Managing Jetty Boil-Off Gas for More Sustainable LNG Export Terminals

Abstract

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is a key component in the global energy mix, offering a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Managing boil-off gas (BOG) at export terminals, however, presents significant challenges. If not properly managed, BOG can compromise safety, waste resources, and pollute the environment. This study evaluates strategies for BOG management, including integrating jetty BOG into the fuel system, minimizing BOG generation through LNG subcooling, and BOG liquefaction. Detailed simulations and economic evaluations confirmed that all strategies are profitable. Liquefaction using recirculating LNG is the most effective, increasing LNG output by 1.62% and yielding an annual profit of $28.50 million. Other successful strategies include liquefaction in separate and existing cycles, which increase LNG by 1.38% and 1.36%, resulting in annual profits of $23.50 million and $23.84 million, respectively. Integrating the jetty BOG into the fuel system also results in a 0.63% increase in LNG, generating $11.01 million annually. Subcooling using a main cryogenic heat exchanger and nitrogen prestorage boosts LNG production by 0.53% and 0.45%, with profits of $9.25 million and $5.93 million, respectively. These strategies not only enhance LNG production and profitability but also optimize resource use and reduce environmental impacts, thus supporting broader sustainability goals.