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New Portable LNG-to-Power Solution on Offer

Gravifloat

Published Oct 31, 2016 9:52 PM by The Maritime Executive

Singapore-based Sembcorp Marine subsidiary, Sembcorp Marine Rigs & Floaters, and Paris-based Engie have agreed to cooperate on the development of Sembcorp Marine’s proprietary technology for LNG-to-Power near-shore terminals.

The initial focus for Gravifloat will be small LNG power businesses with 10 to 300MW capacities.

Gravifloat solutions are steel-based modularized and floatable structures fixed to the seabed. The structures are re-floatable and can be redeployed to another location.

The GF-Design Platform can integrate with a variety of standard topsides to form a unit. Each unit can be operated as a standalone platform, or connected with other units, depending on the type of operation and scale required. The options include operation as a storage and regasification unit, a small-scale LNG power plant with CCGT plants, with integrated storage, regas and terminal functions, integrated LNG terminals and liquefaction plant and LNG export terminal and storage for redistribution and/or bunkering

Gravifloat modules are constructed and tested at Sembcorp Marine’s shipyards.

Since 2015, Sembcorp Marine and Engie have been discussing a Gravifloat three-in-one integrated solution for near-shore receiving, storage and regasification of LNG as well as power generation. 

“This agreement with Sembcorp Marine will enrich ENGIE's offerings to its customers with an additional innovative LNG-to-Power solution particularly well suited for harsh weather conditions and with a short time to market,” says Didier Holleaux, ENGIE Executive Vice President.

To meet future energy demand, it is estimated that around 7,200 gigawatts of new global capacity will be needed by 2040. Much of the demand will be driven by developing countries.

Due to cost and environmental advantages, LNG-fired power plants are an increasingly popular way for these countries to meet their growing energy demand. However, existing import terminal solutions are costly and inflexible, creating a barrier to LNG-powered energy.