Alternative fuels in European transport

European mobility and transport still rely heavily on imported oil. The European Commission has taken several measures to reduce oil dependency of transport while cutting greenhouse gas emissions. The promotion of alternative fuels such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) is a core component of this strategy. Together with a well-known technology partner, Bilfinger now enables local LNG production where the fuel is really needed. 

“Our Small Scale LNG plants make it possible to use various gas sources to produce LNG. We also offer pre-treatment of gas and natural gas liquefaction technology, LNG trailer loading stations and refueling stations. Moreover, the modular design helps to achieve a short delivery time and minimum construction work onsite,” says Michael Löffelmann, Executive President of Bilfinger's Engineering & Technologies division. Bilfinger thus delivers integrated solutions for projects along the entire gas value chain – from engineering and consulting services to the design, erection, operation and maintenance of industrial facilities, all from a single source. 
Natural gas – both liquefied and compressed – figures among the most promising alternative fuels in both land and sea transportation. The technology is mature and readily available with performances equivalent to petrol or diesel units and with very clean exhaust emissions. In addition, LNG offers long-distance supply flexibility without the need for interregional pipelines. 

In order to improve the access of all Member States to LNG and storage as an alternative source of gas, the European Commission passed a directive on the deployment of the necessary infrastructure for alternative fuel vehicles. Following this directive, member states are defining national policies to ensure sufficient coverage of LNG refueling points for ships and trucks. Since the increase in LNG demand is not always close to large producers or distribution networks, it is increasingly important that LNG is produced locally in a smaller capacity. This is known as Small Scale LNG (SSLNG) – an approach that Bilfinger accounts for with its SSLNG model. 

 

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