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The construction stage of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline Project (EACOP Project) has achieved another key milestone following the inauguration of the Thermal Insulation Plant (TIS Plant) in Nzega district in Tanzania.

The TIS Plant which receives all line pipes to be used in Tanzania and Uganda is constructed and operated by one of EACOP Ltd Level One Contractors, WASCO ISOAF

Located in Sojo village, Nzega district in the Tabora region, the plant will apply thermal insulation to all 86,000-line pipe joints before their dispatch and installation along the route from Uganda to Tanzania.

Nankabirwa and Tanzania's delegates at the EACOP Thermal Insulation Plant located in Sojo, Nzega district in Tanzania. (Photo credit: EACOP)

The EACOP is a pipeline that will transport oil produced from Lake Albert oilfields to the port of Tanga in Tanzania where the oil will then be sold onwards to world markets.

EACOP runs 1,443km from Kabaale in Hoima district in Uganda to the Chongoleani Peninsula near Tanga Port in Tanzania.

 Tanzania will have 80% of the buried thermally insulated pipeline.

The project will have six pumping stations (two in Uganda and four in Tanzania) ending at Tanga with a Terminal and Jetty where the crude oil will be loaded onto tankers.

A release from EACOP states that the purpose of the insulation similar to a thermos flask is to retain the warmth of the fluid inside the pipe whilst simultaneously keeping the external environment cool.

On Tuesday, March 26th, Ruth Nankabirwa, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development and Dr Doto Mashaka Biteko, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, United Republic of Tanzania joined other political leaders of the two countries plus Martin Tiffen EACOP Managing Director for the colourful launch at the TIS Plant.

Following a ramp-up period, the workshop will boast an impressive production capacity of 110-117 kilometres of insulated line pipe per month. Production is slated to commence immediately and continue into 2025.

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. 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. The remaining personnel are involved in supporting activities spanning various fields such as catering, camp operation, security and administration.

"The Thermal Insulation Workshop is a key milestone on our journey to construct the infrastructure that will safely transport the oil from Uganda’s Lake Albert region to international markets. The TIS plant embodies our commitment to safety, operational excellence and sustainability, combining talents from Tanzania and internationally, and creating employment and up-skilling opportunities both nationally and for communities in the vicinity,” remarked Tiffen the EACOP Managing Director

“We are proud to inaugurate the Thermal Insulation Workshop, a testament to our dedication to advancing infrastructure capabilities. This workshop will not only facilitate efficient crude oil transportation but also foster economic growth and development within the region," remarked Dr. Biteko at the launch

In the same breath, Nankabirwa commended that “the inauguration of the Thermal Insulation Workshop signifies a significant milestone in our collective efforts to strengthen energy infrastructure. This initiative underscores our commitment to enhancing energy security and promoting regional cooperation.”

EACOP Managing Director explains details about the Thermal Insulation Plant. (Photo credit: EACOP)

On the same day, EACOP and Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) signed land lease agreements following the completion of the land acquisition and compensation process.

The land leases and the production of thermally insulated pipe are two key precursors for construction activities starting along the right of way.

A related post from the Petroleum Authority Uganda (PAU) states that "this facility serves as the pivotal site where EACOP pipes transported from the coast will undergo essential thermal insulation and external protective coating before their deployment. Following this process, the insulated pipes will then embark on their journey from the Coating Yard to the Main Camps and Pipe Yards."