Amber Grid, the gas transmission system operator, has completed the reconstruction of sections of the Vilnius-Kaunas gas pipeline, one of the most important gas transmission arteries in Lithuania. The project cost more than EUR 13 million and involved the relining of almost 17 km of gas pipeline sections in Kaunas and Kaišiadorys districts.
"The reconstruction of parts of the Vilnius-Kaunas gas pipeline was one of Amber Grid's largest works this year. We undertook this project to ensure greater safety for the residents of Kaunas and Kaišiadorys districts. The rehabilitation of certain sections of the pipeline also improved the conditions for local residents to develop their activities near the main gas pipeline. Normally, the presence of a gas pipeline in the neighbourhood imposes certain restrictions on activities, but understanding the needs of the population, we have reduced the requirements by installing more safety features on the pipeline," says Nemunas Biknius, CEO of Amber Grid.
The reconstruction of the gas pipeline sections was carried out by two companies. MT Group, a developer of energy and industrial infrastructure, reconstructed almost 15 km of the main gas pipeline in the territory of Kaunas district municipality. And DS-1, a contracting company, upgraded a 2 km section of gas pipeline in Kaišiadorys district.
Parts of the Vilnius-Kaunas main gas pipeline are being upgraded to ensure safe and uninterrupted gas supply and the safety of people living and working in the vicinity. The reconstructed sections pass through urban and industrial areas of Kaunas and Kaišiadorys districts. The work included the installation of a new pipeline, an upgraded remote data transmission system and a modern cathodic protection system. Special troughs were installed to protect the pipeline under railways and motorways.
As well as connecting Lithuania's two largest cities, the new pipeline is part of the Lithuanian gas transmission ring and is therefore important for ensuring gas flows in all directions. As Lithuania has become a regional gas transport hub in recent years and transports very large volumes of gas, it is important to ensure reliable gas transport towards EU Member States, taking into account market needs.
The reconstruction of a section of the gas pipeline, which is important for international gas flows, also includes the installation of innovative corrosion rate sensors and a SCADA system that will allow remote data to be used to draw conclusions about the condition of the pipeline. Adequate protection of pipelines against corrosion is an essential measure to ensure the safety and reliability of the gas pipeline system.
