A South American pipeline operator replaced unreliable legacy technology with Qnergy PowerGens to improve reliability, reduce fuel consumption, and simplify maintenance across a 254-mile pipeline spanning the Andes to the Pacific coast.
The Challenge
Operating across 254 miles (408 km) of challenging terrain, with installations reaching elevations of 16,000 ft (5,000 m), this pipeline operator struggled with unreliable power from its legacy thermoelectric generator (TEG) systems. The high natural gas consumption, frequent downtime, and extensive maintenance requirements increased operating costs and compromised system availability.
The Solution
In 2022, the operator installed a Qnergy PowerGen at an elevation of 13,780 ft (4,200 m) for a one-year trial. The system demonstrated reliable performance, lower fuel consumption, and zero shutdowns compared with existing TEG technology.
Following the successful trial, the customer replaced all 38 legacy TEG units with 17 PowerGen systems across the pipeline network.
The Results
- Less Qnergy PowerGens were needed because of their available power and reliability. Therefore, instead of replacing all 38 legacy TEGs, the entire pipeline is serviced by only 17 PowerGens, dramatically lowering the end-user’s CapEx.
- Consistent, reliable power at elevations up to 16,000 ft (5,000 m) across challenging pipeline terrain.
- Reduced natural gas consumption compared to TEGs.
- Lower maintenance requirements and downtime, helping reduce operating costs and improve system availability.
- More reliable, efficient remote power solution for their critical pipeline monitoring and control equipment.
