Sines LNG Terminal Sets New Milestones in Portugal’s Natural Gas Supply, Contributing to National Network Growth

Sines LNG Terminal Sets New Milestones in Portugal’s Natural Gas Supply, Contributing to National Network Growth

(IN BRIEF) The Sines LNG terminal, operated by REN, played a pivotal role in Portugal’s natural gas supply in 2024, delivering 98% of the National Gas System’s requirements. The terminal’s strategic importance continues to grow, with shipments primarily from Nigeria and the U.S., and overall consumption showing a decrease. REN’s efforts ensure a stable and efficient gas supply, helping to drive Portugal’s energy transition.

(PRESS RELEASE) LISBON, 18-Feb-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — The Sines Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Terminal, managed by REN – Redes Energéticas Nacionais, has once again proven its central role in Portugal’s energy infrastructure. In 2024, the terminal was responsible for delivering an impressive 98% of the national gas supply, with maritime shipments accounting for the vast majority. This marks a steady increase from 2023, when the terminal handled 94% of the supply, underscoring its growing significance in the country’s natural gas network.

LNG shipments to Portugal through the Sines Terminal came mainly from Nigeria and the United States, which supplied 52% and 40% of the national gas needs, respectively. The terminal’s operations set a new record, with 93% of inputs into the Portuguese National Gas Transmission Network sourced from Sines, up from 91% in 2022 and 2023. Last year, the terminal handled 53 vessel operations, demonstrating its ability to meet the country’s increasing energy demands through maritime routes.

Despite the rise in terminal supply, total natural gas consumption in Portugal fell by 17% in 2024, reaching its lowest point since 2003, with total consumption at 40.6 TWh. This decrease is largely attributed to a significant drop in electricity production, which saw a reduction of 56%. However, there was a notable 2% growth in the conventional sector, marking the first positive increase after four years of declining consumption in this area.

The Sines Terminal, operated by REN Atlântico, is responsible for managing the reception of LNG, its storage in the facility’s tanks, and the subsequent regasification and injection of natural gas into the transmission network. Additionally, the terminal handles the loading of LNG onto tanker trucks for supply to UAG (Unidade de Abastecimento de Gás) consumers. REN ensures the efficient high-pressure transmission of natural gas and oversees the overall management of Portugal’s National Natural Gas System, which includes LNG reception, storage, regasification, and underground storage—all under long-term contracts with the Portuguese government until 2046.

With its ongoing role in shaping the country’s energy landscape, the Sines LNG Terminal remains integral to Portugal’s efforts in securing a stable and diversified energy supply, supporting the transition to a more sustainable energy future.

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SOURCE: REN – Redes Energéticas Nacionais