Energy conservation: Argentina offers virtual pipeline technology

ISLAMABAD:

In response to Pakistan’s initiative to monetise unutilised gas to reduce loadshedding, the government of Argentina has offered a virtual pipeline technology to transport natural gas. In this regard, the Ambassador of Argentina Rodolfo Martin Saravia arranged a presentation at the embassy on Thursday.

GNC Galileo SA, a leading company in compressed natural gas (CNG) technologies, has proposed to introduce the technology through which gas will be transported by road from the source to the end customer at a lower cost than any other alternative fuel.

“The project is a demonstration of Argentina’s concern and commitment to help Pakistan in overcoming its current energy problems,” said the ambassador.

He added that Galileo’s technology presents a safe and efficient, end to end solution including well-head compression, processing, storage, transportation and dispensing.

The technology is proven in over 20 projects commissioned in 12 countries worldwide, the latest being in Sabah, Malaysia.

Explaining the technology, the ambassador said it delivers natural gas by storing it in specially designed and manufactured containers which maintain the required pressure and temperature. The containers are then transported by prime movers from the source to customers.

“The technology is so safe that it allows natural gas to be transported through residential areas and busy markets,” he said.

It is better than all alternative options of transportation of natural gas, such as open cylinders on the back of a truck which are not only unsafe but inefficient as well. Virtual pipeline’s flexibility allows suppliers to shift deliveries between customers whenever needed, the ambassador added.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 18^th, 2012.