Operations

What We Do

The safe and reliable regasification of LNG is our primary purpose. LNG is pumped ashore into double walled, insulated tanks, where it is stored at approximately minus 160 degrees centigrade until being regasified. No refrigeration is required. The gas is kept in a liquid state through effective use of insulation, without applying additional pressure.

Regasification

Natural Gas

The LNG is converted back to natural gas through a process known as regasification. When natural gas is needed the LNG is passed through Submerged Combustion Vaporisers. Each Vaporiser includes a bundle of tubes housed in a bath of tepid water where the LNG is gently warmed to a point where it reverts to its gaseous state.

The natural gas is then fed into the National Transmission System (a network of gas pipelines which run throughout the UK). South Hook LNG Terminal has a total processing capacity of 15.6 million tonnes per annum, which is equivalent to around 20% of the current UK natural gas demand.

The South Hook LNG Terminal Jetty

At South Hook LNG Terminal, the kilometre-long jetty is capable of accommodating Q-Max and Q-Flex vessels, which are 80% larger than conventional LNG carriers.

Once the LNG vessel has berthed at the jetty, assisted by a dedicated tug fleet, the loading arms are attached to a manifold on the vessel and the cargo is then pumped ashore. Due to the nature of the articulated (hinged) loading arms, the rise and fall of the tide can be accommodated during the discharge process which can take up to 24 hours.