Amber Grid, a natural gas transmission system operator that forms a part of the state-owned group of energy transmission and exchange companies EPSO-G, completed a project of the modernisation of gas transmission system node that is significant for internal and international gas flows transmission. Investments in the three-year renewal of Panevėžys Compressor Station amount to 5.6 million EUR (VAT excluded). Half of the funds were attracted from the EU Structural Funds. The upgrading of the station is important for ensuring the safety and reliability of the natural gas transmission system of Lithuania and the Baltic region.
“The modernization of the gas transmission facilities managed by Amber Grid is crucial for the efficiency we are seeking and technological progress. After applying modern technologies, the only such compressor station in Lithuania, that was built almost half a century ago, already works more efficiently, pollutes less and helps to operate the gas transmission system in a more flexible manner“, says Andrius Dagys, the Technical Director of Amber Grid. According to him, from now on the main technological parameters and information about the malfunctions are generated automatically and presented on the computers of the station operators.
The fuel injection system was upgraded in Panevėžys Compressor Station: the manually operated valves were replaced by an electronic system. Also, modern equipment was installed increasing the operational efficiency and reliability of the stations, and reducing ambient air pollution. The new equipment replaced the one that had been operating in the station since its installation in 1974. The main systems of the station are now controlled automatically.
The modern technologies that were installed in Panevėžys are widely used in the USA. During the project, some of the equipment was delivered from US suppliers, who, together with European experts, advised a team of Amber Grid specialists during its installation. The primary results obtained after the modernization of the equipment indicate that the compressor units use much less fuel and emit less pollutants into the environment. After the modernization of the control, fuel injection into the system is dosed as needed, and at low loads, part of the engine is automatically disconnected.
The compressor station, operating on the northern side of Lithuania, is an important part of the main gas pipeline infrastructure – compressors increase the pressure of natural gas when it is insufficient for proper transportation. Gas with the increased pressure can be diverted from Panevėžys to Vilnius, Klaipėda and Latvia. This station is especially important in ensuring cross-border gas flows at the gas connection with Latvia - both to Lithuania and Latvia. After constructing pipeline interconnection with Poland and as a regional gas market is being formed, cross-border flows will be even higher. Consequently, the importance of the use of Panevėžys Compressor Station and its efficiency will also increase.
