Protecting the atmosphere
In 2016 two low-emissions turbines came into service, one new one at the Poggio Renatico Plant (TC4) and one converted one at the Messina Plant (TC3).
The use of natural gas as a major energy source allows us to minimise sulphur oxide and particle emissions.
Emissions of nitrogen oxide (NOx), the only significant pollutant emissions, are mainly as a result of the combustion of natural gas in the turbines installed at the compression stations (thrust and storage).
Total emissions of nitrogen oxides in 2016 stood at 434 tonnes (+8.4% compared with 2015). The increase in emissions of NOx in absolute terms is attributable to the increase in activities in all three sectors (transportation, storage and regasification). The indicator that establishes the parameters for emissions of energy used fell by 10% thanks to the ever-increasing use of DLE turbines, which were used for 88% of operational hours in storage and 94% in gas transportation.
There has been a programme in place for many years to reduce these emissions which involves altering some of the existing turbines and installing new units with low emission combustion systems (DLE).
Emissions of NOx into the atmosphere were calculated based on direct measurements or, if not available, through emission factors in literature (EMEP/EEA “Air pollutant emission inventory guidebook” European Monitoring and Evaluation Programme/European Environment Agency).
TOTAL NOx EMISSIONS (t)
NOx EMISSIONS/ENERGY CONSUMPTION (Kg NOx/GJ)
GRI-G4:EN21