Shell Moerdijk, Netherlands: Electrifying compressor trains

In the heart of Shell’s Chemical Park Moerdijk lies a pivotal olefin cracker, renowned for its production of ethylene and a range of valuable by-products. As part of a transformative initiative aimed at reducing emissions and fuel consumption, the plant is set to undergo a significant electrification project. This ambitious plan involves the electrification of the existing 25 MW and 8 MW compressor trains, replacing the traditional gas-fired steam boiler and steam turbine with state-of-the-art electric motors.

The central plant in Shell’s Chemical Park Moerdijk plays a crucial role in the production of ethylene and various other by-products through its state-of-the-art olefin cracker. In a bid to enhance sustainability and reduce environmental impact, the facility is set to electrify its propylene coolant compressors, which are currently powered by a gas-fired steam boiler and a steam turbine. This transition to electric motors aims to significantly lower emissions and fuel consumption, marking a significant advancement in the plant’s commitment to greener operations and a more sustainable future.

To address the pressing need for reduced emissions and fuel consumption, Shell’s Moerdijk Plant is implementing a comprehensive electrification strategy. This initiative involves the electrification of the existing 25 MW and 8 MW compressor trains, transitioning from traditional gas-fired steam boilers and steam turbines to efficient electric motors. The project also includes extensive electrical installations, featuring E-Houses, transformers, cooling systems, and essential capital spares. Additionally, a Reliability, Availability, and Maintainability (RAM) study has been conducted to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of the new systems. This solution not only supports Shell’s commitment to sustainability but also positions the Moerdijk facility as a leader in modern, eco-friendly chemical production.

Decarbonizing the industry is one of the greatest challenges of our time, as it accounts for nearly 40% of global energy consumption and about 30% of CO₂ emissions. Siemens Energy's technology helps Shell's sustainability initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint at its chemical park Moerdijk.

• Electrification of drives substantially reduce emissions of CO₂
• Replacement of steam boiler and steam turbine decrease fuel consumption
• Electric motors lower residual heat loss and generate less noise

At Shell Moerdijk, Siemens Energy’s e-drives and prefabricated e-houses electrify critical processes by replacing steam turbines with electric motors to advance low-carbon operations. The project is expected to cut CO₂ emissions by around 10% per year (230 kilotons) with a reliability-optimized, tailor-made design enabling long-term, uninterrupted performance.