Due to the energy density compressed in LNG and the weight of the service technologies, LNG is a suitable source of gas. In countries with a developed gas pipeline network, there is only limited potential for the development of LNG as a source of gas. However, there are specific applications. We have identified space for multi-purpose use of LNG equipment, providing the client with more energy options.
Possible uses:
- Fuel for power plants. The supply of energy to power plants using LNG is widely used throughout Japan – the power plant in Yokohama is powered by liquefied natural gas supplied from tankers from Alaskan deposits.
- Supply of natural gas to end customers. LNG is used as an alternative to gas supplied through traditional pipelines. In some countries, it is a method of diversifying sources of gas supply and ensuring energy independence.
- Supply of gas to customers who were not previously connected to the gas network (distribution) – the so-called. “White spaces”. Usually, one or more large industrial customers are connected to the LNG station, while the rest are smaller municipal customers.
- Gas supply to small and medium-sized towns, where fuel is supplied from “LNG satellite plants”, which in turn obtain liquefied natural gas from larger plants at liquefaction. Examples of such solutions can be found in Germany and the United Kingdom.
- Ability to limit the peak: during the start-up and extinguishing of calcine furnaces, which causes an immediate decrease in gas volume. Optimization of reserved gas capacity (D-max) ensures significant savings.
Supply of gas to customers who are temporarily cut off from gas supplies from the pipeline, for example due to the need to carry out repairs or protection of the transmission network. The use of LNG allows customers to supply gas seamlessly. The solution is also implemented in France.