BOC has contracted Melbourne-based GLP Group to design and construct the supply chain infrastructure, including LNG road tankers and six refuelling stations.
The micro-LNG plant will include a 25-30 m offtake pipeline from the Tasmania Gas Pipeline. Gas will be processed and LNG will be stored at the facility and then transported for distribution throughout the state.
The LNG plant is expected to cost $A150 million and will have the capacity to produce 50 t/d, or the equivalent of 70,000 litres of conventional diesel.
LNG Refuellers, a consortium comprising seven Tasmanian transport operators, entered into an agreement with BOC in September 2008 for the supply of LNG fuel for over 120 natural gas powered heavy vehicles in Tasmania. The consortium comprises seven Tasmanian transport operators including: Chas Kelly Transport, KJ Padgett, Aprin Transport, Les Walkden Enterprises, Exeter Sawmill, Country Roadways and Kevin Morgan.
The plant will be the first new construction in the region’s proposed Trans Central and Industrial Hub, and is expected to come online in late May or early June 2010.