LNGterminals

LNG terminals are facilities designed to handle liquefied natural gas and to serve as points in the LNG supply chain for either import or export of gas. They may be located onshore or offshore, and some operate as floating units such as floating storage and regasification units (FSRUs) or floating LNG production units (FLNGs).

Onshore LNG terminals come in two main forms. Import terminals receive LNG from LNG carriers, unload it into insulated storage tanks, regasify the LNG, and feed natural gas into the local or national gas grid. Export terminals liquefy natural gas, store LNG, and load it onto LNG carriers for shipment to overseas markets. Each type combines storage, handling, and processing equipment with interfaces to pipeline networks or vessel loading facilities.

Floating terminals provide similar functions at sea. FSRUs regasify LNG at sea and deliver gas ashore, while FLNG facilities produce LNG at the site and load it onto carriers. These floating solutions can reduce the need for coastal land infrastructure and offer flexible deployment.

Key equipment and features common to LNG terminals include cryogenic storage tanks, boil-off gas management systems, regasification or liquefaction facilities, loading and unloading berths, and connections to gas pipelines or maritime routes. Safety and environmental controls are central, with gas detection, emergency shutdown systems, exclusion zones, and mitigation measures for potential spills or releases.

Location and regulatory considerations are important, including proximity to gas demand, supply sources, port access, and compliance with safety, environmental, and energy policy regimes. Globally, LNG terminals support energy security and market diversification, and their development varies with technological advances and commodity demand.