The energy content in all the gas delivered from the Kårstø processing plant over the past quarter-century is 1.67 times more than total Norwegian electricity generation over these years.

It will be 25 years on 15 October since the first deliveries of dry gas from this facility north of Stavanger were made via the Statpipe and Norpipe lines to Emden in Germany.

Measured from 1 October 1985 to 1 October 2010, the plant has delivered natural and liquefied petroleum gases corresponding to 5 001 terawatt-hours by pipeline and ship respectively. According to an overview from grid operator Statnett, Norway generated 2 984 TWh of electricity during the same period.

The plant now celebrating its 25th anniversary is one of Norway’s most important industrial facilities. Its capacity has increased more than fivefold since 1985, and it currently receives gas from 30 fields on the Norwegian continental shelf.

“Kårstø is a key link in the unique value chain which has allowed Norway to become the world’s second largest gas exporter,” says Brian Bjordal, chief executive of operator Gassco. “The history of this plant is nothing less than fantastic, and many people deserve great thanks for making such an industrial achievement possible."

“Mention must be made of the many thousands who have taken part in building up Kårstø, and of the pioneers who had the vision and drive to push through the decision to create Statpipe and this plant.”

Kårstø is also important for the supplies industry. Contracts worth more than NOK 20 billion have been placed over the past decade for expansion, upgrading and maintenance.

The facility is also a big workplace by Norwegian standards, with 800 people employed by technical service provider Statoil and 500 work-years for various contractors in normal operation.

Tags: Gassco