Small-scale LNG Carriers Revolutionize Power Plant Supply in Eastern Indonesia

Abstract

As a consequence of the global greenhouse gas problem, various adjustments are required, particularly in the energy sector. The government program envisages the development and conversion of power plant fuels to LNG to ensure energy distribution throughout the region, especially in Indonesia's remote islands. One of the biggest challenges in distributing energy to remote locations is the logistical difficulties in reaching these areas. Utilization-scale LNG carriers as a mode of transportation offers a potential solution to this problem. This study aims to optimize the distribution of LNG using small-scale LNG carrier transportation mode to meet the needs of power plants. The application of the Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem method to a single vessel with different speed variations is used to optimize the distribution of LNG aiming to maximize its cargo capacity. The results of this study show that using a vessel with identical specifications as in Eastern Indonesia, operating at a specific speed, optimizes cargo capacity for a single round trip. These results will serve as a basis for future studies and facilitate the further development of existing methods.