Powering your progress
Virtual Pipelines
Acquiring an uninterruptible power source is a challenge for mines in remote locations. Generators running on diesel, heavy fuel oil or gas have been providing reliable power on mine sites for years. They are the go-to choice for safe and stable electricity in remote areas.
Gas power generation offers a greener and more cost-effective alternative to diesel and HFO, however, not every mine has an existing gas pipeline they can leverage. Even where a gas pipeline exists, insufficient supply during peak periods may be an issue hampering your mine production.
Our virtual gas power plants are the seamless solution that delivers power to you when such challenges arise.
What is a virtual pipeline?
A virtual pipeline is a substitute for a physical pipeline where gas that would typically be conveyed through a conventional gas pipeline is instead transported as LNG to the point of use by sea, road or rail. Where no gas pipeline or grid connection exists, the LNG or CNG virtual pipeline enables natural gas to be used as primary fuel for power generation using our modular generators. In addition, an LNG or CNG virtual pipeline can provide back-up fuel where natural gas pipeline capacity is limited.
For mines that aren’t connected to a physical pipeline and looking to switch to gas from diesel, the virtual pipeline model simply imitates their current supply solution. For users who are connected to a gas pipeline but are looking to supplement insufficient or unreliable pipeline capacity, the virtual power plant solution has several advantages over diesel as the system is simply using stored natural gas to augment pipeline natural gas and can use the same delivery system.
We are experts at designing, installing and operating off-grid virtual power plants, providing reliable energy so you can make progress. As mine sites explore further away from grids, we have the expertise and equipment necessary to meet your critical demand.
What is the difference between LNG and CNG?
CNG is methane that, through a multi-stage process, has been compressed to less than one percent of the volume it occupies at standard atmospheric pressure. LNG, while still composed of methane, undergoes a much more complex cryogenic process, bringing it to a liquid state.
The varying states of these two natural gas products make each more appropriate for certain applications. CNG is easier to produce and can be created at individual fuelling stations to be easily dispensed without the need for special storage equipment.
While LNG is an excellent way to transport large volumes of natural gas over great distances where pipelines don’t exist, it must be housed in special cryogenic storage facilities and tanks, resulting in higher production costs.
Here's how our virtual power plant solution can help:
- Transport LNG or CNG via road, rail or sea
- Stored on site for immediate use
- Mobile, modular power solutions can be scaled to fit your demand
- LNG or CNG can cut fuel costs when switching from diesel
- LNG or CNG reduces environmental impact
Speak to one of our specialists today to see if virtual power plant is the answer for you!