Electricity from land will be the energy source when compressor capacity on the Troll field is increased to counteract the pressure drop in the reservoir.
The Troll field in the North Sea accounts for around 35 per cent of the gas delivered from the Norwegian continental shelf. As the gas is produced, the pressure in the reservoir drops. From 2005 or 2006 the compressor capacity will have to be increased to counteract this pressure drop. Initially, two new compressors are planned, but gradually it will be necessary to double these to four.
The operator Statoil has, together with the partners, evaluated two alternatives – electric power from land to the Troll A platform, and power generated by the field’s own gas. Electricity from land is regarded as the best solution based on financial and environmental considerations.
The solution is a continuation of the current form of operation. Troll A is the only platform on the Norwegian continental shelf that is operated by electric power. Continued use of electricity is considered to be the most environmentally friendly, since it is difficult to exploit the gas energy efficiently from the platform. Moreover, using electricity does not cause emissions of carbon dioxide or nitrogen oxides from the platform.
In addition to the compressors, the solution requires new power cables to be laid from the mainland to Troll A. Minor modifications to the terminal facilities at Kollsnes near Bergen will also be necessary.
Total investments are estimated at NOK 3 billion.
The impact analysis has been sent for comments. The plan for development and operation (PDO) will be submitted to the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy at the end of this year.