Better air quality from LNG fuel

Wesfarmers Energy Limited today celebrated the official opening of its 175 tonne-per-day liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant in Kwinana by The Hon. Peter Collier, Minister for Energy.

LNG is a cheaper alternative fuel to diesel and the production plant has expanded its availability in Western Australia as a fuel for the heavy-duty vehicle (HDV), industrial gas and remote power generation markets.

Wesfarmers Energy’s Managing Director, Tim Bult said LNG should become an essential fuel within the overall energy mix in Australia and will also play a key role in reducing carbon pollution emission levels.

"Recent Australian Government sponsored testing of a 15 Litre LNG powered engine produced 25% less greenhouse gas emissions (CO2-e) than the equivalent diesel engine. Air quality is also improved by the use of LNG fuel in engines with a significant reduction in particulate matter and nitrous oxide emissions," said Mr Bult.

The plant is currently supporting 130 heavy duty vehicles, two remote power stations and a large industrial customer. With capacity to expand, Wesfarmers LNG is ready to deliver cheaper operating costs to industry.

The $137 million project is the result of persistent effort and innovation during a development period which extended for several years.

"Early work involved the establishment of a pilot plant, commercial customer trials and working with industry to help adapt HDV engine technology to suit Australian standards," said Mr Bult.

Development work to date has included demonstrating the product, understanding customer requirements and assessing supply locations and demand requirements.

The plant, commissioned in September 2008 was delivered on budget, but was delayed due to the Varanus Island incident.