PLN operates world's biggest CNG plant

By Nellawati

State utility firm PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN) inaugurated the operation of what it claimed to be the world's largest compressed natural gas (CNG) plant, at the capacity of 15 mmscfd, located at the Grati power plant in Pasuruan, East Java.

The plant has the ability of distributing gas for 3 gas turbine units with total capacity of 300 MW.

The inauguration ceremony was held on June 14, attended also by PLN President Director Nur Pamudji and Djoko Hastowo, President Director of PT Indonesia Power that operates the power plant.

The Grati power plant is divided into 2 blocks. Block 1, equipped with 3 gas turbines (combined cycle) with each capable of generating 100 MW, gets the supply from Santos (Oyong and Wortel fields). Block 2 (open cycle) meanwhile functions to cover peak load using high speed diesel.

With the operation of CNG plant, Indonesia Power can now operate the block 2 without using diesel fuel.

PLN is currently also developing CNG plant for Gresik, Tambak Lorok and Muara Tawar power plants.

Editing by Dadan Wijaksana