Liquefaction Processes and the Challenges with Floating LNG

The future of LNG and gas market developments has been a hot topic for a number of years and in 2015 we finally expect to see the first unit come into operation. It has been an exciting journey with many concepts and innovations developed to address technical, commercial and safety challenges. The developments have been driven by increased domestic energy demand, stranded gas reserves and a greater focus on reducing carbon emissions while improving energy diversity and security. The complex liquefaction processes on a vessel, combustive fluids, risk of cryogenic leakage, unproven technologies, combined with harsh offshore environments create risks that need to be addressed.

At the same time, the drive for floating solutions is changing. While demand grows and security of energy supplies continue to be a concern, uncertainty in oil and LNG prices, escalating development costs and a lack of infrastructure around smaller demand centers will fuel the need for smarter, cost-effective, standardized and fit-for-purpose FLNG solutions.

This paper draws on DNV GL’ s experience of FLNG projects as well as numerous innovation and joint industry projects managed globally. This presentation will assimilate findings of these projects and consider where the opportunities and challenges are today and in the future. The presentation will provide an overview of the following;

• Existing and forecast LNG production and regasification assets in South East Asia;
• Pros and Cons of different FLNG design options;
• Major Accident Events and other risk considerations with FLNG;
• Expected changes to current approaches – what could future FLNG projects look like