Optimize an integrated natural gas production and distribution network

D. Aluma and N. Thijssen, Shell International Exploration and Production, The Hague, The Netherlands; K. M. Nauta and C. C. Pantelides, Process Systems Enterprise Ltd., London, UK; and N. Shah, Imperial College London, London, UK Gathering significant volumes of natural gas usually involves connecting to wells in different oil and/or gas fields that can be spread across vast geographical areas. Supplying processed gas and associated liquids, such as LPG and NGL, to consumers often requires an extensive network of degassing stations, compressor stations, pipelines and gas processing plants, as well as storage facilities and shipping terminals for the liquids. Natural gas networks have pecul