Feasibility Study for the Reduction of LNG Transport Costs

To date, Italy does not have infrastructures that allow the storage of liquefied natural gas (LNG) at the main ports. Therefore, the national fuel market for long-haul vehicles is totally based on imports from European countries such as France, the Netherlands and Spain. This situation generates a high transport cost of LNG. In order to reduce these costs, research was carried out on the possibility of developing bio-LNG production directly on our territory. Its production derives from the liquefaction of the refined biogas produced from urban organic waste. To achieve this objective, the possibility of having its own liquefaction plants was assessed. Furthermore, the impacts that the presence of liquefactors distributed throughout the country would have on logistics were analyzed. The study shows that there is a convenience for fuel wholesalers to cut LNG transportation costs. In addition, an analysis supports the economic feasibility in the realization of a liquefactor, the evaluation of the investment being positive, despite the presence of numerous risks. In conclusion, this initiative brings multiple advantages, including greater respect for the environment, a reduction in the length of the logistics chain and transport costs.