Understanding pipeline scheduling and nominations

What is pipeline scheduling?

The pipeline scheduling module in the nGenue application is a critical component for managing gas nominations, overseeing delivery schedules, and ensuring balanced allocations across pipeline networks. This module allows users to configure transport agreements, assign contract numbers, and specify receipt and delivery points, all of which are essential for accurate and timely gas deliveries.

Pipeline scheduling primarily involves transferring gas from one point to another, facilitating movement from one counterparty to another. These counterparties may include Local Distribution Companies (LDCs), brokers, or other trading entities. To achieve this transfer, pipelines or interconnects are utilized to ensure that gas is successfully scheduled from the origin point (Point A) to the destination (Point B).

For gas scheduling, several critical elements must be in place:

• Pipeline information: The start and end points of the pipeline or interconnect that will be used to transport the gas.
• Agreements: A valid deal between the counterparties and a transport agreement to ensure a legally binding framework for the transfer.
• Nominated volume: The specific gas volume that is to be transported as agreed upon in the nomination.

Once these elements are in place, a nomination is created. This nomination captures all scheduling details, which are then processed to schedule the gas transfer. The nomination details can be tracked and reviewed in the Deal management section under the relevant deal.

What is nominations?

Nominations refer to the scheduling and allocation of natural gas quantities across various points in the supply chain. Nominations ensure proper coordination between buyers, sellers, pipelines, interconnects, and storage facilities to meet contractual obligations and operational requirements.