oa A framework for upstream natural gas supply chain design: LNG distribution network

Natural gas is distributed in the form of liquefied natural gas (LNG) when transported across long distances. Delivery planning of LNG offers challenging multi-origin vehicle routing problems, with vessels of various capacities and fuel performance. There are also unique challenges due to the nature of LNG trading and shipping. We propose a framework design for this planning problem by considering the multiple objectives and unique characteristics of the problem to develop efficient solutions. We aim to study the planning problems at various levels by using mixed-integer programming solution techniques, heuristics, and meta-heuristics. A critical analysis of the existing literature for similar problems was conducted and the formulations for the LNG delivery problems of Qatar are presented. The LNG inventory and routing problems are fairly complicated problems due to their unique features. The formulations developed are an attempt at solving the large LNG distribution challenges in the case of Qatargas and Rasgas in Qatar.