Spring 2008 Issue
[May 2008] Presented by Martin Mayer, CB& I Director of LNG Technology.
On the 19 February Mr Mayer gave a very interesting and informative lecture to an audience of 102. This lecture covered the UK's energy position and the role that LNG plays in supporting our energy supplies and the technology utilised in the supply and storage of the liquefied gas .
He commenced his lecture by reviewing the UK's energy consumption data, in particular the continued increase in the demand for Gas. Electricity demand is also expected to grow over the next 20 years and as current government policy, driven by the low level of gas plant emissions, is to utilise gas CCGT and CHP plants demand for Gas will also increase. These plants generate 34% of current demand and several existing Fossil fuel and nuclear plants will close within the next ten years, many long before any new nuclear plants will come on line.Renewable generating capacity will increase, but is not projected to reach much more than 10% of demand.
The supply of natural gas by pipeline into the UK will not be able to meet forecast demand by 2010/12 thus LNG import is the only viable solution.
LNG, natural gas cooled to -161 deg C is a Non Toxic Easily Transportable solution.
Its volume reduction to Natural Gas is 1:600, thus it is efficient to transport.
Currently there are four major LNG storage sites, CB&I are now constructing new sites incorporating the latest technology in the build, tanks now have a capacity of 190,000 m3 each tank has a diameter of 92.4 meters and a height of 50.4 meters. Each tank is constructed with primary containment in 9% nickel steel with full concrete secondary containment.
Mr Mayer concluded his lecture by answering several questions from the audience.
Bob Stannard
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