LNG bunkering stations location optimization on basis graph theory

• As an alternative to traditional fuel and energy source LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) has many advantages, such as lower emissions while providing a means of energy for trucks, trains and ships. In focusing on the maritime transport sector the reasons for using LNG make a convincing business case, but lead to many discussions on LNG investments. The key issue has been is: “should investment be implemented first on LNG bunkering stations and then wait for the market to build ships to use the facilities or should investment wait until there is a demand?” Obviously, this creates a “chicken-and-egg” situation on when and where to invest for LNG use to take place. The initial experiences in using LNG in maritime and road transport suggest that the transport firms often take the risk themselves by not only investing into the transport units (ships, trucks) themselves but also invest into the infrastructure as well, e.g., developing LNG bunkering facilities. At the same time with these large initial investments for developing LNG bunkering networks there are more and more requests for identifying optimal solutions, often are based on real LNG fuel demand in ports and on the roads. This paper is oriented on the study for optimal bunkering network creation, which is argued to help with improved efficiency in the supply of LNG fuel to transport users. In addition, optimal investments for LNG bunkering networks can be realized. © 2018 Kaunas University of Technology. All rights reserved.

Ämnesord

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Samhällsbyggnadsteknik -- Transportteknik och logistik (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Civil Engineering -- Transport Systems and Logistics (hsv//eng)

NATURVETENSKAP  -- Data- och informationsvetenskap -- Datavetenskap (hsv//swe)

NATURAL SCIENCES  -- Computer and Information Sciences -- Computer Sciences (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

LNG bunkering

LNG fuel

Optimization LNG bunkering network

Transport corridors

Automobiles

Gas emissions

Graph theory

Investments

Liquefied natural gas

Tankers (ships)

Trucks

Location optimization

Maritime transport

Network creation

Optimal investments

Optimal solutions

Traditional fuels

Natural gas transportation

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