Rolls of Naoetsu LNG Terminal in terms of Gas Supply Chain

Abstract

INPEX Corporation is building a stronger gas supply chain. It consists of Production, Liquefaction, Exports/Imports, Regasification and Distribution via Pipeline network. INPEX is leading Ichthys Project in Darwin, Australia. Production will start from 3Q in 2017. A shuttle LNG Carrier will be commenced to supply Ichthys LNG to Naoetsu LNG Terminal. Naoetsu LNG Terminal connects to both Minami-Nagaoka Gas Field and a pipeline network which covers the Kanto-Koshinetu region. From 2017, INPEX will blend Ichthys LNG with domestic gas to the pipeline network. At that point, INPEXs Gas Supply Chain will be completed. INPEX pipeline network connects to both Tokyo gas and Shizuoka gas pipeline networks. Their LNG receiving areas located along Pacific Ocean side. Their area is anticipating a tremendous earthquake within the next 30 years. For the purpose of maintaining the gas supply in such cases, INPEX, Tokyo gas and Shizuoka gas companies have concluded a gas supply sharing contract. Naoetsu LNG terminal was constructed to meet redundancy considerations. The terminal has two separate process lines and a backup system. Terminal operators must undergo emergency response drills monthly by using OTS (Operator Training Simulator). OTS was also useful for being familiar with LNG handling before the terminal commissioning. Those matters contribute to maintain normal operations. Naoetu LNG terminal aims to carry out Non-Stop Operations. INPEX pledges that Naoetu LNG Terminal will contribute to strengthening of the Japanese energy security.