Carbis Loadtec Group has announced the appointment of Alex Brady as associate director – sales and marketing, bringing with him more than 20 years of experience in the safety and process engineering sector. His extensive knowledge of bulk fuel and chemical transfer aligns closely with Carbis Loadtec’s core markets.

Alex’s association with Carbis Loadtec dates back to 2003, when he worked in close partnership with the company during his tenure at Newson Gale, where he rose to the position of European sales manager. Most recently, he has been instrumental in driving the growth of Expo Technologies, a well-regarded UK manufacturer specialising in industrial safety equipment.

With a strong strategic mindset and a proven record of delivering results, Alex is set to enhance Carbis Loadtec’s capability to support its clients in meeting critical safety, operational efficiency, and environmental performance objectives.

He joins a leadership team headed by managing director Alec Keeler, whose decades of expertise have positioned Carbis Loadtec as a global leader in engineered loading and access systems. The team also includes industry veterans Robert Keeler, Nick Wood, Jay Patel, and Dave Williams, making it one of the most experienced and solutions-orientated sales groups in the sector.

For businesses involved in bulk fluid transfer, Carbis Loadtec continues to offer expertly engineered solutions tailored to individual operational and budgetary requirements.

For more information visit www.carbisloadtec.com

For more information visit www.hartreepartners.com

Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, has secured a multimillion-pound engineering services contract with INEOS FPS, marking a significant extension of their long-standing partnership at the Kinneil Terminal.

The contract, which covers a minimum three-year period, will see Costain deploy its extensive engineering expertise to support the optimisation and utilisation of operations at the Kinneil Terminal, a critical component of the UK’s energy infrastructure.

The agreement builds upon an established relationship between the two companies, with Costain having provided end-to-end engineering services at the Kinneil Terminal for more than ten years. Since 2014, the infrastructure solutions company has delivered multidisciplinary front-end studies through to detailed design engineering and procurement services for both onshore and offshore assets at the facility.

Costain will service the contract from its new Aberdeen office, where the company continues to serve a growing customer base in the energy sector across Scotland and the broader UK market.

Sean Close, Costain’s energy resilience director, emphasised the critical nature of the infrastructure involved and the company’s commitment to enhancing its performance. “We’ll use our engineering expertise and long record of predictable best-in-class delivery to optimise the performance of Kinneil Terminal,” Close stated. “This is critical national infrastructure, and our work will build vital resilience into the UK’s energy system with a safer, more efficient and more reliable terminal.”

Close highlighted the strategic significance of the contract within the context of Costain’s regional expansion. “With our strong and growing presence in the region, this contract marks the next chapter in our productive and collaborative relationship with INEOS FPS,” he added.

Costain’s energy sector division focuses on delivering innovation, engineering and construction excellence to address complex challenges facing the UK’s energy infrastructure. The company has established a strong track record of delivering infrastructure solutions in Scotland, encompassing front-end studies, asset maintenance, and engineering, procurement and construction contracts.

The company’s Scottish portfolio also includes providing technical consultancy services to Storegga (formerly Pale Blue Dot Energy) in support of the Acorn carbon capture and storage project, demonstrating its involvement in next-generation energy technologies.

For more information visit www.camincargo.com

BWC Terminals, a leading provider of bulk liquid storage and logistics services across North America, has announced significant changes to its board leadership structure. The company’s board of directors has elected Georganne Hodges as the new chair, effective July 1, 2025, marking a strategic transition in the organisation’s governance.

Hodges, who has served as a BWC Terminals board member since 2022, will assume the role following the retirement of current chair Randy Daniels, whose term concludes on June 30, 2025. The leadership transition represents a planned succession that leverages Hodges’ extensive industry expertise and board tenure with the organisation.

Extensive Energy Sector Leadership

The incoming chair brings more than 35 years of comprehensive experience in financial, commercial, and operational leadership across the energy value chain. Her distinguished career includes serving as executive vice president of supply, trading, and logistics for Motiva Enterprises, where she oversaw the safe operation and optimisation of midstream assets and integrated supply and trading operations.

Hodges currently maintains active board positions with PBF Energy and Natural Gas Services Group, demonstrating her continued engagement with industry leadership roles. Her multi-faceted experience spans critical areas of energy operations, from asset optimisation to strategic trading activities.

Expressing her commitment to the new role, Hodges emphasised BWC Terminals’ position as an innovative industry leader with a team dedicated to providing exceptional stewardship for customer products. She highlighted the board’s diverse skill sets and collective excitement about supporting the company’s mission and future growth initiatives.

Executive Leadership Endorsement

Adam Smith, president and CEO of BWC Terminals, praised Hodges’ strategic insights and deep understanding of the business, characterising these qualities as valuable assets that position her for effectiveness as chair. He expressed appreciation for her dedication and anticipated continued collaboration under her leadership.

Smith also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing chair Randy Daniels, thanking him for his guidance in helping BWC Terminals achieve growth and extending best wishes for his future endeavours.

Strategic Board Expansion

The company has simultaneously strengthened its board composition with the appointment of two new members, Sharon Beemer and John Janes, both bringing specialised expertise to the organisation’s governance structure.

Sharon Beemer contributes extensive energy sector experience with particular strength in profit and loss management, asset optimisation, and business growth strategies. Her career spans more than thirty years with global and Fortune 500 companies, demonstrating exceptional leadership in energy supply, marketing, trading, and logistics operations.

Her previous role as senior vice president and managing director of the Southern Region Americas for Vopak showcased her ability to achieve strong financial results while leading strategic initiatives, including major divestitures and facility expansions. Beemer maintains active involvement in industry organisations, serving on the Executive Advisory Council – Port of Houston Partner in Maritime Education and the Rice University Business Partners Board.

John Janes brings complementary expertise from his tenure as president and chief executive officer of Associated Asphalt, representing over 30 years of energy market experience. His proven track record encompasses mergers and acquisitions, supply procurement, customer-orientated solution development, and storage and logistics infrastructure management.

Janes’ leadership credentials include serving as former chair of the Asphalt Institute and holding senior management positions with Koch Materials, a subsidiary of Koch Industries. His experience spans organisational leadership and strategic market positioning within the energy sector.

The board changes reflect BWC Terminals’ commitment to maintaining strong governance while positioning the organisation for continued growth in the competitive bulk liquid storage and logistics market.

For more information visit www.bwcterminals.com

The strategic alliance between Shell Catalysts & Technologies and Technip Energies represents a powerful convergence of complementary strengths in the carbon capture sector. Shell Catalysts & Technologies brings its leading technology expertise, while Technip Energies contributes its renowned integration capabilities and project delivery excellence.

Under the terms of their exclusive partnership, the two companies have committed to working together to offer an enhanced, complementary solution in the post-combustion carbon capture space. Their shared objective centres on delivering maximum value to customers seeking to implement carbon capture technologies.

The alliance partners believe their collaborative approach represents the optimal model for making carbon capture more investable, scalable, and accessible across industrial sectors. This strategic positioning aims to help customers accelerate their decarbonisation efforts through proven, integrated solutions.

The partnership encompasses the full project lifecycle, from initial project inception through ongoing operational support. By integrating their respective expertise, Shell Catalysts & Technologies and Technip Energies deliver what they term “committed collaboration” – working closely with clients to ensure seamless execution and continuous performance optimisation throughout the project duration.

Robin Mooldijk, president projects & technology at Shell, characterised the agreement as marking a significant milestone in a relationship built on shared ambition and delivery capabilities. “Through our strengthened alliance with Technip Energies, we’re helping customers advance their decarbonisation plans, backed by deep expertise and more than a decade of working side by side,” Mooldijk stated.

The alliance leverages more than ten years of collaborative experience between the two organisations, building on their established track record of successful joint project delivery in the energy sector.

For more information visit www.ten.com

CB&I has announced the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding with Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co. Ltd. to explore collaborative opportunities in nuclear new-build projects across the United States. The strategic partnership aims to combine the distinct capabilities of both organisations to address the nation’s growing energy demands through reliable and sustainable nuclear power solutions.

The collaboration brings together CB&I’s extensive nuclear containment expertise with HDEC’s proven construction capabilities. CB&I has established itself as a dominant force in the US nuclear sector, having delivered engineering, procurement, and construction services for 123 nuclear containment vessels domestically, including the recently completed AP1000 containment vessel units at Georgia’s Vogtle Electric Generating Plant, along with nine additional vessels internationally.

The company’s nuclear credentials are further reinforced by its ASME-approved nuclear quality assurance programme, which enables compliance with the most stringent safety and quality requirements in nuclear project development. CB&I’s track record demonstrates its position as a leader in industrial safety and quality management within the nuclear sector.

Mark Butts, president and CEO of CB&I, emphasised the significance of the partnership, noting that the company has provided containment vessels to 75 percent of operating nuclear power plants in the United States. He highlighted how the MOU enables the combination of CB&I’s technical and EPC expertise with HDEC’s construction capabilities to deliver comprehensive solutions for next-generation nuclear facility development.

HDEC brings substantial nuclear construction experience to the partnership, demonstrated through its successful execution of the UAE Barakah project and major domestic nuclear power plant developments. Hanwoo Lee, CEO of HDEC, characterised the company’s nuclear power plant construction and risk management capabilities as core competitive strengths that have been proven through these significant international and domestic projects.

The preliminary agreement represents HDEC’s strategic approach to establishing a strong presence in the US nuclear market while leveraging the partnership to enhance collaborative capabilities with CB&I. This alliance positions both companies to capitalise on the anticipated growth in US nuclear power development as the nation seeks to expand its clean energy infrastructure.

For more information visit www.cbi.com

Bayarea Terminals has announced its transformation from a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) to a Private Limited Company, with the entity now officially operating as Bayarea Terminals Pvt. Ltd. The company described the change as a significant milestone in its journey as it continues to expand its presence across India’s ports.

The transformation aligns with Bayarea Terminals’ strategy to raise standards in ISO tank depot services and sustainable chemical logistics. The company emphasised that its commitment to safety, service, and sustainability remains unchanged, with an enhanced focus on innovation, infrastructure, and customer care.

The corporate restructuring supports Bayarea Terminals’ ongoing expansion across India’s port infrastructure, positioning the company to better serve the growing demand for specialised tank logistics services in the country.

The company expressed gratitude on LinkedIn to its clients, partners, and team members who have contributed to its growth story. Bayarea Terminals positioned the transformation as part of its broader mission to shape the future of tank logistics in India.

The change to private limited company status is expected to provide Bayarea Terminals with greater operational flexibility and enhanced capacity for future growth initiatives in the Indian logistics sector.

For more information visit www.bayareallp.com

Enport by MB Energy has successfully achieved a significant operational milestone with the completion of its ISO 50001 recertification, reinforcing the company’s commitment to excellence in energy management systems.

The recertification represents a comprehensive validation of the organisation’s energy management standards and demonstrates its continued adherence to internationally recognised best practices. This achievement serves as tangible evidence of Enport by MB Energy’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards in energy efficiency and management protocols.

The successful recertification outcome reflects the collective efforts and dedication of teams across all departments within the organisation. Each division contributed meaningfully to meeting the stringent requirements of the ISO 50001 standard, showcasing the company’s collaborative approach to operational excellence.

The comprehensive process involved rigorous evaluation of the company’s energy management processes, with teams demonstrating exceptional commitment, diligence, and cross-departmental cooperation throughout the assessment period. The achievement highlights how systematic teamwork and shared responsibility can drive meaningful improvements in organisational processes.

This recertification milestone underscores Enport by MB Energy’s ongoing commitment to sustainable energy practices and positions the company as a leader in responsible energy management within its sector. The achievement reinforces the organisation’s dedication to continuous improvement and environmental stewardship while maintaining operational efficiency standards.

For more information www.enport-mb.com

The Association for Materials Protection and Performance, the leading global authority in corrosion control and protective coatings, announces the AMPP LatinCORR + Panamerican Corrosion Conference, taking place July 17–18 at the Hilton Panama in Panama City, Panama. This historic event marks the first time two premier corrosion conferences unite under one roof, offering an unprecedented platform for knowledge-sharing, innovation, and regional collaboration.

The conference features a robust technical programme spanning cathodic protection, coatings, corrosion mechanisms, asset integrity, and sustainability. Attendees will gain insights from a welcome keynote by AMPP CEO Alan Thomas, “The State of AMPP and Corrosion Prevention in Latin America”, as well as from distinguished presentations like “Corrosion Management and Integrity Planning in Marine and Energy Terminals: A Strategic Contribution to Global Sustainability Goals” by Juan Caballero, and “Shaping the Future of Infrastructure: Advancing Integrity and Suitability,” a panel chaired by Edwin Enrique Soria Juárez.

As chair of both the conference and the AMPP board of directors, Juan Caballero is helping lead this landmark initiative to strengthen regional collaboration, elevate professional standards, and inspire the next generation of materials protection leaders. This event reflects AMPP’s ongoing commitment to fostering a more resilient and sustainable future across Latin America and beyond.

Attendees will enjoy:

• More than 60 technical presentations and panels on emerging trends and proven practices
• Networking with industry leaders from oil & gas, marine, infrastructure, and other sectors
• Exhibits showcasing cutting-edge solutions and services
• Professional Development Hours (PDHs) and two hands-on workshops
• Complimentary student and professor passes to support workforce development

The agenda also features timely discussions such as “Navigating the Future of Maritime Integrity: How the US Shipbuilding Revival Is Shaping Global Standards, Workforce Development, and Latin America’s Opportunities in the New Maritime Economy,” reflecting AMPP’s global mission to advance infrastructure resilience and sustainability.

Registration remains open.

For more information or to register, visit: https://ampp.org/events/latincorr-panamerican-corrosion-conference.

In a significant development for Vietnam-US energy cooperation, Petrovietnam’s deputy CEO Le Manh Cuong recently held discussions with ExxonMobil’s Asia-Pacific Senior Director of International Government Relations, Peter R. Lavoy, during a high-level meeting in Hanoi.

The strategic dialogue centred on expanding bilateral cooperation in energy investment and commercial trade, with both organisations reaffirming their commitment to deepening their partnership. Key areas of focus included establishing long-term crude oil supply agreements for the Dung Quat Refinery (BSR) and exploring ExxonMobil’s potential investment in a large-scale petrochemical complex within Vietnam.

During the meeting, Petrovietnam highlighted its preparedness to facilitate ExxonMobil’s investment evaluation processes. The Vietnamese energy giant emphasised its ability to leverage existing infrastructure and draw upon the operational expertise of its subsidiaries to support potential collaborative ventures.

The engagement represents a pivotal moment in Vietnam-U.S. energy relations, signalling enhanced prospects for bilateral trade expansion and contributing to the development of a more sustainable energy framework for the broader region. This collaboration underscores both companies’ strategic vision for long-term partnership in the evolving Asia-Pacific energy landscape.

The discussions reflect growing international confidence in Vietnam’s energy sector capabilities and its role as a key player in regional energy security and development initiatives.

For more information visit www.pvn.vn

CF Industries Holdings, Inc. announced the start-up of a carbon dioxide dehydration and compression facility at its Donaldsonville Complex in Louisiana. The facility enabled the transportation and permanent geological sequestration of up to 2 million metric tonnes of CO2 annually that would otherwise have been emitted into the atmosphere.

ExxonMobil, the company’s carbon capture and sequestration partner for the project, began transporting and permanently storing the CO2 from the facility.

Storage Implementation

On an interim basis, ExxonMobil stored CO2 from the Donaldsonville Complex in permanent geologic sites through enhanced oil recovery. Upon receiving applicable permits, ExxonMobil planned to transition to dedicated permanent storage, beginning with its Rose CCS project. Rose represented one of many dedicated permanent storage sites ExxonMobil was developing along the Gulf Coast to expand its integrated CCS network.

The US Environmental Protection Agency had issued a draft Class VI permit for Rose in July, with final permits expected later in the year.

Strategic Milestone

Tony Will, president and chief executive officer of CF Industries Holdings, Inc., described the facility’s start-up as a historic milestone in the company’s decarbonisation journey.

“The start-up of the Donaldsonville carbon dioxide dehydration and compression facility and initiation of sequestration by ExxonMobil is a historic milestone in our Company’s decarbonisation journey,” Will said. “By starting permanent sequestration now, we reduce our emissions, accelerate the availability of low-carbon ammonia for our customers and begin generating valuable 45Q tax credits.”

Production and Tax Benefits

As a result of its Donaldsonville CCS project, CF Industries expected to produce approximately 1.9 million tonnes of low-carbon ammonia on an annual basis. The company also expected to qualify for tax credits under Section 45Q of the Internal Revenue Code, which provided a credit per metric tonne of CO2 stored.

For more information visit www.cfindustries.com

Companies based in North Sea Port recorded a volume of 33.2 million tonnes of seaborne cargo transhipment over the first six months of 2025. Despite a small decline of 1.2 percent, dry and liquid bulk transhipment performance remained resilient, with the decrease attributed to general cargo and roll-on/roll-off traffic.

The port’s diversification of activities and types of goods helped maintain relatively stable cargo throughput during the first half of the year. In total, 0.4 million fewer tonnes (-1. percent) of maritime cargo was transhipped compared to the same period in 2024. Notably, transhipment in the second quarter matched the first quarter exactly, at 15.6 million tonnes.

Trading Partner Performance

Britain continues to be the port’s most important trading partner, maintaining its position as the top destination that it first achieved in 2024. The port reports that the impact of Brexit continues to diminish. The United States holds second place among trading partners, with 8 percent growth showing no negative signs of potential trade war impacts between Europe and the USA in current figures.

Trade with Russia continued its steady decline during the first half of the year, falling 14 percent due to increased EU sanctions.

Bulk Cargo Maintains Strength

North Sea Port’s position as a bulk port remained evident in the first-half results. Dry bulk accounts for approximately half of seaborne transhipment, while liquid bulk represents a quarter. Both cargo types maintained throughput levels compared to the first half of 2024, with 17.9 million tonnes of dry bulk goods (including iron ore, coal, sand and gravel) and 7.5 million tonnes of liquid bulk goods (such as propane and naphtha).

Container throughput showed strong growth, climbing to 98,000 TEU (+27,000 TEU, +38.3 percent). By weight, this represented 930,000 tonnes (+180,000 tonnes, +23.5 percent).

Declines in General Cargo and RoRo

The overall decline in cargo throughput was attributed to decreases in general cargo and roll-on/roll-off traffic. General cargo transhipment decreased to 5.0 million tonnes (-0.4 million tonnes, -7.5 percent), partly due to a shift toward more fruit being transported in containers rather than as general cargo pallets.

Roll-on/roll-off transhipment declined to 1.9 million tonnes (-0.04 million tonnes, -1.9 percent).

Inland Shipping Challenges

Inland waterway transhipment fell to 30.3 million tonnes in the first half of 2025, representing a decrease of 1.9 million tonnes (-5.9 percent) compared to the same period in 2024. The majority of this decline occurred in dry bulk, with reduced trade in sand and gravel, ores and minerals.

For more information visit www.northseaport.com

LBC Tank Terminals announced that Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. had officially become the 100 percent shareholder of LBC, following the successful completion of the acquisition on June 30, 2025. The transaction, which followed the companies’ announcement in March 2025, marked the beginning of a new chapter for LBC that would accelerate its growth journey and expand strategic horizons as part of MOL’s broader ambition to strengthen its position in chemical logistics and next-generation energy supply chains.

The acquisition positioned LBC to grow with greater scale and ambition, aligned with MOL Group’s BLUE ACTION 2035 management plan, which identified chemical logistics as a key pillar of long-term value creation. By combining MOL’s global marine transport network with LBC’s terminal infrastructure and extensive expertise in liquid bulk storage and handling, the group strengthened its capacity to deliver reliable, relevant, and sustainable solutions across the full value chain. Leveraging these complementary strengths opened opportunities to expand into adjacent markets, explore new service areas, and support the evolving needs of the energy and chemical sectors through meaningful collaboration and innovation.

MOL president & CEO Takeshi Hashimoto expressed excitement about welcoming LBC, one of the world’s largest tank terminal operators, to the MOL Group. He stated that together with LBC, the company would accelerate business reforms into a social infrastructure service provider to achieve its long-term Group Vision. Hashimoto saw great potential for both companies’ growth by combining MOL’s global reach with LBC’s expertise in tank terminal operations and creating new value for customers and society. He emphasised that together with LBC, MOL would expand the value-chain of the next-generation energy business, in addition to strengthening the chemical logistics business.

Frank Erkelens, LBC’s Group executive officer, looked forward to beginning the new chapter as part of the MOL Group and unlocking the full potential of their combined strengths. Guided by shared values, complementary expertise, and long-standing commitment to excellence, he saw great opportunities to make a meaningful impact, expand global presence, and support the evolving needs of next-generation energy and chemical industries. Erkelens believed the companies were uniquely positioned to deliver on their ambitions for growth, innovation, and a sustainable future.

The acquisition structure allowed LBC to continue operating as an independent company while working closely with MOL to identify impactful opportunities to expand into new service areas and product segments. The companies described the coming period as one of mutual learning and close collaboration, as they built foundations for long-term success within the MOL Group and strengthened LBC’s position as the trusted, connected partner delivering meaningful and sustainable storage solutions to customers worldwide.

The strategic acquisition represented MOL’s commitment to diversifying its portfolio beyond traditional shipping services into the broader logistics and energy infrastructure sectors, particularly as the industry evolved toward next-generation energy solutions and enhanced chemical logistics capabilities.

For more information www.mol.co.jp

ExxonMobil Angola has signed an addendum to the Block 15 Production Sharing Agreement, extending the production licence until 2037 and enabling the extension of design life for multiple facilities in the block.

The signing ceremony took place with representatives from the Agência Nacional de Petróleo, Gás e Biocombustíveis and Block 15 partners Azule Energy, Equinor, and Sonangol E&P, witnessed by His Excellency Minister Diamantino Azevedo.

Block 15 PSC extension signing; Source: Katrina Fisher via LinkedIn

According to Katrina Fisher, ExxonMobil Angola president, the addendum represents a significant milestone for the company’s operations in the region. The agreement extends the Block 15 PSA production licence to 2037 and enables the extension of the design life for Kizomba A, Kizomba B, Mondo, and Saxi-Batuque facilities, subject to Final Investment Decision, to enable further development of the remaining resources in Block 15.

Fisher described the milestone as representing not only the extension of the asset’s production life but also as a celebration of the partnership between ExxonMobil, the government of Angola, Block 15 partners, and the people of Angola.

During its 30 years of operation in Angola, ExxonMobil has invested more than $12 billion and established what the company describes as a solid business foundation underpinned by a strong safety culture and efficient, low-cost operations. The company has produced over 2.6 billion barrels of oil and made over $100 million in sustainable community investments across Angola during this period.

For more information visit www.corporate.exxonmobil.com

The International Liquid Terminals Association (ILTA) met with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Office of Site Remediation Enforcement in late June to seek clarity on enforcement guidelines for aqueous firefighting foams containing PFAS. The meeting addressed concerns arising from the EPA’s 2023 designation of PFAS chemicals PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under CERCLA, which holds parties deemed “polluters” liable for Superfund cleanup costs.

The new regulations placed terminal operators at risk of liability for using firefighting foams that had been required under OSHA and other safety standards for decades. Terminal operators had used these foams in good faith to protect lives and property during fire emergencies, fulfilling legal safety obligations while prioritising public safety throughout the period when these substances were mandated.

ILTA continued to advocate that penalising terminal operators for compliance with longstanding regulations was unreasonable, particularly given that viable AFFF alternatives remained limited. The association emphasised that its members had acted responsibly, using what was available and required at the time they operated under existing regulatory frameworks.

During the meeting, ILTA urged the EPA to consider a more balanced approach that recognised the role of terminal operators as safety enforcers rather than environmental offenders. The association requested collaboration with the industry to craft common-sense guidelines that would protect communities and the environment while ensuring that responsible actors were not unfairly targeted by enforcement actions.

The discussion focused on developing regulatory enforcement policies that acknowledged the complex regulatory environment in which terminal operators had operated, where compliance with safety requirements had necessitated the use of PFAS-containing firefighting foams. ILTA emphasised the need for enforcement guidelines that distinguished between parties who had used these substances in compliance with safety regulations and those who had acted irresponsibly.

ILTA expressed its commitment to working with the EPA and other stakeholders to ensure that regulatory enforcement would be fair, practical, and effective. The association sought to establish a framework that would balance environmental protection goals with recognition of the legitimate safety compliance efforts undertaken by terminal operators over the years when AFFF use was mandated by federal safety standards.

For more information visit www.ilta.org

Argent LNG, an independent US-based LNG developer pioneering a new model for low-carbon energy infrastructure, has initiated a comprehensive EPC partner review in preparation for entering the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission pre-filing and permitting process for its 25 million tpy LNG export project in Port Fourchon, Louisiana.

As part of what the company describes as a first-of-its-kind execution strategy, Argent LNG will separately evaluate firms for ‘below-the-bolts’ infrastructure and ‘above-the-bolts’ Balance of Plant (BoP) scope – ultimately integrating both into a single, unified execution team to drive speed, safety, and operational excellence.

Below-the-bolts scope

Argent is seeking an engineering firm with extensive Gulf Coast experience in:

• Civil, structural, marine, environmental, and surveying services.
• Experience working in Port Fourchon.
• Close coordination with the US Army Corps of Engineers and dredging contractors.
• Proven delivery of infrastructure studies and permitting support in the region.

Above-the-bolts/Balance of plant scope

Argent will also evaluate EPC firms to lead balance of plant engineering and integration, including the coordination of key modularised technology packages from:

• Baker Hughes – Modular liquefaction.
• Honeywell UOP – Modular gas pretreatment.
• ABB – Modular electrification, automation & control.
• GTT – Cryogenic tank and containment technology.

According to the company, this foundation of local expertise will be critical to ensuring the project meets the highest standards of safety, environmental compliance, and execution certainty.

The review process will inform Argent LNG’s approach to:

• Developing FEED and project execution plans.
• Preparing environmental reports and technical filings required for FERC pre-filing.
• Optimising modular and electrified infrastructure to deliver LNG faster and more sustainably.
• Building alignment with regulators, stakeholders, and technology providers.

“We are building something new, a clean energy project designed from the ground up for speed, efficiency, and performance,” said Jonathan Bass, CEO of Argent LNG. “By engaging the Gulf Coast’s most experienced engineering partners and uniting them with the world’s leading modular technology providers, we will fundamentally change the cost and timeline equation for LNG exports. We will continue the process by evaluating each and every subcontractor with the most proven local experience in lifting and delivering mega projects. This is a new way of de-risking execution while ensuring a successful, collaborative partnership between all stakeholders. By aligning the best regional expertise with global technology leaders, we can create long-term value for our investors, our customers, and the Port Fourchon community.”

Argent LNG intends to formally launch the FERC pre-filing process in the coming months, positioning the project to begin delivering molecules to market by 2030.

For more information visit www.argentlng.com

Leading international distributor of power systems, hazardous area equipment, and process heating solutions, Thorne & Derrick International, is marking its 40th anniversary this year by celebrating the role that apprenticeships have played in shaping the company’s success.

Since its founding in 1985, Thorne & Derrick International has grown from a small regional supplier into an internationally recognised business with customers in over 70 countries. The company has remained committed to investing in the next generation of talent through apprenticeship programmes.

“We’ve always believed that our people are the foundation of our success,” said MD Richard Derrick “By offering apprenticeships, we not only support young individuals in launching their careers, but also ensure that we have skilled, passionate professionals driving innovation and excellence across our operations.”

The apprenticeship programme at Thorne & Derrick International combines on-the-job training with formal education, allowing participants to earn qualifications while contributing to real-world projects. The company works closely with Gateshead City Council and New College Durham training providers to provide programmes in customer service, business administration, sales executive and warehousing roles.

The company’s first apprentice, Morgan Gent, started in 2018 as a customer service apprentice and is now a full-time sales engineer, travelling the country to meet customers and provide technical solutions.  Morgan said:

“The support I’ve received from the management team and colleagues since the first day I joined Thorne & Derrick at 18 years old has been incredible. I feel very much part of the team and am actively encouraged to continue learning. I would highly recommend joining an apprenticeship programme as it gives you a chance to grow in confidence, develop valuable skills and, here, I’m feel very much part of the family.”

Looking ahead, the company reaffirms its commitment to the development of young people, providing skills training and ensuring that future generations benefit from the same opportunities that have fuelled its own journey over the past 40 years.

For more information visit www.thorneandderrick.com

EnQuest has completed its acquisition of Harbour Energy’s business in Vietnam, securing a 53.125 percent equity interest and operatorship of the Chim Sáo and Dua production fields, collectively known as Block 12W. The transaction represents a significant milestone in EnQuest’s strategic expansion across South East Asia and aligns with the company’s objective to diversify its operating footprint through investments in fast-payback assets with low capital expenditure requirements and reduced carbon intensity.

The headline transaction value totalled $85.1 million, with EnQuest paying approximately $25.7 million in consideration after accounting for interim period cash flows generated since the effective date of January 1, 2024. As of January 1, 2025, the acquired assets contained net 2P reserves of 7.5 million barrels of oil equivalent and 2C resources of 4.9 million boe.

EnQuest plans to leverage its proven late-life and floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) asset management expertise to maximise value and convert discovered resources into reserves. The company intends to assess additional Block 12W prospectivity across three gas discoveries and several additional targets, with the goal of extending the Production Sharing Contract beyond its current expiration date of November 2030.

Since the transaction signing in January, the Vietnam asset team has demonstrated strong operational performance. The team successfully completed a planned annual maintenance shutdown on time and within budget while executing three of six scheduled well intervention scopes that added approximately 1,200 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd) of gross production.

Net asset production during the first half of 2025 averaged 5.7 thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day (kboepd), with potential for additional increases related to ongoing well intervention activities and the positive impact of a production-enhancing chemical soaking process conducted during the shutdown period.

The robust operational performance and resulting free cash flow generation position Chim Sáo and Dua as strong anchor assets for EnQuest’s entry into the Vietnamese market. The acquisition complements the company’s recent successful award of Production Sharing Contracts in Indonesia, furthering its South East Asian expansion beyond Malaysia, where EnQuest has operated successfully for ten years and was recently named Operator of the Year by Petronas for the second consecutive year.

Amjad Bseisu, EnQuest’s CEO, emphasised the strategic importance of the acquisition. “South East Asia is key to EnQuest’s growth and diversification strategy, and we are excited by the opportunity to utilise our proven operating expertise to optimise, enhance and extend the Block 12W assets in Vietnam,” Bseisu stated.

The CEO also highlighted the integration of the Vietnamese team, expressing satisfaction with the talent and attitude displayed by new colleagues as they join the EnQuest organisation. Bseisu confirmed the company’s commitment to collaborating with partners Bitexco and PetroVietnam Exploration Production Corporation Ltd to explore future value-accretive opportunities within the fields.

The completion of this acquisition marks another step in EnQuest’s strategic diversification efforts and reinforces its position as a key operator in the South East Asian energy sector.

For more information visit www.enquest.com

The International Liquid Terminals Association (ILTA) has awarded Marathon Petroleum’s Logistics & Storage Terminals organisation its 2025 Platinum Safety Award for large companies during the association’s recent operating conference and trade show. The prestigious recognition, selected by industry peers, represents the 15th consecutive year that ILTA has acknowledged L&S Terminals with a safety award.

To qualify for the award, L&S Terminals was required to achieve performance in the top quartile of both a leading indicator survey and 2024 OSHA recordable performance metrics. The recognition reflects the organisation’s sustained commitment to safety excellence within the liquid terminals industry.

(L to R) Waleed Abdelsalam, Chad Tuttle, Tim Mootz, Gregg Qualls, Kelli Totten, Allison LeBrun, Steve Ernst, Dan Morgan, Ian Stallman, Matt Vick, Gerald Pineda, Shan Mathews, Regina Zolnor, Dennis Mendenhall, Aaron Martinez, Tim Holmes, Roop Bansi and Jessica Rickle

L&S Terminals achieved record-setting safety performance in 2024, demonstrating significant operational achievements across multiple regulatory frameworks. The organisation secured three new and four renewed Occupational Safety and Health Administration Voluntary Protection Programmes, alongside two new Environmental Protection Agency ENERGY STAR certifications.

Regina Zolnor, vice president of L&S Terminals, emphasised the significance of the peer recognition. “It is an honour to be recognised by ILTA and our peers for our safety achievements,” Zolnor stated. She attributed the success to the organisation’s foundational approach to safety management, noting that “our success and winning this award reflect our strong safety culture, commitment to caring for each other and focus on safe operations.”

The executive highlighted the organisation’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, stating that the team remains “humble and focused on our pursuit of excellence through the elite safety leadership journey.” The award underscores L&S Terminals’ position as a leader in safety performance within the liquid terminals sector.

The consistent recognition over fifteen years demonstrates L&S Terminals’ sustained dedication to maintaining the highest safety standards while adapting to evolving industry requirements and regulatory frameworks.

For more information visit www.marathonpetroleum.com

A leading specialist industrial services company has expanded its operational capabilities and international reach through the strategic acquisition of a fellow Aberdeenshire firm. Denholm Environmental Limited, a subsidiary of Denholm Energy, has acquired Oldmeldrum-based Pipetech for an undisclosed sum.

The acquisition marks the fourth purchase made by Denholm Environmental within six years, reflecting the company’s sustained expansion strategy. The deal is positioned as a key element in growing Denholm Environmental’s capabilities and strengthening its presence in Norway, a priority market in the company’s ambitious international growth plans where Pipetech has already established operations.

Over more than two decades, Pipetech has developed a distinguished reputation in advanced process remediation cleaning services. The company specialises in the efficient removal of naturally occurring blockages, including scales, waxes, and corrosion from oil and gas processing system internals.

The firm utilises specialist technologies across topside, subsea, and downhole applications to maximise production efficiency by ensuring optimal flow path performance. This approach minimises operational downtime while eliminating the need for environmentally harmful chemicals in the cleaning process.

Central to Pipetech’s service portfolio is its NZTC-supported Downhole Scale Remediation technology tool, which will enhance Denholm Environmental’s existing service capabilities and provide complementary solutions to clients.

The acquisition will result in the retention of all Pipetech personnel, who will relocate to Denholm Environmental’s Inverurie headquarters. This integration will bring the company’s permanent workforce to 200 employees across its operational sites in Carlisle, Grangemouth, Invergordon, and Inverurie.

Leadership Perspectives

Brian Ritchie, MD of Denholm Environmental, emphasised the strategic value of the acquisition: “This acquisition represents an exciting step forward for us because it brings into the fold products and services that are highly complementary to our existing capabilities. It is a strategic move in our sustained growth plans as it enables us to deliver even more integrated and efficient solutions to a growing client base.”

Leonard Hamill, operations director at Pipetech, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are delighted to be joining Denholm. We see this as a great move for both companies and our clients, pooling resources to achieve excellent outcomes as we work towards a bright future together.”

Denholm Environmental operates as a comprehensive turnkey provider of specialist industrial services, liquid waste management, and decontamination solutions. The company serves diverse sectors, including oil and gas, petrochemicals, power generation, utilities, brewing and distilling, marine, construction, and aquaculture industries, alongside general commercial and domestic clients.

The organisation focuses on delivering bespoke solutions that allow clients to combine services while addressing critical factors such as cost optimisation and schedule adherence. Denholm Environmental employs state-of-the-art equipment supported by experienced professional technicians and operatives to ensure tailored solutions that meet each client’s specific requirements.

The acquisition strengthens Denholm Environmental’s position as a world-class provider in specialist industrial services, waste management, and process decontamination. By combining Pipetech’s specialised remediation technologies with its existing comprehensive service portfolio, the company is well-positioned to deliver enhanced integrated solutions to its expanding international client base, particularly in the strategic Norwegian market.

For more information visit www.denholm-environmental.com 

Trelleborg Group has announced that its business area, Trelleborg Sealing Solutions, has entered into an agreement to acquire Masterseals, a Singapore-based specialist in sealing solutions for the energy sector and industrial applications. The acquisition represents a strategic move to strengthen the company’s foothold in the Southeast Asian market.

Masterseals has established itself as a provider of engineered sealing solutions manufactured in small series for demanding operating environments. The company operates beyond traditional manufacturing, functioning as a technical service centre that prioritises aftermarket support and rapid delivery times to its customers.

The acquired company reported sales of just over SEK 40 million in 2024. Its operations are housed in a combined office and manufacturing facility located in western Singapore, positioned strategically near Trelleborg’s existing Customer Solution Centre.

According to Jürgen Bosch, president of Trelleborg Sealing Solutions, the acquisition serves multiple strategic objectives. “Through the acquisition of Masterseals, we are significantly strengthening our position in Southeast Asia while also creating new opportunities in other parts of Asia and the Middle East, within industries expected to experience solid growth in the coming years,” Bosch stated.

The president emphasised the complementary nature of the two companies’ offerings, noting that “the high degree of customised and engineered solutions offered by Masterseals aligns perfectly with our offering.” This alignment suggests potential synergies between the companies’ technical capabilities and market approaches.

The acquisition positions Trelleborg to capitalise on anticipated growth in various industries across the broader Asian and Middle Eastern markets, leveraging Masterseals’ specialised expertise in customised sealing solutions for challenging operational conditions.

For more information visit www.trelleborg.com

Baker Hughes, an energy technology company, announced Monday that it has agreed to acquire Continental Disc Corporation, a leading provider of safety-critical pressure management solutions, from investment partnerships managed by Tinicum Incorporated in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $540 million.

Continental Disc Corporation, headquartered in Liberty, Missouri, specialises in designing and manufacturing rupture discs, rupture disc holders, burst disc indicators, pressure- and vacuum-relief valves, flame and detonation arrestors, and related safety products. The company’s products serve as highly complementary additions to Baker Hughes Industrial & Energy Technology’s (IET) existing Control Valve and High-Pressure Relief Valve offerings, with deployment across diverse industries including pharmaceutical, chemical, food and beverage, oil and gas, and aerospace markets.

The acquisition targets a company with significant recurring revenue streams, driven by CDC’s large global installed base and essential products that require regular replacement to maintain safety and operational reliability. In 2024, approximately 80% of CDC’s $109 million in proforma revenue was classified as recurring, serving as a key driver of the company’s strong returns and highly accretive margin profile.

The Continental Disc Corporation transaction represents part of Baker Hughes’ broader portfolio optimisation strategy, joining the recently announced Surface Pressure Control (SPC) transaction and the sale of the Precision Sensors & Instrumentation (PSI) product line. These strategic moves reflect the company’s commitment to driving more durable earnings and cash flow through disciplined capital allocation focused on core businesses with compelling return potential.

The acquisition aligns with Baker Hughes’ established acquisition criteria, offering a strong strategic fit with growth and synergy opportunities, accretive margins and returns, and a lifecycle business model that supports long-term aftermarket demand while strengthening earnings quality. The transaction is expected to provide immediate accretion to earnings and cash flow per share, as well as to IET’s segment margins.

Baker Hughes chairman and CEO Lorenzo Simonelli expressed enthusiasm about the strategic addition, stating that the company is excited to enhance its industrial portfolio and expand its addressable market through CDC’s well-established critical pressure management solutions. Simonelli noted that the acquisition, combined with the recently announced SPC and PSI transactions, establishes a blueprint for the company’s portfolio optimisation strategy focused on driving higher returns and creating long-term shareholder value.

Michael Donner, partner of Tinicum, acknowledged the transition while expressing confidence in the strategic fit. Donner indicated that while Tinicum will miss working with CDC’s dedicated team, the firm is pleased to see the business and its employees join Baker Hughes, recognising the potential for exciting new growth opportunities given Baker Hughes’ complementary product lines and global reach.

The acquisition will be financed through existing cash reserves and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, pending completion of customary conditions and required regulatory approvals.

Baker Hughes has engaged Jefferies as financial adviser and King and Spalding as legal adviser for the transaction. Continental Disc Corporation’s board has retained William Blair & Company and Baird as financial advisers, with Morrison Foerster serving as legal adviser.

For more information visit www.bakerhughes.com

French steel tube manufacturer Vallourec has secured two significant Oil Country Tubular Goods contracts to support drilling operations for major Chinese oil companies CNOOC and PetroChina in Iraq. The contracts represent a substantial business opportunity for Vallourec while demonstrating the company’s ability to serve complex drilling projects in one of the world’s most important oil-producing regions.

The two contracts carry combined potential revenue of over $130 million, reflecting the scale and strategic importance of the drilling operations they will support. This revenue potential positions the Iraq contracts as significant contributors to Vallourec’s financial performance while establishing the company’s presence in a key growth market for oil and gas development.

The contracts encompass the supply of both carbon steel and Super-13Cr steel OCTG products, each featuring VAM premium connections. This product range demonstrates Vallourec’s ability to provide comprehensive solutions for varying downhole conditions and technical requirements. The inclusion of Super-13Cr steel products indicates the presence of challenging well conditions that require advanced materials capable of withstanding corrosive environments and high-pressure, high-temperature conditions.

Vallourec’s VAM premium connections represent a key differentiator in the OCTG market, providing superior sealing performance and mechanical strength compared to standard threading systems. These premium connections are particularly valuable in complex drilling environments where well integrity and operational reliability are paramount considerations for drilling success.

Deliveries under both contracts are scheduled throughout 2025 and 2026, aligning with the planned drilling campaigns of both Chinese operators in Iraq. The extended delivery schedule reflects the substantial scale of the drilling operations while providing Vallourec with sustained revenue visibility over the contract period. This timeline also allows for optimal production planning and supply chain management to ensure timely delivery of specialised OCTG products.

The contracts are designed to support Iraq’s increasing drilling activities, which reflect the country’s broader strategy to expand oil production capacity and maximise recovery from its extensive hydrocarbon reserves. Iraq’s position as one of the world’s largest oil producers creates sustained demand for high-quality OCTG materials capable of supporting complex drilling operations.

The diversity of these projects highlights Vallourec’s unique ability to tailor its product offering to the distinct technical requirements of different operators. Each drilling project presents specific challenges related to geological conditions, well design, and operational parameters, requiring customised OCTG solutions that meet precise performance specifications.

Iraq holds some of the world’s largest proven oil reserves, with several super-giant oil fields that contain billions of barrels of recoverable hydrocarbons. These massive fields are increasingly being developed by international oil and gas companies, creating substantial demand for specialised drilling equipment and materials. The scale of these reserves justifies significant investment in advanced drilling technologies and premium materials that can maximise recovery rates while ensuring operational safety.

The involvement of major Chinese oil companies CNOOC and PetroChina in Iraq reflects China’s strategic interest in securing long-term energy supplies while participating in the development of Iraq’s oil sector. Both companies bring substantial technical expertise and financial resources to their Iraqi operations, supporting the deployment of advanced drilling technologies and premium materials.

Rising demand for premium OCTG material reflects the increasing scale and technical complexity of ongoing and future drilling projects in Iraq. As operators target deeper reservoirs and more challenging geological formations, the requirements for specialised steel products and advanced connection systems become more stringent. This trend supports premium pricing for high-performance OCTG products while favouring suppliers with proven technical capabilities.

Vallourec’s success in securing these contracts demonstrates the company’s competitive position in the global OCTG market and its ability to meet the demanding technical requirements of major international operators. The company’s combination of advanced metallurgy, premium connection technology, and manufacturing capability positions it to serve the most challenging drilling applications worldwide.

The Iraq contracts also reflect Vallourec’s strategic focus on high-value markets where technical performance and reliability are prioritised over price considerations. By concentrating on premium applications, the company can maximise margins while building long-term relationships with leading operators in key oil and gas-producing regions.

The successful contract awards position Vallourec to participate in Iraq’s continued oil sector development while establishing relationships with major Chinese operators that may lead to additional opportunities in other global markets. The company’s proven ability to deliver complex OCTG solutions enhances its reputation and competitive position for future contract competitions.

For more information visit www.vallourec.com

Engineering and design company AFRY has been commissioned by Arctic Sisu, a Finnish e-fuel company, to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for a large-scale e-methane production facility in Kotka, Finland. The ambitious project represents a significant step toward sustainable fuel production in Europe, with plans to generate 900–950 GWh of renewable e-methane annually through a three-phase development approach.

The proposed facility will be strategically located adjacent to the existing Kotkamills Pulp & Paper mill, where it will capture and repurpose CO2 emissions from the pulp production process as raw material for e-methane manufacturing. This approach positions the project as Europe’s first facility to capture and reuse CO2 specifically from pulp production operations, demonstrating an innovative circular economy model.

The produced e-methane is intended to serve as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, particularly targeting the maritime sector where decarbonisation solutions are critically needed. This aligns with growing industry demands for cleaner fuel alternatives in shipping and transportation.

AFRY’s feasibility study is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, providing Arctic Sisu with the detailed technical and economic analysis necessary for their investment decision, which is anticipated in 2026. The study will establish the conditions under which e-methane production at the Kotka site would be both feasible and economically optimal.

Should the project proceed following the investment decision, commercial production for the initial phase is targeted to commence in 2028, marking a significant milestone in Finland’s renewable energy landscape.

The feasibility study employs a top-down design approach, beginning with overall project objectives and plant goals before progressing to detailed engineering specifications and discipline-specific requirements. AFRY’s methodology incorporates the latest technical information from Original Equipment Manufacturers alongside the company’s proprietary data, ensuring evaluations are grounded in current market insights and technological capabilities.

Arctic Sisu CEO Jonne Pöyhtäri emphasised the value of AFRY’s expertise in similar plant developments and industrial projects. “The collaboration has started off well, and we’re eager to see how it progresses and what this phase delivers, along with the upcoming stages of both the project and sourcing,” Pöyhtäri stated.

Jukka Lehtonen, head of business unit for renewable and thermal energy at AFRY Finland, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “We are excited to partner with Arctic Sisu in this pioneering project to utilise CO₂ from pulp production as e-methane raw material and to support them in their journey to become a significant e-fuel producer,” Lehtonen said. He noted that AFRY looks forward to contributing insights across the entire power-to-x value chain to enable the transition to more sustainable maritime and transportation solutions.

The Kotka facility represents Arctic Sisu’s inaugural announced e-methane project and forms part of the company’s broader ambition to establish itself as one of Europe’s most significant e-fuel producers by 2030. The project demonstrates the potential for industrial symbiosis, where waste products from one industry become valuable inputs for another, creating more sustainable and economically viable production systems.

This collaboration between AFRY and Arctic Sisu reflects the growing momentum in the renewable energy sector, where innovative approaches to fuel production are becoming increasingly critical for meeting climate goals and supporting industrial decarbonisation efforts across Europe.

For more information visit www.afry.com

Tree Energy Solutions and CPC Finland OY have formed a strategic partnership through the establishment of LUOTO ENERGIA OY, a joint company focused on developing a major green energy project in Finland. The initiative represents a significant step forward in Europe’s renewable energy transition and synthetic fuel production capabilities.

The ambitious project centres on the production of electric natural gas, a green synthetic gas created from renewable hydrogen and carbon dioxide. The facility will feature electrolyser capacity of up to 500 MW, positioning it among Europe’s largest green hydrogen production installations.

The plant’s annual production capacity is projected to reach approximately 60,000 tonnes of green hydrogen, which can be converted into more than 125,000 tonnes of e-NG per year. This substantial output will serve both European and international markets, addressing the growing global demand for renewable gases.

The green hydrogen and e-NG production facility will occupy a 20-hectare site in the new extension area of the Port of Rauma at Iso Järviluoto. The Port of Rauma, one of Finland’s largest ports located in the southern part of the Gulf of Bothnia, provides strategic access to international shipping routes and existing energy infrastructure.

The produced green hydrogen may utilise the Nordic Hydrogen Route currently being developed by Gasgrid Finland, while the e-NG can be liquefied and shipped to various markets. This dual-product approach maximises the project’s commercial potential and market reach.

The project promises significant economic benefits for the region. During peak construction phases, the development is expected to create more than 1,000 jobs, providing substantial stimulus to the local economy. Once operational, the facility will support approximately 40 permanent high-quality positions focused on plant operation and maintenance.

The Finnish facility is designed to support decarbonisation efforts in maritime and industrial sectors where direct electrification proves unsuitable. The biogenic CO2 required for e-NG production will be sourced from Finnish biogenic emitters, creating a circular approach to carbon utilisation.

The collaboration combines TES’s expertise in e-NG production and commercialisation with CPC Finland’s specialised knowledge in renewable energy integration and advanced technologies. CPC Finland has already initiated key permitting processes, providing a foundation for accelerated development.

The joint venture plans to continue technical planning and permitting activities, targeting entry into the pre-FEED phase by 2026 and achieving Final Investment Decision (FID) by 2028. The site benefits from an existing legally valid T/kem zoning plan, which should expedite the path to construction readiness.

Finland has incorporated EU RED III into national legislation and is establishing itself as a leader in renewable fuels of non-biological origin (RFNBOs), including e-NG. The country’s progressive approach to multi-gas energy systems creates favourable conditions for large-scale synthetic fuel projects.

The e-NG production process utilises the Sabatier process to combine green hydrogen and recycled CO2, creating sustainable synthetic methane that is molecularly identical to natural gas. This compatibility allows e-NG to seamlessly replace fossil fuels while utilising existing infrastructure, qualifying as a Renewable Fuel of Non-Biological Origin under EU Delegated Acts.

Marco Alverà, co-founder and CEO of TES, emphasized the project’s significance: “Launching this landmark project in Finland is a major milestone in the energy transition, enabling us to deliver e-NG to the European market, strengthening its energy independence and accelerating the green transition using existing infrastructure. As a drop-in fuel, e-NG can be used to decarbonise sectors such as steel, shipping and heavy transport.”

Erik Trast, CEO of CPC Finland Oy, highlighted the partnership’s complementary strengths: “We are excited to have TES as the development partner in the Luoto Energia project in Rauma. This in many ways is an optimal partnership with truly complimentary skills, where TES possess the inhouse technical and engineering capability, and where CPC possesses proven and extensive experience and knowledge in the permitting and structuring complicated infrastructure projects in Finland.”

Janne Virta, managing director/CEO of the Port of Rauma, welcomed the development: “The planning and permitting processes for the Järviluoto harbour expansion have required a considerable amount of determined work and patience. All the more reason it is now a pleasure to welcome Luoto Energia to the Järviluoto area. The project’s progress in cooperation with CPC Finland Oy and TES has proceeded in an exemplary manner.”

Broader Energy Hub Development

The Finnish project complements TES’s broader European strategy, including the development of a green energy hub import terminal in Wilhelmshaven, Germany. This terminal will serve as a central distribution point for e-NG, feeding directly into existing energy grid infrastructure and supporting continental decarbonisation efforts.

For more information visit www.tes-h2.com

German state-owned energy company SEFE Securing Energy for Europe and the United Arab Emirates’ ADNOC Gas have formalised a significant three-year LNG supply agreement that reinforces strategic energy partnerships between the UAE and Germany. The agreement demonstrates both companies’ commitment to expanding their global presence while strengthening long-term relationships with key energy partners.

The supply agreement encompasses 0.7 million tonnes of LNG over a three-year period, with deliveries scheduled to commence in summer 2025. The contract carries an approximate value of 400 million US dollars across its full term, representing a substantial commercial commitment that underscores the strategic importance of UAE-Germany energy cooperation.

The agreement’s timing aligns with Germany’s ongoing efforts to diversify its energy supply sources and enhance energy security following recent geopolitical developments. The three-year duration provides both parties with medium-term certainty while offering flexibility to adapt to evolving market conditions and energy transition requirements.

Supply Infrastructure and Operational Capabilities

ADNOC Gas will supply the LNG from its Das Island liquefaction facility, a cornerstone asset in the company’s production portfolio. The facility represents one of the region’s most established LNG production centres, with a production capacity of six million tonnes per year that positions it as a significant contributor to global LNG markets.

Das Island’s operational track record demonstrates its reliability as a supply source, having shipped over 3,500 LNG cargoes worldwide since beginning operations in 1977. This extensive shipping history reflects the facility’s operational excellence and its role in establishing ADNOC Gas’ reputation as a dependable global energy provider.

Strategic Diplomatic Context

The LNG supply agreement builds upon existing strategic collaboration frameworks between the United Arab Emirates and Germany, including the 2022 Energy Security and Industry Accelerator (ESIA) pact. This comprehensive agreement established a foundation for enhanced energy cooperation and industrial collaboration between the two countries.

The partnership also draws upon the 2024 Joint Declaration with the German state of Baden-Württemberg, which specifically targets energy security enhancement and sustainable fuel development. These diplomatic frameworks provide institutional support for commercial agreements while advancing both countries’ energy transition objectives.

Leadership Perspectives and Strategic Vision

Fatema Al Nuaimi, CEO of ADNOC Gas, emphasised the agreement’s significance in strengthening the longstanding partnership with SEFE while reinforcing ADNOC Gas’ position as a reliable global energy provider. The CEO highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting energy security and sustainability in Europe, positioning the agreement within broader strategic objectives.

Al Nuaimi noted that the agreement demonstrates ADNOC Gas’ ability to deliver on strategic goals while sending clear messages to investors, partners, and stakeholders about the company’s capability to thrive in contemporary energy markets. This perspective reflects the company’s confidence in its competitive position and market strategy.

Frederic Barnaud, chief commercial officer of SEFE, acknowledged the two-decade partnership history with ADNOC, emphasising the value of the relationship with such a reputable and reliable supplier. The executive positioned the new medium-term contract as building upon the long-term supply agreement with ADNOC signed in the previous year.

Portfolio Diversification and Supply Security

For SEFE, the agreement adds another flexible LNG source to its supply portfolio, contributing to both Europe’s security of supply and the company’s global market trading activities. This diversification strategy reduces dependence on any single supply source while enhancing operational flexibility in volatile energy markets.

The agreement aligns with SEFE’s broader commitment to ensuring energy security across Germany and Europe through expanded international partnerships and strengthened global relationships. The company’s strategy involves collaborating with leading LNG and natural gas producers worldwide to ensure diversified and reliable energy sources.

Strategic Business Integration

ADNOC Gas’ participation in this agreement supports the ADNOC Group’s comprehensive strategy to enhance natural gas production capacity and expand global LNG exports. This expansion contributes to the United Arab Emirates’ broader objectives of sustainable energy growth and strengthened economic ties with key international markets.

The agreement positions natural gas as a crucial transitional fuel that offers lower carbon emissions compared to other fossil fuels while serving as an important raw material in industrial value chains. This perspective aligns with global energy transition strategies that view natural gas as a bridge fuel during the transition to renewable energy sources.

For more information visit www.sefe.eu

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has approved the second amendment to Island View Storage (Pty) Ltd’s combined licence for its storage facility and loading operations in Richards Bay. The decision was made during NERSA’s regulatory meeting on 29 May 2025.

The amendment modifies the conditions of the combined licence (Licence Number PPL.sf.lf.F3/323/2017) held by Island View Storage (Pty) Ltd, which operates under the trading name Bidvest Tank Terminals (BTT). The approval authorises the addition of two new diesel storage tanks to the facility’s licensed operations.

Each tank features a design capacity of 15,000 cubic meters, bringing the combined additional storage capacity to 30,000 cubic meters. The tanks are currently under construction, with completion anticipated for June 2025. The amendment also incorporates an updated site layout reflecting the expanded storage infrastructure.

NERSA initially licensed the construction of these storage tanks on 10 April 2024. With the construction phase nearing completion, the regulatory approval enables the integration of the new tanks and auxiliary equipment into the licensed operation’s regulatory asset base.

The expansion responds directly to customer demand, with the additional storage capacity being developed following specific customer requests for increased facility capacity at the Richards Bay location.

The regulatory framework for BTT’s Richards Bay operations includes approved tariffs that NERSA established on 6 November 2024. These tariffs govern both storage and loading facility services and remain effective from 6 November 2024 through 30 June 2027.

The current tariff structure will continue until NERSA approves new rates for BTT’s storage and loading facilities, in accordance with section 28(5)(b) of the Petroleum Pipelines Act, 2003 (Act No. 60 of 2003).

The licence amendment represents a significant expansion of fuel storage infrastructure in Richards Bay, one of South Africa’s key industrial and logistics hubs. The additional diesel storage capacity enhances the facility’s ability to serve the regional energy supply chain and meet growing market demand for petroleum product storage and handling services.

For more information visit www.nersa.org.za

Penspen has announced a series of senior appointments as part of its strategy to support continued business growth and deliver complex projects across key global markets.

These hires – including the appointment of a new chief financial officer – will play a pivotal role in enhancing Penspen’s operational capabilities and expanding its presence across the energy sector.

From Left to right : Chris Wood – director of asset integrity (Europe) ,Tim Sell – ,manager of proposals (Europe) , Graeme Maude – chief financial officer 

The announcement comes at a significant point in the company’s growth trajectory, as Penspen delivers on major contracts such as the detailed engineering scope for the HyNet CO₂ transportation pipeline in Liverpool Bay, and a hydrogen gap analysis for the Trans Adriatic Pipeline, part of the EU’s Southern Gas Corridor.

Penspen also recently marked a major milestone by relocating to new premises in Aberdeen to support several flagship projects.

New Appointments 

Graeme Maude – chief financial officer 

Graeme joins Penspen as CFO, based at the company’s headquarters at 150 Holborn, London.

A Chartered Accountant, Graeme began his career with Deloitte before holding senior finance roles at multinational firms including Atlas Copco and Fullers. He then spent 25 years in the recruitment sector, starting as European CFO for US-listed staffing firm Spherion, before progressing into operational leadership roles in the UK and internationally, including Singapore and Hong Kong.

In 2019, he joined Dutch-listed energy and engineering recruiter Brunel International as COO, where he led operations across the Americas, oversaw M&A activity, and shaped group strategy. His experience at Brunel sparked a deep interest in the energy sector – a key driver behind his move to Penspen.

Chris Wood – director of asset integrity (Europe) 

Chris Wood joins the Europe leadership team as director of asset integrity, based in Penspen’s Newcastle office and reporting directly to CEO Peter O’Sullivan.

A Chartered Mechanical Engineer with 20 years of experience, Chris has worked across the oil & gas, nuclear, and subsea sectors. His early career focused on product design and development, with a later shift toward asset integrity management, full-scale testing, and R&D.

He joins Penspen following nine years at Rosen, where he served as principal engineer and lead process professional. His previous roles include positions at Technip Umbilicals, FlexLife, and Soil Machine Dynamics.

Tim Sell – ,manager of proposals (Europe) 

Tim brings over 25 years of experience in energy and engineering to his new role as manager of proposals (Europe), based at 150 Holborn. He will report to the director of sales & marketing (Europe).

Tim spent the last 12 years at Wood’s offshore and agile projects business, progressing from information management department manager to senior commercial and business management roles. He led the development and pricing of proposals ranging from £200k to over £50M for both onshore and offshore upstream assets in oil, gas, and renewables.

Earlier in his career, Tim delivered IT projects across energy, rail, and financial services sectors, with a focus on information and document management systems and associated business change.

Spokesperson said: “Graeme, Chris and Tim bring invaluable expertise and insight to our team, reinforcing our commitment to building a strong, forward-focused business. Penspen is delivering technically complex projects around the world and playing a key role in supporting the energy transition, which makes having the right talent, in the right place, more important than ever.

“We’re proud to be shaping the future of energy access and sustainability for communities worldwide. As we continue to grow our team, we look forward to expanding our impact through our global practice.”

For more information visit www.penspen.com

Vopak Terminal Jakarta has reached a significant safety milestone and is celebrating the achievement of seven consecutive years free from reportable incidents. This exceptional accomplishment demonstrates the terminal’s unwavering commitment to workplace safety and environmental protection.

The achievement means that for the past seven years, no serious injuries have occurred among personnel working at the Jakarta facility, and no significant environmental spills have been recorded. This milestone reflects the dedication and vigilance of the entire team in maintaining the highest safety standards.

Safety remains Vopak’s top priority across all operations. The company maintains a steadfast commitment to ensuring that every employee can return home safely at the end of each working day. This philosophy drives decision-making at all levels of the organisation and underlies every operational procedure.

The seven-year safety record at the Jakarta terminal exemplifies Vopak’s broader mission to help the world flow forward responsibly. By maintaining exceptional safety standards, the terminal continues to serve as a reliable link in global supply chains while protecting both its workforce and the surrounding environment.

This milestone represents not just the absence of incidents, but the presence of a strong safety culture built through continuous training, rigorous procedures, and the collective commitment of every team member at Vopak Terminal Jakarta.

For more information visit www.vopak.com

Vitol-owned ViGo Bioenergy has commenced biomethane injection into the grid from its latest biogas digester facility in Lithuania, marking a significant milestone in the company’s strategy to expand biomethane availability for heavy trucking across Europe. The facility represents a crucial development in sustainable transport fuel production and circular economy implementation.

The Lithuanian facility began operations with biomethane injection into the grid, initiating a production process that will deliver substantial renewable energy output once fully operational. When the facility reaches full capacity, it will produce 125 GWh of carbon-negative biomethane annually, providing a significant volume of sustainable fuel for heavy transport applications.

The biomethane produced at the facility will directly replace fossil diesel in heavy trucks refuelling at ViGo stations across Europe. This substitution represents a direct impact on transport decarbonisation efforts, targeting one of the most challenging sectors for emissions reduction due to the energy-intensive nature of heavy freight transport.

ViGo Bioenergy’s focus on biomethane production addresses critical requirements for effective decarbonisation solutions in the transport sector. Biomethane offers significant greenhouse gas emissions reduction potential while maintaining compatibility with existing gas infrastructure, providing a practical pathway for immediate implementation without requiring extensive infrastructure modifications.

The production process involves purifying and liquefying biogas generated through anaerobic digestion of organic waste materials, including agricultural residues, food waste, and manure. This approach transforms waste streams into valuable energy resources while addressing waste management challenges across multiple sectors.

The environmental advantages of biomethane production extend beyond simple fossil fuel replacement. The fuel is chemically identical to conventional LNG but derives from renewable sources, delivering substantial greenhouse gas savings compared to traditional diesel fuels. Manure-based biomethane demonstrates particularly impressive environmental performance, offering close to -200 percent carbon intensity when compared to fossil diesel.

This negative carbon intensity results from the process preventing methane emissions that would otherwise occur from organic waste decomposition while displacing fossil fuel consumption. The combination of avoided emissions and renewable energy production creates a net carbon benefit that exceeds neutral impact.

The biomethane production process exemplifies circular economy principles by utilising waste streams that would otherwise contribute to environmental challenges. By converting agricultural residues, food waste, and manure into renewable energy, the facility addresses waste management while producing valuable fuel resources.

The production process generates additional environmental benefits through by-product utilisation. The digestate produced during biogas generation serves as an organic fertiliser that improves soil health on arable land, replacing synthetic fertilisers and supporting sustainable agriculture practices.

Beyond fuel production, the facility captures CO2 during the biomethane purification process, creating opportunities for commercial and industrial applications. This captured CO2 can replace fossil-based CO2 in various industrial processes, further contributing to overall emissions reduction and resource efficiency.

The integrated approach to waste utilisation, energy production, and by-product recovery demonstrates how biomethane facilities can serve multiple economic and environmental objectives simultaneously. This model supports the development of sustainable industrial ecosystems that maximise resource efficiency.

ViGo Bioenergy’s expansion into Lithuania reflects the company’s broader European strategy to develop biomethane infrastructure that supports heavy transport decarbonisation. The facility’s connection to the grid enables flexible distribution of biomethane across European markets, supporting the company’s network of refuelling stations.

The strategic positioning of production facilities across Europe enables ViGo to serve regional markets while building resilient supply chains for sustainable transport fuels. This approach supports the development of a comprehensive biomethane ecosystem that can scale to meet growing demand for renewable transport fuels.

The facility’s operations contribute to agricultural methane emissions reduction by processing organic waste materials that would otherwise decompose and release methane into the atmosphere. This approach addresses one of the most potent greenhouse gases while converting waste into valuable energy resources.

The agricultural sector benefits from this waste processing approach through improved waste management practices and reduced environmental impact. The integration of waste-to-energy systems supports sustainable farming practices while providing additional revenue streams for agricultural operations.

The compatibility of biomethane with existing gas infrastructure facilitates rapid deployment and scaling of sustainable fuel production. This compatibility enables immediate utilisation of biomethane in existing LNG systems without requiring extensive infrastructure modifications or new distribution networks.

The facility’s integration with grid infrastructure demonstrates how biomethane production can leverage existing energy systems while supporting the transition to renewable energy sources. This approach maximises the utility of current infrastructure investments while enabling sustainable fuel deployment across European markets.

For more information visit www.vitol.com

UPEI – the voice of Europe’s independent energy and mobility suppliers – and FETSA – the Federation of European Tank Storage Associations – have warmly welcomed the European Parliament’s adoption of its resolution on Energy Security of Supply.

The two organisations expressed encouragement following the Parliament’s comprehensive approach to addressing Europe’s energy security challenges. Recent crises have exposed critical vulnerabilities in Europe’s energy systems and underscored the urgent need to build lasting resilience across all energy carriers, making the resolution’s adoption particularly timely.

The resolution includes several provisions that both organisations view as crucial for strengthening Europe’s energy security framework:

The Parliament has called for a review of the Oil Stocks Directive to better reflect evolving risk profiles and energy needs. This review would ensure that existing regulations align with current energy market realities and security requirements.

The resolution urges the development of a dedicated EU strategy on liquid fuels, recognising the continued importance of these energy carriers in Europe’s overall energy mix. Such a strategy would provide clearer guidance for industry stakeholders and policy makers.

The document emphasises the importance of dual-use infrastructure, promoting greater synergy between civilian and military preparedness. This approach acknowledges that energy security has both civilian and defense dimensions that must be addressed holistically.

The resolution acknowledges the strategic role of NATO in Europe’s future energy security architecture, recognising the alliance’s importance in coordinating defense-related energy security measures across member states.

Finally, the Parliament supports accelerated permitting procedures for critical energy infrastructure, including storage and distribution facilities. This provision could help streamline the development of essential energy infrastructure projects across Europe.

Both organisations emphasised that strategic storage and distribution infrastructure represent more than mere logistical assets. These facilities serve as vital enablers of Europe’s industrial competitiveness, crisis preparedness, and societal resilience. As such, they must be fully recognised and supported within the EU’s evolving energy security architecture.

The groups stressed that proper recognition of infrastructure’s strategic importance will be essential for maintaining Europe’s energy security and economic stability in an increasingly uncertain global environment.

UPEI and FETSA have urged the European Commission and the EU Council to take the Parliament’s position into account as they shape future energy security policies. The organisations indicated their readiness to engage constructively in the follow-up to this resolution and contribute to building a resilient, inclusive, and diversified energy landscape for Europe.

The resolution’s adoption represents a significant step forward in European energy security policy, with industry stakeholders now looking toward implementation measures that will translate the Parliament’s vision into concrete actions and regulatory frameworks.

For more information visit www.upei.org