Tanzania, promoting regional development and cooperation.
Through its strategic design and commitment to sustainability, EACOP aims to redefine energy infrastructure in East Africa, establishing a reference for future projects in the region.
ZMS CABLE y Worley: Strategic Partners in the EACOP Project
ZMS Manufacturer
Laid on 1990, ZMS Cable Company specializes in the production and supply of a wide range of cable products, with a portfolio that exceeds 10,000 articles. The company operates internationally, serving cable distributors, electrical wholesalers and various companies in 183 countries. The participation of ZMS CABLE Company in the East African Crude Oil Pipeline project (EACOP) involves supplying essential cable infrastructure, reflecting the company's ability to support large-scale infrastructure projects through its wide range of products and international service network.
Worley Europa Ltd
Worley Europa Ltd, with more than five decades of experience, offers engineering services in multiple sectors, including energy, resources and infrastructure. The company employs around 50,000 Specialist in 45 countries, delivering solutions in areas such as urban and coastal infrastructure, wastewater management and energy production, including renewables. For the EACOP project, Worley's role includes providing engineering services to facilitate the construction and operation phases, leveraging its global experience to address the technical and logistical challenges of the project.
Collaboration between ZMS CABLE and Worley
The collaboration between ZMS CABLE Company and Worley on the East African Crude Oil Pipeline project (EACOP) is aimed at addressing the unique challenges posed by transporting Ugandan crude oil. Characterized by its viscous and waxy nature, Ugandan crude oil requires specific conditions for transportation—mainly, maintain a minimum temperature of 50°C to ensure flow. To achieve this, The EACOP pipeline will be insulated and equipped with an electric heating system along its 1,443 km long from Uganda to Tanzania.
The electric heating system is vital to maintain the crude oil at the required operating temperature. In Uganda, The electricity needed for this heating will be obtained mainly from the country's hydroelectric stations., using the Uganda National Network. By contrast, Tanzanian segment will get power from its national grid, complemented by EACOP's own power generation facilities, including an innovative combination of solar energy, generators and battery storage solutions. This approach not only ensures the operational efficiency of the pipeline but also highlights a commitment to the integration of renewable energy sources where feasible..
ZMS CABLE Paper
ZMS CABLE's role in this partnership extends to supplying a wide range of cables and cable accessories necessary for the pipeline power system. This includes a variety of cables designed to meet specific heating system requirements., ensuring the continued and efficient operation of the pipeline. All cables and accessories will be designed and manufactured in the ZMS factories, ensuring that each product meets the high standards required for project success.
This partnership underscores the synergy between ZMS CABLE Company's manufacturing capabilities and Worley's engineering expertise.. Together, are prepared to provide a robust solution to one of the project's critical technical challenges—keeping Uganda's crude oil flowing through varied geographic and climatic conditions.. The strategic use of electric heating, powered by a combination of grid and renewable energy sources, exemplifies the project's innovative approach to overcoming the logistical and environmental challenges associated with crude oil transportation.
ZMS CABLE Perspective
“It is an honor for our company to work alongside Worley in providing the cable products for the EACOP project.. This partnership not only exemplifies our commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure solutions, but also highlights our role in supporting significant developments within the energy sector. We are proud to contribute to a project that promises substantial economic and social benefits for East Africa,” Xu said., project manager at ZMS CABLE.
Impact of the EACOP Project
Economic Growth and National Development
The construction of the EACOP Pipeline is expected to generate considerable economic benefits, including increases in tax revenue for both host governments. This influx of funds is anticipated to support various national development initiatives, further improving the economic landscape of the region.
Substantial Foreign Direct Investment
With a capital investment of approximately $4 billion, The EACOP project represents one of the largest foreign direct investments in the history of Uganda and Tanzania. This substantial financial commitment underlines the scale of the project and its potential to catalyze economic transformation within both countries., marking a significant milestone in their development narratives.
Improvement of the Central Commercial Corridor
EACOP project expected to improve central trade corridor between Uganda and Tanzania, facilitating the development of improved road infrastructure, modern logistics and communications networks, including the implementation of optical fibre wires. This improvement is expected to streamline trade and communication between the two countries., contributing to the broader economic integration of the East African region.
Employment opportunities
The construction phase of the EACOP pipeline is projected to create employment opportunities in the short term (that cover 2-3 years) for both skilled and semi-skilled professionals, together with casual labor obtained locally from each district. Besides, The operational phase will see the training and deployment of operators and technicians, encouraging job creation and skills development within local communities.
Addressing the Challenges
Since the beginning, the East African Crude Oil Pipeline project (EACOP) has faced inquiries regarding its possible impacts on residential areas and the environment, raising concerns that could pose significant challenges to your progression. Recognizing these concerns, EACOP is committed to acting with maximum responsibility and transparency, especially in addressing social and environmental issues that may arise from the implementation of the project.
Compliance and Protective Measures
EACOP is committed to strictly adhere to the legal standards set by Uganda and Tanzania, as well as comply with the Performance Standards of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), that outline global best practices for environmental protection and community engagement. This commitment underscores EACOP's dedication to minimizing its footprint and ensuring the well-being of ecosystems and communities along the pipeline route..
The project has taken proactive measures to avoid sensitive areas, ensuring the pipeline does not cross Lake Victoria, cross IUCN categorized sites, chimpanzee habitats or areas known for significant populations of big game. Approximately the 8% of the length of the pipeline passes through designated areas, primarily along boundaries already impacted by human activity, like agriculture.
Security and Monitoring Protocols
To ensure the integrity of the pipeline, EACOP will implement international standards for design and construction, including extensive pressure testing and the installation of block valves for isolation in case of leaks. A cutting-edge monitoring system, equipped with fiber optic sensors along the pipeline, will allow real-time detection of temperature changes or vibrations, facilitating a quick response to any potential problems.
Recognizing the rare possibility of oil spills, EACOP has developed a comprehensive oil spill contingency plan. This plan covers strategies to manage leaks along the pipeline, surface facilities and export facilities. The viscous nature of crude oil means it solidifies quickly when exposed to the environment., reducing the risk of widespread contamination. In case of a spill, Remediation efforts will be initiated immediately to restore affected areas to their original state.
Besides, los industrial cables that ZMS CABLE Company will supply for the EACOP project are essential to the electric heating system that keeps the oil flowing. This ensures reliable operation and quick response capability of the electrical system..
Future Outlook
The collaboration between ZMS CABLE Company and Worley on the EACOP project is set to set a benchmark for future infrastructure ventures in East Africa and beyond. By strengthening energy security, promote economic growth and facilitate regional cooperation, This partnership not only addresses immediate energy needs but also lays the foundation for sustainable development and technological innovation. Looking forward, The experience and knowledge gained from the EACOP project is expected to inspire additional collaborative efforts, driving advances in energy infrastructure and environmental management throughout the region.
Additional Resources or Contact Information
For more information on the East African Crude Oil Pipeline project (EACOP), or to learn about the roles of ZMS CABLE and Worley in this transformative initiative, Please see the following resources: