Yamal LNG, a flagship liquefaction project in the Russian Arctic, will have uninterrupted power supply through 50 of AEG Power’s Protect 8 three-phase units, based on double-conversion/topology. First LNG production at the Novatek-led project is targeted in 2017.
The UPS units (400 V AC in/384 V DC out) will ensure safe operation of high-performance equipment at the Yamal LNG plant in challenging climate conditions. “Protect 8 UPS system has a proven track record of operation in most challenging environments.” John Ferriman, VP global industry sales said, pointing out the “rich experience” of AEG Power Solutions, held by 3W Power.
Operating in an ice-bound region
Located above the Arctic Circle, Yamal LNG will tap the vast gas resources of the Russian Arctic, while opening a new LNG sea transport route to Asia using ice-class LNG carriers. However, the region that is ice-bound for seven to nine months during the year, ensuring stable onsite electricity is vital for the success of the overall project.
Logistics to set up the overall Yamal LNG project are challenging. The port of Sabetta will take delivery of 150 modules representing 450,000 metric tons, transported from Asia by some 20 vessels. The port will also serve to export the LNG.
Receiving 1st tranche of financing
First LNG from the Yamal liquefaction plant is targeted in 2017. Yamal LNG partner Total claims that the entire LNG production from the project has been sold to European and Asian customers through 15- to 20-year contracts.
Novatak is spearheading the implementation of the 16.5 mtpa liquefaction project, based on the resources of the South-Tambeyskoye gas field. Russia’s Novatak holds the lion’s share (50.1%) in the project, a further 20% is held by Total and CNPC each and China’s state investment vehicle – the Silk Road Fund – holds the remaining 9.9%.
The first €450 million tranche of financing for Yamal LNG was provided by China’s Exim bank in late June, shortly after Sberbank and Gazprombank together freed up €1 billion as part of a total loan worth €3.6 billion. Russia’s VEB is providing limited debt guarantees.