WO2016049764A1

WO2016049764A1 - System and method for delivering a consumable commodity

Info

Publication number: WO2016049764A1
Application number: PCT/CA2015/050982
Authority: WO
Inventors: Pierre Rivard; Laurent ABBATIELLO; Cedric PELLAND
Original assignee: Tugliq Energy Co.
Priority date: 2014-09-30
Filing date: 2015-09-30
Publication date: 2016-04-07
Also published as: CA2961953C; CA2961953A1; CA3190712A1

Abstract

A method and system for delivery a consumable commodity between a preparation site and a destination site includes preparing a first quantity of the commodity at the preparation site, locating the first quantity of prepared commodity onto a first transportation vehicle or first mobile storage tank assembly and transporting the first quantity of prepared commodity from the preparation site to the destination site. While the first transportation vehicle or first mobile storage tank assembly is located at the destination site, the first quantity of prepared commodity is supplied. While carrying out the transporting or the supplying of the first quantity of prepared commodity, preparing a second quantity of the commodity at the preparation site, loading the second quantity of prepared commodity onto a second transportation vehicle or a second mobile storage tank assembly, transporting the second quantity of prepared commodity to the destination site, whereby the arrival of the second quantity of prepared commodity at the destination site substantially corresponds in time with the depletion of the first quantity of prepared commodity being supplied. After supplying the first quantity of prepared commodity, the second quantity of the prepared commodity is supplied at the destination site.

Description

TITLE: SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING A CONSUMABLE COMMODITY

RELATED PATENT APPLICATION

[0001 ] The present application claims priority from provisional patent application no. 62/057,626, filed September 30, 2014 and entitled "SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING A CONSUMABLE COMMODITY", the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

[0002] The present subject-matter relates a system and method for delivering a consumable commodity, and more particularly to a system and method for delivering a liquid consumable commodity, such as liquefied gas, for example, liquefied natural gas.

INTRODUCTION

[0003] Natural gas has gained popularity in recent years due to its abundance and its environmental advantages over other fossil fuels. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is natural gas that has been converted to liquid form, which allows for more efficient delivery where a pipeline is not available.

[0004] The delivery of LNG typically includes the steps of extracting the gas, liquefying the gas, storing the LNG in a cryogenic storage facility, transporting the LNG in cryogenic tanker ships from a delivery port to a destination port, storing the LNG in another cryogenic storage facility, and subsequently transporting the LNG in cryogenic rail cars or tanker trucks to the end user. Having large cryogenic facilities for storing the LNG represents a significant capital expenditure and a significant operating cost. It would thus be desirable to have a system and method that would not require such facilities.

SUMMARY

[0005] According to one aspect the present subject matter provides a method for delivering a consumable commodity between a preparation site and a destination site. The method comprises: preparing a first quantity of the commodity at the preparation site; loading the first quantity of prepared commodity into a first transportation vehicle; transporting the first quantity of prepared commodity on the first transportation vehicle from the preparation site to the destination site;

while the first transportation vehicle is located at the destination site, supplying the first quantity of prepared commodity from the first transportation vehicle; and while carrying out one of either the transporting or the supplying of the first quantity of prepared commodity:

preparing a second quantity of the commodity at the preparation site; loading the second quantity of prepared commodity onto a second transportation vehicle;

transporting the second quantity of prepared commodity on the second transportation vehicle from the preparation site to the destination site, whereby the arrival of the second transportation vehicle substantially corresponds in time with the depletion of the first quantity of prepared commodity being supplied from the first transportation vehicle; and after supplying the first quantity of prepared commodity from the first transportation vehicle, supplying the second quantity of prepared commodity from the second transportation vehicle.

[0006] In some examples, the method further comprises: monitoring a first consumption rate at which the first quantity of prepared commodity is being supplied from the first transportation vehicle; and

modifying the timing for the preparing of the second quantity of the commodity and the loading of the second quantity of the commodity onto the second transportation vehicle based on the monitored first consumption rate.

[0007] In some examples, the modifying of the timing for the preparing and the loading is further based on the time required for preparing the second quantity of prepared commodity and transporting the second quantity of prepared commodity from the preparation site to the destination site.

[0008] In some examples, the first transportation vehicle provides short-term storage of the first quantity of prepared commodity at the destination site, the commodity being supplied from the first transportation vehicle based on current demand at the destination site. [0009] In some examples, the consumption rate at which the first quantity of prepared commodity is being supplied is substantially lower than the maximum commodity supply rate from the first transportation vehicle.

[0010] In some examples, the commodity supplied from the first transportation vehicle is distributed free of intermediate long-term storage.

[001 1 ] In some examples, the method includes returning the depleted first transportation vehicle to the preparation site for receiving an additional quantity of prepared commodity.

[0012] In some examples, the method also includes: while carrying out either one of the transporting or the supplying of the second quantity of prepared commodity:

preparing a third quantity of the commodity at the preparation site; loading the third quantity of prepared commodity onto a third transportation vehicle;

transporting the third quantity of prepared commodity on the third transportation vehicle from the preparation site to the destination site, whereby the arrival of the third transportation vehicle substantially corresponds in time with the depletion of the second quantity of prepared commodity being supplied from the second transportation vehicle; and

after supplying the second quantity of the commodity from the second transportation vehicle, supplying the third quantity of the commodity from the third transportation vehicle.

[0013] In some examples, the transportation vehicles are all similar.

[0014] In some examples the storage capacity of each transportation vehicle is sized based on the time required for transporting a quantity of prepared commodity from the preparation site to the destination site, the expected maximum consumption rate at the destination site, and the maximum storage period of the prepared commodity within the transportation vehicle. [0015] In some examples, more than two transportation vehicles are used and the number of transportation vehicles used is chosen based on one or more of time required for transportation a quantity of prepared commodity from the preparation site to the destination site, the expected maximum consumption rate at the destination site, the storage capacity of each transportation vehicle, and the maximum storage period of the prepared commodity within the transportation vehicle.

[0016] In some examples, the consumable commodity is a liquefied gas, such as liquefied natural gas, and wherein preparing the first quantity of the commodity comprises at least one of extracting natural gas, liquefying the natural gas, and setting aside a quantity of stored liquefied natural gas.

[0017] In some examples, transporting the liquefied natural gas and supplying the liquefied natural gas is carried out free of recycling of gas boil-off.

[0018] In some examples, the liquefied natural gas supplied from the first transportation vehicle and distributed at the destination site is consumed free of recycling of gas boil-off.

[0019] In some examples, transporting, supplying and distributing is carried out free of immovable cryogenic storage of liquefied natural gas.

[0020] In some examples, the duration of the transporting of the first quantity of prepared commodity and supplying the first quantity of prepared commodity is less than about 4 days.

[0021 ] In some examples, the transportation vehicles are sea-based vehicles.

[0022] In some examples, the liquefied gas is liquefied aboard a floating liquefaction plant.

[0023] In some examples, the transportation vehicles are reinforced for travel over icy maritime routes.

[0024] In some examples, the volume of land-based liquefied storage provided after supplying the quantity of liquefied gas from the first transportation vehicle is substantially less than the storage capacity of the first transportation vehicle. [0025] In some examples, the transportation vehicles are non-motorized barges, and; wherein transporting the second quantity of commodity on the second transportation vehicle comprises conveying the second transportation vehicle using a first tugboat; and after supplying the first quantity of commodity from the first transportation vehicle, conveying the first transportation vehicle being depleted of commodity using the first tugboat to return the first transportation vehicle to the preparation site for receiving an additional quantity of prepared commodity.

[0026] In some examples, the method includes: loading a third quantity of prepared commodity into a third transportation vehicle being a non-motorized barge;

displacing the third transportation vehicle using the first tugboat to transport the third quantity of prepared commodity on the third transportation vehicle from the preparation site to the destination site; and

while transporting the third quantity of prepared commodity, loading a fourth quantity of commodity onto the first transportation vehicle.

[0027] In some examples, the transportation vehicles are barges.

[0028] In some cases, the barges are non-motorized and are conveyed by separate motorized craft.

[0029] In some examples, there are fewer motorized craft than barges. [0030] In some examples, the barges have a cryogenic storage capacity.

[0031 ] In some examples, the prepared commodity is a liquid consumable commodity.

[0032] In some examples, the prepared commodity is a liquefied gas.

[0033] In some examples, the liquefied gas is a liquefied fuel gas. [0034] In some examples, the liquefied fuel gas liquefied natural gas.

[0035] According to another aspect, the present subject matter provides a system for delivering a consumable commodity, the system comprising: a preparation site for preparing the commodity; a first transportation vehicle for receiving a first quantity of the prepared commodity and transporting the first quantity of the prepared commodity to a destination site;

a second transportation vehicle being loaded with a second quantity of the prepared commodity while the first transportation vehicle is located at the destination site and configured to transport the second quantity of commodity to the destination site, whereby the arrival of the second transportation vehicle substantially corresponds in time with the depletion of the first quantity of prepared commodity being supplied from the first transportation vehicle; and

after supplying the first quantity of commodity from the first transportation vehicle, supplying the second quantity of commodity from the second transportation vehicle.

[0036] In some cases, the transportation vehicles are barges.

[0037] In some cases, the barges are non-motorized and are conveyed by separate motorized craft.

[0038] In some cases, there are fewer motorized craft than barges.

[0039] In some cases, the barges have a cryogenic storage capacity. In some cases, the prepared commodity is a liquefied gas.

[0040] In some cases, the liquefied gas is a liquefied fuel gas. [0041 ] In some cases, the liquefied fuel gas is liquefied natural gas. [0042] In some cases, the system also includes: means for monitoring the consumption rate of the first quantity of prepared commodity being supplied from the first transportation vehicle; and

means for modifying the timing for preparing the second quantity of the commodity and loading the second quantity of the prepared commodity onto the second transportation vehicle based on the monitored first consumption rate of the first quantity of prepared commodity. [0043] According to yet another aspect the present subject matter provides a method for delivering a consumable commodity between a preparation site and a destination site. The method comprises: preparing a first quantity of the commodity at the preparation site;

loading the first quantity of prepared commodity into a first mobile storage tank assembly; transporting the first quantity of prepared commodity on a first transportation vehicle from the preparation site to the destination site;

unloading the first mobile storage tank assembly at the destination site;

while the first mobile storage tank assembly is located at the destination site, supplying the first quantity of prepared commodity from the first mobile storage tank assembly; and while carrying out one of either the transporting or the supplying of the first quantity of prepared commodity:

preparing a second quantity of the commodity at the preparation site; loading the second quantity of prepared commodity into a second mobile storage tank assembly;

transporting the second quantity of prepared commodity on the second transportation vehicle from the preparation site to the destination site, whereby the arrival of the second transportation vehicle substantially corresponds in time with the depletion of the first quantity of prepared commodity being supplied from the first mobile storage tank assembly; and

after supplying the first quantity of prepared commodity from the first mobile storage tank assembly, supplying the second quantity of prepared commodity from the second mobile storage tank assembly.

[0044] In some examples, the method further comprises: monitoring a first consumption rate at which the first quantity of prepared commodity is being supplied from the first mobile storage tank assembly; and modifying the timing for the preparing of the second quantity of the commodity and the loading of the second quantity of the commodity into the second mobile storage tank assembly based on the monitored first consumption rate. [0045] In some examples, the modifying of the timing for the preparing and the loading is further based on the time required for preparing the second quantity of prepared commodity and transporting the second quantity of prepared commodity from the preparation site to the destination site. [0046] In some examples, the first mobile storage tank assembly provides short-term storage of the first quantity of prepared commodity at the destination site, the commodity being supplied from the first mobile storage tank assembly based on current demand at the destination site.

[0047] In some examples, the consumption rate at which the first quantity of prepared commodity is being supplied is substantially lower than the maximum commodity supply rate from the first mobile storage tank assembly.

[0048] In some examples, the commodity supplied from the first mobile storage tank assembly is distributed free of intermediate long-term storage.

[0049] In some examples, the method includes transporting the depleted first mobile storage tank assembly on the second transportation vehicle to the preparation site.

[0050] In some examples, the method also includes: while carrying out either one of the transporting or the supplying of the second quantity of prepared commodity:

preparing a third quantity of the commodity at the preparation site; loading the third quantity of prepared commodity into a third mobile storage tank assembly;

transporting the third quantity of prepared commodity on the third transportation vehicle from the preparation site to the destination site, whereby the arrival of the third transportation vehicle substantially corresponds in time with the depletion of the second quantity of prepared commodity being supplied from the second mobile storage tank assembly; and

after supplying the second quantity of the commodity from the second mobile storage tank assembly, supplying the third quantity of the commodity from the third mobile storage tank assembly. [0051 ] In some examples, the transportation vehicles are all similar.

[0052] In some examples the storage capacity of each mobile storage tank assembly is sized based on the time required for transporting a quantity of prepared commodity from the preparation site to the destination site, the expected maximum consumption rate at the destination site, and the maximum storage period of the prepared commodity within the mobile storage tank assembly.

[0053] In some examples, the consumable commodity is liquefied gas, for example, liquefied natural gas, and wherein preparing the first quantity of the commodity comprises at least one of extracting natural gas, liquefying the natural gas, and setting aside a quantity of stored liquefied natural gas.

[0054] In some examples, transporting the liquefied natural gas and supplying the liquefied natural gas is carried out free of recycling of gas boil-off. In some examples, the liquefied natural gas supplied from the first transportation vehicle and distributed at the destination site is consumed free of recycling of gas boil-off. In some examples, transporting, supplying and distributing is carried out free of immovable cryogenic storage of liquefied natural gas.

[0055] In some examples, the duration of the transporting of the first quantity of prepared commodity and supplying the first quantity of prepared commodity is less than about 4 days. [0056] In some examples, the transportation vehicles are sea-based vehicles. In some examples, the liquefied gas is liquefied aboard a floating liquefaction plant.

[0057] In some examples, the volume of land-based liquefied storage provided after supplying the quantity of liquefied natural gas from the first mobile storage tank assembly is substantially less than the storage capacity of the first mobile storage tank assembly. [0058] In some examples, more than two mobile storage tank assemblies are used and the number of mobile storage tank assemblies used is chosen based on one or more of time required for transportation a quantity of prepared commodity from the preparation site to the destination site, the expected maximum consumption rate at the destination site, the storage capacity of each mobile storage tank assembly and the maximum storage period of the prepared commodity within the mobile storage tank assembly.

[0059] In some examples, the transportation vehicles are non-motorized barges, and, transporting the second quantity of commodity on the second transportation vehicle comprises conveying the second transportation vehicle using a first tugboat, and after supplying the first quantity of commodity from the first transportation vehicle, conveying the first transportation vehicle being depleted of commodity using the first tugboat to return the first transportation vehicle to the preparation site for receiving an additional quantity of prepared commodity. [0060] In some examples, the method includes: loading a third quantity of prepared commodity into a third mobile storage tank assembly; conveying a third transportation vehicle being a non-motorized barge using the first tugboat to transport the third quantity of prepared commodity on the third transportation vehicle from the preparation site to the destination site; and

[0061 ] In some examples, the transportation vehicles are barges.

[0062] In some examples, the barges are non-motorized and are conveyed by separate motorized craft. [0063] In some examples, there are fewer barges than mobile storage tank assemblies.

[0064] In some examples, the barges have a cryogenic storage capacity.

[0065] In some examples, the prepared commodity is a liquefied gas.

[0066] In some examples, the liquefied gas is a liquefied fuel gas. [0067] In some examples, the liquefied fuel gas is liquefied natural gas.

[0068] In some examples, the liquefied fuel gas is liquefied petroleum gas, such as liquefied butane and propane. [0069] In some examples, the liquefied gas is liquefied hydrogen, liquefied methane or liquefied ethane.

[0070] In some examples, the liquefied commodity is one or more of the substances listed in Classes 2, 3, 5 and 8 as set out in the schedule of the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act, 1992 (S.C. 1992, c. 34) and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code of the International Maritime Organization.

[0071 ] According to yet another aspect, the present subject matter provides a system for delivering a consumable commodity, the system comprising: a preparation site for preparing the commodity;

a first mobile storage tank assembly for receiving a first quantity of the prepared commodity;

a first transportation vehicle for transporting the first quantity of the prepared commodity to a destination site;

a second mobile storage tank assembly being loaded with a second quantity of the prepared commodity while the first mobile storage tank assembly is located at the destination site and configured to be transported aboard a second transportation vehicle to the destination site, whereby the arrival of the second transportation vehicle substantially corresponds in time with the depletion of the first quantity of prepared commodity being supplied from the first mobile storage tank assembly; and

after supplying the first quantity of commodity from the first mobile storage tank assembly, supplying the second quantity of commodity from the second mobile storage tank assembly.

[0072] In some examples, the system also includes: means for monitoring the consumption rate of the first quantity of prepared commodity being supplied from the first transportation vehicle; and

means for modifying the timing for preparing the second quantity of the commodity and loading the second quantity of the prepared commodity onto the second transportation vehicle based on the monitored first consumption rate of the first quantity of prepared commodity. [0073] In some examples, the transportation vehicles are reinforced for travel over icy maritime routes.

[0074] According to yet another aspect, the present subject matter provides a system for delivering a consumable commodity. The system comprises: at least one guide;

a transportation vehicle;

a destination site;

a mobile storage tank for storing a prepared commodity, the tank having a low friction device operable to be displaced along the at least one guide;

the at least one guide providing a path between the transportation vehicle and the destination vehicle for displacing the mobile storage tank between the transportation vehicle and destination site along the at least one guide.

[0075] In some examples, the at least one guide is chosen from one of rails, skids and a conveyor and wherein the low friction device is chosen from one of skis and wheels. [0076] In some examples, the transportation vehicle comprises a first puling device, the destination site comprises a second pulling device, the mobile storage tank comprises an attachment member for selectively engaging the first pulling device and the second pulling device, operating the first pulling device while engaging the attachment member pulls the mobile storage tank towards the transportation vehicle along the guide, and operating the second pulling device while engaging the attachment member pulls the mobile storage tank towards the destination site along the guide.

[0077] In some examples, the system further comprises at least one off-loading guide branching from the at least one guide, the off-loading guide for positioning the mobile storage tank remote of the at least one guide. [0078] In some examples, the transportation vehicle is a sea-based barge, a portion of a hull of the barge being actuated between a closed position and an open position, in the closed positon the hull retaining the mobile storage tank within a cargo hold of the barge and in the open position the mobile storage tank being permitted to be displaced from the barge. DRAWINGS [0079] For a better understanding of the present subject matter, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings which show exemplary embodiments, and in which:

[0080] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of an LNG transportation system according to one exemplary embodiment;

[0081 ] Figure 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of the transportation system according to Figure 1 wherein a first barge is on-route;

[0082] Figure 3 illustrates a schematic diagram of the transportation system according to Figure 1 wherein the first barge is supplying LNG at a destination site; [0083] Figure 4 illustrates a schematic diagram of the transportation system according to Figure 1 wherein a second barge is on-route;

[0084] Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of a barge port at the destination site according to one exemplary embodiment;

[0085] Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of the barge port at the destination site of Figure 5 in operation;

[0086] Figure 7 illustrates a schematic diagram of the transportation system according to Figure 1 wherein the first barge is returning;

[0087] Figure 8 illustrates a schematic diagram of the transportation system according to Figure 1 wherein a third barge is on-route; [0088] Figure 9 illustrate a perspective view of an exemplary on-route barge and an exemplary returning barge;

[0089] Figure 10 illustrates a perspective view of an LNG treatment facility according to one exemplary embodiment;

[0090] Figure 1 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of an alternative exemplary transportation system using mobile storage tanks;

[0091 ] Figure 12 illustrates a schematic diagram of the alternative transportation system wherein a first mobile storage tank assembly is on-route; [0092] Figure 13 illustrates a schematic diagram of the alternative transportation system wherein the first mobile storage tank assembly is providing short term storage of fuel;

[0093] Figure 14 illustrates a schematic diagram of the alternative transportation system wherein a second mobile storage tank assembly is being prepared;

[0094] Figure 15 illustrates a schematic diagram of the alternative transportation system wherein the second mobile storage tank assembly is on-route;

[0095] Figure 16 illustrates a schematic diagram of the alternative transportation system wherein the first mobile storage tank assembly is transported back towards the preparation site;

[0096] Figure 17 illustrates a schematic diagram of the alternative transportation system wherein the second mobile storage tank assembly provides short term storage of fuel; and

[0097] Figure 18 illustrates a schematic diagram of an exemplary system for loading and unloading a mobile storage tank.

DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

[0098] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements or steps. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, this description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein in any way but rather as merely describing the implementation of the various embodiments described herein.

[0099] Referring now to Figure 1 , therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of a production and transportation system 100 for the production and transportation of a consumable commodity. The consumable commodity may be a liquid commodity that facilitates transportation.

[0100] A "liquid commodity" herein refers to any consumable commodity that is in a transportable liquid form. For example, the liquid commodity may be one of liquefied gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), liquefied hydrogen, liquefied methane, and liquefied ethane. Examples of LPG include butane and propane. Liquid commodity may include one or more liquids of Classes 2, 3, 5 and 8 as set out in the schedule of the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act, 1992 (S.C. 1992, c. 34) and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code of the International Maritime Organization, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0101 ] The system 100 includes a preparation site 108 at which the consumable commodity is prepared into a transportable state.

[0102] "Preparation site" herein refers to the one or more production and delivery facilities that interact so as to produce the consumable commodity in a state that is ready for transportation. The preparation site 108 may include an extraction site 1 16 where the consumable commodity in its raw form is to be recovered, such as a mine or well.

[0103] The preparation site 108 may also include a delivery system 124, such as a pipeline. The delivery system 124 may be used to deliver the consumable commodity in its raw form or unrefined state to a treatment facility 132. [0104] The preparation site 108 further includes the treatment facility 132, which treats the consumable commodity in its raw or unrefined state so as to produce a treated consumable commodity that is in a transportation-ready state.

[0105] According to various exemplary embodiments where the consumable commodity is a liquid commodity, the treatment facility 132 may include a liquefaction plant for producing the liquid commodity. The liquefaction plant may, for example, treat extracted natural gas to produce liquefied natural gas.

[0106] It will be understood that the preparation site 108 may include a set of facilities that are located at large distances from one another. It will be further understood that the preparation site 108 may include a subset of the facilities described above, such as where parts of the site are owned or operated by different parties. For example, a party may purchase non-liquefied gas from one or more external producers, and then liquefy the gas at a treatment facility 132 owned by the party.

[0107] The system 100 further includes a plurality of transportation vehicles for transporting the consumable commodity from the outlet of the preparation site 108 along a transportation route 140 to the destination site 148. Typically, the treatment facility 132 includes the outlet of the preparation site 108. (Where the consumable commodity is subsequently stored prior to transportation, the storage facility may represent the outlet of the preparation site.) [0108] "Transportation route" herein refers to one or more geographic routes between an outlet of the preparation site 108 and the destination site 148. As described elsewhere herein, a transportation vehicle travels the transportation route 140 while carrying a discrete quantity of the consumable commodity from the preparation site 108 to the destination site 148. It will be understood that the consumable commodity may be transported over other distances (whether in its untreated or treated state) in addition to the transportation route 140 between its extraction and its consumption. These additional distances may include transportation over the delivery system 124 of the preparation site 108 and/or over distribution routes 152 of the destination site 148.

[0109] "Destination site" herein refers to the site where the consumable commodity that has been transported from the preparation site 108 over the transportation route 140 will be supplied. The destination site includes one or more consumers. The received consumable commodity may be further distributed over a plurality of distribution routes 152 to a plurality of consumers 154 of the consumable commodity. The received consumable commodity may be transported over each distribution route in a quantity that is less than the quantity of consumable commodity transported over the transportation route 140.

[01 10] The prepared consumable commodity is transported in discrete quantities by the plurality of transportation vehicles over the transportation route 140.

[01 1 1 ] Still referring to Figure 1 , therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of a transportation system according to one exemplary embodiment. The example presented is for delivery of a consumable commodity that is LNG over a sea-based transportation route 140 using transportation vehicles that are barges. However, it will be understood that the transportation system 100 is applicable to consumable commodities other than LNG, to a land based transportation route, and/or to transportation vehicles other than barges.

[01 12] As illustrated in Figure 1 , a first cryogenic barge 156a is located at and connected to the treatment facility 132. LNG is prepared at the preparation site 108 so that it can be transported by the first barge 156a. Preparation of the LNG may include extracting the gas at the extraction site 1 16, delivering the gas over the delivery system 124, and treating the gas by a liquefaction process at the treatment facility 132 to produce LNG.

[01 13] The first barge 156a is loaded with a quantity of LNG that is to be transported. For exemplary purposes, a first fuel gauge 164a associated to the first barge 156a is illustrated to show that the quantity of LNG loaded onto the first barge 156a is gradually increasing. The first barge 156a may be filled to full capacity before beginning transportation of the loaded first quantity of LNG.

[01 14] According to various exemplary embodiments, the barges are non-motorized. Thus, they are conveyed by a motorized craft, such as a tugboat; the barges may be either pulled or pushed by such a craft. Advantageously, the use of non-motorized barges allows for higher use time of the motorized craft. While a non-motorized barge is stationary for an interval of time, the tugboat or similar craft may be used to convey another barge. In the example of Figure 1 , the first barge 156a is stationary while being loaded with LNG and does not require the tugboat.

[01 15] Referring now to Figure 2, therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of the transportation system 100 after some time has passed since the situation illustrated in Figure 1 . As illustrated, the first barge 156a carrying a first quantity of LNG is on route along the transportation route 140 towards the destination site 148. The first quantity of LNG may correspond to the full fuel-carrying capacity of the first barge 156a. It is contemplated that barges may have a capacity of 3,000 to 6,000 cubic meters of LNG. However, barges with either larger or smaller capacities may also be used.

[01 16] A first tugboat 172 is positioned in a tandem arrangement with the first barge 156a and is conveying the first barge 156a towards the destination site 148. [01 17] Referring now to Figure 3, therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of the transportation system 100 after the first barge 156a has arrived at the destination site 148. The destination site 148 includes a barge port 176 where the barges can be docked or moored. While the first barge 156a is located at the destination site 148, the LNG carried by the first barge 156a is supplied to the various consumers 154 of the fuel. The distribution routes 152 provide connections between the barge port 176 and the respective consumers 154 over which the LNG carried by the first barge 156a can be supplied.

[01 18] The LNG carried by the first barge 156a is supplied on an as need basis to the various consumers. That is, as a given consumer 154 at the destination site 148 requires fuel, it is withdrawn directly from the first barge 156a and distributed over the appropriate distribution route to that given consumer so as to be consumed within a short period of time. Accordingly, the first barge 156a acts as short-term storage of the LNG.

[01 19] "Short-term storage" being provided by a barge herein refers to the barge carrying the LNG so as to provide a ready source of fuel for consumers at the destination site. Furthermore, due to the LNG being supplied on an as needed basis to the consumers, the LNG may be supplied from the barge at an average supply rate that is substantially lower than the maximum instantaneous flow rate of the LNG from the storage tanks of the barge when discharging.

[0120] For example, a capacity of 5,000 cubic metres of LNG being carried by the barge might be emptied in a number of hours when discharged at the maximum flow rate. However, the same volume of LNG may be emptied over an interval of several days at a reduced flow rate. It will be appreciated that the time taken to supply a given volume will depend on the demand for LNG at the destination site and is not dependent on the maximum flow rate of the barge. [0121 ] A consumer 154 of the commodity may be located in proximity of the barge port 176 and consume the LNG directly from the first barge 156a docked at the port. For example, the consumer may be an industrial facility located at or near the barge port, such as a factory or smelter.

[0122] A consumer 154 of the commodity may alternatively be located remotely from the barge port 176 and connected to the barge port 176 via its distribution route 152. The distribution route 152 may be land-based, such as a road or railway. The consumer 154 may be an industrial facility or mining facility.

[0123] A consumer 154 of the commodity may also be located remotely of the barge port 176 and connected to the barge port 176 via a marine distribution route 152. Accordingly, a vehicle may travel over the marine distribution route 152 to deliver LNG from the first barge 156a to such a consumer 154. The storage capacity of such a vehicle will be substantially smaller than the storage capacity of the first barge 156a.

[0124] According to various exemplary embodiments, the first barge 156a may be docked at a port at the destination site 148 and the LNG is supplied on an as needed basis. Since it may take an extended interval of time (ex: a few days) to deplete the first barge 156a, the first barge 156a may be stationary for that extended interval of time. Accordingly, the tugboat 172 may be used for another purpose while the first barge 156a is stationed at the barge port 176 of the destination site 148. Thus, the tugboat 172 may be used to return another barge that had previously provided fuel to the destination site and is now depleted back to the preparation site 108.

[0125] Each barge includes one or more cryogenic storage tanks for storing the LNG under cryogenic conditions. Accordingly, the first quantity of LNG is stored under cryogenic conditions while being transported over the transportation route 140. The LNG is further stored under cryogenic conditions while the first barge 156a is stationed at the destination site 148.

[0126] The LNG may be cryogenically stored within a barge that is free of (i.e. without) recycling of LNG boil-off. It will be appreciated that non-recycling of LNG boil-off significantly decreases the cost and complexity of cryogenic storage of LNG, but is also subject to loss of LNG over time. [0127] According to various exemplary embodiments, the LNG storage capacity of a barge is chosen based on the time required for traveling the transportation route 140, the expected consumption rate of fuel at the destination site 148, and the maximum permissible storage time of the LNG within the barge. The LNG storage capacity of a barge may be further chosen based on the number of barges 156 used to service the transportation route 140 and to provide substantially continuous source of LNG at the destination site 148.

[0128] The maximum permissible storage time corresponds to the upper time limit at which LNG may be stored within the barge before losses due to boil-off become excessive. Where the time to travel the transportation route 140 is substantially constant, the minimum expected consumption rate may define an upper bound of the fuel capacity of the barge. According to one example, the capacity of the barge is chosen so that the time required to travel the transportation route 140 and the time to deplete the quantity of fuel stored in the barge is substantially less than the maximum storage period of the LNG within the barge. In this way, all of the LNG will be used up within a relative short period of time, thereby mitigating the impact of boil-off. As will be further described herein, where the quantity of fuel is being consumed more rapidly, the supply of further quantities of LNG may be modified to ensure continuous availability of LNG at the destination site 148.

[0129] The storage capacity of the barges is designed for the rate of consumer consumption. A tradeoff is made between having larger storage to provide customers with more days of LNG supply, on the one end, and smaller storage so as to have less money tied up in stored LNG at the destination site over a longer period of time. Providing just-in- time delivery can thus optimize the situation. In some examples, it is contemplated that the barges would have sufficient capacity to supply the customers of the destination site with LNG for a period of several days to several weeks, for example, a period of a week to ten days or so.

[0130] According to various exemplary embodiments, the duration of the transporting of the first quantity of consumable commodity and supplying the quantity at the destination site 148 is dependent on the length of the transportation route 140 and the consumption rate at the destination site 148.

[0131 ] For example, in the case of shorter routes, the duration of the transporting of the first quantity of consumable commodity and supplying the quantity at the destination site 148 may be less than about 4 days.

[0132] In other examples, this duration may be less than about 6 days. [0133] In other examples of longer routes, this duration may be less than about 10 days.

[0134] Continuing with Figure 3, as the first quantity of LNG carried by the first barge 156a is being consumed at the destination site 148, further barges may be prepared to replace the first barge 156a at the destination site 148 when the first quantity of fuel is depleted. As illustrated, a second barge 156b is provided at the treatment facility 132 to receive a second quantity of LNG therefrom. Once the second barge 156b is filled with the second quantity of LNG, it can be transported to the destination site 148.

[0135] According to various exemplary embodiments, the second quantity of fuel for replacing the first quantity of fuel being stored by the first barge 156a is provided in a "just- in-time" manner. That is, the second barge 156b transports the second quantity of fuel over the transportation route 140 so that its arrival at the destination site 148 substantially coincides in time with the depletion of fuel carried by the first barge 156a. The second barge 156b will in fact arrive at the destination site 148 slightly in advance of the depletion of fuel carried by the first barge 156a. Accordingly, after the first barge 156a is depleted, LNG can thereafter immediately be supplied from the second barge, thereby ensuring a continuous supply of fuel. Since supply of fuel is continuously available, the need for long- term storage at the destination site 148 is obviated. The destination site 148 may though have a small reserve of LNG, which may be used in case there is a gap in the supply of fuel from the just-in-time delivered fuel on the barges.

[0136] It will be understood that the barge may be considered to be depleted before its storage tank is completely emptied. The barge may be considered to be depleted when the level of stored LNG has a reached sufficiently low level that it needs to be refilled. For example, a cryogenic storage tank requires a minimal temperature to reduce thermal shock when refilling the storage tank. The barge is considered as being depleted when the amount of LNG remaining in the cryogenic storage tank reaches a level required for maintaining the minimal temperature.

[0137] Since the storage of LNG under cryogenic conditions is provided by the first barge 156a, the need for long-term cryogenic storage of LNG at the destination site 148 may thus be greatly reduced. According to some exemplary embodiments, permanent cryogenic storage capabilities are still provided at the destination site 148, but for storing only a modest reserve of LNG while day-to-day use of LNG is drawn from the barges stationed at the destination site 148. According to other exemplary embodiments, the destination site 148 has no cryogenic storage of LNG apart from the barges. Reserve storage may also be provided by one or more additional barges that are located at the destination site for an extended interval of time, which may be substantially longer than the interval of time in which a barge may be depleted of fuel.

[0138] According to various exemplary embodiments, the consumption rate of LNG and the amount of remaining LNG on the barge currently stationed at the destination site 148 are monitored. The consumption rate and the amount of remaining fuel together provide an indication of time to depletion of the fuel stored on the barge. The instant at which the preparing of the second quantity of fuel is to begin is chosen so that the second quantity of fuel can be prepared and transported to the destination site 148 just in time for the fuel stored on the barge currently stationed at the destination site 148 to be depleted. The instant at which preparing of the second quantity of fuel is to begin is further adjusted based on the monitored consumption rate and the amount of remaining fuel.

[0139] Monitoring the consumption rate of the consumable commodity may also be useful for reducing overproduction of the consumable commodity. Similarly, where it is determined that consumption rates are increasing, production may be accelerated or the production capacity at the preparation site 148 may be increased.

[0140] For example, in the case of shale gas, matching the drilling and production to the quantity consumed or rate of consumption reduces overproduction and allows limited shale gas fields to last longer. Matching the drilling and production also allows for matching of the life of the limited field to the contract duration of an offtake agreement. [0141 ] Monitoring the consumption rate of the consumable commodity may also be useful for reducing oil well gas flaring (used for evacuating amounts of gas in response to fluctuating gas content exiting and the well). Reduction of oil well gas flaring can reduce the environmental impact from exploitation of the oil well.

[0142] For example, where the preparation site 108 includes storage of LNG, the loading of LNG onto the second barge 156b is begun so that the loading of the second quantity of the LNG and the transporting of the second quantity of the LNG over the transportation route 140 is completed just in time for the first quantity of LNG to be depleted.

[0143] For example, where the preparation of the fuel includes extraction of raw fuel, delivery of raw fuel and treatment of fuel to produce LNG, the preparing of the second quantity of fuel is begun at a point in time so that the extraction of raw fuel from the extraction site 1 16, the delivery of raw fuel over the delivery system 124, treatment of fuel at the treatment facility 132 (ex: liquefaction), and the transporting of the second quantity of the LNG over the transportation route 140 is completed just in time for the first quantity of LNG stored in the first barge 156a to be depleted. It will be appreciated that the preparation of the second quantity of the LNG needs to be started at an earlier point in time than the example where LNG is already being stored. However, the need for storage of LNG at the preparation site 108 may be obviated or reduced, which may advantageously provide further substantial cost savings. [0144] Referring now to Figure 4, therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of the transportation system 100 as the second barge 156b is transporting the second quantity of the LNG along the transportation route 140. It will be appreciated that the second barge 156b has stored thereon a quantity of LNG that corresponds to its full capacity. It will be further appreciated that as the second barge 156b nears the destination site 148, the quantity of fuel remaining on the first barge 156a station at the fuel destination site 148 is nearing depletion.

[0145] As illustrated in Figure 4, the second barge 156b is also non-motorized, which is being conveyed by a second tugboat 172b engaging the barge in a tandem arrangement.

[0146] Referring now to Figure 5, therein illustrated is a perspective view of the barge port 176 of the destination site 148 with the presence of the first barge 156a and the second barge 156b. The second tugboat 172b is still engaging the second barge 156b as it completes conveying the second barge 156b to the destination site 148, thereby also completing the transporting of the second quantity of LNG over the transportation route 140. [0147] Referring now to Figure 6, therein illustrated is a perspective view of the destination site 148 with the presence of the first barge 156a and the second barge 156b. As illustrated, the second tugboat 172b is disengaged from the second barge 156b and is now engaging the first barge 156a. Since the first barge 156a is now depleted, it can be returned to the preparation site 108 to receive further quantities of LNG. It will be appreciated that the second barge 156b is now stationary at the destination site 148 while it acts as a short-term fuel storage and supply. Meanwhile, the second tugboat 172b is kept in operation by returning to the preparation site 108, thereby minimizing its downtime.

[0148] Referring now to Figure 7, therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of the transportation system 100 as the second barge 156b acts as short-term storage of LNG at the destination site 148. Furthermore, the first barge 156a being depleted is now on route over the transportation route 140 towards the preparation site 108. A third barge 156c is loading at the preparation site 108.

[0149] Referring now to Figure 8, therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of the transportation system as the second barge 156b is nearing depletion. A third barge 156c carrying a third quantity of LNG is on route over the transportation route 140 towards the destination site 148. The preparation and the transportation of the third quantity of fuel is also carried in a just in time manner. The arrival of the third barge 156c at the destination site 148 substantially coincides with depletion of fuel from the second barge 156b so that availability of fuel at the destination site 148 can be continued.

[0150] Referring now to Figure 9, therein illustrated is a perspective view of the first barge 156a and the third barge 156c along the transportation route 140. While the third barge 156c is on route towards the destination site 148, the first barge 156a is being returned from the destination site 148 to the preparation site 108. The third barge 156c is being conveyed by a tugboat 172, which may be the same tugboat that initially conveyed the first barge 156a to the destination site 148 or a third tugboat. It will be appreciated that to ensure a continuous supply of fuel at the destination site 148, a multiplicity of barges may be in operation and that two or more barges may be simultaneously on route towards the destination site 148 as well as away from the destination site 148. [0151 ] According to various exemplary methods and systems, just in time delivery of the consumable commodity is performed by a minimum of two transportation vehicles. In such methods and systems, one of the transportation vehicles is located at the destination site 148 to provide short-term storage of fuel while the other of the transportation vehicles travels over the transportation route 140 to and from the preparation site 108 to deliver an additional quantity of fuel to the destination site 148 just as fuel carried by the first transportation vehicle is nearing depletion.

[0152] According to other exemplary methods and systems, just in time delivery of the consumable commodity is performed by more than two transportation vehicles. In such methods and systems, one of the transportation vehicles is located at the destination site 148 to provide short-term storage of fuel while the other transportation vehicles are traveling over the transportation route 140 so that one of the other transportation vehicles arrives at the destination site 148 to deliver an additional quantity of fuel just as fuel carried by the first transportation vehicle is nearing depletion. [0153] According to various exemplary methods and systems, the transportation vehicles may be non-motorized, and conveyed by at least one separate motorized vehicle. Accordingly, just in time delivery of the consumable commodity is provided by a given number of non-motorized transportation vehicles and a smaller number of motorized vehicles. As described elsewhere herein, a smaller number of motorized vehicles than transportation vehicles may be required because the transportation vehicle stationed at the destination site 148 will be stationary, thereby freeing up a motorized vehicle. Similarly, a transportation vehicle being loaded with the consumable commodity may also be temporarily stationary, which can also free up a motorized vehicle.

[0154] The number of transportation vehicles used for just in time delivery is chosen based on one or more of time required for traveling the transportation route 140, the expected consumption rate of fuel at the destination site 148, the storage capacity of each transportation vehicle, and the maximum permissible storage time of the consumable commodity within a transportation vehicle.

[0155] It will be appreciated that the use of transportation vehicles provides flexibility in varying the amount of consumable commodity being delivered to the destination site 148. For example, the amount of consumable commodity may experience seasonal fluctuations. Accordingly, more transportation vehicles may be deployed during periods of higher demand while fewer transportation vehicles may be deployed during periods of lower demand. Varying the number of transportation vehicles can ensure that the appropriate amount of transportation capacity is provided while reducing idle capacity.

[0156] Referring now to Figure 10, therein illustrated is a perspective view of the treatment facility 32, which is a floating liquefaction plant 132. A fourth barge 156d is currently moored at the liquefaction plant 132 so as to be loaded with a fourth quantity of LNG from the liquefaction plant 132. As the fourth barge 156d is being loaded, the first barge 156a arrives at the preparation site 108. While the first barge 156a will be further stationary at the preparation site to receive LNG from the liquefaction plant 132, the second tugboat 172b that had operated to return the first barge 156a back to the preparation site can be disengaged from the first barge 156a. The second tugboat 172b can then engage the fourth barge 156d to begin conveying the fourth barge 156d over the transportation route 140 towards the destination site 148.

[0157] According to various exemplary embodiments, the barges may be configured to have scalable fuel storage capacity. Each barge may have a base fuel storage capacity that may be scaled up when needed. Modification of fuel storage capacity may be carried out based on the properties of a given destination site and the transportation route connecting the preparation site to the destination site. For example, the fuel storage capacity of the barges may be scaled up for servicing a destination site that has a higher rate of consumption. The fuel storage capacity of the barges may also be scaled up for longer transportation routes. A barge used for carrying LNG may also be adapted for transporting other cargo such as equipment, either in its hold or on its deck. [0158] (For exemplary purposes, the liquefaction plant 132 is illustrated as floating. This has the advantage of facilitating relocation along a coast line where it is expected that the natural gas will be sourced from a variety of reservoirs, as sometimes occurs for example in the case of shale gas deposits. However, it will be understood that the liquefaction plant 132 may also be land-based). [0159] According to various exemplary embodiments, a transportation vehicle that is a barge may be reinforced for travel over colder areas where ice may form over the surface of a maritime transportation route 140. Furthermore, during periods of the year when ice may form, the travel speed of a barge may be reduced and a higher number of barges may be deployed to account for fluctuations in travel time. The fluctuation in travel time may be considered in the same way as the lengthening of the transportation route.

[0160] According to various other exemplary embodiments, a plurality of mobile storage tanks are used in a just-in-time manner to provide continuous short-term storage of the LNG at the destination site. In particular, each mobile storage tank may be loaded onto and unloaded from a transportation vehicle. Various examples described herein with respect to transportation vehicles providing short term storage may be adapted for use of a mobile storage tank wherein the tank is removed from the transportation vehicle at the destination site to act as short term storage.

[0161 ] The mobile storage tank refers to a storage element adapted to store the consumable commodity, such as LNG. The mobile storage tank is further sized so as to be loaded onto a transportation vehicle, such as a sea-based barge, and to be unloaded from the transportation vehicle. The mobile storage tank is further operable to supply fuel (ex: LNG) to consumers of fuel. The mobile storage tank may supply fuel while being loaded onto a transportation vehicle or having been unloaded from the transportation vehicle. [0162] At least one mobile storage tank is first loaded with the consumable commodity (such as LNG) at the preparation site 108. The mobile storage tank may be filled with LNG while being removed from a transportation vehicle. Alternatively, the mobile storage tank may be filled while already having been loaded onto a transportation vehicle. For example, where the transportation vehicle is a sea-based barge, a mobile storage tank loaded onto the transportation vehicle can be filled with LNG from a floating liquefaction plant.

[0163] After being loaded onto a transportation vehicle and after being filled with LNG at the preparation site, the mobile storage tank can be transported aboard the transportation vehicle from the preparation site 108 to the destination site 148. Where the transportation vehicle is a non-motorized barge 156, the mobile storage tank can be transported by conveying the barge using a tugboat 172.

[0164] After arriving at the destination site, the mobile storage tank may be unloaded from the transportation vehicle and temporarily located at the destination site 148 to provide short-term storage to the consumers at the destination site 148. That is, the mobile storage tank acts as short-term storage while being separated from the transportation vehicle.

[0165] A main difference between the use of mobile storage tanks for short-term storage and transportation vehicles for short-term storage is that the mobile storage tank can be unloaded from the transportation vehicle(s). The capability to remove the mobile storage tanks from a transportation vehicle(s) provides for additional flexibility.

[0166] For example, the transportation vehicle that transported a given mobile storage tank to the destination site 148 can leave the destination site 148 while the given mobile storage tank is still being used for short-term storage. The transportation vehicle may also be loaded with another mobile storage tank that was previously placed at the destination site 148 and that is now depleted. The transportation vehicle may then transport the depleted mobile storage tank back to the preparation site 108. Accordingly, the down time or stationary time of the transportation vehicle(s) may be reduced. Furthermore, the total number of transportation vehicles required may also be reduced.

[0167] Furthermore, the capacity of the mobile storage tank may be monitored so that further supply of LNG can be prepared and transported to the destination in a "just-in- time" manner. For example, as LNG stored in a first mobile storage tank is being used up by consumers at the destination site 148, a second quantity of LNG is prepared at the preparation site and loaded onto a second mobile storage tank. The second mobile storage tank is then transported by a transportation vehicle so as to arrive at a time that substantially coincides with the first mobile storage tank being depleted. The second mobile storage tank is then unloaded from the transportation vehicle and placed at the destination site 148 to provide short-term storage of LNG. Accordingly, substantially continuous supply of LNG is provided between the first mobile storage tank and its replacement with the second mobile storage tank. [0168] The mobile storage tank may have integrated cryogenic storage capacity. The fuel carrying capacity of each tank may substantially correspond to the fuel carrying capacity of the transportation vehicle described herein according to various exemplary embodiments. Alternatively, the mobile storage tank may have a smaller fuel carrying capacity and more than one mobile storage tank can be loaded onto each transportation vehicle.

[0169] Referring now to Figure 1 1 , therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of an exemplary production and transportation system 200 for the production and transportation of a consumable commodity using a plurality of mobile storage tanks. The consumable commodity may be a liquid commodity that facilitates transportation. The example presented in the figures is for delivery of a consumable commodity that is LNG over a sea- based transportation route 140 using transportation vehicles that are barges. However, it will be understood that the transportation system 200 is applicable to consumable commodities other than LNG, to a land-based transportation route, and to transportation vehicles other than barges.

[0170] The system 200 further includes a plurality of barges for transporting the LNG from the outlet of the preparation site 108 along a transportation route 140 to the destination site 148. Typically, the treatment facility 132 includes the outlet of the preparation site 108. (Where LNG is subsequently stored prior to transportation, the storage facility may represent the outlet of the preparation site.)

[0171 ] Prepared LNG is loaded in discrete quantities within a mobile storage tank assembly. The mobile storage tank assembly may then be transported on a barge 156a over the transportation route 140. It will be understood that the barge 156a may transport one mobile storage tank as an assembly or a plurality of mobile storage tanks together as an assembly.

[0172] As illustrated in Figure 1 1 , a first mobile storage tank assembly 208 is located at and connected to the treatment facility 132. LNG is prepared at the preparation site 108 so that it can be transported within the first mobile storage tank assembly 208. Preparation of the LNG may include extracting the gas at the extraction site 1 16, delivering the gas over the delivery system 124, and treating the gas by a liquefaction process at the treatment facility 132 to produce LNG.

[0173] The first mobile storage tank assembly 208 is then loaded onto the first barge 156a. Alternatively, the first mobile storage tank assembly 208 may already be loaded onto the first barge 156a as it is loaded with LNG. For exemplary purposes, a first fuel gauge 164a associated to the first mobile storage tank assembly 208 is illustrated to show that the quantity of LNG loaded thereon is gradually increasing. The first barge 156a may be filled to full capacity before beginning transportation of the loaded first quantity of LNG.

[0174] (For exemplary purposes, the transportation vehicles are illustrated in the figures as barges and the transportation route 140 is illustrated as a marine route. However, it will be understood that the transportation route 140 may be land-based, and the transportation vehicles may be land vehicles, such as trucks or trains.)

[0175] According to various exemplary embodiments, the barges are non-motorized. Thus, they are conveyed by a motorized craft, such as a tugboat; the barges may be either pulled or pushed by such a craft. Advantageously, the use of non-motorized barges allows for higher use time of the motorized craft. While one non-motorized barge is stationary for an interval of time, the tugboat or similar craft may be used to convey another barge.

[0176] Referring now to Figure 12, therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of the transportation system 200 after some time has passed since the situation illustrated in Figure 1 1 . As illustrated, the first barge 156a is loaded with the first mobile storage tank assembly 208 carrying a first quantity of LNG. The first barge 156a is on route along the transportation route 140 towards the destination site 148. A first tugboat 172 is positioned in a tandem arrangement with the first barge 156a and is conveying the first barge 156a having the first mobile storage tank assembly 208 loaded thereon towards the destination site 148.

[0177] Referring now to Figure 13, therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of the transportation system 200 after the first barge 156a has arrived at the destination site 148. The destination site 148 includes a barge port 176 where the barges can be docked or moored. The first mobile storage tank assembly 208 is unloaded from the barge 156a and positioned in proximity of the barge port 176. The first mobile storage tank assembly 208 is then located at the destination site 148 to supply fuel to the various consumers 154. The distribution routes 152 provide connections between the barge port 176 and the respective consumers 154 over which the LNG carried by the first barge 156a can be supplied.

[0178] The LNG stored within the unloaded first mobile storage tank assembly 208 is supplied on an as need basis to the various consumers. That is, as a given consumer 154 at the destination site 148 requires fuel, it is withdrawn directly from the unloaded first mobile storage tank assembly 208 and distributed over the appropriate distribution route to that given consumer so as to be consumed within a short period of time. Accordingly, the unloaded first mobile storage tank assembly 208 acts as short-term storage of the LNG. [0179] "Short-term storage" being provided by a mobile storage tank assembly herein refers to the mobile storage tank assembly storing the LNG so as to provide a ready source of fuel for consumers 154 at the destination site 148. Furthermore, due to the LNG being supplied on an as needed basis to the consumers, the LNG may be supplied from the mobile storage tank assembly at an average supply rate that is substantially lower than the maximum instantaneous flow rate of the LNG from the mobile storage tank assembly when discharging.

[0180] For example, a capacity of 5,000 cubic metres of LNG being carried by a mobile storage tank assembly might be emptied in a number of hours when discharged at the maximum flow rate. However, the same volume of LNG may be emptied over an interval of several days at a reduced flow rate. It will be appreciated that the time taken to supply a given volume will depend on the demand for LNG at the destination site and is not dependent on the maximum flow rate of the mobile storage tank assembly.

[0181 ] Unloading the first mobile storage tank assembly 208 from the first barge 156a frees up storage space on the barge 156a. This freed up space may be used to load another mobile storage tank assembly onto the barge 156a. For example, and as illustrated in Figures 1 1 and 12, a previous assembly 212 of mobile storage tank assembly was already being used as short-term storage to provide fuel at the destination site. The barge 156a may then transport the previous assembly 212 of mobile storage tank assembly along the transportation route back to the preparation site 108. [0182] According to various exemplary embodiments, the first mobile storage tank assembly 208 may be left in proximity of the barge port 176 and the destination site 148 and the LNG is supplied on an as needed basis. Since it may take an extended interval of time (ex: a few days) to deplete the first mobile storage tank assembly 208, first mobile storage tank assembly 208 may be stationary for that extended interval of time. Accordingly, the tugboat 172 and/or the barge 156a may be used for another purpose while the first mobile storage tank assembly 208 is stationed at the barge port 176 of the destination site 148. Thus, the tugboat 172 and/or the barge 156a may be used to return back to the preparation site 108 the previous assembly 212 of mobile storage tank assembly that had previously provided fuel to the destination site and is now depleted.

[0183] The LNG may be cryogenically stored within the first mobile storage tank assembly 208 that is free of (i.e. without) recycling of LNG boil-off. It will be appreciated that non-recycling of LNG boil-off significantly decreases the cost and complexity of cryogenic storage of LNG, but is also subject to loss of LNG over time. [0184] According to various exemplary embodiments, the LNG storage capacity of a mobile storage tank assembly is chosen based on the time required for traveling the transportation route 140, the expected consumption rate of fuel at the destination site 148, and the maximum permissible storage time of the LNG within the barge. Storage capacity of the mobile storage tank assembly herein refers to the combined storage capacity of each of the mobile storage tank assemblies. The maximum permissible storage time corresponds to the upper time limit at which LNG may be stored within the mobile storage tank assembly before losses due to boil-off become excessive. Where the time to travel the transportation route 140 is substantially constant, the minimum expected consumption rate may define an upper bound of the fuel capacity of the mobile storage tank assembly. [0185] According to one example, the capacity of the mobile storage tank assembly is chosen so that the time required to travel the transportation route 140 and the time to deplete the quantity of fuel stored in the mobile storage tank assembly is substantially less than the maximum storage period of the LNG within the barge. In this way, all of the LNG will be used up within a relative short period of time, thereby mitigating the impact of boil- off. As will be further described herein, where the quantity of fuel is being consumed more rapidly, the supply of further quantities of LNG may be modified to ensure continuous availability of LNG at the destination site 148.

[0186] The LNG storage capacity of the mobile storage tank assembly may be further chosen based on the number mobile storage tank assemblies 208 being used to service the transportation route 140 and to provide substantially continuous source of LNG at the destination site 148.

[0187] The storage capacity of a mobile storage tank assembly is designed for the rate of consumer consumption. A tradeoff is made between having larger storage to provide customers with more days of LNG supply, on the one end, and smaller storage so as to have less money tied up in stored LNG at the destination site over a longer period of time. Providing just-in-time delivery can thus optimize the situation. In some examples, it is contemplated that the mobile storage tank assembly would have sufficient capacity to supply the customers of the destination site with LNG for a period of several days to several weeks, for example, a period of a week to ten days or so. [0188] According to various exemplary embodiments, the duration of the transporting of the first quantity of consumable commodity and supplying the quantity at the destination site 148 is dependent on the length of the transportation route 140 and the consumption rate at the destination site 148.

[0189] For example, in the case of shorter routes, the duration of the transporting of the first quantity of consumable commodity and supplying the quantity at the destination site 148 may be less than about 4 days.

[0190] In other examples, this duration may be less than about 6 days.

[0191 ] In other examples of longer routes, this duration may be less than about 10 days. [0192] Referring now to Figure 14, therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of the transportation system 200 at a point in time after the situation illustrated in Figure 13. As the first quantity of LNG stored within the unloaded first mobile storage tank assembly 208 is being consumed at the destination site 148, a further mobile storage tank assembly may be prepared to replace the first mobile storage tank assembly 208 at the destination site 148 when the first quantity of fuel is depleted. As illustrated, a second

[0193] mobile storage tank assembly 208b is provided at the treatment facility 132 to receive a second quantity of LNG therefrom. Once the second mobile storage tank assembly 208 is filled with the second quantity of LNG, it can be transported to the destination site 148.

[0194] The second mobile storage tank assembly 208b may correspond to the previous depleted mobile storage tank assembly 212 that was previously transported back to the preparation site 108 from the destination site 148 by the first barge 156a. Accordingly, the supply of LNG using mobile storage tanks to the destination site 148 may be carried out using two mobile storage tank assemblies and 1 barge serving the transportation route.

[0195] Alternatively, the mobile storage tank assembly 208b may be a third mobile storage tank assembly to be transported by a second barge 156b. Accordingly, the supply of LNG using mobile storage tanks to the destination site 148 may be carried out using more than two mobile storage tank assemblies and more than 1 barge serving the transportation route.

[0196] According to various exemplary embodiments, the second quantity of fuel for replacing the first quantity of fuel being stored by the second mobile storage tank assembly 208b is provided in a "just-in-time" manner. That is, the second mobile storage tank assembly 208b transports the second quantity of fuel over the transportation route 140 so that its arrival at the destination site 148 substantially coincides in time with the depletion of fuel stored in the first mobile storage tank assembly 208. The second barge 156b will in fact arrive at the destination site 148 slightly in advance of the depletion of fuel carried by the first mobile storage tank assembly 208. Accordingly, after the first mobile storage tank assembly 208, LNG can thereafter immediately be supplied from the second mobile storage tank assembly 208b, thereby ensuring a continuous supply of fuel supply. Since supply of fuel is continuously available, the need for long-term storage at the destination site 148 is obviated. The destination site 148 may though have a small reserve of LNG, which may be used in case there is a gap in the supply of fuel from the just-in-time delivered fuel on the barges.

[0197] Since the storage of LNG under cryogenic conditions is provided by a mobile storage tank assembly, the need for long-term cryogenic storage of LNG at the destination site 148 may thus be greatly reduced. According to some exemplary embodiments, permanent cryogenic storage capabilities are still provided at the destination site 148, but for storing only a modest reserve of LNG while day-to-day use of LNG is drawn from the mobile storage tank assembly stationed at the destination site 148. According to other exemplary embodiments, the destination site 148 has no cryogenic storage of LNG apart from the mobile storage assembly. Reserve storage may also be provided by one or more additional mobile storage tank assemblies that are located at the destination site for an extended interval of time, which may be substantially longer than the interval of time in which a mobile storage tank assembly may be depleted of fuel.

[0198] According to various exemplary embodiments, the consumption rate of LNG and the amount of remaining LNG stored within the mobile storage tank assembly currently stationed at the destination site 148 are monitored. The consumption rate and the amount of remaining fuel together provide an indication of time to depletion of the fuel stored on the mobile storage tank assembly. The instant at which the preparing of the second quantity of fuel is to begin is chosen so that the second quantity of fuel can be prepared and transported to the destination site 148 just in time for the fuel stored on the mobile storage tank assembly currently stationed at the destination site 148 to be depleted. The instant at which preparing of the second quantity of fuel is to begin is further adjusted based on the monitored consumption rate and the amount of remaining fuel.

[0199] For example, where the preparation site 108 includes storage of LNG, the loading of LNG onto the second mobile storage tank assembly 208b is begun so that the loading of the second quantity of the LNG and the transporting of the second quantity of the LNG over the transportation route 140 is completed just in time for the first quantity of LNG to be depleted.

[0200] For example, where the preparation of the fuel includes extraction of raw fuel, delivery of raw fuel and treatment of fuel to produce LNG, the preparing of the second quantity of fuel is begun at a point in time so that the extraction of raw fuel from the extraction site 1 16, the delivery of raw fuel over the delivery system 124, treatment of fuel at the treatment facility 132 (ex: liquefaction), and the transporting of the second quantity of the LNG over the transportation route 140 is completed just in time for the first quantity of LNG stored in the first mobile storage tank assembly 208 to be depleted. It will be appreciated that the preparation of the second quantity of the LNG needs to be started at an earlier point in time than the example where LNG is already being stored. However, the need for storage of LNG at the preparation site 108 may be obviated or reduced, which may advantageously provide further substantial cost savings. [0201 ] Referring now to Figure 15, therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of the transportation system 200 as the second barge 156b is transporting the second quantity of the LNG along the transportation route 140. It will be appreciated that the second barge 156b has stored thereon a quantity of LNG that corresponds to its full capacity. It will be further appreciated that as the second barge 156b nears the destination site 148, the quantity of fuel remaining within the first mobile storage tank assembly 208 stationed at the fuel destination site 148 is nearing depletion.

[0202] When the first mobile storage tank assembly 208 is emptied, it can be returned to the preparation site 108 to receive further quantities of LNG. It will be appreciated that the second mobile storage tank assembly 208b is now stationary at the destination site 148 while it acts as a short-term fuel storage and supply. Meanwhile, the barge is kept in operation by transporting the depleted first mobile storage tank assembly 208 back to the preparation site 108.

[0203] Referring now to Figure 16, therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of the transportation system 200 as the second mobile storage tank assembly 208b acts as short- term storage of LNG at the destination site 148. Furthermore, the depleted first mobile storage tank assembly 208 is now on route over the transportation route 140 towards the preparation site 108. As further illustrated, a third mobile storage tank assembly 208c is being loaded with LNG aboard another barge 156b. It will be appreciated that the example illustrated in Figure 16 corresponds to various exemplary embodiments using more than two mobile storage tank assemblies and more than one transportation barge. [0204] Referring now to Figure 17, therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of the transportation system as the second mobile storage tank assembly 208b is nearing depletion. A second barge 156b carrying a third quantity of LNG within a third mobile storage tank assembly 208c is on route over the transportation route 140 towards the destination site 148. The preparation and the transportation of the third quantity of fuel is also carried in a just in time manner. The arrival of the second barge 156b at the destination site 148 substantially coincides with depletion of fuel within the second mobile storage tank assembly 208b so that availability of fuel at the destination site 148 can be continued by the third mobile storage tank assembly 208c. [0205] According to various exemplary methods and systems, just in time delivery of the consumable commodity is performed by a minimum of two mobile storage tank assemblies. In such methods and systems, one of mobile storage tank assemblies is located at the destination site 148 to provide short-term storage of fuel while the other of the transported over the transportation route 140 to and from the preparation site 108 to deliver an additional quantity of fuel to the destination site 148 just as fuel carried by the first mobile storage tank assembly is nearing depletion.

[0206] According to other exemplary methods and systems, just in time delivery of the consumable commodity is performed by more than two mobile storage tank assemblies. In such methods and systems, one of the mobile storage tank assemblies is located at the destination site 148 to provide short-term storage of fuel while the other mobile storage tank assemblies are transported over the transportation route 140 so that one of the other mobile storage tank assemblies arrives at the destination site 148 to deliver an additional quantity of fuel just as fuel carried by the first mobile storage tank assembly is nearing depletion. [0207] The number of mobile storage tank assemblies used for just in time delivery is chosen based on one or more of time required for traveling the transportation route 140, the expected consumption rate of fuel at the destination site 148, the storage capacity of each mobile storage tank assembly, and the maximum permissible storage time of the consumable commodity within a transportation vehicle. [0208] It will be appreciated that the use of mobile storage tank assemblies provides flexibility in varying the amount of consumable commodity being delivered to the destination site 148. For example, the amount of consumable commodity may experience seasonal fluctuations. Accordingly, more mobile storage tank assemblies may be deployed during periods of higher demand while less mobile storage tank assemblies may be deployed during periods of lower demand. Varying the number of mobile storage tank assemblies can ensure that the appropriate amount of transportation capacity is provided while reducing idle capacity.

[0209] According to various exemplary embodiments, a transportation vehicle that is a barge and that transports a mobile storage tank assembly may be reinforced for travel over colder areas where ice may form over the surface of a maritime transportation route 140. Furthermore, during periods of the year when ice may form, the travel speed of a barge may be reduced and a higher number of barges may be deployed to account for fluctuations in travel time. The fluctuation in travel time may be considered in the same way as the lengthening of the transportation route.

[0210] According to various exemplary embodiments, the transportation vehicle includes a cargo hold configured to have a low friction guide placed therein. The low friction guide may be rails or skids. The mobile storage tank includes one or more low friction members for cooperating with the guide. The low friction member may be wheels or skis to be displaced on the rails or skids. The destination site may also include a low friction guide, such as rails or skids, for the low friction members of the mobile storage tank. The destination site may be configured so that a transportation vehicle can be positioned whereby the guide of the transportation vehicle is lined up with the guide of the destination site. Alternatively, a separate guide, such as a conveyor, may be positioned to join the cargo hold with an area of the destination site. For example, the rails or skids of the transportation vehicle and the rails or skids of the destination site may form together continuous rails or skids and the mobile storage tank can be driven along the continuous rail or skids to be unloaded from the transportation vehicle onto land at the destination site.

[021 1 ] For example, where the transportation vehicle is a sea-based barge, a portion of the hull of the transportation vehicle can be actuated to be closed to retain the at least one mobile storage tank being carried thereon within the hold of the vehicle. The portion of the hull can be further actuated to be opened to permit displacement of the mobile storage tank along the continuous rails from the cargo hold of the vehicle to the destination site.

[0212] Referring now to Figure 18, therein illustrated is a schematic diagram of the operational parts of a system 300 for loading and unloading a mobile storage tank 208 from a transportation vehicle. The system 300 includes a first motorized device 308 for providing a pulling force. For example, the first motorized device 308 may be a winch. The first motorized device 308 is provided at the destination site 148. For example, where the destination site 148 is a barge port 176, the first motorized device 308 may be fixed on land at the barge port 176. The system 300 further includes a second motorized device 316 for providing a pulling force. For example, the second motorized device 316 may be a winch. The second motorized device 316 is provided on the transportation vehicle. The system further includes the guide 320, which may a single guide or a combination of the guide of the transportation vehicle and the destination site. As described, the guide 320 may be rails skids or conveyor belt, which aids and guides displacement of the mobile storage tank 208.

[0213] When a mobile storage tank is to be loaded onto the transportation vehicle, the transportation vehicle is displaced so that the guide provides a path from the location where the mobile storage tank is located to the cargo hold of the transportation vehicle. An attachment member is further used to attach the second motorized device 316 to an attachment mechanism of the mobile storage tank 208. The second motorized device 316 can be further operated so as to pull the mobile storage tank 208 along the guide and into the cargo hold of the transportation vehicle.

[0214] When a mobile storage tank is to be unloaded from the transportation vehicle, the transportation vehicle is displaced so that the guide provides a path from the cargo hold of the transportation vehicle to a location at the destination site where the mobile storage tank is to be positioned. An attachment member 324 is further used to attach the first motorized device 308 to an attachment mechanism of the mobile storage tank 208. For example, the attachment member 324 may be a chain. The first motorized device 308 can be further operated so as to pull the mobile storage tank 208 along the guide from the cargo hold to the destination site. [0215] According to various examples, the destination may further include one or more off-loading guides or tracks 332. The off-loading guide 332 branches from the guide 320 and is used where multiple mobile storage tanks are to be positioned at the destination site. Each off-loading guide 332 can lead to a station for holding in place a mobile storage tank remote from the guide 320. As illustrated, a second mobile storage tank has been positioned using one of the off-loading guides 332.

[0216] It will be appreciated that use of the mobile storage tank results in land-based storage at the destination site. However, the mobile storage tank provides short term storage at the destination site and may be easily displaced or replaced. As a result, continuous supply of LNG can be provided without use of any long-term or immovable (fixed) storage equipment. The mobile storage tank acts as the primary source of the LNG at the destination and the volume of any land-based liquefied storage that is provided after supplying LNG the mobile storage tank will have a volume that is substantially less than the storage capacity of the first mobile storage tank. For example, the mobile storage tank will have a fuel carrying capacity that substantially exceeds any immovable storage equipment provided at the destination site.

[0217] While various examples have been provided herein with regard to a single preparation site 108 and a single destination site 148, it will be understood that various methods and systems described herein may also be applied in a hub and spoke arrangement wherein one preparation site 108 acts as a hub that services a plurality of transportation routes acting as spokes. The transportation routes could service a plurality of destination sites, each transportation route services one of the plurality of consumptions sites. Quantities of LNG are transported over each transportation route so that at least one barge having LNG stored thereon is stationed at each of the consumptions sites at all times. The preparation site 148 and additional barges are operated so that as any one of the barges stationed at a given destination site is nearing depletion, another barge arrives at the given destination site in a just in time manner to provide continuous supply of LNG.

[0218] In various situations, consumers 154 of LNG may be distributed over large geographic distances that make it unfeasible or non-economical to provide fuel from the preparation site to each consumer in a one-to-one relationship. The use of an intermediate fuel storage near a group of closely located consumers so as to form a destination site can improve the economics of fuel distribution by allowing simplified transportation of fuel between the preparation site and intermediate storage at the destination site.

[0219] Advantageously, according to various exemplary embodiments described herein, by providing short-term fuel storage from the barge of a mobile storage tank assembly stationed at the destination site, the need for immovable/permanent fuel storage facilities is reduced or eliminated, thereby reducing costs. By rotating the barge or mobile storage tank stationed at the destination site as each vehicle is depleted of fuel, continuously supply of fuel at the destination site is provided. [0220] Also, by ensuring that additional barges arrive in a just-in-time manner as a currently stationed barge or mobile storage tank assembly is about to be depleted, the supplying of fuel from the barges is based on changing fuel consumption rates at the destination site. This may be useful where demand for fuel may vary seasonally or due to market conditions (changes in prices for a particular resource over time). [0221 ] Furthermore, by preparing fuel at the preparation site 108 in response to changes in consumption rate at the destination site, storage of fuel at the preparation site 108 can also be reduced.

EXAMPLE 1

[0222] According to one Canadian example, the preparation site 108 is located on Anticosti Island in the Gulf of Saint-Lawrence. A floating liquefaction plant is provided offshore near a pipeline from a gas reserve. The destination site 148 is located near Sept- lles, on the Saint-Lawrence River. The Saint-Lawrence River represents a marine transportation route joining the preparation site 108 and the destination site 148. Consumers 154 of the fuel are mining operations and remote settlements located in the Cote-Nord and Nord-du-Quebec regions of Quebec as well as in Labrador.

[0223] Accordingly, barges can travel the transportation route between Anticosti

Island and Sept-lles in several hours. Each barge is sized so as to be stationed at the destination site 148 for a period of up to approximately 5 days while supplying fuel.

Accordingly, each barge is provided with a fuel storage capacity of 2,000-3,000 cubic metres. For example, during high season, the fuel carried by the transportation vehicle might be depleted in 5 to 7 days, thereby requiring more frequent changes of the barge stationed at Sept-lles. By contrast, during lower season, the fuel carried by the transportation vehicle might be depleted in 10 days.

[0224] It is anticipated that the consumption rate and/or volume of the LNG (or other commodity) should be scaleable. Accordingly, the barges are to be built large enough to accommodate the maximum expected delivery requirements. However, initial cryogenic storage capacity can be limited to a fraction (for example one-half) of the maximum.

[0225] While the above description provides examples of the embodiments, it will be appreciated that some features and/or functions of the described embodiments are susceptible to modification without departing from the spirit and principles of operation of the described embodiments. Accordingly, what has been described above has been intended to be illustrative and non-limiting and it will be understood by persons skilled in the art that other variants and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims appended hereto. [0226] While embodiments of the present method and system have been described in the context of maritime delivery of LNG, it should be appreciated that the described technology could also lend itself to delivery of other consumable commodities, particularly commodities that requires costly storage equipment, or that have short storage duration, including other liquefied gaseous fuels (such as liquid propane) and liquefied gaseous non- fuels (such as liquid nitrogen).

[0227] It should also be appreciated that while embodiments of the present method and system have been described in the context of maritime delivery of LNG, it should be appreciated that the described technology could also lend itself to delivery of LNG or other consumable commodities by land or air based transportation vehicles.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1 . A method for delivering a consumable commodity between a preparation site and a destination site, the method comprising:

preparing a first quantity of the commodity at the preparation site; loading the first quantity of prepared commodity onto a first transportation vehicle;

transporting the first quantity of prepared commodity on the first transportation vehicle from the preparation site to the destination site;

2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:

monitoring a first consumption rate at which the first quantity of prepared commodity is being supplied from the first transportation vehicle; and

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the modifying of the timing for the preparing and the loading is further based on the time required for preparing the second quantity of prepared commodity and transporting the second quantity of prepared commodity from the preparation site to the destination site.

4. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first transportation vehicle provides short-term storage of the first quantity of prepared commodity at the destination site, the commodity being supplied from the first transportation vehicle based on current demand at the destination site.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the consumption rate at which the first quantity of prepared commodity is being supplied is substantially lower than the maximum commodity supply rate from the first transportation vehicle.

6. The method of either one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the prepared commodity supplied from the first transportation vehicle is distributed free of intermediate long-term storage.

7. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising returning the depleted first transportation vehicle to the preparation site for receiving an additional quantity of prepared commodity.

8. The method of any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising:

while carrying out either one of the transporting or the supplying of the second quantity of prepared commodity:

transporting the third quantity of prepared commodity on the third transportation vehicle from the preparation site to the destination site, whereby the arrival of the third transportation vehicle substantially corresponds in time with the depletion of the second quantity of prepared commodity being supplied from the second transportation vehicle; and after supplying the second quantity of the commodity from the second transportation vehicle, supplying the third quantity of the commodity from the third transportation vehicle.

9. The method of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the transportation vehicles are all similar.

10. The method of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the storage capacity of each transportation vehicle is sized based on the time required for transporting a quantity of prepared commodity from the preparation site to the destination site, the expected maximum consumption rate at the destination site, and the maximum storage period of the prepared commodity within the transportation vehicle.

1 1 . The method of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein more than two transportation vehicles are used; and

wherein the number of transportation vehicles used is chosen based on one or more of time required for transportation a quantity of prepared commodity from the preparation site to the destination site, the expected maximum consumption rate at the destination site, the storage capacity of each transportation vehicle and the maximum storage period of the prepared commodity within the transportation vehicle.

12. The method of any one of claims 1 to 1 1 , wherein the consumable commodity is liquefied natural gas, and wherein preparing the first quantity of the commodity comprises at least one of extracting natural gas, liquefying the natural gas, and setting aside a quantity of stored liquefied natural gas.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the transporting the liquefied natural gas and the supplying the liquefied natural gas is carried out free of recycling of gas boil-off.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the liquefied natural gas supplied from the first transportation vehicle and distributed at the destination site is consumed free of recycling of gas boil-off.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the transporting, the supplying and the distributing is carried out free of immovable cryogenic storage of liquefied natural gas.

16. The method of any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the duration of the transporting the first quantity of prepared commodity and supplying the first quantity of prepared commodity is less than about 4 days.

17. The method of any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the first transportation vehicle is a sea-based vehicle and the second transportation vehicle is a sea-based vehicle.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the liquefied natural gas is liquefied aboard a floating liquefaction plant.

19. The method of claims 17 or 18, wherein the first transportation vehicle is reinforced for travel over icy maritime routes and wherein the second transportation vehicle is reinforced for travel over icy maritime routes.

20. The method of any one of claims 12 to 19, wherein the volume of land-based liquefied storage provided after supplying the quantity of liquefied natural gas from the first transportation vehicle is substantially less than the storage capacity of the first transportation vehicle.

21 . The method of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the first transportation vehicle is a non-motorized barge and the second transportation vehicle is a non-motorized sea-based barge;

wherein transporting the second quantity of commodity on the second transportation vehicle comprises conveying the second transportation vehicle using a first tugboat; and

wherein the method further comprises after supplying the first quantity of commodity from the first transportation vehicle, conveying the first transportation vehicle being depleted of commodity using the first tugboat to return the first transportation vehicle to the preparation site for receiving an additional quantity of prepared commodity.

22. The method of claim 21 , further comprising: loading a third quantity of prepared commodity onto a third transportation vehicle being a non-motorized barge;

23. The method of any one of the above claims wherein the transportation vehicles are barges.

24. The method of claim 23 wherein the barges are non-motorized and wherein the barges are conveyed by separate motorized craft.

25. The method of claim 24 wherein there are fewer motorized craft than barges.

26. The method of any one of claims 21 to 25 wherein the barges have a cryogenic storage capacity.

27. The method of claim any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the prepared commodity is a liquid consumable commodity.

28. The method of claim 27 wherein the prepared commodity is a liquefied gas.

29. The method of claim 28 wherein the liquefied gas is a liquefied fuel gas.

30. The method of claim 29 wherein the liquefied fuel gas is liquefied natural gas.

31 . A system for delivering a consumable commodity, the system comprising:

a preparation site for preparing the commodity;

a first transportation vehicle for receiving a first quantity of the prepared commodity and transporting the first quantity of the prepared commodity to a destination site;

32. The system of claim 31 wherein the transportation vehicles are barges.

33. The system of claim 32 wherein the barges are non-motorized and wherein the barges are conveyed by separate motorized craft.

34. The system of claim 33 wherein there are fewer motorized craft than barges.

35. The system of claim 34, the transportation vehicles are reinforced for travel over icy maritime routes.

36. The system of any one of claims 31 to 35 wherein the barges have a cryogenic storage capacity.

37. The system of any one of claims 31 to 36, wherein the prepared commodity is a liquid consumable commodity.

38. The system of claim 37wherein the prepared commodity is a liquefied gas.

39. The system of claim 38 wherein the liquefied gas is a liquefied fuel gas.

40. The system of claim 39 wherein the liquefied fuel gas is liquefied natural gas.

41 . The system of any one of claims 31 to 40, further comprising:

means for monitoring the consumption rate of the first quantity of prepared commodity being supplied from the first transportation vehicle; and

means for modifying the timing for preparing the second quantity of the commodity and loading the second quantity of the prepared commodity onto the second transportation vehicle based on the monitored first consumption rate of the first quantity of prepared commodity.

42. A method for delivering a consumable commodity between a preparation site and a destination site, the method comprising:

preparing a first quantity of the commodity at the preparation site; loading the first quantity of prepared commodity into a first mobile storage tank assembly;

transporting the first quantity of prepared commodity on a first transportation vehicle from the preparation site to the destination site;

unloading the first mobile storage tank assembly at the destination site;

while the first mobile storage tank assembly is located at the destination site, supplying the first quantity of prepared commodity from the first mobile storage tank assembly; and

while carrying out one of either the transporting or the supplying of the first quantity of prepared commodity:

43. The method of claim 42, further comprising:

monitoring a first consumption rate at which the first quantity of prepared commodity is being supplied from the first mobile storage tank assembly; and modifying the timing for the preparing of the second quantity of the commodity and the loading of the second quantity of the commodity into the second mobile storage tank assembly based on the monitored first consumption rate.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the modifying of the timing for the preparing and the loading is further based on the time required for preparing the second quantity of prepared commodity and transporting the second quantity of prepared commodity from the preparation site to the destination site.

45. The method of any one of claims 42 to 44, wherein the first mobile storage tank assembly provides short-term storage of the first quantity of prepared commodity at the destination site, the commodity being supplied from the first mobile storage tank assembly based on current demand at the destination site.

46. The method of claim 45, wherein the consumption rate at which the first quantity of prepared commodity is being supplied is substantially lower than the maximum commodity supply rate from the first mobile storage tank assembly.

47. The method of either one of claims 45 or 46, wherein the prepared commodity supplied from the first mobile storage tank assembly is distributed free of intermediate long- term storage.

48. The method of any one of claims 42 to 47, further comprising transporting the depleted first mobile storage tank assembly on the second transportation vehicle to the preparation site.

49. The method of any one of claims 42 to 48, further comprising:

after supplying the second quantity of the commodity from the second mobile storage tank assembly, supplying the third quantity of the commodity from the third mobile storage tank assembly.

50. The method of any one of claims 42 to 49, wherein the transportation vehicles are all similar.

51 . The method of any one of claims 42 to 50, wherein the storage capacity of each mobile storage tank assembly is sized based on the time required for transporting a quantity of prepared commodity from the preparation site to the destination site, the expected maximum consumption rate at the destination site, and the maximum storage period of the prepared commodity within the mobile storage tank assembly.

52. The method of any one of claims 42 to 51 , wherein more than two mobile storage tank assemblies are used; and

wherein the number of mobile storage tank assemblies used is chosen based on one or more of time required for transportation a quantity of prepared commodity from the preparation site to the destination site, the expected maximum consumption rate at the destination site, the storage capacity of each mobile storage tank assembly and the maximum storage period of the prepared commodity within the mobile storage tank assembly.

53. The method of any one of claims 42 to 52, wherein the consumable commodity is liquefied natural gas, and wherein preparing the first quantity of the commodity comprises at least one of extracting natural gas, liquefying the natural gas, and setting aside a quantity of stored liquefied natural gas.

54. The method of claim 53, wherein the transporting the liquefied natural gas and the supplying the liquefied natural gas is carried out free of recycling of gas boil-off.

55. The method of claim 54, wherein the liquefied natural gas supplied from the first mobile storage tank assembly and distributed at the destination site is consumed free of recycling of gas boil-off.

56. The method of claim 55, wherein the transporting, the supplying and the distributing is carried out free of immovable cryogenic storage of liquefied natural gas.

57. The method of any one of claims 53 to 56, wherein the duration of the transporting the first quantity of prepared commodity and supplying the first quantity of prepared commodity is less than about 4 days.

58. The method of any one of claims 53 to 57, wherein the first transportation vehicle is a sea-based vehicle and the second transportation vehicle is a sea-based vehicle.

59. The method of claim 58, wherein the liquefied natural gas is liquefied aboard a floating liquefaction plant.

60. The method of claims 58 or 59, wherein the first transportation vehicle is reinforced for travel over icy maritime routes and wherein the second transportation vehicle is reinforced for travel over icy maritime routes.

61 . The method of any one of claims 53 to 59, wherein the volume of land-based liquefied storage provided after supplying the quantity of liquefied natural gas from the first mobile storage tank assembly is substantially less than the storage capacity of the first mobile storage tank assembly.

62. The method of any one of claims 42 to 61 , wherein the first transportation vehicle is a non-motorized sea-based barge and the second transportation vehicle is a non-motorized sea-based barge;

wherein the method further comprises after supplying the first quantity of commodity from the first mobile fuel storage tank assembly, transporting the first mobile fuel storage tank assembly being depleted of commodity using the second transportation vehicle and the first tugboat to return the first mobile storage tank assembly to the preparation site for receiving an additional quantity of prepared commodity.

63. The method of claim 62, further comprising:

loading a third quantity of prepared commodity into a third mobile storage tank assembly;

conveying a third transportation vehicle being a non-motorized barge using the first tugboat to transport the third quantity of prepared commodity on the third transportation vehicle from the preparation site to the destination site; and

64. The method of any one of the above claims wherein the transportation vehicles are barges.

65. The method of claim 64 wherein the barges are non-motorized and wherein the barges are conveyed by separate motorized craft.

66. The method of claim 65 wherein there are fewer barges than mobile storage tank assemblies.

67. The system of claim 66, the transportation vehicles are reinforced for travel over icy maritime routes.

68. The method of any one of claims 64 to 66 wherein the mobile storage tanks have a cryogenic storage capacity.

69. The system of any one of claims 42 to 68, wherein the prepared commodity is a liquid consumable commodity.

70. The method of claim 69 wherein the prepared commodity is a liquefied gas.

71 . The method of claim 70 wherein the liquefied gas is a liquefied fuel gas.

72. The method of claim 71 wherein the liquefied fuel gas is liquefied natural gas.

73. A system for delivering a consumable commodity, the system comprising: a preparation site for preparing the commodity;

74. The system of claim 73 wherein the transportation vehicles are barges.

75. The system of claim 74 wherein the barges are non-motorized and wherein the barges are conveyed by separate motorized craft.

76. The system of claim 75 wherein there are fewer barges than mobile storage tank assemblies.

77. The system of claim 76, the transportation vehicles are reinforced for travel over icy maritime routes.

78. The system of any one of claims 73 to 77 wherein the mobile storage tanks have a cryogenic storage capacity.

79. The system of any one of claims 73 to 78, wherein the prepared commodity is a liquid consumable commodity.

80. The system of claim 78 wherein the prepared commodity is a liquefied gas.

81 . The system of claim 80 wherein the liquefied gas is a liquefied fuel gas.

82. The system of claim 81 wherein the liquefied fuel gas is liquefied natural gas.

83. The system of any one of claims 73 to 82, further comprising:

means for monitoring the consumption rate of the first quantity of prepared commodity being supplied from the first mobile storage tank assembly; and

means for modifying the timing for preparing the second quantity of the commodity and loading the second quantity of the prepared commodity into the second mobile storage tank assembly based on the monitored first consumption rate of the first quantity of prepared commodity.

84. A system for delivering a consumable commodity, the system comprising:

at least one guide;

a transportation vehicle;

a destination site;

a mobile storage tank for storing a prepared commodity, the tank having a low friction device operable to be displaced along the at least one guide; the at least one guide providing a path between the transportation vehicle and the destination vehicle for displacing the mobile storage tank between the transportation vehicle and destination site along the at least one guide.

85. The system of claim 84, wherein the at least one guide is chosen from one of rails, skids and a conveyor and wherein the low friction device is chosen from one of skis and wheels.

86. The system of claims 84 or 85, wherein the transportation vehicle comprises a first puling device;

wherein the destination site comprises a second pulling device; wherein the mobile storage tank comprises an attachment member for selectively engaging the first pulling device and the second pulling device; wherein operating the first pulling device while engaging the attachment member pulls the mobile storage tank towards the transportation vehicle along the guide; and

wherein operating the second pulling device while engaging the attachment member pulls the mobile storage tank towards the destination site along the guide.

87. The system of any one of claims 84 to 86, further comprising at least one off-loading guide branching from the at least one guide, the off-loading guide for positioning the mobile storage tank remote of the at least one guide.

88. The system of any one of claims 84 to 87, wherein the transportation vehicle is a sea-based barge, a portion of a hull of the barge being actuated between a closed position and an open position, in the closed positon the hull retaining the mobile storage tank within a cargo hold of the barge and in the open position the mobile storage tank being permitted to be displaced from the barge.