A new LNG storage and regasification barge concept was recently introduced by Wärtsilä, providing a flexible means of meeting small[ds_preview] to medium scale requirements where pure land-based LNG options are limited. Wärtsilä’s Marine Solutions and Energy Solutions businesses have combined their expertise in developing the concept.
The Wärtsilä Mobile LNG can easily be combined with a barge-mounted power plant having an output capacity of up to 250MW, the company informed. Alternatively, it can be used to supply conventional land-based power plants. According to the company, the Wärtsilä Mobile LNG solution will make LNG available to new consumer segments, and will benefit both utilities and end-users. Most especially, the flexibility of location can bring clean energy to areas that have only limited or no access to the national electricity grid.
As the engine manufacturer stated, the Mobile LNG has been developed for challenging locations where pipelines and large-scale LNG receiving terminals are not feasible, or where the quantities of LNG needed are smaller. It represents a solution for shallow water areas where access for larger vessels would not be possible without major jetty constructions or dredging operations. Compared to constructing conventional land-based terminals in difficult soil conditions and areas with an undeveloped infrastructure, the barge can represent a significantly lower capital investment and faster delivery. Furthermore, being mobile, it can be easily re-located giving it a high resale value.
