LNG availability strengthened with Tornio terminal

Tornio in Northern Finland is home to the largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in the Nordics. It significantly enhances the competitiveness of the area by ensuring the availability of affordable, low-emission energy that can be used by the local industry, as well as maritime and heavy-duty traffic.

Situated close to the Swedish border, the terminal in Röyttä harbour, Tornio, has strengthened the supply of LNG especially in the northern parts of Finland, Sweden and Norway. A ground-breaking result of years of collaboration between several companies, the terminal also significantly supports the emission goals of the entire Nordics.

“As part of an evolving LNG distribution network in the Nordic countries, the Tornio terminal has growing potential in servicing the region’s various industries for example in steel, mining and shipping. Heavy-duty road transport is another growing market segment for LNG,” says Gasum’s Tommy Mattila, Marketing & Sales Director, Industry and Energy Sales.

Operated by Manga LNG Ltd, a joint venture between Outokumpu, SSAB, and energy companies EPV Energy and Gasum, the terminal has solid backing from major industry operators. Constructed by Wärtsilä, the terminal features refueling for LNG-fueled vessels, truck loading, LNG vaporizing facilities and a 50,000 cbm storage tank.

Energy transition ongoing

Mattila says that by using LNG, local companies can reduce their emissions and also remain competitive with energy that is affordable and flexible to the needs of different users.

“Energy intensive industries can benefit from switching to a cleaner fuel solution that reduces harmful environmental emissions considerably from current levels. For example, CO2 emissions can be cut by around a quarter compared with oil-based fuels,” Mattila points out.

Supporting the transition to a carbon neutral future, the Tornio terminal is another important step in accelerating the worldwide trend of shifting to cleaner fuel solutions. Building distribution infrastructure will make it easier for new users to start using LNG. Also, the same distribution chain can be used for the transport and distribution of liquefied biogas (LBG) produced in accordance with circular economy principles. It is cost-efficient to transport gas to off-grid areas by road tanker or ship.

“All in all, the Tornio terminal is the latest addition to several LNG terminal and distribution projects underway and being planned in the Nordic countries and around Finland. This indicates a transition taking place in the energy system where the role of gas as a substitute for old oil-based energy is increasing,” Mattila concludes.

3.1.2020