LNG Canada project picks GE gas turbine-compressor technology

LNG Canada has selected GE’s high-efficiency LMS100-PB dry low emission (DLE) aeroderivative gas turbine as well as vertically and horizontally split centrifugal compressor technologies for its proposed gas liquefaction plant for the export of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in Kitimat, British Columbia.

The LMS100-PB is the largest aeroderivative gas turbine available with a free power turbine, ideally positioning it for large LNG applications.

With its aviation heritage and the introduction of intercooling technology, the LMS100 offers the highest simple-cycle efficiency of any industrial gas turbine, according to GE Oil & Gas officials.

“We are delighted that LNG Canada has selected our technology," said Rafael Santana, CEO of the turbomachinery business at GE Oil & Gas. "The unparalleled efficiency of the LMS100 turbine combined with our compressors, which build on more than 30 years of experience in LNG applications, makes us confident that the proposed configuration represents the simplest and most integrated solution currently available to the industry.

"Through its DLE technology, the LMS100-PB model will also provide best-in-class emissions for baseload operation," he added. "Selecting GE’s LMS100 technology helps LNG Canada support its environmental obligations to the Kitimat region."

Rated at 105 megawatts and 45% efficiency at ISO conditions, the LMS100-PB provides clear advantages in total cost of ownership.

The aerodynamically coupled free power turbine provides speed, flexibility and high torque for typical LNG compressor loads especially during start sequencing with pressurized conditions in the refrigeration loop, avoiding the need for starter/helper motors.

"The decision to power our facility with highly efficient natural gas turbines and compressors in combination with renewable electricity reflects our commitment to listen to and act on feedback from our stakeholders, when possible,” said Andy Calitz, CEO of LNG Canada.

“LNG Canada’s vision is to work collaboratively with First Nations, the local community and stakeholders to deliver a project that is safe, reliable and reflective of community interests," he added.

LNG Canada has selected natural gas turbines for the liquefaction process to minimize fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions. LNG Canada also recently signed a power agreement with BC Hydro to use clean, renewable electricity from BC Hydro for a portion of the electricity needed for the facility.

LNG Canada estimates the proposed facility will have a greenhouse gas emission intensity of about 0.15 ton CO2e/ton LNG produced, which is lower than benchmarks recently introduced by the British Columbia government and among the lowest CO2-emitting LNG facilities in the world.

While Tuesday’s announcement is an important step forward for the proposed LNG Canada project, LNG Canada says it must ensure the project is economically viable and meet several other significant milestones related to gas supply, engineering and cost estimates, supply of labor and regulatory approval prior to making a final investment decision.

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