Netherlands Explores Options to Boost LNG Import Capacity

SEATTLE (Oil Monster): The Netherlands transmission system operator NV Nederlandse Gasunie announced plans to explore options to boost liquefied natural gas (LNG) import capacity, in a bid to meet rising future demand.

According to Marie-Lou Gregoire, spokesperson for Gasunie, it sees no possibilities whatsoever for gas shortage this winter as well as forthcoming winters. Based on this assumption, it has recommended the Dutch government to step up imports of LNG into the country.

In response, Rob Jetten, Dutch Climate and Energy Minister, in his speech in the Parliament last week, noted that the government is looking at further expansion of LNG capacity. Furthermore, it clarified that it has already started negotiations with Dutch regional grid operators and gas transport networks on building additional import facilities.

The two floating storage and regasification units (FSRU) for the Eemshaven LNG facility coupled with the expanded Gate terminal onshore in Rotterdam have helped the Netherlands to double its annual import capacity to 24 billion cubic meters (Bcm). In addition, Gasunie had recently received permit to add a fourth tank to the Gate terminal to boost its regas capacity to 20 Bcm/y.