First ship-to-shore LNG transfer using UTS realized

Spain-based LNG supplier Gas Natural Fenosa and Norwegian Connect LNG have together realized the first ever floating LNG ship-to-shore system at Herøya LNG terminal in Norway.

During the sea launch of the first full-scale and market-ready Universal Transfer System (UTS) on 7 October, the two companies carried out a complete operation, including transfer of LNG from Skangas’ LNG carrier ‘Coral Energy’ to the onshore Herøya.

The time from finalization of the detailed design to successful hook-up of the terminal took less than 6 months. The solution has been installed at the Herøya terminal one day after arrival from the dockyard, being in full operation the day after, which exemplifies the rapid deployment ability of the solution, the companies claim.

The UTS is a floating LNG transfer solution, consisting in a platform which can connect to any LNG carrier. LNG is then safely and efficiently transferred from the platform to the onshore terminal through floating flexible pipes.

    “The patented Universal Transfer System (UTS) is a game changing floating solution for LNG transfer between ship and shore, that replaces the need for cost and environmental intensive harbor and jetty structures. This solution allows for rapid expansion of the value chain and transfer of LNG at locations where it was previously not possible due to environmental and economic constraints,” Connect LNG explained.

As informed, the complete system has undergone an extensive classification process by DNV GL.