ELAFLEX Group is preparing to exhibit at Hydrogen Technology World Expo, taking place from 21 to 23 October 2025 at Messe Hamburg exhibition centre in Germany. The internationally operating group of companies will present safe handling solutions for compressed hydrogen, liquid hydrogen, and liquefied CO₂ in carbon capture and storage/utilisation processes at stand 6L20 in Hall B6.

Hydrogen’s Role in Cross-Sector Decarbonisation

Within the context of cross-sector decarbonisation initiatives, hydrogen is already playing an important role as an energy carrier and industrial feedstock. However, compressed hydrogen, liquid hydrogen, and CO₂ place substantial demands on handling and storage systems due to their physical properties and safety requirements.

As a leading international specialist in refuelling technology, ELAFLEX Group has provided safe system solutions for handling alternative energy sources, including ammonia, hydrogen, liquefied natural gas, and compressed natural gas, as well as liquefied CO₂, for many years. The company’s long-standing expertise in hydrogen and liquid hydrogen applications ensures maximum operator safety, sophisticated ergonomics, uncompromising environmental protection, and above-average flow rates throughout the entire transfer chain.

Product Portfolio and Technical Solutions

ELAFLEX Group will showcase multiple specialised products and solutions for trade visitors at the exhibition. The displayed offerings address diverse applications across the hydrogen and carbon management value chains.

MannTek nozzles with corresponding hose assemblies will be featured for both manual (N-LH2) and semi-automatic, pneumatically assisted (N-LH2-P) refuelling of vehicles with cryogenic liquid hydrogen, designed to achieve high flow rates whilst maintaining safe handling of the ultra-cold fuel.

The company will present newly developed hydrogen refuelling sets designed for vehicles operating at 350 bar pressure (ELAFLEX N-H2-H35) or 700 bar pressure (ELAFLEX N-H2-H70UHF), with optional infrared data interface capability. These pressure ratings correspond to the two primary standards for compressed hydrogen vehicle refuelling infrastructure.

New TPED trailer valves, manifolds, and quick couplers from Oasis will be displayed, designed to significantly increase flow rates when refuelling with compressed hydrogen. Enhanced flow rates reduce refuelling time, improving operational efficiency for hydrogen mobility applications.

Low Permeation Technology and Flexible Connections

H2+ hose assemblies, couplings, and ERV-H2+ rubber expansion joints from ELAFLEX feature ultra-low permeation rates for safe transfer of 100 percent hydrogen, 100 percent methane, or varying mixing ratios of both gases (hythane) in low-pressure applications. Minimising permeation proves critical for hydrogen systems to prevent product loss and maintain safety.

ERV-H2+ rubber expansion joints are now available with PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) liners upon request for applications requiring high-purity media compatibility, such as electrolyser installations where contamination must be minimised.

Carbon Capture and Ammonia Applications

The exhibition will feature dry couplings and hose assemblies designed for sophisticated handling of liquefied CO₂ in carbon capture and storage processes, alongside equipment for ammonia transfer. These products address growing demand for carbon management infrastructure and alternative fuel systems utilising ammonia as an energy carrier.

Safety Monitoring Systems

For monitoring various applications, ELAFLEX Group offers electronic leak detection systems from SGB specifically designed for challenging deployment in explosion-hazardous areas with ATEX certification. Leak detection proves essential for hydrogen and other flammable gas applications where early identification of releases prevents safety incidents and environmental impacts.

Exhibition Strategy and International Engagement

ELAFLEX Group anticipates numerous international trade visitors at its stand during the three-day exhibition. The company’s participation in Hydrogen Technology World Expo reflects its strategic focus on hydrogen infrastructure markets and commitment to supporting the developing hydrogen economy with proven handling technologies.

The exhibition provides an opportunity for ELAFLEX Group to engage with potential customers, partners, and industry stakeholders from diverse sectors, including transportation, industrial gas supply, energy production, and carbon management. Detailed technical discussions at the stand will enable visitors to understand application-specific requirements and identify appropriate solutions for their projects.

Market Context and Technology Deployment

Hydrogen Technology World Expo serves as a focal point for the international hydrogen industry, bringing together technology providers, project developers, operators, and policymakers advancing hydrogen deployment. The event’s location in Hamburg, a significant centre for hydrogen activity in Germany, provides appropriate context for showcasing technologies supporting the energy transition.

ELAFLEX Group’s comprehensive product portfolio addresses multiple segments of hydrogen infrastructure, from high-pressure gaseous systems for mobility applications to cryogenic liquid hydrogen systems for bulk distribution and storage. The company’s parallel capabilities in CO₂ and ammonia handling reflect the interconnected nature of decarbonisation pathways, where multiple technology solutions contribute to emissions reduction objectives.

The exhibition participation demonstrates ELAFLEX Group’s positioning as a comprehensive solutions provider for alternative energy infrastructure, offering engineered products that meet demanding safety, performance, and regulatory requirements across diverse applications in the evolving energy landscape.

For more information visit www.elaflex.de

Gpi Tanks XL has successfully delivered two large-scale duplex reaction tanks to Nyrstar’s facility in Budel, the Netherlands, Europe’s largest zinc producer. The project addressed a critical operational challenge when two of the facility’s three SIHAL tanks required decommissioning due to leakage, threatening production continuity.

Critical Operational Requirements

Large reaction tanks, known as SIHAL tanks, perform essential functions in Nyrstar’s production process for extracting zinc from raw materials. When two of the three existing tanks were taken out of service due to leakage issues, the continuity of production came under serious pressure, with the risk that failure of the remaining operational tank would halt the entire production process.

Murat Sozer, senior project engineer at Nyrstar, who remained involved throughout the project, explained the urgency: “It became critical when two of the three tanks were out of service. If the third tank had also failed, the entire production process would have come to a standstill. To prevent this, we submitted a request to Gpi Tanks XL for two new reaction vessels.”

Supplier Selection Process

Nyrstar approached several potential suppliers to address the requirement. Gpi Tanks XL’s previous supply of tanks to the facility provided familiarity with the company’s capabilities, whilst the risk posed by potential failure of the remaining operational tank made short lead times crucial to the selection decision.

Sozer elaborated on the supplier choice: “Gpi was already familiar to us, as they had supplied tanks before. With the risk of the last tank failing, short lead times were crucial. Gpi could deliver quickly, and we knew what to expect from them, so the choice was easily made.”

Technical Specifications and Process Requirements

The production process at Nyrstar involves leaching and purifying zinc from insoluble compounds, conducted in specialized reaction tanks operating under high temperatures with highly concentrated sulphuric acid. Gpi Tanks XL was commissioned to design and deliver two 1,089 cubic metre tanks capable of withstanding these extreme operating conditions.

Material selection proved essential to meeting the demanding process requirements. Sozer explained the selection process: “We researched which materials were most suitable for our process medium at 98°C and high concentrations of sulphuric acid. Duplex turned out to be the best choice, and Gpi was able to realise this.”

The tanks, measuring 12 metres in height and 11 metres in diameter, were constructed from duplex stainless steel 2205, providing superior resistance to corrosion and stress corrosion cracking in acidic environments. The vessels were insulated with mineral wool and finished with bolted stainless steel plates. Additional equipment included heat exchangers, steam and condensate circuits, valves, and fittings necessary for process integration.

Engineering Collaboration and Design Phase

Sozer reflected positively on the design phase, noting careful definition of requirements during initial stages: “In the initial phase, we carefully defined what we needed. During the process, there was smooth cooperation between the engineering teams of Nyrstar and Gpi. Both parties took responsibility in the right areas, which made the collaboration efficient and trouble-free.”

The collaborative approach enabled effective allocation of responsibilities between client and supplier engineering teams, ensuring technical requirements were addressed systematically whilst maintaining project efficiency.

On-Site Construction Execution

Following completion of engineering activities, the tanks were constructed directly on-site at Nyrstar’s Budel facility. This approach addressed the substantial dimensions of the vessels, which would have presented significant challenges for transportation and installation if fabricated remotely.

Sozer expressed enthusiasm regarding the construction phase: “The assembly went very well. The Gpi team on-site was professional, worked with precision, and paid close attention to detail. Agreements were met as promised.”

The on-site construction methodology required careful coordination of fabrication activities within an operating industrial facility, maintaining safety standards whilst progressing work efficiently to minimize the period during which production operated with limited reaction capacity.

Material Performance in Demanding Applications

Duplex stainless steel 2205 combines the beneficial properties of austenitic and ferritic stainless steel grades, providing approximately twice the strength of austenitic grades whilst offering excellent resistance to stress corrosion cracking, pitting, and crevice corrosion. These characteristics make duplex materials particularly suitable for applications involving hot concentrated acids.

At 98°C with high sulphuric acid concentrations, material selection must address both general corrosion resistance and resistance to localized corrosion mechanisms that could compromise vessel integrity. Duplex 2205’s performance in acidic environments, combined with its mechanical properties, provides the durability necessary for long-term operation in zinc extraction processes.

Project Delivery and Operational Impact

The successful delivery of the two reaction vessels restored Nyrstar’s production capacity to full operational capability, eliminating the critical vulnerability created when two of three tanks were out of service. The new vessels provide modern equipment designed specifically for current process requirements, potentially offering improved performance compared to the replaced units.

Gpi Tanks XL’s ability to deliver within the required timeframe whilst meeting stringent technical specifications demonstrated the company’s capabilities in executing complex projects for demanding industrial applications. The project exemplifies the importance of established supplier relationships and rapid response capabilities when addressing critical operational requirements in continuous process industries.

The successful collaboration between Nyrstar and Gpi Tanks XL, characterised by effective engineering coordination and professional on-site execution, resulted in delivery of essential production infrastructure enabling continued operation of Europe’s largest zinc production facility.

For more information visit www.gpi-tanksxl.com

Sweco has signed an agreement to acquire Fimpec Group, a Finnish company specialising in consulting, engineering, and project and construction management within the green transition of the energy and industrial sectors. The transaction, subject to approval by the Finnish Competition and Consumer Authority, will add approximately 400 experts to Sweco’s organisation upon completion.

Fimpec’s Capabilities and Market Position

Fimpec operates as a project management, engineering, and consulting company with specialist expertise in renewable energy, hydrogen, bio- and circular economy, forest industry, and batteries and critical minerals. The company conducts operations primarily in Finland and employs around 400 experts. Fimpec reported turnover of close to €51 million in 2024, reflecting its established position within Finland’s industrial and energy transition sectors.

Image provided by Sweco

The company’s expertise addresses key areas of industrial transformation, including renewable energy development, hydrogen economy infrastructure, circular economy initiatives within process industries, and the emerging battery materials and critical minerals value chains that are central to electrification and energy storage applications.

Strategic Rationale and Market Expansion

Thomas Hietto, business area president for Sweco in Finland, expressed enthusiasm regarding the addition of Fimpec’s specialists to Sweco’s organisation. He characterised the acquisition as an important addition that will strengthen Sweco’s position as an adviser in the ongoing energy and industrial transitions.

Hietto emphasised that the combined organisation will support clients with expertise in complex investment projects across emerging and high-growth sectors including the battery value chain, critical minerals, renewable energy, and industrial decarbonisation. This capability alignment addresses substantial market demand as industries pursue net-zero objectives and governments advance clean energy infrastructure development.

Integration and Regulatory Process

Completion of the transaction remains subject to approval by the Finnish Competition and Consumer Authority (KKV), the regulatory body responsible for merger control in Finland. Once regulatory clearance is obtained, Fimpec will be consolidated into Sweco’s operations shortly thereafter.

The integration will bring Fimpec’s project management methodologies, sector-specific technical expertise, and client relationships within Sweco’s operational framework, enabling cross-selling opportunities and enhanced service delivery through access to Sweco’s broader resources and geographic presence.

Alignment with Acquisition Strategy

The transaction aligns with Sweco’s acquisition strategy focused on growing the business through addition of key competencies that complement the capabilities of Sweco’s existing 22,000 experts. The strategy emphasises targeted acquisitions that enhance technical capabilities in growth sectors whilst strengthening geographic market positions.

The acquisition is positioned to expand Sweco’s market position as Europe’s leading architecture and engineering consultancy, particularly within the rapidly evolving energy transition and industrial decarbonisation sectors where demand for specialist advisory services continues to accelerate.

Enhanced Service Proposition

The acquisition enables Sweco to offer clients integrated advisory services spanning the full project lifecycle for energy transition and industrial decarbonisation initiatives. Fimpec’s project and construction management capabilities complement Sweco’s engineering and consulting services, providing comprehensive support from feasibility studies through detailed engineering, procurement support, construction supervision, and commissioning.

The combined expertise in emerging technologies including hydrogen production and utilisation, battery manufacturing, and critical minerals processing addresses client requirements for advisers with deep technical knowledge of novel industrial processes and associated infrastructure. As these sectors scale from demonstration to commercial deployment, demand for experienced project management and engineering support intensifies.

The addition of approximately 400 specialists substantially enhances Sweco’s capacity to serve multiple concurrent projects in high-demand sectors, addressing market conditions where availability of experienced personnel represents a constraint on project execution. The enlarged organisation will possess greater capability to staff large-scale investment projects requiring multidisciplinary teams throughout extended project durations.

For more information visit www.swecogroup.com

HMT LLC has announced the award of a contract to supply and install an 81-metre diameter Panel DeckMaster in the United Kingdom, representing the largest Panel DeckMaster system the company has delivered to date. The project demonstrates the scalability of HMT’s floating roof technology for large-diameter storage tank applications.

Project Significance and Technical Scale

The 81-metre diameter represents a substantial engineering achievement for floating roof systems, which must maintain structural integrity, operational reliability, and environmental performance across large storage tanks. HMT has characterised the project as showcasing the DeckMaster system’s capability to deliver reliable performance at scale, positioning it as establishing a new benchmark for floating roof solutions within the industry.

Panel DeckMaster Technology

The Panel DeckMaster represents HMT’s engineered solution for internal floating roof applications in petroleum storage tanks. Internal floating roofs reduce product evaporation, minimize emissions of volatile organic compounds, and prevent vapor space formation that could present safety or environmental concerns.

Panel-type floating roofs consist of fabricated deck sections that float on the stored liquid surface, rising and falling with liquid level changes. The system must accommodate various operational requirements including supporting personnel during maintenance, managing rainwater through effective drainage, maintaining seal integrity around the tank perimeter, and providing sufficient buoyancy under all operating conditions.

For more information visit www.hmttank.com

The MultiPLHY demonstration project has achieved a significant milestone with the successful startup of the world’s largest multi-megawatt high-temperature electrolyser in an industrial environment at Neste’s renewable products refinery in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. The pioneering installation demonstrates the viability of renewable hydrogen production for reducing fossil hydrogen consumption in the refining industry.

Project Objectives and Emissions Reduction

The pilot project addresses a critical challenge in refinery decarbonisation: replacing hydrogen produced from fossil raw materials with renewable hydrogen. This substitution represents one of the primary pathways for lowering greenhouse gas emissions in refining operations. Following successful startup, the demonstration project will proceed to a comprehensive test programme validating the technology’s performance characteristics under industrial operating conditions.

Photo: The MultiPLHY pilot installation at Neste’s refinery in Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Consortium Structure and Responsibilities

MultiPLHY operates as a collaborative demonstration project with consortium partners Neste, Sunfire, CEA, and ENGIE, each contributing specialised expertise. German electrolyser manufacturer Sunfire provided the high-temperature electrolyser, whilst SMS group supplied the hydrogen processing unit. Neste holds responsibility for refinery integration and, together with Sunfire, oversees unit operation. The research and technology organisation CEA coordinates overall project activities, whilst ENGIE manages techno-economic assessment.

Jukka Kanerva, senior vice president of renewable refining at Neste, emphasised that the MultiPLHY project has provided valuable insights and experience in integrating industrial-scale renewable hydrogen production into refinery operations. He affirmed Neste’s commitment to exploring various pathways for replacing fossil-based hydrogen in refining processes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the company’s own operations. Kanerva highlighted that the demonstration project illustrates the importance of cooperation across the entire value chain.

Technology Specifications and Efficiency

The electrolyser integrated into Neste’s refinery processes utilises Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell technology developed by Sunfire. The 2.6-megawatt high-temperature electrolyser comprises twelve electrolysis modules operating at temperatures of 850 degrees Celsius, producing more than 60 kilograms of renewable hydrogen per hour.

The high-temperature operating regime delivers significant efficiency advantages. Through utilisation of waste heat, the electrolyser requires substantially less electricity to produce renewable hydrogen compared to alternative market solutions. This efficiency benefit proves particularly valuable in industrial environments where waste heat streams are available for integration.

Nils Aldag, CEO of Sunfire, underscored that the company’s high-temperature SOEC electrolysers will serve as the preferred solution in numerous applications where waste heat availability exists, owing to their superior efficiency. He characterised the MultiPLHY project as demonstrating that the innovative technology can be integrated into industrial environments at a large scale, describing the milestone as a source of pride for the organisation.

Industrial Integration and Scale Achievement

The installation represents the largest high-temperature electrolyser deployment in an industrial environment globally, marking significant progress for both the technology and the clean hydrogen sector. The achievement demonstrates that advanced electrolyser technologies developed at smaller scales can be successfully scaled and integrated into complex industrial operations with multiple interfacing systems and operational requirements.

Pierre Olivier, head of Hydrogen Lab at ENGIE, noted that high-temperature electrolysis possesses the potential to make renewable hydrogen more affordable whilst increasing the energy efficiency of various industrial processes globally. He characterised the construction and commissioning achieved by Sunfire and Neste as a tremendous accomplishment and significant step toward making green hydrogen competitive with conventional production methods.

Sector Significance and European Industrial Development

Mirela Atanasiu, head of unit operations and communication at the Clean Hydrogen Partnership, expressed enthusiasm regarding the successful operation of the high-temperature electrolyser at Neste’s Rotterdam refinery. She emphasised that this installation, as the largest of its kind in an industrial environment, represents a significant milestone for both the technology and the clean hydrogen sector. Atanasiu congratulated all project partners for realising the project and advancing the European electrolyser industry as a whole.

Refining Industry Decarbonisation Context

Hydrogen serves essential functions in petroleum refining, including hydrocracking, hydrotreating, and desulfurization processes that convert crude oil into refined products meeting specifications. Conventional refineries typically produce hydrogen through steam methane reforming of natural gas, a carbon-intensive process that constitutes a substantial portion of refinery greenhouse gas emissions.

Transitioning to renewable hydrogen produced via electrolysis powered by renewable electricity offers a pathway to reduce refining emissions without fundamentally altering process configurations. However, the economics of renewable hydrogen have historically presented challenges due to higher production costs compared to fossil-based hydrogen. High-temperature electrolysis technology addresses this economic barrier through superior electrical efficiency, particularly when integrated with waste heat sources abundant in refining environments.

Technology Validation and Commercial Pathways

The test programme following startup will generate operational data validating performance characteristics, including hydrogen production rates, electrical efficiency, thermal integration effectiveness, operational reliability, and maintenance requirements. This performance data proves essential for evaluating commercial viability and informing potential larger-scale deployments.

Successful demonstration at multi-megawatt scale in an operating refinery provides evidence that high-temperature electrolysis can meet the demanding requirements of industrial applications, including continuous operation, integration with existing infrastructure, and compliance with safety and regulatory standards governing hydrogen production and handling.

Value Chain Collaboration Model

The MultiPLHY consortium structure exemplifies collaborative approaches to advancing emerging energy technologies, combining technology developers, industrial operators, research institutions, and energy companies. This model enables risk sharing, combines complementary expertise, and accelerates technology validation through access to industrial-scale demonstration facilities.

The project benefits from European support through organisations including the Clean Hydrogen Partnership, reflecting policy priorities for developing hydrogen value chains as part of broader energy transition and industrial decarbonisation strategies. Demonstration projects at a commercially relevant scale provide crucial validation, bridging laboratory development and full commercial deployment.

The successful startup at Neste’s Rotterdam refinery establishes high-temperature electrolysis as a viable technology pathway for industrial renewable hydrogen production, particularly in applications where waste heat integration enhances economic competitiveness. The project’s progression to performance validation testing will provide data supporting wider adoption decisions across refining and other industrial sectors seeking to reduce fossil hydrogen consumption.

For more information visit www.neste.com

Intero – The Sniffers and Aeromon have announced the completion of their merger, establishing what the companies characterise as the most comprehensive suite of emission detection, quantification, and management solutions available globally. The combination enables customers to access laboratory-accredited emission services spanning ground-based and airborne monitoring technologies.

Complementary Capabilities and Technologies

Aeromon brings innovative airborne technology and site-level monitoring capabilities that deliver precision, speed, and scalability in emission detection. The company’s aerial measurement systems enable rapid surveying of large facilities and distributed assets, providing spatial mapping of emission sources and quantification at facility level.

Intero – The Sniffers has operated as an established partner in emission management for decades, offering ground-based measurement services and compliance support across multiple industries. The company’s expertise encompasses detailed component-level leak detection, quantification using standard methodologies, and regulatory reporting support.

The merged organisation aims to deliver integrated solutions enabling customers to achieve efficient compliance with Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 and European Union methane regulations, alongside other emission monitoring requirements. The combination of airborne and ground-based capabilities provides flexibility in measurement approaches suited to different asset types, operational contexts, and regulatory frameworks.

Enhanced Service Proposition

The merger is positioned to deliver several advantages to clients across four principal dimensions. The combined entity offers complete accredited emission reporting, with both companies holding ISO 17025 laboratory accreditations for emission measurement services. This accreditation status enables support ranging from highly accurate ground-based measurements to effective and flexible site-level emission reporting, providing customers with verified data suitable for regulatory submissions.

Enhanced resources and global scalability aim to ensure robust and seamless service delivery across all operating regions. The enlarged organisation’s geographic reach and technical resources are intended to improve service availability and response capabilities for customers with distributed assets or operations spanning multiple jurisdictions.

Investment in research and development, alongside emphasis on business development and innovation, is intended to strengthen service offerings and address growing client demand for improved efficiency and automation in emission management. This focus reflects industry trends toward continuous monitoring systems, data analytics, and integration of emission management with operational systems.

The merger aims to amplify sustainability impact by accelerating efforts to address methane and other greenhouse gas emissions. The combined capabilities are intended to help customers meet stringent regulatory requirements whilst progressing toward ambitious sustainability objectives, particularly as regulatory frameworks increasingly mandate measurement, reporting, and reduction of methane emissions from oil and gas operations.

Leadership Perspectives

Philippe Guldemont, managing director of Intero – The Sniffers, stated that the combination brings together decades of expertise with groundbreaking technology, positioning the merged entity as the clear global leader in emission monitoring and management. He emphasized that the combination offers customers the most complete and innovative solutions available in the market.

Maria Kuosa, chief executive officer of Aeromon, expressed satisfaction with the merger, highlighting the union of teams with exceptional talent and expertise. She characterized the partnership as strengthening and complementing service offerings whilst creating pathways for future innovations and solutions that will generate greater value for clients.

Integration and Timeline

The management teams of both organizations have committed to ensuring smooth transition and integration processes. The merger was expected to achieve completion during October 2025, with both companies working to align operational systems, service delivery processes, and organizational structures.

Regulatory and Market Context

The timing of this merger coincides with increasingly rigorous regulatory requirements for methane emission measurement and reporting, particularly within the European Union and through voluntary frameworks such as the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership. European methane regulations establish mandatory measurement requirements for oil and gas operators, creating sustained demand for accredited measurement services.

The ISO 17025 accreditation held by both companies provides crucial market differentiation, as regulatory frameworks increasingly require measurement data from accredited laboratories to ensure data quality and comparability. This accreditation status enables the merged entity to provide measurement services acceptable to regulators across multiple jurisdictions.

Technology Integration Opportunities

The combination of airborne and ground-based measurement technologies enables integrated monitoring programmes that leverage the strengths of each approach. Airborne surveys provide cost-effective screening of large asset portfolios, identifying facilities or areas requiring detailed investigation, whilst ground-based measurements deliver component-level precision necessary for quantification, repair verification, and regulatory compliance.

This tiered monitoring approach aligns with emerging regulatory frameworks that recognise different measurement technologies as appropriate for different applications within comprehensive leak detection and repair programmes. The merged entity’s capability to deliver both tiers positions it to support customers in designing and implementing cost-effective compliance strategies.

Market Position and Competitive Landscape

The emissions monitoring sector has experienced substantial growth driven by regulatory mandates, voluntary commitments from energy companies, and investor pressure for improved emissions management. This growth has attracted multiple service providers offering various monitoring technologies, creating a fragmented competitive landscape.

The merger between Intero – The Sniffers and Aeromon creates scale advantages in a sector where geographic coverage, technical breadth, and accreditation status serve as important competitive differentiators. The combination of established market presence from Intero – The Sniffers with Aeromon’s technology innovation aims to establish a differentiated market position based on comprehensive service capabilities.

The merged organization will compete in a market characterised by evolving regulatory requirements, advancing measurement technologies including satellite-based detection systems, and growing emphasis on continuous monitoring approaches. Success will depend on maintaining technical excellence, adapting to regulatory evolution, and demonstrating value through enabling cost-effective compliance and emissions reduction outcomes for customers.

For more information visit www.intero-integrity.com

Vallourec has secured a new order with Petrobras for the supply of SUBMAGNÉTICO FREE FLOW®, the company’s specialised oil country tubular goods solution designed to prevent inorganic scaling in production strings. The contract covers the production and installation of more than 30 units for deployment in Brazil’s offshore pre-salt fields.

Technology and Operational Benefits

SUBMAGNÉTICO FREE FLOW® represents a breakthrough technology that applies a magnetic field to extracted fluids, reducing the formation of inorganic scaling on production strings. This scaling phenomenon, caused by mineral precipitation from produced fluids, can significantly impair well productivity and require costly intervention operations to restore flow capacity.

The technology is expected to deliver substantial cost reductions for operators through multiple mechanisms. By minimising scale formation, the solution reduces the frequency of well-cleaning interventions, which typically require production shutdown and deployment of specialised equipment and personnel. Additionally, the magnetic treatment reduces consumption of chemical scale inhibitors, lowering operating expenses whilst minimising environmental impact associated with chemical usage. The combined effect of reduced interventions and chemical treatments translates to a significant reduction in production downtime, enhancing overall field economics.

Collaborative Development and Qualification

SUBMAGNÉTICO FREE FLOW® was co-developed through collaboration between Vallourec and Petrobras, combining the tubular manufacturer’s materials and engineering expertise with the operator’s field experience and application requirements. This partnership approach ensured the technology addressed practical operational challenges encountered in Brazil’s demanding pre-salt production environment.

The technology has successfully completed comprehensive qualification testing, demonstrating reliability under operational conditions. The qualification programme included vibration and shock tests simulating handling and installation stresses, pressure tests validating containment integrity, and API (American Petroleum Institute) and ISO (International Organization for Standardisation) connection tests confirming mechanical performance of threaded connections. This rigorous testing regime provides assurance of the technology’s fitness for demanding offshore applications.

Pre-Salt Application Context

Brazil’s pre-salt fields, located beneath thick salt layers in ultra-deepwater offshore locations, represent some of the world’s most prolific oil discoveries of recent decades. However, these reservoirs present significant technical challenges, including high pressures, elevated temperatures, corrosive fluids containing carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide, and pronounced scaling tendencies due to fluid chemistry and thermodynamic conditions.

Scale formation in pre-salt wells poses particular challenges due to the remoteness of offshore locations, water depths exceeding 2,000 metres in many cases, and the complexity of subsea well architecture. Interventions to remove scale require mobilisation of costly intervention vessels and equipment, with production losses extending throughout the intervention duration. Technologies that prevent or minimise scaling therefore deliver substantial value in these challenging operating environments.

Magnetic Scale Prevention Technology

Magnetic treatment for scale prevention operates by influencing the crystallisation behaviour of scale-forming minerals in produced fluids. When fluids pass through magnetic fields, the ions responsible for scale formation experience forces that alter their interaction patterns, promoting the formation of suspended particles rather than adherent scale deposits on tubular surfaces. This modification in crystallisation behaviour allows scale precursors to remain in suspension and be produced to surface facilities rather than depositing within production tubing.

The technology offers particular advantages in wells where chemical scale inhibition faces challenges such as inhibitor consumption by reservoir minerals, degradation at high temperatures, or compatibility issues with other production chemicals. Magnetic treatment provides continuous passive operation without requiring chemical injection systems or ongoing chemical supply logistics.

Project Scope and Implementation

The order for more than 30 units indicates deployment across multiple wells within Petrobras’s pre-salt portfolio, enabling systematic evaluation of technology performance across varied reservoir conditions and production profiles. This commercial-scale deployment follows successful qualification testing and likely includes pilot installations that demonstrated operational benefits.

Installation of SUBMAGNÉTICO FREE FLOW® units in offshore pre-salt wells requires integration with subsea completion designs and coordination with drilling and completion operations. Vallourec’s scope encompasses both manufacturing of the specialised tubular components and support for installation operations, ensuring proper deployment and operational readiness.

Strategic Significance

The order represents validation of Vallourec’s innovation strategy focused on developing high-value solutions that address specific operational challenges in demanding applications. By collaborating with operators to develop and qualify technologies for challenging environments, Vallourec differentiates its offering beyond commodity tubular products toward specialised solutions commanding premium positioning.

For Petrobras, adoption of magnetic scale prevention technology supports operational efficiency objectives and cost management in capital-intensive pre-salt developments. Reducing intervention requirements and production downtime directly enhances project economics whilst minimising operational risks associated with complex offshore interventions.

Market Implications

Successful deployment of SUBMAGNÉTICO FREE FLOW® in Brazilian pre-salt operations could establish a precedent for adoption in other scaling-prone environments globally. Many offshore and onshore fields worldwide experience scaling challenges that impair productivity and drive intervention costs. Demonstration of magnetic treatment effectiveness in demanding pre-salt conditions would provide compelling validation for technology application in diverse operating contexts.

The collaboration between Vallourec and Petrobras in developing and qualifying this technology exemplifies industry trends toward closer operator-supplier partnerships in advancing solutions for technical challenges. By sharing development costs and expertise, both parties accelerate innovation whilst ensuring resulting technologies meet practical operational requirements.

The order reinforces Vallourec’s position as a technology provider for demanding OCTG applications, particularly in Brazil’s strategically important pre-salt province, where the company maintains established relationships and a local manufacturing presence supporting the country’s offshore oil industry.

For more information visit www.vallourec.com

Chevron Phillips Chemical Europe has officially inaugurated the expansion of its polyalphaolefin production unit in Beringen, Belgium, marking a significant development in the company’s European operations. The expansion doubles PAO production capacity at the site, strengthening the company’s ability to serve customers across diverse industries including automotive and renewable energy sectors.

Production Capacity and Strategic Significance

The expanded facility positions the Beringen site as an increasingly important hub within Chevron Phillips Chemical’s global network, enhancing the company’s capability to deliver high-quality, reliable PAOs to customers worldwide. Polyalphaolefins serve as critical components in synthetic lubricants and specialty fluids, with applications spanning automotive engine oils, industrial lubricants, and various technical applications requiring superior performance characteristics.

The doubling of production capacity represents a substantial investment in European manufacturing infrastructure, addressing growing demand for advanced synthetic base oils whilst positioning the company to capture opportunities in evolving markets such as electric vehicle fluids and renewable energy equipment lubrication.

Inauguration Ceremony and Stakeholder Engagement

The official opening ceremony welcomed a diverse group of distinguished guests representing governmental, industry, and business organizations. Attendees included Thomas Vints, Mayor of Stad Beringen; Hans Ingels from the European Commission; Tine Cattoor from essenscia, the Belgian federation for chemistry and life sciences industries; and Johann Leten from Voka – Kamer van Koophandel Limburg, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry for Limburg.

Guests participated in a guided tour of the newly expanded production unit, providing firsthand observation of the facility’s operations and the company’s investments in energy-efficient, future-ready manufacturing capabilities. The tour offered stakeholders insight into the technical sophistication and operational standards underpinning the expanded facility.

Operational Excellence and Employee Contribution

Chevron Phillips Chemical Europe acknowledged the critical role of its workforce in achieving the successful expansion. The company expressed appreciation for employees’ expertise, dedication, and teamwork throughout the project execution, recognizing that staff commitment continues to shape both the future of the Beringen site and the company’s broader impact across European markets.

The expansion project required coordination of engineering, construction, commissioning, and operational readiness activities whilst maintaining production continuity at existing facilities. Employee involvement across technical, operational, and support functions proved essential to delivering the project successfully.

Technology and Sustainability Focus

The company emphasized its focus on energy-efficient operations within the expanded facility, reflecting broader industry trends toward reducing environmental footprint whilst maintaining production efficiency and product quality. Energy efficiency measures contribute to operational cost management whilst supporting corporate and regulatory environmental objectives.

The characterization of the facility as “future-ready” indicates incorporation of design features and technological capabilities that accommodate evolving product specifications, regulatory requirements, and market demands. This approach aims to extend the facility’s operational relevance and competitive position over its anticipated operational lifespan.

Market Applications and Industry Trends

The expanded PAO capacity addresses demand across multiple end-use sectors. In automotive applications, PAOs serve as premium base stocks for synthetic motor oils offering superior performance in extreme temperatures, extended drain intervals, and improved fuel economy. The transition toward electric vehicles creates additional demand for specialized fluids including thermal management fluids and greases requiring synthetic base stocks.

Renewable energy applications, including wind turbine gear oils, represent growing markets for high-performance synthetic lubricants capable of operating reliably under demanding conditions. PAOs’ thermal stability, oxidation resistance, and low-temperature properties make them well-suited for these challenging applications.

European Manufacturing Footprint

The Beringen expansion reinforces Chevron Phillips Chemical’s commitment to European manufacturing, providing regional production capacity that serves local customers whilst supporting the company’s global supply chain. Proximity to European customers offers logistical advantages including reduced transportation costs and lead times, enhanced service responsiveness, and mitigation of supply chain disruptions.

Belgium’s central European location and well-developed transportation infrastructure position Beringen advantageously for distribution throughout continental Europe. The site benefits from established industrial infrastructure, skilled workforce availability, and supportive business environment that facilitate manufacturing operations.

Investment in Growth Markets

The capacity expansion reflects Chevron Phillips Chemical’s strategic assessment of long-term growth prospects for synthetic base oils driven by increasingly stringent lubricant specifications, expanding industrial applications, and growing adoption of high-performance lubricants in emerging markets. By increasing production capacity ahead of demand, the company positions itself to capture market opportunities whilst maintaining supply reliability for existing customers.

The investment demonstrates confidence in the continued evolution of lubricant markets toward synthetic products offering superior performance characteristics compared to conventional mineral oil-based alternatives. As automotive, industrial, and specialty applications increasingly require synthetic solutions, expanded PAO production capacity addresses anticipated market requirements.

The Beringen facility expansion establishes Chevron Phillips Chemical Europe with enhanced capability to serve growing European demand for polyalphaolefins whilst strengthening the company’s global manufacturing network and reinforcing its position as a significant supplier of synthetic base oils to diverse industrial sectors.

For more information visit www.cpchem.com

Advario has announced that the Keppel Ltd.’s Infrastructure Division (Keppel) consortium, comprising Advario, Keppel, and Sumitomo Corporation, has been appointed by the Energy Market Authority and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore to proceed to the next phase of Singapore’s low- or zero-carbon ammonia power generation and bunkering project on Jurong Island. The appointment represents a significant milestone in Singapore’s strategy to develop a cleaner and more sustainable energy infrastructure.

Advario’s Role and Strategic Contribution

As the consortium’s storage partner, Advario brings specialised expertise in cryogenic storage to ensure safe and efficient handling of ammonia throughout the supply chain. The company’s involvement reflects its commitment to Singapore’s decarbonisation agenda, particularly in power generation and maritime bunkering applications, whilst aligning with Advario’s broader strategy to advance sustainable energy solutions globally.

The collaboration combines the distinct strengths of the three consortium partners to deliver an innovative ammonia project designed to achieve measurable environmental impact. Advario’s experience in handling complex storage requirements for energy products positions the company to address the technical challenges associated with ammonia infrastructure development.

Ammonia as an Emerging Clean Fuel

Ammonia is gaining recognition as a promising fuel for future energy systems due to its environmental characteristics and practical advantages. The compound produces no carbon dioxide when combusted and offers relative ease of storage and transport compared to other alternative fuels. These properties make ammonia a strong candidate for decarbonising sectors including power generation and maritime shipping.

When produced using renewable energy sources, green ammonia can play a crucial role in achieving net-zero emissions targets whilst supporting global energy security objectives. The Singapore project aims to demonstrate the commercial viability of ammonia as both a power generation fuel and a marine bunker fuel, potentially establishing a model for broader regional adoption.

Leadership Perspectives

Bas Verkooijen, CEO of Advario, expressed pride in the consortium’s appointment by the Energy Market Authority and Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore to provide a low- or zero-carbon ammonia solution on Jurong Island. He characterised the project as exemplifying the power of partnerships and Advario’s commitment to playing a frontrunner role in the energy transition.

Cindy Lim, CEO of Keppel’s Infrastructure Division, described the consortium as trailblazing and emphasised its role in advancing a resilient, low-carbon energy future. Building upon a successful pre-front-end engineering design study, she noted the consortium’s intention to continue working with world-class partners whilst leveraging Keppel’s deep engineering expertise and proven operating capabilities to deliver a cost-competitive, scalable ammonia value chain for zero-emission power generation and bunkering.

Lim highlighted that upon implementation, the facility would rank among the world’s first direct-ammonia combustion power plants and represent Singapore’s inaugural such installation, setting a new benchmark for clean fuel solutions and global decarbonisation efforts.

Kazuki Yamaguchi, GM of the Maritime Energy Solution Strategic Business Unit at Sumitomo Corporation, described the selection as a pivotal milestone for the team. He noted that Sumitomo Corporation has been intensively exploring ammonia bunkering since 2021, establishing groundwork for the solutions now being advanced in partnership with Singapore’s regulatory authorities.

Yamaguchi expressed appreciation for the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore’s trust in designating Sumitomo Corporation as a strategic partner in shaping sustainable shipping’s future. He emphasised that achieving true scale and commercialisation requires bold collaboration across the entire maritime value chain, a collaborative spirit shared with consortium partners Keppel and Advario in collectively building a clean ammonia ecosystem in Singapore that can serve as a regional model.

Technical and Commercial Significance

The project represents a substantial technical undertaking, requiring integration of ammonia import infrastructure, cryogenic storage facilities, power generation systems capable of direct ammonia combustion, and bunkering infrastructure to serve maritime vessels. The consortium’s appointment to proceed to the next development phase indicates successful completion of preliminary feasibility and engineering studies demonstrating technical and commercial viability.

Singapore’s selection of Jurong Island as the project location leverages existing energy infrastructure and industrial facilities whilst providing strategic access to maritime shipping lanes. The island’s established role as a regional energy hub positions it advantageously for developing ammonia supply chains serving both domestic power generation and international marine fuel markets.

Energy Transition and Maritime Decarbonisation

The project addresses the dual objectives of power sector decarbonisation and maritime emissions reduction. Direct ammonia combustion for power generation offers an alternative to fossil fuel-based generation without requiring extensive modifications to transmission infrastructure, whilst ammonia bunkering capabilities support the maritime industry’s transition toward low-carbon fuels.

The International Maritime Organization has established progressively stringent emissions reduction targets for shipping, creating demand for alternative fuels with lower lifecycle emissions than conventional marine fuels. Ammonia’s characteristics as a zero-carbon combustion fuel position it as a viable option for vessels seeking to comply with emerging environmental regulations.

Regional Leadership and Replication Potential

Singapore’s advancement of this ammonia project reflects the nation’s strategy to maintain leadership in energy innovation whilst supporting regional decarbonisation objectives. By demonstrating commercial-scale ammonia infrastructure and applications, Singapore aims to establish technical standards and operational practices that can be replicated across Asia-Pacific markets facing similar decarbonisation challenges.

The consortium’s successful execution of this pioneering project could accelerate broader adoption of ammonia as an energy carrier and marine fuel, potentially catalysing development of regional supply chains and supporting infrastructure across Southeast Asia and beyond.

For more information visit www.advario.com

D&H United, a portfolio company of Wind Point Partners (“Wind Point”) and a leading provider of mission-critical installation, maintenance, testing, and inspection services for fueling stations and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, is pleased to announce the acquisition of A&A Pump Company (“A&A Pump”). Based in San Antonio, Texas, A&A Pump is a family-owned and operated distributor of petroleum equipment that has proudly served customers across Texas since 1957.

This strategic acquisition further strengthens D&H’s presence in Texas and enhances its national service capabilities. A&A Pump, known for its long-standing reputation, represents leading petroleum equipment manufacturers and is an authorized Gilbarco/Veeder-Root distributor. With experienced, factory-certified service technicians available 24 hours a day, A&A Pump delivers high-quality solutions for service, maintenance, and warranty support.

“We are thrilled to welcome A&A Pump to the D&H United family,” said Tracy Long, CEO of D&H United. “Their decades of expertise, strong market reputation, and commitment to customer satisfaction make them an ideal partner as we continue to expand our capabilities. Together, we will deliver even greater value to customers in Texas and beyond while honoring the legacy A&A Pump has built since 1957.”

By combining the resources and expertise of both organizations, D&H will offer industry-leading solutions across a broader range of services. A&A Pump’s capabilities include UST/AST installations and removals, petroleum parts and repairs, consultations and site assessments, as well as a bilingual sales and service department. Their dedication to maintaining industry standards and environmental compliance, demonstrated through active membership in the Texas Food and Fuel Association (TFFA) and the Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI), will further strengthen D&H’s position as a trusted industry leader.

“A&A Pump has always been about taking care of our customers and doing right by our employees,” said Buddy Reinhart of A&A Pump Company. “By joining up with D&H United, we get to keep that same commitment while giving our team and our customers even more tools, resources, and support. I’m really excited about what’s ahead and grateful we get to take this next step together.”
This acquisition represents D&H’s continued growth since partnering with Wind Point Partners in September 2022 and aligns with the company’s strategic goal of expanding its presence across North America. A&A Pump will continue operating as A&A Pump Company, a D&H United company.

For more information visit www.dh-united.com

Svanehoj, an ITT company, has completed the acquisition of Köhler & Hörter GmbH (KOHO Kompressorsysteme), a Germany-based family-owned company specializing in high-quality compressor systems for diverse industries including shipbuilding. The transaction closed on 1 October 2025, marking Svanehoj’s strategic expansion within the gas segment as the global gas tanker market continues to grow.

Strategic Rationale and Market Positioning

In recent years, Svanehoj has strengthened its position as a supplier of marine pumps, tank control systems, and related service solutions. The acquisition of KOHO Kompressorsysteme represents the company’s next strategic initiative in the gas segment, responding to expansion in the global gas tanker market.

KOHO employs approximately 40 personnel at its facility in Hagen, Germany, and specialises in the design and manufacture of customer-specific reciprocating compressor systems for hydrogen, hydrocarbons, and other demanding gas applications. The company’s product range also encompasses gastight bulkhead shaft penetrations for industrial facilities and shipbuilding applications.

Leadership Perspective

Søren Kringelholt Nielsen, CEO of Svanehoj, characterised the acquisition as a logical expansion for the company within the gas tanker segment, where Svanehoj has delivered cargo pump systems and integrated services to LPG and LNG carriers for many years. By acquiring KOHO, Svanehoj can now include high-quality compressors and related spare parts within its customer offerings.

Nielsen emphasised that KOHO adds specialist expertise and an attractive product portfolio to Svanehoj’s capabilities. He expressed confidence that combining KOHO’s technical knowledge with Svanehoj’s and ITT’s strengths in supply chain management and sales will unlock new opportunities to strengthen and expand the business.

Established Project Collaboration

Svanehoj and KOHO Kompressorsysteme have previously collaborated on high-profile shipbuilding projects, establishing a foundation of mutual understanding and complementary capabilities. Notable joint projects include the Northern Lights LCO₂ carriers in Norway and Höegh Autoliners’ Aurora class design, which represents the first Pure Car & Truck Carrier to be classified as “ammonia-ready” with capability to operate on green ammonia in future.

This existing project experience demonstrates the technical compatibility between the companies’ technologies and provides validation of their combined capabilities in advanced maritime applications.

Company Heritage and Technical Evolution

KOHO Kompressorsysteme was founded in 1948 by Alfred Köhler and August Hörter, with the company manufacturing its first reciprocating compressor in 1965. Since that time, the products and projects have grown substantially in both scale and complexity, responding to continuously increasing demand for specialized compressors across diverse applications.

The company is currently managed by the third generation of the Hörter family, with André Hörter and Björn Hörter serving as leaders. Both will continue in management roles within KOHO under the new Svanehoj ownership structure, ensuring continuity of leadership and technical expertise.

Future Vision Under New Ownership

Björn Hörter, managing director of KOHO, characterised the change of ownership as a significant opportunity to advance the company’s development. He noted that KOHO’s specialised compressor solutions will now form part of a broader portfolio supporting the future of gas applications.

Hörter expressed expectations that partnership with Svanehoj will accelerate growth and innovation whilst ensuring that KOHO employees remain integral to the company’s continued journey. This perspective emphasises the transaction’s focus on development rather than mere consolidation.

Expanded Portfolio and Applications

The acquisition enables Svanehoj to offer comprehensive integrated solutions encompassing pumps, compressors, tank control systems, and related services to customers in the maritime and industrial gas sectors. This expanded capability addresses customer demand for single-source supply of complementary equipment systems, potentially simplifying procurement and improving system integration.

KOHO’s expertise in hydrogen and hydrocarbon compression aligns with emerging applications in alternative fuel systems for maritime transport, including LNG, ammonia, and hydrogen propulsion systems. The company’s gastight bulkhead penetration technology provides additional value in applications requiring secure gas containment and transfer between compartments.

Second Acquisition of 2025

The KOHO acquisition represents Svanehoj’s second transaction in 2025. In January, the company completed the acquisition of European Pump Services B.V., now operating as Svanehoj EPS, a Dutch company specialising in integration and service of pump solutions for the Benelux industrial, offshore, and maritime sectors.

This acquisition activity demonstrates Svanehoj’s active strategy of expanding capabilities and geographic presence through targeted additions of complementary businesses with established technical expertise and customer relationships.

Global Operations and Workforce

Following the KOHO acquisition, Svanehoj employs 550 people with operations spanning Denmark, the United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, Germany, Singapore, South Korea, China, Japan, Dubai, and the United States. This international presence positions the company to serve customers across major maritime and industrial markets whilst providing regional service and support capabilities.

The expanded organization combines Svanehoj’s established marine pump and tank control systems expertise with KOHO’s compressor technology and European Pump Services’ integration and service capabilities, creating a comprehensive offering for gas handling applications in maritime and industrial contexts.

For more information visit www.svanehoj.com

Inspection and maintenance software specialist Falcker and Vopak, the leader in tank storage and infrastructure solutions, have signed an agreement for worldwide deployment of Falcker’s advanced tank inspection platform. Falcker developed, in collaboration with Vopak, a tank inspection platform consisting of a Site Explorer, Condition Monitoring, and a Life Cycle Planner. The platform will be gradually deployed at Vopak’s terminals over the next few years.

Commenting on the partnership, Thomas Schouten, CEO of Falcker, said:
“This agreement represents a mutual commitment to success, built on trust, clarity and shared goals. Together with Vopak, we will set a new benchmark in tank integrity management, helping ensure safety, compliance and sustainability for years to come.”

This platform allows Vopak to further optimise its maintenance programme by providing long-term predictions on tank maintenance, ensuring tank integrity based on digital databases and fit-for-service analyses.

Falcker specialises in digital inspection and maintenance software solutions for the tank storage industry. The company’s integrated platform uses cloud-based technologies, digital twinning and automated inspection tools to enable predictive maintenance and extend asset lifecycles for industrial operators worldwide.

Royal Vopak is the world’s leading independent tank storage company, headquartered in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

As the journey continues, we’ll be sharing more news about this Enterprise Agreement, but for further enquiries, please contact: www.falcker.com

Greenergy announced on 1 October 2025 the completion of its acquisition of Armorine, an established French supplier of fuels and lubricants, following final competition clearance. The transaction, initially announced in June, encompasses all of Armorine’s subsidiaries and operational assets.

Strategic Entry into the French Market

The acquisition signifies Greenergy’s entry into the French market and constitutes a pivotal milestone in the company’s strategy for expansion across Europe. By acquiring Armorine, Greenergy gains immediate access to established operations, infrastructure, and market relationships within France’s fuel and lubricants sector.

Founded in 1932, Armorine has developed into a trusted supplier with comprehensive capabilities spanning multiple aspects of the energy supply chain. The company’s operations include fuel import and distribution activities, lubricant production facilities, and logistics infrastructure supporting delivery through a national network of oil depots and supply sites.

Operational Capabilities and Infrastructure

Armorine’s integrated business model provides Greenergy with substantial operational assets and market presence. The company’s logistics capabilities enable efficient distribution across France through its established network of storage and supply facilities, positioning the combined entity to serve customers effectively across diverse geographic regions.

The lubricants production capacity adds a complementary dimension to Greenergy’s portfolio, extending beyond fuel distribution into value-added products that serve industrial, commercial, and automotive customers. This diversification enhances the combined organisation’s ability to address varied customer requirements within the French market.

Leadership Perspective

Adam Traeger, CEO of Greenergy, characterised the acquisition as an important step in the company’s European growth trajectory. He expressed enthusiasm about entering the French market and outlined expectations for collaboration with Armorine’s experienced team.

Traeger emphasised the strategic intent to combine the strengths and expertise of both organisations to build upon Armorine’s established success. He articulated objectives to accelerate growth and enhance the company’s offering within the French market through the integration of complementary capabilities and market knowledge.

Integration and Future Development

The completion of the acquisition enables Greenergy to commence integration activities, bringing together operational systems, commercial strategies, and organisational capabilities. The retention of Armorine’s experienced workforce provides continuity of customer relationships and operational expertise whilst enabling knowledge transfer between the organisations.

The acquisition positions Greenergy to leverage Armorine’s established market presence, regulatory knowledge, and customer relationships as a foundation for expansion within France. The combination of Greenergy’s resources and strategic capabilities with Armorine’s local market position creates potential for enhanced service delivery and business development.

Market Context

The French fuel and lubricants market represents a significant opportunity for Greenergy’s expansion, characterised by substantial demand, established infrastructure, and evolving regulatory frameworks addressing energy transition objectives. Armorine’s longstanding presence since 1932 demonstrates the durability of its business model and the strength of its market relationships.

The acquisition reflects broader industry trends towards consolidation and international expansion as energy suppliers seek scale advantages and geographic diversification. For Greenergy, the transaction provides an established platform for growth rather than requiring development of operations from inception, accelerating market entry and reducing execution risk.

Regulatory Clearance

The completion of the transaction follows receipt of final competition clearance from relevant regulatory authorities, confirming compliance with applicable merger control requirements. This clearance enables full integration of Armorine’s operations within Greenergy’s corporate structure and the commencement of combined business activities under unified ownership.

The acquisition advances Greenergy’s strategic objective of building a significant European presence in fuel supply and related activities, complementing its existing operations in other markets. The addition of Armorine’s French operations provides geographic diversification whilst maintaining focus on core competencies in fuel import, storage, distribution, and related services.

Through this acquisition, Greenergy has established immediate operational presence in France with comprehensive infrastructure, experienced personnel, and established customer relationships, creating a platform for sustained development within one of Europe’s largest energy markets.

For more information visit www.greenergy.com

Technip Energies has been awarded two engineering services contracts by Repsol for the development of the Ecoplanta Molecular Recycling Solutions project, a pioneering waste-to-methanol facility to be constructed in El Morell, near Tarragona, Spain. The facility will be the first in Europe to convert non-recyclable municipal solid waste and biomass into renewable and circular methanol at a commercial scale.

Project Scope and Environmental Impact

The Ecoplanta plant will divert waste from landfills to produce low-carbon methanol, supporting emissions reduction in hard-to-abate sectors and enabling increased use of renewable fuels. The project aligns with European objectives for circularity and the broader transition towards sustainable industrial models.

Utilising Enerkem’s advanced gasification technology, the facility is designed to process up to 400,000 tonnes of residual municipal waste annually, producing approximately 240,000 tonnes of methanol. This renewable alternative can be utilised in the manufacture of new circular materials and the production of advanced biofuels, creating value from waste streams that would otherwise be destined for disposal.

The project has received co-funding from the European Union’s Innovation Fund and is projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 3.4 million tonnes of CO₂-equivalent over its first decade of operation, representing a significant contribution to Europe’s decarbonisation objectives.

Contract Structure and Technical Delivery

Technip Energies has secured two distinct contracts encompassing the complete delivery scope for the project. The first contract covers the Enerkem Core Process, developed through a partnership between Enerkem and Technip Energies. The second contract addresses the Balance of Plant, ensuring comprehensive integration of all project components.

Under these agreements, Technip Energies will provide engineering and procurement services whilst overseeing the integration of Enerkem’s gasification technology, which converts non-recyclable waste into renewable fuels and chemicals. The award builds upon a strategic collaboration agreement signed between Technip Energies and Enerkem in 2024, demonstrating the effectiveness of the partnership in accelerating deployment of circular solutions at commercial scale.

Strategic Significance

Sylvain Cabalery, Senior Vice President of the Business Line for Sustainable Fuels, Chemicals & Circularity at Technip Energies, expressed the company’s satisfaction with its involvement in the project. He characterised Ecoplanta as a landmark in circularity and a breakthrough for waste-based feedstock transformation in Europe. Cabalery noted that the awards build upon the strategic partnership established with Enerkem and underscore the organisations’ shared commitment to scaling circular solutions.

He emphasised that supporting the first commercial-scale facility of its kind in Europe demonstrates the company’s commitment to advancing circularity and sustainability in the Iberian Peninsula, whilst highlighting the capabilities of Technip Energies’ Technology, Products and Services segment in driving innovation.

Technology and Process Innovation

The Ecoplanta project represents a significant advancement in waste valorisation technology, transforming materials typically destined for landfills into valuable chemical feedstocks. Enerkem’s gasification technology enables the conversion of heterogeneous waste streams into synthesis gas, which is subsequently processed into methanol—a versatile chemical building block with applications across multiple industries.

The facility’s capacity to process 400,000 tonnes of waste annually positions it as a substantial contributor to regional waste management whilst simultaneously producing renewable chemical products. This dual benefit addresses both environmental challenges associated with waste disposal and the transition towards renewable feedstocks in chemical manufacturing.

Market and Regional Impact

The project supports the development of circular economy infrastructure within the Iberian Peninsula, providing a commercial-scale demonstration of advanced waste conversion technology. By establishing this facility in Tarragona’s industrial region, the project benefits from existing infrastructure and industrial expertise whilst creating a model that could potentially be replicated across other European locations.

The production of renewable methanol at this scale provides downstream industries with access to circular feedstocks, supporting their own sustainability objectives and compliance with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. The facility’s output can serve applications in transportation fuels, chemical manufacturing, and other sectors seeking to reduce their carbon footprint through feedstock substitution.

Financial Recording

Technip Energies confirmed that the contract awards will be recorded in the company’s third quarter 2025 backlog within the Technology, Products & Services segment, contributing to the division’s portfolio of sustainable energy and circular economy projects.

The Ecoplanta project represents a convergence of waste management, renewable chemical production, and circular economy principles, demonstrating how advanced technology partnerships can deliver commercial-scale solutions to environmental challenges whilst creating economic value from previously underutilised waste streams.

For more information visit www.ten.com

Energy Transfer has demonstrated its commitment to advancing pipeline safety and environmental responsibility through a strategic partnership with Vanguard Pipeline Inspection, LLC, supporting the development and deployment of the Falcon XL Aerial Methane Detection Technology. The collaboration has enabled the company to survey more than 44,000 miles of pipeline, marking a significant milestone in leak detection and emissions monitoring capabilities.

Early-Stage Investment in Emerging Technology

Energy Transfer’s involvement with the Falcon XL system predates its commercial market entry, reflecting the company’s proactive approach to identifying transformative technologies. The organisation partnered with Vanguard not merely as a commercial customer but as an active collaborator, providing research and development funding alongside technical guidance to shape the system’s evolution. This early-stage engagement ensured the technology was designed to address real-world operational requirements whilst maintaining rigorous safety and environmental performance standards.

The partnership exemplifies Energy Transfer’s broader strategic approach of investing in technologies aligned with its mission to reduce emissions, protect natural resources, and operate with transparency and accountability. By supporting innovation during development phases, the company aims to accelerate the creation of tools that deliver benefits across the entire energy infrastructure industry.

Technical Capabilities and Operational Integration

The Falcon XL system is engineered for deployment on both fixed-wing aircraft and rotary helicopters, enabling methane detection during routine aerial patrol operations. This integration allows Energy Transfer to enhance the efficiency of existing flight operations by adding a sophisticated layer of pipeline safety and environmental monitoring without requiring separate dedicated surveillance missions.

The system’s capability to detect low-level emissions provides valuable complementary support for Energy Transfer’s comprehensive leak detection programs. The technology’s sensitivity enables identification of potential issues that might otherwise remain undetected through conventional monitoring methods, strengthening the company’s overall approach to pipeline integrity management.

Expansion of Detection Technologies

In 2024, Energy Transfer further expanded its methane detection capabilities by launching an initiative utilising tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS), an advanced laser-equipped technology. This next-generation approach represents a significant enhancement to the company’s ability to identify and address potential pipeline issues with increased speed and effectiveness.

The addition of TDLAS technology demonstrates Energy Transfer’s commitment to deploying multiple complementary detection methods, creating a layered approach to emissions monitoring that leverages different technological capabilities to provide comprehensive coverage across its extensive pipeline network.

Industry Recognition

The collaborative efforts of Energy Transfer and Vanguard Pipeline Inspection received formal industry recognition at the Texas Oil & Gas Association’s Energy Elevated Technology Showcase on 4 September 2025. The partnership was awarded the Expert Commentator Pick for Most Innovative 2025 following a joint presentation at the event, acknowledging the significance of their work in advancing methane detection capabilities.

This recognition underscores the industry’s acknowledgement of innovative approaches to environmental monitoring and the value of collaborative partnerships between operators and technology developers in addressing critical challenges within the energy sector.

Strategic Implications for Pipeline Safety

The partnership’s success reflects the scalability and practical application of advanced detection technologies across extensive pipeline infrastructure. Energy Transfer’s survey of more than 44,000 miles of pipeline using the Falcon XL system demonstrates both the technology’s operational viability and the company’s commitment to systematic implementation of enhanced monitoring capabilities.

The collaboration represents a model for how energy infrastructure companies can actively participate in technology development rather than solely adopting commercially available solutions. By engaging during research and development phases, operators can ensure emerging technologies address specific operational challenges whilst meeting industry safety and environmental standards.

Commitment to Responsible Operations

Energy Transfer has positioned the Vanguard partnership as emblematic of its approach to advancing safety and environmental initiatives through innovation and collaboration. The company emphasises that supporting technologies which improve operational performance whilst contributing to environmental responsibility aligns with its broader objectives for sustainable energy infrastructure management.

The integration of multiple advanced detection technologies, including both the Falcon XL system and TDLAS capabilities, illustrates Energy Transfer’s systematic approach to enhancing pipeline integrity and emissions monitoring. This multi-technology strategy provides operational redundancy and comprehensive coverage, strengthening the company’s ability to identify and address potential issues across its extensive pipeline network.

The partnership demonstrates how collaborative relationships between infrastructure operators and technology developers can drive meaningful progress in addressing environmental challenges whilst maintaining operational efficiency and safety standards across the energy sector.

For more information visit www.energytransferfacts.com

IRClass Systems and Solutions Pvt Ltd (ISSPL), a leading provider of assurance, inspection, certification, and testing services, has announced a strategic acquisition of a 40 percent stake in eProtect 360 Solutions Pvt Ltd (eProtect 360), a global leader in cybersecurity resilience and managed security services. The partnership marks a significant milestone in ISSPL’s diversification strategy and its entry into advanced cybersecurity solutions.

Strategic Expansion into Cybersecurity

The acquisition enables ISSPL to expand its service portfolio into cybersecurity resilience, managed security services, GRC 360 Assure tools, and anti-ransomware solutions. Through this partnership, ISSPL aims to integrate technology-driven security capabilities with its established assurance and certification services, positioning the company to deliver comprehensive solutions to clients navigating increasingly complex digital environments.

Left to Right:Mr. Shashi Nath Mishra, COO, ISSPL; Mr. Vinay S. Kshirsagar, MD, ISSPL; Mr. Kunal K. Panchamia, director and founder, eProtect 360, and Mr. Deepak K Patel, CFO, ISSPL

eProtect 360 brings substantial global credentials to the partnership, with an established footprint spanning South America, North America, Asia, Africa, Europe, and Australia. The company has demonstrated expertise across diverse industry sectors including banking and financial services, technology and media, software, oil and gas, aviation, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing.

Formal Agreement and Leadership Perspectives

The acquisition agreement was formally executed at ISSPL’s head office in Mumbai, with key executives from both organisations in attendance. The signing ceremony included Mr Vinay S. Kshirsagar, MD of ISSPL; Mr Shashi Nath Mishra, COO of ISSPL; Mr Kunal K. Panchamia, director and founder of eProtect 360; and Mr Deepak K Patel, CFO of ISSPL.

Mr Shashi Nath Mishra, COO of ISSPL, articulated the strategic rationale for the partnership, emphasising that the company has consistently focused on building trust, resilience, and innovation for its clients. He described the collaboration with eProtect 360 as enabling ISSPL’s entry into a high-growth domain whilst offering world-class cybersecurity and governance solutions within an integrated service framework. Mishra characterised the move as a transformative step that positions ISSPL to lead in developing secure, sustainable digital ecosystems on a global scale.

Mr Vinay Kshirsagar, MD of ISSPL, provided additional context on the acquisition’s alignment with the company’s broader vision. He stated that the stake acquisition reinforces ISSPL’s objective of becoming a comprehensive solutions provider by integrating cybersecurity, resilience management, and technology-driven assurance into its core service portfolio. Kshirsagar emphasised that through the partnership with eProtect 360, ISSPL aims to empower businesses worldwide to navigate the complexities of the digital era with enhanced confidence and security.

Market Positioning and Service Integration

The acquisition reflects ISSPL’s response to growing market demand for integrated assurance and cybersecurity services. As organisations across industries face escalating cyber threats and regulatory requirements, the convergence of traditional assurance services with advanced cybersecurity capabilities addresses a critical market need.

By combining ISSPL’s established reputation in assurance, inspection, and certification with eProtect 360’s expertise in managed security services and cyber resilience, the partnership creates a differentiated service offering. This integration enables clients to access comprehensive risk management solutions that address both physical and digital security requirements within a unified framework.

Global Reach and Industry Expertise

eProtect 360’s proven track record across multiple continents and industry verticals provides ISSPL with immediate access to established client relationships and sector-specific expertise. The company’s experience in highly regulated industries such as banking, healthcare, and aviation complements ISSPL’s existing capabilities in assurance and compliance services.

The partnership positions both organisations to capitalise on the growing global demand for cybersecurity resilience solutions, particularly as businesses accelerate digital transformation initiatives and confront increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. The combined entity will offer clients access to advanced security technologies, governance frameworks, and managed services designed to protect critical assets and ensure business continuity.

Strategic Vision for Digital Assurance

The acquisition represents ISSPL’s commitment to evolving its service model in response to changing market dynamics and client requirements. By extending its capabilities into cybersecurity and digital resilience, the company is positioning itself as a comprehensive partner for organisations seeking to manage risk across both traditional and emerging threat landscapes.

The partnership with eProtect 360 establishes a foundation for ISSPL to develop integrated solutions that address the full spectrum of organisational security needs, from physical asset protection to cyber resilience and regulatory compliance. This strategic direction aligns with broader industry trends towards holistic risk management approaches that recognise the interconnected nature of physical and digital security challenges.

For more information visit www.irqs.co.in

Minebea Intec, a leading global manufacturer of industrial weighing and inspection technologies, has announced the return of Frank Wieland to the position of chief sales officer, signalling the company’s commitment to accelerating international growth and strengthening its global sales operations.

Strategic Leadership Appointment

The appointment marks Wieland’s return to a senior leadership role he previously held at the company, bringing nearly two decades of experience in shaping Minebea Intec’s successful development across various positions. Dr Karl Sommer, CEO and COO at Minebea Intec, emphasised that the company’s markets are global in nature, and the organisation aims to consistently expand its position across all regions.

Dr Sommer highlighted Wieland’s extensive qualifications for the role, citing his many years of experience in international sales, deep industry expertise in weighing and inspection technology, and well-established professional network as ideal credentials for leading the company’s global sales strategy.

Responsibilities and Strategic Focus

In his role as chief sales officer, Wieland assumes responsibility for sales, marketing, product management, and service functions. His strategic priorities include the further expansion of international business operations, with particular emphasis on strengthening the company’s presence in growth regions such as Asia and enhancing service delivery to customers worldwide.

Wieland articulated the strategic objectives of his appointment, explaining that successfully positioning the company’s new generation of products in the market and expanding market position against global competition are key priorities. He identified efficient sales structures, proximity to customers, and local support as critical factors for achieving further growth.

International Expansion and Customer Proximity

The appointment reflects Minebea Intec’s strategy to enhance its global footprint through strengthened regional presence and improved customer service capabilities. The company aims to serve its international customer base more effectively by combining robust sales teams with local market presence and innovative solutions designed to increase precision, efficiency, and safety in industrial processes.

Wieland’s extensive familiarity with the organisation, accumulated over nearly twenty years in various capacities, positions him to drive continuity in sales strategy whilst implementing initiatives to capture opportunities in expanding markets. His understanding of both the company’s product portfolio and its customer base provides a foundation for advancing international business development objectives.

Management Transition

The appointment follows the retirement of Peter Grimley from the CSO position. Grimley will remain with Minebea Intec in the capacity of vice chairman, where he will focus on specialised topics and provide advisory support to the board of directors. This arrangement ensures continuity of institutional knowledge whilst enabling Wieland to assume full responsibility for the sales function.

Commitment to Global Market Leadership

Through Wieland’s appointment, Minebea Intec has reinforced its commitment to providing comprehensive support to customers and partners across its global operations. The company’s strategy emphasises the importance of strong sales teams positioned in key markets, sustained regional presence, and continued innovation in industrial weighing and inspection technologies.

The leadership change positions Minebea Intec to capitalise on growth opportunities in international markets whilst maintaining its reputation for technical excellence and customer service. By combining Wieland’s industry expertise with the company’s established market position, Minebea Intec aims to strengthen its competitive position in the global industrial technology sector.

For more information visit www.minebea-intec.com

InterGroup has successfully delivered an extensive manual industrial tank cleaning programme at Channel Infrastructure’s Marsden Point facility, demonstrating advanced technical capabilities and exceptional safety performance. The project, which commenced in June 2022, formed a critical component of the site’s transition from a refinery to a terminal storage facility.

Project Scope and Execution

Channel Infrastructure, formerly known as Refining NZ, appointed InterGroup to provide specialized tank cleaning services during the decommissioning phase of the facility’s transformation. The scope encompassed approximately 40 tanks previously used to store crude oil, finished fuel products, and other hazardous substances. With certain tanks designated for different product service roles in the terminal configuration, the project was structured into two groups aligned with varying priority levels and the terminal transition schedule.

Ryan Naidu, area manager, led the project execution, supported by InterGroup’s Northern Industrial Operations and Administration teams along with the company’s National Compliance Management division. The collaborative approach enabled comprehensive planning, programming, and delivery of operations that met the client’s requirements for timeline, cost, and overall project outcomes.

Exceptional Safety and Environmental Performance

InterGroup achieved remarkable health, safety, and environmental results throughout the project duration. The company completed 45,000 manhours without a single safety incident, while maintaining zero spillages and loss of containment—a critical achievement given Channel Infrastructure’s stringent “No Spill” culture and elevated safety standards.

The company’s existing presence at the refinery provided significant advantages, bringing established familiarity with the client’s systems and procedures. This experience proved essential in successfully executing multi-disciplined work packages within an extremely high-risk operational environment. Strong performance was achieved through expertly designed methodologies and strategic minimization of manned entry operations through deployment of robotic systems.

Technical Delivery and Methods

InterGroup’s specialised team performed sludge removal and detailed cleaning across 33 hydrocarbon tanks, including nine large-diameter floating roof crude tanks. These operations required confined space man entry procedures utilizing breathing apparatus and extensive health and safety planning protocols. Cleaning standards ranged from Class II to Class IV levels of cleanliness, determined by each tank’s intended repurposing requirements. The team removed approximately 4,000 cubic meters of sludge from crude tanks over the project duration.

Tank cleaning operations were executed through multiple methodologies tailored to specific conditions. These included manual cleaning techniques, magnetic cleaning utilizing InterGroup’s Verti Drive magnetic tank cleaning robot, and for heavy sludge-intensive crude oil tanks, deployment of the company’s Gerotto Zone 0 robotic tank cleaning system.

Navigating Complex Operational Challenges

The project team encountered numerous operational challenges requiring adaptive management approaches. Frequent modifications to the tank availability schedule, driven by the evolving terminal transition plan, necessitated continuous adjustments to project management, planning, and delivery timelines. InterGroup maintained regular and transparent communication with Channel Infrastructure to integrate these changes effectively. The company’s agile operational approach and strong client relationships enabled continuity of work within required timeframes despite necessary schedule modifications.

Integration of the Gerotto robotic technology presented an additional challenge, as the team had no prior operational experience with the system. Recognising the substantial benefits the technology offered, InterGroup invested significant resources in training appropriate personnel on optimal robot operation. This investment transformed the initial challenge into a realised opportunity for enhanced project delivery.

Innovation Through Advanced Technology

InterGroup demonstrated its commitment to technological innovation by introducing the Gerotto Lombrico robotic system to New Zealand for the first time. While widely utilized for de-sludging and cleaning crude tanks at refineries throughout Western Europe, the technology had not previously been deployed in New Zealand operations.

The remotely operated crawler system is designed and certified to operate in explosive atmospheres where risk is continuous. The unit fits through standard 24-inch manways and can be deployed immediately upon manway cover removal, significantly reducing required manpower and tank cleaning duration. The technology provides substantial health, safety, and environmental benefits by eliminating personnel exposure to toxic waste and removing the need for nitrogen blankets or tank venting procedures.

The Zone 0-rated unit features a low-pressure, low-volume jet nozzle system that introduces diluted cutter stock to agitate and fluidize sludge. This capability enables efficient vacuum extraction through the system, with fluidized sludge removed from tanks via the ATC head using high-capacity 3A vacuum trucks.

Technical Problem-Solving Capability

InterGroup’s technical expertise and problem-solving capabilities were particularly evident during work on tank T04, a crude tank conversion to Jet-A1 fuel specification. This operation required a first-of-its-kind solution to achieve complete internal shell cleaning without resulting jet fuel contamination. Despite the complex technical requirements, the industrial team delivered work meeting required quality standards within the committed cost parameters and schedule.

The Marsden Point project exemplifies InterGroup’s capacity to manage large-scale, technically complex industrial cleaning operations while maintaining exceptional safety and environmental performance standards. The successful completion positions the company as a leader in introducing innovative technology solutions to the New Zealand industrial services market while delivering tangible value to clients navigating significant operational transitions.

Fore more information visit www.intergroup.co.nz

IVENS Constructiebedrijf, a leading family-owned business specialized in the construction and renovation of storage tanks for the petrochemical industry and beyond, is opening the doors of its production plant, located in the heart of the port of Antwerp, to offer an exclusive look into its advanced production process.

From local family business to international player

Since its founding in 1930, IVENS has grown from a local construction company into a global partner for the chemical industry, energy companies, and tank storage. In addition to building storage tanks, piping systems, and pressure vessels, IVENS is well-known for its turnkey solutions: from engineering and prefabrication in its own manufacturing facilities to assembly and maintenance on site.

Headquartered on Noorderlaan in the port of Antwerp, IVENS operates across Europe and far beyond, with recent developments of tank farms in Central Africa and the Middle East. With more than 300 employees and an annual turnover +70 million euros, IVENS delivers integrated solutions from design to maintenance.

Innovation and ecology hand in hand

IVENS is a pioneer in the energy transition by investing in the construction of cryogenic storage tanks for liquefied gases. This technology enables the safe and optimized storage of products such as ammonia.
Ammonia is considered a promising hydrogen carrier, as it allows efficient transport and large-scale storage, after which it can be converted back into hydrogen for both industrial and sustainable applications.

The demand for such facilities is increasing worldwide, driven by the shift towards CO₂-neutral energy sources. IVENS positions itself as a reliable partner for this crucial infrastructure, combining innovation, safety, and quality in line with international standards. In 2026, IVENS will start constructing a new hub in Le Havre dedicated to storing bio-kerosene, a sustainable fuel that will be distributed to airports via pipeline infrastructure.

With the construction of hot water tanks that convert residual heat into useful energy for plants and buildings, IVENS demonstrates how industrial infrastructure can contribute to sustainable energy efficiency. These buffer tank solutions are already being applied today in industries such as pharmaceuticals.

The strength of IVENS lies in its continuous renewal of techniques and working methods. Innovative welding processes are applied to ensure the highest levels of quality and safety, including the construction of cryogenic tanks.

By combining prefabrication in its in-house production facilities with the optimization of on-site activities, IVENS can reduce project lead times, resulting in fast and effective delivery for its clients.

Investing in people

At IVENS, people drive the company’s success. With its own certified welding school, the group places strong emphasis on internal training. Employees are given the opportunity to develop, grow, and become specialists in their field. In this way, IVENS not only builds tanks and terminals but also sustainable careers. This approach ensures both the continuity and quality of its projects.

In-house transport and crane operations

Alongside its construction activities, IVENS benefits from the expertise of its own transport and crane company. ‘IVENS Transport & Kraanbedrijf’ handles exceptional transport and crane operations in the Benelux and abroad, providing a crucial logistics pillar within the group. With a modern fleet, experienced professionals, and an extensive range of mobile cranes, crane trucks, low loaders and trailers, IVENS provides tailored total solutions.

A look to the future

In the coming years, IVENS aims to further expand its international activities and strengthen its role in the energy transition. The focus lies on building new terminals, large-scale cryogenic storage tanks, and innovative solutions.

IVENS recently launched a new logo and slogan: “IVENS – Together as one”, symbolizing collaboration, commitment, and progress. It reflects not only the nearly hundred-year history of IVENS but above all the ambition to build the infrastructure of tomorrow together with clients, partners, and employees.

“Every day I am incredibly proud of our nearly 100-year-old family business. Striking the right balance between traditional craftsmanship and new techniques, while always keeping our employees at the center, is my daily challenge,” stated owner Peter Van de Perck.

For more information visit www.ivensgroup.com

EEMUA has released a new edition (Edition 2) of its publication EEMUA 222, ‘Guide to the application of IEC 61511 to safety instrumented systems in the process industries’.

Written by leading experts, including from EEMUA member companies and with input from the GB Health and Safety Executive, EEMUA 222 provides guidance and recommendations on the application of the IEC 61511 standard for the specification and implementation of safety instrumented systems designed to bring a process plant to a safe state should a hazardous incident occur.

EEMUA 222 is intended to explain how to use the IEC 61511 standard effectively and addresses the responsibility and deliverables of organisations involved in the specification, supply and maintenance of safety instrumented systems.

The second edition of EEMUA 222 has been extensively revised to reflect the greater maturity of the standards and the understanding of functional safety in general. There is new coverage on points of difficulty that are likely to be encountered and where standards currently lack detailed guidance.

EEMUA 222 is available to purchase directly from EEMUA.

For more information visit www.eemua.org

Falcker Innovations B.V. has announced the extension of its partnership with Dialog, marking the continuation of a successful collaboration that began two years ago.

As part of the agreement, Falcker will continue to provide its Site Explorer software, which has become a core element of Dialog’s operational workflow. The software has consistently delivered value, supporting efficiency and growth within the organisation.

Falcker expressed its appreciation for the strong working relationship with Dialog and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the company’s success in the years ahead.

For more information visit www.falcker.com

German industrial company Lutz Holding GmbH has responded to alarming employee engagement statistics by strengthening its investment in company culture, hosting its fourth annual Oktoberfest celebration on September 25, 2025. The event brought employees from around the world to the company’s headquarters in Wertheim, exemplifying the organisation’s commitment to building emotional connections that transcend geographical boundaries.

The Engagement Crisis Affecting German Industry

The initiative comes against a backdrop of concerning data from the Gallup Engagement Index, which reveals that only 9 percent of employees in Germany feel a strong emotional connection to their employer. The remaining 91 percent of the workforce frequently deliver only minimal effort, resulting in significant productivity losses. This widespread disengagement cost the German economy €113.1 billion in 2024 alone.

Heinz Lutz, managing director of Lutz Holding GmbH, characterised this development as a fundamental threat to the competitiveness of German companies. He emphasised that a company culture which motivates and values employees has evolved from an optional consideration to a critical determinant of corporate performance and competitive positioning in the marketplace.

Strategic Approach to Employee Connection

Lutz Holding has implemented comprehensive measures to enhance workplace attractiveness and strengthen employees’ emotional attachment to the organisation. These initiatives include investments in training and professional development programmes, health and wellness offerings, establishment of family-friendly working models, and cultivation of a relaxed working climate.

The company’s annual Oktoberfest has emerged as a distinctive symbol of these cultural efforts, becoming a trademark element of the Lutz corporate identity. For the 2025 event, employees traveled to Wertheim from locations across Europe, Asia, and the United States. While acknowledging the considerable logistical complexity involved, company leadership views the investment as essential to achieving its cultural objectives.

Lutz articulated his philosophy on workplace connection, stating that digital meetings connect computer screens rather than people. He described the Oktoberfest as serving multiple purposes: expressing the value the company places on its workforce, thanking employees for their dedication and efforts, and strengthening team cohesion across international boundaries.

Market Position and Future Outlook

Company management utilised the gathering as an opportunity for strategic communication regarding Lutz Holding’s market position. The recent inclusion of Lutz Pumpen in the Encyclopedia of German World Market Leaders underscores the positive trajectory of the company’s recent development and provides validation of its business strategy.

The water technology sector presents particularly favourable growth prospects for the organisation. Lutz provided a clear market analysis, noting that urbanisation and population growth are driving global demand for drinking water solutions. He characterised this as a mega trend that secures long-term employment prospects for the company’s workforce—a message with particular resonance given that Gallup data shows only 34 percent of employees have full confidence in their employer’s financial future.

Employee Value Proposition

Lutz summarised the company’s philosophy by identifying committed and confident employees as the organisation’s most valuable asset, describing them as the best protection against future challenges. This perspective reflects Lutz Holding’s belief that addressing the employee engagement crisis requires substantive investment in company culture rather than superficial initiatives.

The approach taken by Lutz Holding stands in contrast to the broader German employment landscape, where the majority of workers demonstrate limited emotional investment in their employers. By prioritising employee connection through both practical workplace improvements and symbolic cultural events, the company aims to differentiate itself as an employer while building the engaged workforce necessary for sustained competitive success.

For more information visit www.lutz.group 

Since 2011, ConocoPhillips Australia has been using an Operator Training Simulator (OTS) at the Australia Pacific LNG facility to prepare and upskill facility operators in a realistic, risk-free environment. The digital tool replicates the plant’s control systems and processes, enabling operators to practice everything from routine procedures to complex emergency responses without affecting live operations.

Over the past decade, more than 90 new facility operators have been trained using the simulator, which has become a cornerstone of operational readiness at APLNG. Beyond training, the OTS has also been applied to operational planning. Most recently, the simulator played a key role in a project to address soot fouling issues in the plant’s original Waste Heat Recovery Units. Before the installation of new units, engineers used the simulator to model and validate the design, ensuring its safety and effectiveness. The tool was further leveraged to test, refine, and train operators on the new control systems ahead of commissioning.

Maintaining the simulator as a relevant and effective resource requires ongoing updates. Engineering, operations, and training teams regularly refine the system to reflect changes in plant operations, ensuring its accuracy and reliability.

“The OTS is essential for training new operators and preparing for facility changes, ensuring a smooth and safe transition,” said Mark Nancarrow, training and competency lead at ConocoPhillips Australia.

The simulator is also used for emergency preparedness. According to crisis management and emergency response coordinator David Banford, it provides operators with invaluable experience in managing high-pressure situations. In February 2025, the simulator was central to a large-scale emergency response exercise, where teams practised critical procedures during a staged plant crisis, sharpening their decision-making skills under pressure.

Looking ahead, ConocoPhillips Australia is exploring enhancements to the simulator, including the integration of 3D modelling and virtual reality, to provide even more immersive and effective training experiences for facility operators.

For more information visit www.conocophillips.com

Petredec Onshore Pte. Ltd. has signed an agreement to divest 100 percent of the shares in Petredec (Mauritius) Ltd to the State Trading Corporation (STC) of Mauritius, subject to customary completion steps. The transaction marks an important milestone for both organisations. STC, as the trading arm of the Government of Mauritius, is responsible for the procurement, storage and commercialisation of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) among other selected strategic products.

Jonathan Fancher, chief commercial officer at Petredec Group, said:
“We are grateful to our partners at STC, the Mauritian authorities and our teams for their professionalism throughout this process. This agreement reflects our shared commitment to a smooth transition and continuity of service for the people and businesses of Mauritius. Petredec remains fully committed to the Indian Ocean region. We will continue to expand, invest in infrastructure and further our commitment to unlocking access to cleaner energy for cooking to those that need it most.”

Dr. Takesh Luckho, chairperson of STC, said: “STC has decades of proven expertise as Mauritius’ trusted importer of LPG within the petroleum-related activities. The LPG terminal is not just an industrial facility – it is a critical piece of national infrastructure that underpins energy security for every household and business in the country. By acquiring Petredec (Mauritius) Ltd, STC is strengthening direct national ownership of this strategic asset, ensuring uninterrupted supply, price stability and the long-term safeguarding of a product that is essential to daily life in Mauritius. This transaction builds on our established track record and affirms our responsibility to guarantee a secure, resilient and reliable energy future for the nation.”

For more information visit www.petredec.com

GF has completed a comprehensive two-year modernisation project at its Seewis site, transforming the facility that has specialised in high-tech plastic valves and actuators production for over 50 years. The upgraded facility now features advanced automation systems and has achieved carbon-neutral operations.

Advanced Storage and Automation Systems

The modernisation centred on implementing state-of-the-art storage technology, including a fully automated high-bay storage system with nearly 60,000 storage locations for small parts and an automatic pallet warehouse capable of handling 2,390 pallets. These systems significantly increase operational efficiency and storage capacity.

The expanded capacity, combined with optimised processes and an innovative warehouse management system, enables improved product availability and faster order processing for customers. The automated systems reduce manual handling requirements while providing enhanced inventory control and tracking capabilities.

Enhanced Production Line Capabilities

GF installed a new assembly line specifically designed for the production of 542 and 546 Pro ball valves, which are manufactured in various materials including PVC-U, PVC-C, and PP-H. The new production system ensures more efficient manufacturing processes through precise control of assembly steps and automatic adjustments when optimisation is required.

The assembly line offers increased flexibility and faster conversion capabilities, allowing products to be manufactured at shorter intervals. This enhanced production capability results in smaller inventory requirements, improved product availability, and reduced delivery times for customers.

Sustainability Achievements

The facility has achieved carbon-neutral status through substantial investments in sustainable operations. The Seewis site now operates on 100% renewable electricity, including on-site solar power generation capabilities.

Energy demand reduction measures include the installation of more energy-efficient injection moulding machines and lighting systems, implementation of heat recovery systems, and improved facility insulation. These initiatives collectively contribute to the site’s environmental objectives while reducing operational costs.

Strategic Vision and Market Impact

Oliver Hilbrand, plant manager Seewis at GF, outlined the modernisation’s strategic importance: “Seewis has shaped the plastic valve industry with groundbreaking innovations. Our goal was therefore to significantly increase efficiency in all areas – from production to logistics to energy use. Higher availability, shorter delivery times, and greater sustainability are key factors that provide real added value to our customers.”

Industry Applications and Market Position

The Seewis facility produces plastic valves and actuators for the reliable transport of water and chemicals across diverse industrial and infrastructure applications. The facility’s 50-year specialisation in this sector has established its position as a significant contributor to the plastic valve industry’s technological development.

The modernisation project represents GF’s commitment to maintaining competitive advantages through technological advancement while addressing environmental responsibilities. The enhanced capabilities position the facility to meet evolving customer requirements and industry standards while supporting the company’s broader sustainability objectives.

The completed modernisation demonstrates how manufacturing facilities can achieve operational improvements and environmental goals simultaneously, creating value for customers through enhanced service capabilities while reducing environmental impact through sustainable practices.

For more information visit www.gfps.com

ELAFLEX Group will present products and solutions for aircraft refuelling under maximum safety conditions at inter airport europe 2025, the leading international trade fair for the airport industry, from 7 to 9 October at stand 470 in hall B6 of the Messe München exhibition centre.

Supplying airplanes and helicopters with conventional and alternative fuels demands enormous safety, reliability and contamination-free conditions throughout the entire supply chain. As a strategic partner of IATA and a multi-certified specialist in aircraft refuelling, ELAFLEX Group has decades of experience, dating back to the end of the 1940s.

From 7 to 9 October, ELAFLEX Group will present current products and solutions for safe aircraft refuelling at inter airport europe 2025: Aljac’s extensive product portfolio, composite hoses from Dantec, MannTek’s dry disconnect couplings, hoses and nozzles from ELAFLEX and SGB’s sophisticated leak detection technology. The range also includes solutions from EATON’s Carter. Visitors to stand 470, hall B6 of the Messe München exhibition centre will find, among other new items from ELAFLEX:

• Robust, weather- and fuel-resistant badges for ZVA AF refuelling nozzles to prevent misfuelling
• New HiFlo refuelling nozzles ZVA 32 AF and ZVA 32 AF SIC for flow rates of up to 200 l/min, free of non-ferrous metals
• ERV-G AF rubber expansion joints for all aviation fuels in additional sizes DN 50, 80, 100, 150
• BD hose bead product portfolio expansion by adding a BD 38 variant
• Customised hose reels and trolleys from in-house production

For more information visit elaflex.de

Imperial announced on September 16, 2025, the appointment of Tanya Bryja to its board of directors. The company also revealed planned leadership changes within its board structure, including the succession of the lead director role.

New Director Brings Extensive Energy Industry Experience

Ms. Bryja served as ExxonMobil’s senior vice president of Energy Products, based in Spring, Texas, where she led the integrated, global energy products business encompassing fuels, aromatics, catalysts and technology licensing. Her appointment brought more than 27 years of experience across numerous ExxonMobil downstream and corporate organisations, with assignments throughout the United States and in Belgium.

Ms. Bryja had received her Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois in 1997 and began her career with ExxonMobil that same year, building a comprehensive background in the integrated energy sector over nearly three decades.

Board Leadership Transition Planned

Imperial also announced updates to its board of directors structure. David Cornhill, who served as lead director, reached the board’s mandatory retirement age and announced his intention not to stand for re-election at the 2026 annual meeting of shareholders.

To facilitate an orderly transition of the lead director role, the company’s independent directors selected current director Miranda Hubbs to succeed Mr. Cornhill as lead director effective October 1, 2025. Mr. Cornhill indicated his intention to continue serving as an independent director until the 2026 annual meeting of shareholders, ensuring continuity during the transition period.

Strategic Board Composition

The appointment of Ms. Bryja and the planned leadership succession reflected Imperial’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a diverse and experienced board of directors. Her extensive background in energy products and downstream operations aligned with Imperial’s operational focus and strategic objectives.

The orderly transition plan for the lead director position demonstrated the board’s proactive approach to succession planning, ensuring continued effective governance while complying with mandatory retirement policies. The selection of Ms. Hubbs as the incoming lead director provided continuity of leadership while bringing her existing board experience to the enhanced role.

These changes positioned Imperial’s board to continue providing strategic oversight and governance during an evolving period in the energy sector, with the combination of new expertise through Ms. Bryja’s appointment and experienced leadership through Ms. Hubbs’s elevation to lead director.

For more information visit www.imperialoil.ca

Jebsen & Jessen Group has announced the appointment of Stephan Kirsch as CEO of GMA Garnet Group, effective in the fourth quarter of 2025. The appointment signals a new strategic chapter for the world’s leading vertically integrated industrial garnet supplier, with plans to accelerate global growth, strengthen operations, and advance innovation and sustainability initiatives.

Kirsch brings extensive international leadership experience to the role, having held senior executive positions with major industrial companies including FLSmidth, Metso, Metso Outotec, ThyssenKrupp, Hofmann Engineering, and KHD Humboldt Wedag. His familiarity with GMA’s operations is well-established, having served on the company’s Advisory Board for the past three and a half years, providing him with comprehensive insight into the business and its strategic objectives.

A dual German and Australian citizen, Kirsch holds a Master of Science in Mining & Mineral Processing and a postgraduate degree in Waste Management & Recycling from RWTH Aachen University in Germany.

Heinrich Jessen, chairman of Jebsen & Jessen Group, expressed confidence in the appointment, stating that Kirsch’s extensive experience and long-standing connection with the business position him uniquely to lead GMA into its next growth phase. The chairman emphasised expectations that under Kirsch’s leadership, GMA will continue strengthening its global presence and delivering long-term value for customers and stakeholders.

Strategic Focus and Growth Markets

Kirsch will assume leadership with a clear mandate to refine GMA’s strategic direction and accelerate expansion across global markets. His priorities include strengthening the company’s operational foundation, advancing research and development capabilities, and driving innovation that enhances customer value.

The Americas—encompassing the United States and Latin America—will play a central role in GMA’s next growth phase, complementing the company’s established presence in Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East. The company plans to continue expanding production capabilities and investing in supply chain resilience to ensure secure and consistent garnet supply to customers worldwide.

Innovation and Sustainability Commitments

Innovation and research will remain fundamental to GMA’s strategic direction. The company has developed a strong track record in creating advanced abrasive products and recycling technologies that enhance customer productivity while supporting sustainable practices. GMA’s dedicated research and development efforts focus on engineered blends, product performance optimization, and developing new applications for garnet and associated minerals, with ambitions to extend garnet’s value into emerging industries.

Sustainability continues to underpin GMA’s global operations. The company’s recovery and reprocessing initiatives have recycled more than 195,000 tonnes of spent garnet over the past five years, providing customers with environmentally responsible disposal solutions while conserving natural resources. These efforts are complemented by investments in renewable energy, land rehabilitation, and responsible water stewardship, demonstrating GMA’s commitment to aligning growth with environmental and social responsibility.

Looking Forward

Kirsch acknowledged the significance of his appointment, describing it as a privilege to lead GMA at this important juncture. Having worked closely with the business through the Advisory Board, he noted his firsthand observation of the strength of the company’s people, operations, and partnerships. He outlined his vision to build on this foundation by accelerating innovation, expanding presence in key global markets, and ensuring the delivery of sustainable value to customers and communities.

With Kirsch’s appointment, GMA Garnet Group positions itself for a new era of growth, innovation, and long-term value creation across the industries it serves. The company operates mines, processing plants, recycling facilities, and distribution networks spanning more than 100 countries, maintaining its position as the world’s leading vertically integrated supplier of industrial garnet.

For more information visit www.jjsea.com and www.gmagarnet.com

OCI Global has reported its H1 2025 financial results, highlighting the successful completion of its methanol business sale while facing operational challenges in its continuing European nitrogen operations. The results reflect a period of significant corporate transformation as the company executes its strategic review and capital allocation strategy.

Major Divestiture Completed

OCI successfully closed the sale of its global methanol business to Methanex Corporation on 27 June 2025, achieving total gross proceeds of USD 11.6 billion from its strategic review process. The transaction was valued at USD 1.6 billion, comprising USD 1.3 billion in cash and 9.9 million common shares of Methanex valued at USD 346 million, representing a 12.9 percent ownership stake in the enlarged Methanex platform.

Hassan Badrawi, CEO of OCI Global, emphasised the transaction’s strategic value: “With this closing, total gross proceeds resulting from the strategic review reached USD 11.6 billion. Consistent with the company’s stated commitments, OCI has distributed USD 1.7 billion to shareholders year to date through repayments of capital and normal cash dividends, bringing total distributions to shareholders to approximately USD 7 billion over the last four years.”

Substantial Shareholder Returns and Debt Elimination

The company has maintained its commitment to returning capital to shareholders, distributing USD 1 billion through an extraordinary distribution in May 2025, followed by a further USD 700 million distribution (USD 3.31 per share) in September 2025. Cumulatively, OCI has distributed approximately USD 7 billion since resuming dividend payments in 2022.

OCI has also fully retired its 2033 bonds, completing the repayment of all outstanding debt. The company called 100 percent of the bond principal at 110.75 percent of face value for a total cash amount of USD 680.2 million, including accrued interest, with settlement completed in August 2025.

European Operations Face Headwinds

The company’s continuing operations, comprising European Nitrogen and Corporate Entities segments, reported H1 2025 revenue of USD 567 million, an 11% increase year-over-year. However, adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations declined to USD 1 million compared to USD 7 million in H1 2024.

European Nitrogen, OCI’s sole operating asset within continuing operations, reported H1 2025 adjusted EBITDA of USD 21 million, down from USD 48 million in H1 2024. Despite higher product prices and increased revenue, operational profitability was challenged by a 38 percent year-over-year increase in European gas prices and lower sales volumes due to plant outages during the period.

Financial Performance Metrics

OCI reported total operations revenue of USD 1,061 million for H1 2025. Net profit attributable to shareholders from total operations reached USD 343 million, primarily driven by a USD 688 million gain from the methanol business sale. However, the company recorded a net loss of USD 331 million from continuing operations compared to USD 167 million in H1 2024, largely due to non-cash foreign exchange losses and Beaumont Clean Ammonia project expenditures.

Operating free cash outflow from continuing operations was USD 83 million in H1 2025, compared to USD 70 million in the previous year. The company maintained net cash of USD 1,030 million as of 30 June 2025.

Beaumont Project Nears Completion

Construction of the Beaumont New Ammonia project is largely complete, with the facility now in pre-commissioning and commissioning phases. Total project spend in H1 2025 amounted to USD 336 million, bringing cumulative investment to USD 1,290 million as of 30 June 2025. OCI expects total investment costs to reach approximately USD 1.65 billion by project completion, with first ammonia production anticipated later this year and handover to Woodside expected during Q1 2026.

Strategic Combination with Orascom Construction

OCI and Orascom Construction PLC announced on 22 September 2025 their pursuit of a potential merger to establish a scalable infrastructure and investment platform anchored in Abu Dhabi with global reach. The contemplated combination would unite Orascom’s engineering, procurement and construction capabilities with OCI’s institutional investment platform and capital allocation expertise.

Badrawi outlined the strategic vision: “The contemplated fusion of capital and industry expertise will allow us to strengthen and grow a diversified platform from which we can create sustainable value for our shareholders.”

For more information and the full report visit www.oci-global.com

HES International B.V. has announced a strategic collaboration with IFS, a global leader in enterprise software and industrial AI solutions. The partnership centers on the implementation of IFS ERP across multiple core business functions within the organisation.

The company will deploy the IFS ERP system across its Finance, Human Resources, Procurement, and Asset Management departments. According to the announcement, this integration aims to harmonise processes across all of HES International’s terminals, representing a significant step in the company’s digital transformation efforts.

The initiative is expected to deliver several key benefits to the organization. By standardising operations across its terminal network, HES International anticipates improvements in data quality and consistency. The system will also enable real-time insights into business operations, allowing for more informed decision-making. Additionally, the company projects operational efficiency gains through the streamlined processes that the ERP implementation will provide.

The collaboration reflects HES International’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology solutions to optimize its business operations. With IFS’s expertise in enterprise resource planning and industrial AI, the partnership positions the company to enhance its operational capabilities across its global terminal network.

HES International shared the announcement with its network of over 5,600 followers, signaling the importance of this technological investment to its stakeholders and industry partners.

For more information visit www.hesinternational.eu

Moeve has entered into a strategic partnership with ID Energy Group, a leading international renewable energy company, to advance biomethane project development in Spain as part of its Positive Motion transformation strategy. The collaboration will jointly develop projects with a total capacity of up to 1 TWh per year, equivalent to the natural gas consumption of 142,000 households annually.

Significant Contribution to National Energy Targets

The production capacity represents 8 percent of the total biomethane target established by the Spanish Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge in its Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan (PNIEC) for the end of this decade. This substantial contribution underscores the strategic importance of the partnership in supporting Spain’s renewable energy transition objectives.

The partnership will facilitate the construction of biomethane plants in agricultural and livestock areas, with the capacity to repurpose up to 3.1 million tonnes of waste materials, including manure and slurry. This waste-to-energy approach addresses both renewable energy production and sustainable waste management challenges.

Strategic Partnership Combines Complementary Expertise

Adrien Souchet, Biomethane director at Moeve, emphasised the strategic value of the collaboration: “With this new agreement, we continue expanding our consortium of partners to advance the development of biomethane, a key pillar of our Positive Motion strategy to advance decarbonisation and European energy independence. By partnering with ID Energy Group, we’re combining our strengths, bringing together their expertise in the creation and development of biomethane plants across Europe with our industrial experience and energy commercialisation capabilities.”

Julio Espadas, MD of ID Energy Group, highlighted the mutual benefits of the partnership: “Having Moeve as an industrial partner is an excellent opportunity for us to accelerate our growth, thanks to their extensive experience and leadership in the energy sector, supported by a strong track record in the energy transition.”

Expanding Partnership Portfolio

For Moeve, producing this second-generation (2G) biofuel represents an essential component of advancing the energy transition. The new agreement with ID Energy Group complements existing partnerships with Kira Ventures, PreZero, and InproEner, creating a comprehensive consortium approach to biomethane development.

By the end of 2025, Moeve expects to have approximately 10 approved biomethane projects, further developing its renewable gas portfolio to support green hydrogen production, sustainable mobility, and industrial decarbonisation for its customers.

Corporate Emissions Reduction Strategy

The utilisation of biomethane will enable Moeve to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions from its own operations at energy parks and chemical plants, supporting the company’s target of achieving a 55 percent reduction in CO₂ emissions (Scope 1 and 2) by 2030 compared to 2019 levels.

ID Energy Group’s Market Position

Through its commitment to a sustainable future, ID Energy Group drives the development of biomethane and renewable energy projects, positioning itself as a leading player in the energy transition. With one biomethane plant currently in operation and a portfolio of more than 65 projects at various stages of development, the company reinforces its commitment to decarbonisation and the circular economy.

Biomethane Technology Advantages

Biomethane offers the same characteristics as natural gas but can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 90 percent compared to conventional natural gas. This similarity enables direct storage or injection into existing gas transmission networks without requiring new infrastructure development.

This second-generation biofuel is produced from biogas, which is generated through anaerobic digestion of biodegradable organic agricultural, livestock, and industrial waste. Following a purification process known as upgrading, the biogas is transformed into biomethane suitable for commercial applications.

Sustainable Rural Development Benefits

Biomethane plants provide a sustainable alternative to traditional waste treatment methods, allowing waste materials to be repurposed for renewable energy production alongside valuable by-products such as compost and sustainable fertilisers for local agricultural use.

Beyond promoting European energy independence through domestic renewable energy production, biomethane facilities support sustainable economic development in rural areas. The technology strengthens two key economic sectors—agriculture and livestock—by creating additional revenue streams from waste materials while contributing to circular economy principles.

The partnership between Moeve and ID Energy Group represents a significant step forward in Spain’s renewable energy infrastructure development, combining industrial expertise with specialised biomethane technology to deliver substantial capacity additions in support of national decarbonisation objectives.

For more information visit www.moeveglobal.com

Equinor and its partners in the Åsgard and Mikkel licences have initiated phase 2 of the Åsgard subsea compression project in the Norwegian Sea. The development aims to maintain production levels from the field by increasing pressure in the pipelines connecting the wells to the Åsgard B platform.

Next-Generation Technology Enhances Resource Recovery

Trond Bokn, Equinor’s senior vice president for project development, emphasised the technological advancement: “In this project, Equinor, together with partners and suppliers, has further developed and qualified the next generation of compressor modules. The technology allows us to recover more gas from producing fields. Good resource utilisation is important to maintain high and stable production from the Norwegian continental shelf.”

Left:Trond Bokn, Equinor’s senior vice president for project development.Photo credit: Arne Reidar Mortensen. Right :Randi Hugdahl, vice president for exploration and production for Åsgard and Kristin Photo credit: Ole Jørgen Bratland

The project builds upon extensive field history. The original plan for development and operation (PDO) of Åsgard received approval in 1996, with Åsgard A commencing production in 1999 and Åsgard B following in 2000. The PDO for Åsgard subsea compression gained regulatory approval in 2012, and phase one of the compression system began operations in 2015, marking the world’s first facility for gas compression on the seabed.

Phase 2 Installation Completed

The initial development plans recognised the long-term need for increased pressure to compensate for reservoir pressure decline. The first compressor module in phase two underwent replacement in 2023, with the second and final module now installed at a depth of 270 metres, completing the phase 2 deployment.

Randi Hugdahl, vice president for exploration and production for Åsgard and Kristin, highlighted the system’s performance: “The compressor system has produced stably for ten years with almost 100 percent uptime. The system has so far contributed to increased value creation from the field of about NOK 175 billion.”

Significant Recovery Rate Improvements

Combined across both compression phases, the recovery rate from the Mikkel and Midgard fields will increase to 90 percent due to the compressor installation. This enhanced recovery represents an additional 306 million barrels of oil equivalent from the fields, demonstrating substantial resource optimisation benefits.

Technical Specifications and Infrastructure

The ÅSC station, positioned in 270 metres of water on the Midgard field approximately 40 kilometres from the Åsgard field centre, represents an impressive subsea engineering achievement. With a total weight of 5,100 tonnes, a footprint of 3,300 square metres, and extending 26 metres above the seabed, it stands as the largest subsea processing plant ever installed.

The station comprises two identical compressor trains operating in parallel, each powered by a compressor with an electric motor capacity of 11.5 MW. A complete spare train is maintained in Kristiansund, enabling rapid component replacement if operational issues occur. The system employs a modular design concept, facilitating maintenance and component exchange.

Several key components from the original compression modules have been overhauled and reused in the new modules, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable resource utilisation in the project’s execution.

Partnership Structure

The Åsgard licence partners include Equinor Energy AS (operator) with 35.01 percent, Petoro AS with 34.53 percent, Vår Energi ASA with 22.65 percent, and TotalEnergies EP Norge AS with 7.81 percent.

The Mikkel licence partners comprise Equinor Energy AS (operator) with 43.97 percent, Vår Energi ASA with 48.38 percent, and Repsol Norge AS with 7.65 percent.

The phase 2 completion represents continued technological leadership in subsea compression technology while supporting the Norwegian continental shelf’s production sustainability through enhanced recovery from mature fields.

For more information visit www.equinor.com

Hafesa has appointed Diego Guardamino (Bilbao, 1982) as its new chief executive officer and sole director of all companies within the group. This strategic move strengthens the organization’s structure, ensuring maximum legal and operational certainty at a key moment in its consolidation and expansion.

Guardamino has been instrumental in Hafesa’s transformation in recent years. As managing director, he successfully led the company’s shift towards a multi-energy model, expanding its service station network, consolidating its trading business, and overseeing the launch of new ventures such as Aletteo, Hafesa’s electricity retailer. Under his leadership, the group reached record revenues of €1.5 billion in 2024 and has achieved sustained growth in both volume and diversification.

His appointment as CEO marks the beginning of a new phase underpinned by an ambitious growth plan that includes:

• International expansion.
• Consolidation of fossil fuel and biofuel trading activities.
• Expansion of the logistics and energy terminal network to optimize the supply chain and reinforce Hafesa’s strategic position in the sector.
• Growth of its service station network.
• Strengthening Aletteo as a major player in the electricity and gas markets.

This leadership transition also reflects Hafesa’s ongoing commitment to responsibility and transparency. In this context, Alejandro Hamlyn, who had served as sole director of the group, has stepped aside to safeguard the stability and reputation of the company, ensuring that personal matters unrelated to Hafesa’s activity do not interfere with its development.

With Diego Guardamino at the helm, Hafesa reaffirms its commitment to sustainable growth, professional management, and consolidating its position as a leading multi-energy operator.

For more information visit www.grupohafesa.com

Emerson, an industrial technology leader delivering advanced automation solutions, today announced AspenTech Subsurface Intelligence™ (ASI), an open, cloud-native agentic environment that incorporates AI to transform the user experience and accelerate subsurface-related decision-making while leveraging existing investments in legacy applications.

ASI’s AI-powered guidance capabilities and library of domain-specific agents operate with the industry-standard OSDU® Data Platform to automate workflows and develop insights that improve the speed from data to results and decisions. ASI fulfils a critical industry need to work in an agile, multi-disciplinary manner, optimise production and improve access to information trapped throughout various parts of the organisation.

“Silos between disciplines, software and geographies are impacting the upstream industry’s ability to make fast, effective decisions about how to maximise returns for subsurface projects,” said Dr Vikas Dhole, senior vice president of modelling and optimisation at Emerson’s Aspen Technology business. “ASI is transforming subsurface workflows by improving multi-disciplinary collaboration across the hydrocarbon extraction project lifecycle and accelerating investment decisions.

“Combined with decision support from an embedded AI advisor, ASI is enabling companies to more effectively navigate energy market volatility, overcome complex E&P challenges and empower a new generation of workers.”

ASI agents are strategically deployed as cloud-based applications with an intuitive user interface or with AI-powered guidance from Aspen Virtual Advisor. In this way, ASI enhances decision-making across all skill levels, equipping the emerging subsurface workforce to confidently handle drilling, exploration and production challenges across the oil, gas and geothermal industries.

ASI’s open and scalable cloud-native environment fits into existing subsurface software ecosystems. ASI complements other products in Emerson’s AspenTech Subsurface Science and Engineering (SSE) portfolio and third-party technical applications, thereby allowing companies to reduce operating expenditures while bringing together individual disciplines and data to improve production time and leverage previous technology investments.

For more information visit www.emerson.com

Evos Hamburg has announced significant progress in the development of a liquid CO₂ storage and handling hub, marking a new phase in the implementation of the Evos Group’s strategic vision. The project, developed in collaboration with industry partners, will strengthen the Port of Hamburg’s role in the Carbon Capture and Storage value chain.

Strategic Location Leverages Infrastructure Advantages

Located in Europe’s largest rail freight hub, Evos Hamburg offers exceptional infrastructure capabilities for the proposed CO₂ hub development. Building on the company’s experience in CO₂ storage for the food value chain and extensive expertise in liquid storage operations, the envisaged facility will serve as a central consolidation point for captured CO₂ before transportation to permanent storage sites.

The hub concept capitalises on Hamburg’s strategic position and existing logistics infrastructure to create a comprehensive solution for industrial decarbonisation needs across the region.

Shell Joins as Key Strategic Partner

Among the positive project developments, Evos has welcomed Shell as a supportive stakeholder in the CO₂ hub initiative. The multinational energy company provides carbon capture services and is actively developing offshore CO₂ storage sites, including facilities in the North Sea. Shell’s involvement positions the company as a crucial link between industrial emitters and offshore storage infrastructure.

This partnership aligns with Shell’s broader strategy in the carbon capture and storage sector while providing Evos with access to downstream storage solutions for the captured CO₂ processed through the Hamburg facility.

Technical Expertise Through Engineering Partnership

Evos has selected Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases Group as its engineering partner for the project’s initial phase. As a global provider of cryogenic equipment and services, Nikkiso delivers advanced solutions for the liquefaction, storage, and distribution of industrial gases, including CO₂.

The company’s expertise in cryogenic technologies will be instrumental in designing advanced systems for liquid CO₂ storage and handling at the Hamburg facility. This technical partnership ensures the hub will incorporate state-of-the-art technology for safe and efficient CO₂ management.

Rail Transport Partnership Enables Scalable Solutions

The project includes collaboration with Dettmer Rail GmbH, a Hamburg-based logistics company specialising in European rail freight transport. This partnership will support the creation of a reliable and scalable “rolling pipeline” for liquid CO₂ transportation, connecting industrial sources with the storage hub and onward to permanent storage sites.

The rail transport component addresses the critical challenge of moving large volumes of captured CO₂ efficiently across European markets while minimising the carbon footprint of the transportation process itself.

Regulatory Compliance and Safety Focus

Evos maintains close coordination with authorities and stakeholders to ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and long-term viability of the CO₂ hub project. This comprehensive approach addresses the complex regulatory environment surrounding carbon capture and storage operations while establishing frameworks for safe operational practices.

Strategic Vision for Energy Transition

Michael Lübke, MD of Evos Hamburg, emphasised the project’s alignment with broader corporate strategy: “This project is fully aligned with the Evos Group vision of developing infrastructure through strategic partnerships in the energy transition. By facilitating CO₂ capture projects, we are addressing industrial decarbonisation needs and contributing together to a cleaner future.”

Market Impact and Future Development

The liquid CO₂ storage and handling hub represents a significant infrastructure investment in Germany’s carbon capture and storage capabilities. The facility will serve multiple industrial sectors seeking to reduce their carbon emissions through CCS technology, while contributing to European climate objectives.

The project demonstrates how strategic partnerships between storage specialists, energy companies, technology providers, and logistics firms can create comprehensive solutions for industrial decarbonisation challenges. The Hamburg hub is positioned to become a key node in the developing European CCS infrastructure network.

For more information visit www.evos.eu