Lithuania’s gas transmission system is becoming even more efficient – the gas transmission system operator Amber Grid, together with MT Group, has signed a contract for the installation of the first electric gas compressor at the Jauniūnai Compressor Station. The contract is valued at €30.9 million (€37.4 million including VAT). The works will last 42 months and will begin in September this year.
Under the agreement, design and construction works will be carried out, including the installation of an integrated electric gas compressor with a capacity of around 5 MW, along with all associated equipment. A new high-voltage power line will also be built from Širvintos to the Jauniūnai Compressor Station to ensure the required electrical capacity.
"Efficient technology will help reduce gas transmission costs and emissions, provide greater system flexibility, and ensure reliable regional gas flows. The electricity required for the compressor’s operation will come from renewable energy sources operating in Lithuania," said Amber Grid CEO Nemunas Biknius.
This new solution will enable flexible operation, adapting the compressor to actual gas flows and avoiding excess energy consumption. Moreover, replacing gas-powered units with an electric compressor will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions (CO₂, methane, nitrogen oxides) and particulate matter. As fossil fuels will no longer be burned, technological gas losses will also decrease.
"We will install a 5 MW electric gas compressor along with all necessary infrastructure – from a 15 km high-voltage power line to modern control systems. The new compressor will run on electricity with zero direct emissions, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases and enhancing system reliability and flexibility," said Mindaugas Zakaras, CEO of MT Group.
The project will also generate significant social and environmental benefits: lower emissions will contribute to climate change mitigation, noise levels will be reduced in and around the Jauniūnai Compressor Station, and modern equipment will ensure a more reliable operation of the gas transmission system in the future.
"Once implemented, the new electric compressor will make the system more flexible, allowing operation in various modes and enabling us to respond to market needs in the most efficient way. The project is scheduled for completion by the second quarter of 2029, when the new compressor is expected to become operational," added Amber Grid CEO Nemunas Biknius.
This project is not only strategically important but also financially viable – it has been coordinated with the National Energy Regulatory Council (VERT) and, depending on gas flow forecasts, is expected to contribute to the reduction of natural gas transmission tariffs.
Amber Grid and MT Group are also working together on other large-scale energy infrastructure projects – including the modernisation of gas shut-off devices in six municipalities and the reconstruction of the Elektrėnai gas distribution station.
