COVE POINT

  • USCP6
  • Latitude: 38.3895
  • Longitude: -76.382
  • US East Coast
  • Port in US

Location: Lusby MD US

Cove Point Marine Terminal: Overview and Specifications

Location: Cove Point is situated on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay near Lusby in Calvert County, Maryland, USA. It is approximately 50 miles southeast of Washington, D.C., making it strategically located for serving the Mid-Atlantic region.

Ownership and Operators: The terminal is primarily owned by the Dominion Energy company, one of the largest producers and transporters of energy in the United States. The Cove Point facility is managed by Dominion Energy Cove Point LNG LP.

Primary Functions:

  1. LNG Export and Import: Cove Point is a significant Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal, serving both as an export and import hub. It is one of the few LNG terminals in the United States, and its capabilities include the receipt, storage, and regasification of imported LNG as well as the liquefaction and export of domestic gas.
  2. Natural Gas Processing and Storage: The terminal supports natural gas processing and has substantial storage capacities.

Specifications:

  1. Berthing Facilities: The terminal includes a deep-water pier accessible to LNG carriers. Typically, it can accommodate LNG carriers of various sizes, up to Q-Flex and Q-Max vessels, which are among the largest LNG carriers globally.
  2. Storage Capacity: Cove Point has substantial LNG storage facilities. The terminal includes several large tanks capable of holding a significant volume of LNG.
  3. Liquefaction Capacity: The facility has a liquefaction train with a substantial capacity that ensures efficient processing of natural gas for export.
  4. Gas Production: Cove Point is connected to significant interstate pipeline systems which allow the terminal to receive natural gas from various North American sources for export.

Infrastructure:

  1. Pipeline Connectivity: Cove Point is integrated into a network of pipelines, enabling efficient gas distribution to a wide range of markets. The terminal is connected to various interstate pipelines, ensuring a reliable gas supply and distribution chain.
  2. Utilities and Support Systems: The terminal is equipped with sophisticated utility and support systems such as power generation, water supply, and waste management necessary for safe and efficient operations.
  3. Safety and Environmental Controls: The terminal is subject to stringent safety and environmental regulations. There are numerous safety protocols, including fire suppression systems, gas detection technology, and emergency response procedures. Moreover, Cove Point has measures in place to minimize environmental impact, such as emissions control technologies and ecological monitoring systems.

Importance:

  1. Economic Impact: Cove Point is crucial for the economic landscape of the Chesapeake Bay region, providing jobs and fostering economic growth. The operations at Cove Point also play a significant role in the US energy market.
  2. Energy Security: As part of the broader US energy infrastructure, Cove Point contributes to national energy security by providing a reliable import and export channel for LNG.

Recent Developments: In recent years, Cove Point has undergone several upgrades to enhance its capacity and efficiency. The terminal now supports both import and export operations, significantly increasing its strategic importance in global LNG markets.

For specific and up-to-date details regarding Cove Point's operational status, capacity, and infrastructure, it is advisable to refer to Dominion Energy's official publications and reports or contact the terminal's administration directly.

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