Publications

This paper describes the example of successful implementation of flare gas utilization. The Gas flaring has become significant environmental issue due to restriction of gas emissions released directly to the atmosphere as been addressed in Government Regulation, Permen LH No. 13 2009. Sembakung Field is located in North East Kalimantan and currently produces 1600 BOPD and 4 MMSCFD associated gas. Around 1 MMSCFD associated gas is used as utility and the remaining gas, around 3 MMSCFD, is flared. Related to government’s programs to overcome the electricity shortage in border areas between Indonesia and Malaysia, PT Medco E&P Sembakung and PT PLN entered into a Gas Sales Agreement (PJBG) to utilize flare gas as fuel gas for Gas Engine Power Plant (PLTMG) to supply electricity to Nunukan Island and Sebatik Island. Flare gas utilization was implemented by modifying Sembakung production facilities with some additional equipment such as Low Pressure Production Scrubber, Air Compressor, Very Low Pressure Gas Compressor, Knock Out Drum, Discharge Scrubber, and Custody Meter Orifice to support Gas Sales in Sembakung Field. Gas supply to PLN commenced on October 3, 2013 with average rate of 0.9 MMSCFD and has met the electricity needs of around 4 MW of Nunukan Island. By commencing gas supply to PLN, burnt gas released to atmosphere is reduced directly. Keywords: flare gas utilization, reduced emissions, PLTMG Sembakung.