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Interview
In both projects , we ’ ve integrated our solutions into modular buildings , which can be constructed in fabrication yards , fully completed , and then shipped to the site .
Can you illustrate eLNG in application – based on an ABB reference ? Our first eLNG project was in Norway , where we were a key partner in developing Equinor ’ s Hammerfest project , which was completed in 2006 . This was the first offshore development in the Barents Sea , marking Europe ’ s first export facility and the world ’ s first all-electric LNG facility . The gas to the plant comes from subsea wells located offshore from Hammerfest with no surface installations , connected with a 160-kilometer pipeline from subsea to shore . ABB was responsible for the design , fabrication , integration , supply and commissioning of the plant ’ s main equipment , and installations of subsea technology . The outcome was a completely integrated automation system controlled from one central location , enabling safer and more reliable operation .
We are also currently collaborating with Glenfarne on its Texas LNG facility in Brownsville , which is nearing its final investment decision . We are supplying all the automation , electrical equipment , and digital solutions in fully modularized buildings . Upon completion , this project will be one of the most efficient eLNG projects in the country .
Looking ahead but more generally , with your expertise , what do you think is next for the LNG sector ? I believe modularization will become increasingly common in LNG designs . It ’ s important to remember that these projects are multi-billion-dollar undertakings , and many have recently experienced significant cost overruns . The need to mitigate risk and control costs is prompting more projects to rethink their development strategies .
Digital solutions will keep advancing , offering greater flexibility and efficiency at LNG facilities . We already use these solutions to predict equipment failures and optimize maintenance schedules . As digital technologies and AI continue to evolve , we will be able to further refine these processes .
As the benefits of eLNG become more widely recognized , I think we ’ ll see an increase in greenfield LNG projects adopting electrification . We are also likely to see some existing LNG projects transition to eLNG , particularly in countries like Australia due to stringent emissions requirements .
If there was one critical message , you ’ d like a reader to take from this piece , what would it be ? LNG is essential for our clean energy future due to its ability to work hand in hand with renewables . However , we must act now to capitalize on the opportunity presented by the electrification of LNG , and drive scale to reduce costs .
Are there any other areas that you consider important for the sector that you ’ d like to include ? Truly optimized LNG facilities are integrated from the outset . The value of partnerships in gaining momentum on these projects cannot be underestimated . Select key partners early and involve them in the design process to ensure that LNG projects are designed as efficiently as possible , using cohesive technology .
While liquefaction often grabs the headlines , regasification facilities , where LNG is offloaded , deserve equal attention . The energy in supercooled LNG can be harnessed effectively as it is warmed and returned to a gaseous state . This area requires more focus and development to fully leverage its potential . ■
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