The AMPP Annual Conference + Expo 2026 returns March 15–19 in Houston, Texas, bringing together professionals who work every day to protect critical assets from corrosion and deterioration. The event draws engineers, inspectors, contractors, asset owners, and researchers from around the world to exchange ideas, share technical expertise, and examine the issues in materials protection.

Several new additions to this year’s programme reflect the industry’s continued advancement. Technical sessions will examine topics such as pipeline safety, carbon capture infrastructure, water treatment and desalination systems, workforce development, and contractor engagement.

Across the conference, discussions will highlight sectors including maritime and defense operations, energy production and transportation, and civil infrastructure systems that support communities internationally.

New sessions introduced in 2026 include:

• Preventing Failures in Structural Concrete: Corrosion, Coatings and CP
  Mon., March 16 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Room 360 DE
• Pipeline Safety and Asset Integrity Management
  Mon., March 16 | 1:00 – 3:00 PM | Room 362 BC
• Corrosion Management: Water Treatment, Desalination, Transmission and Reuse
  Mon., March 16 | 1:00 – 2:30 PM | Room 372 EF
• RTS: Carbon Capture, Transportation, and Utilization Storage (CCTUS)
  Tues., March 17 | 8:00 – 9:00 AM | Room 371 DE
• Jobsite Challenges, Strategies, and Safety Programs
  Tues., March 17 | 1:00 – 3:30 PM | Room 361 DE
• Reinvention, Reentry, and Retention
  Wed., March 18 | 1:00 – 3:00 PM | Room 375 EF
• Material Selection and Qualification in CCS Downhole Environment
  Thurs., March 19 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Room 342 DE

Besides the technical program, new experiences at the conference include Coffee & Conversation sessions connecting contractors with AMPP leadership, a new podcast booth inside the AMPP exhibit booth, and a Coffee with Congressman Wesley Hunt discussion on Monday morning. These additions highlight the conference’s expanding emphasis on workforce solutions, industry collaboration, and policy engagement.

Maritime & Defense Programming
For professionals supporting naval fleets, aerospace systems, and defence networks, the conference features sessions focused on operational readiness, materials durability, and corrosion policy.

Participants will hear insights from leaders representing organisations including the U.S. Marine Corps, US Air Force, US Coast Guard, NASA, the Department of Defence Corrosion Policy and Oversight Office, the American Bureau of Shipping, and Seaspan.

Highlighted sessions include:

• OSD CPO and Service Corrosion Executive Policy Updates & Roundtable/Panel
  Wed. | 10:15 AM – 12:00 PM CT | Room 351 AB
• Marine Coating Performance Under Pressure: Challenges and Innovations
  Mon. | 1:00 – 3:00 PM CT | Room 361 DE
• Aerospace Corrosion Modeling and Environmental Severity
  Wed. | 8:00 – 10:00 AM CT | Room 362 BC
• TC 04 TCI – Marine
  Tues. | 1:00 – 3:00 PM CT | Room 360 AB

Energy Industry Sessions
Energy infrastructure professionals—from oil and gas operators to pipeline and midstream companies—will find extensive programming focused on asset integrity, pipeline safety, carbon capture systems, and corrosion mitigation across complicated energy environments.

Featured sessions include:

• SC 14 Oil and Gas – Upstream
  Mon. | 8:00 – 10:00 AM | Room 342 AB
• Pipeline Integrity
  Mon. | 8:00 – 11:30 AM | Room 362 DE
• Advance Protective Coating Technology Symposium & Forum
  Mon. | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Room 350 DEF
• Advances in Materials for Oil and Gas Production
  Mon. | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Room 372 EF
• Pipeline Safety Forum
  Tues. | 1:00 – 5:00 PM | Room 350 DEF

These sessions provide insights into materials performance, regulatory considerations, and new technologies designed to extend the life of energy infrastructure and improve operational safety.

Civil Infrastructure Focus

As governments and municipalities confront ageing infrastructure, AMPP programming provides practical solutions to extend the life of bridges, transportation systems, water networks, and public assets.

Key sessions include:

• DOT Bridge Forum
  Mon. | 9:00 – 10:30 AM | Room 342 F
• Metallic Corrosion in the Water & Wastewater Industries
  Tues. | 8:00 – 11:30 AM | Room 372 EF
• Bridge Preservation: New Technologies for Concrete & Steel Structures
  Tues. | 1:00 – 5:30 PM | Room 371 AB
• SC 17 Rail & Land Transportation
  Wed. | 1:00 – 2:00 PM | Room 360 AB
• Coating & Lining Failures: Common & Unusual Causes of Premature Coating Failures
  Thurs. | 1:00 – 4:00 PM | Room 372 EF

These sessions highlight the role of corrosion control, coatings performance, and materials innovation in upholding critical infrastructure and ensuring public safety.

Explore the Full Technical Program
With hundreds of technical presentations, committee meetings, and industry forums, the AMPP Annual Conference + Expo remains one of the largest global gatherings dedicated to corrosion prevention and materials protection.

For more information visit www.ace.ampp.org

International engineering consultancy Penspen has opened a new office in Newcastle’s Time Central facility as it plans further growth in the European asset integrity market.

The new office is home to more than 30 integrity engineers, materials and corrosion consultants, and technical specialists who are responsible for supporting a range of UK and European gas network operators including Gas Networks Ireland, Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP), and National Gas.

The new facility will also host Penspen’s industry-recognised training courses, covering pipeline legislation awareness, pipeline defect assessment, and energy transition sessions focused on hydrogen and carbon capture.

The move follows a record year for Penspen, with over $500m in sales in 2025. Its Europe asset integrity team has welcomed several new leadership appointments over the last 18 months, including Chris Wood, director of Asset Integrity (Europe), Andrew Wynne, integrity manager, and Dominic Wynne, regional business development manager – Europe.

“I think this new space is a clear signal of our intent – Penspen are committed to growing our services and team in the north-east, with asset integrity at the heart of that strategy,” said Wood.

“This larger, modern space will allow us to better integrate our teams, strengthen our asset integrity operations, and continue to deliver our high level of customer service  in the future.”

Penspen has over 70 years’ experience in engineering, project management, asset integrity, and asset management services, with a growing track record in energy transition projects across the UK and Europe.

Wood added: “As an independent consultancy, we’re well placed to support customers across the UK and Europe with integrity services for major energy infrastructure projects that secure existing supply and also support the transition to future fuels. We have an ambitious growth strategy that will see us continue to build upon this legacy and our Newcastle team will play an important part in that journey.”

Present in Newcastle for two decades, Penspen were originally based in St Peter’s Basin, following the acquisition of Andew Palmer Associates in 2007.

The North-East’s role as a centre of excellence for asset integrity is a key driver for Penspen’s investment in the area.

“Newcastle is rightly recognised as a hub for pipeline integrity management, and Penspen’s name is synonymous with deep technical expertise and first-of-a-kind projects,” added Wood.

“We have long-term relationships with the local universities in the area, and we are proud to run a successful graduate training programme to ensure we’re developing the next generation of engineers in the region.

“The North-East is a strategic hub for our future growth, and I look forward to welcoming visitors to our new facility.”

For more information visit www.penspen.com 

Neste, the world’s leading producer of renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel, has appointed new leadership team members as part of an organisational change that primarily affects the company’s Renewable Products business.

Effective 1 April 2026, Renewable Products commercial, refining, and feedstock sourcing and trading will be represented in Neste’s leadership team. At the same time, Neste will establish a Renewable Products, North America business unit, responsible for all renewable products business in North America, including regional feedstock and commercial operations as well as the Martinez joint venture.

From 1 April 2026, Neste’s leadership team will consist of Heikki Malinen, president and CEO, alongside the following members, all reporting directly to the president and CEO: Jori Sahlsten, executive vice president, Oil Products business area; Artturi Mikkola, senior vice president, Renewable Products Feedstock Sourcing and Trading; Jukka Kanerva, senior vice president, Renewable Products Refining; Carl Nyberg, senior vice president, Renewable Products Commercial; an as-yet-unnamed president of renewable products, North America, with Carl Nyberg serving in an interim capacity; Markku Korvenranta, executive vice president and COO; Eeva Sipilä, CFO; and Hannele Jakosuo-Jansson, executive vice president, People & Culture.

Heikki Malinen, president and CEO of Neste, described the change as a next step to accelerate the company’s value creation and long-term growth, given the importance and potential of its renewables business. He expressed confidence that the new leadership team and structure will effectively drive Neste’s strategy execution and financial performance. Malinen warmly welcomed Artturi Mikkola, Jukka Kanerva, and Carl Nyberg to the leadership team, noting that all three bring strong track records in their respective areas of responsibility and have held several demanding leadership positions across Neste over the years.

The changes will not affect Neste’s financial reporting segments.

For more information visit www.neste.com

The Steel Tank Institute/Steel Plate Fabricators Association presented CB&I with four field-erected Tank of the Year awards during its recent annual meeting held in Clearwater Beach, Florida. STI/SPFA is a non-profit trade association whose member companies fabricate steel tanks, pipe, and pressure vessels for use across various industries.

CB&I was awarded Tank of the Year in four of eight field-erected categories for 2025. The winning projects were: two 80-foot diameter Methane Gas Spheres through Poole & Kent for Miami-Dade Water and Sewer in Miami, Florida (ASME category); an 18,400 Tonne-Hour Thermal Energy Storage Tank for the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, Massachusetts (API 650 category); a 2,000,000 Gallon Hydropillar through Redside Construction in Bainbridge Island, Washington (AWWA Elevated category); and an 87,500 Tonne-Hour Thermal Energy Storage Tank through JESCO for DTE Energy in Stanton, Tennessee (AWWA Reservoir category).

Mark Butts, president and CEO of CB&I, congratulated all employees who made each of the project recognitions possible, and expressed pride in the company’s legacy as a leader in industrial, energy, and water storage for over 135 years.

For more information visit www.cbi.com

Well Pad 104W-A, featuring eight well pairs, achieved first oil on December 11, 2025, coming online ahead of schedule.

104W-A marks the first phase of a two-phase project. Construction is already underway on the second well pad, 104W-B, which will feature 12 well pairs.

At Surmont, wells operate in pairs: an injector and a producer. In the steam-assisted gravity drainage process, the injector pumps steam into the reservoir to heat the heavy oil and make it flow more easily. The producer, positioned below, collects the heated bitumen and water mixture and brings it to the surface.

Eamon Marron, Surmont development manager, noted that Pad 104W-A will play a key role in 2026 and sets up the asset to grow production into 2027, adding that Pad 104W-B is expected to come online approximately 12 months from the time of the announcement.

With 104W-A wells now online and flowing into Surmont 1 for central processing, first oil from the pad marks another important milestone for the asset, building momentum across the latest development phase and supporting Surmont’s long-term production outlook.

For more information visit www.conocophillips.com

Exolum participated in the Maritime Transport Decarbonisation Conference to discuss CO₂ capture and the logistical infrastructure needed to support onboard carbon capture for existing vessels.

At the conference, organised by the Colegio Oficial de Ingenieros Navales y Oceánicos and the Asociación de Ingenieros Navales y Oceánicos de España, María José Bartolomé Vidal, project developer coordinator circular economy at Exolum, highlighted a key element to make onboard CO₂ capture viable for existing vessels: the management of CO₂ once it has been captured.

Exolum is developing logistics hubs at port terminals to aggregate emissions from multiple sources and facilitate their transport for storage or use. These infrastructures will enable vessels to safely and efficiently offload captured CO₂ and connect the capture process with the rest of the value chain.

Exolum noted that coordinated progress in standards, regulation, and infrastructure will allow this solution to scale and accelerate the decarbonisation of maritime transport an area in which the company is already taking firm steps.

for more information visit www.exolum.com

SEFE Securing Energy for Europe and Argentina’s Southern Energy S.A. have entered into a Sales and Purchase Agreement for an eight-year LNG supply partnership. Under the agreement, SEFE will purchase two million tonnes per annum of LNG on a free on board basis, with deliveries scheduled to begin in late 2027. The Sales and Purchase Agreement follows the Heads of Agreement concluded in Argentina the previous year and marks the country’s first long-term LNG export contract.

Under the new agreement, SEFE will deliver approximately five million tonnes of LNG over the next decade, strengthening Türkiye’s long-term energy security while extending SEFE’s global LNG market reach. The LNG will be delivered from SEFE’s growing global LNG portfolio, which includes a stable foundation of long-term US LNG volumes.

Frédéric Barnaud, CCO of SEFE, noted that through shared determination and focus, the two companies moved from a Heads of Agreement to a fully-fledged Sales and Purchase Agreement in just over three months. He stated that this rapid progress demonstrates that SESA is the right partner for SEFE to expand its portfolio into South America and thereby strengthen Europe’s energy security. Barnaud added that with deliveries starting in 2027, SEFE becomes not only the first German energy company to offtake cargoes from Argentina, but also the country’s first long-term LNG customer globally.

Rodolfo Freyre, chairman of SESA, described the agreement with SEFE as significant for two key reasons. He explained that it confirms Argentina’s positioning as a new and strategic international LNG supplier, contributing to the diversification of global supply sources, while also representing a key contribution to strengthening Europe’s energy security. Freyre extended his thanks to the SEFE team and all SESA partners, whose contribution he described as essential to achieving the milestone.

For more information visit www.sefe.eu

Desu Systems BV, a European master distributor of Spectrex Flame & Gas Detection Equipment and Buckeye Kitchen Safety Solutions, will exhibit a portfolio of flame and gas detection and kitchen fire safety solutions from leading technology partners at The Fire Safety Event 2026, taking place from 28 to 30 April at the NEC Birmingham, UK. The company will be exhibiting at stand H40.

With full teams present from across its divisions, Desu Systems will use the event as a platform to engage with UK industry professionals, media, and partners. The company’s presence will focus on practical discussions, personal demonstrations, and pre-scheduled meetings, allowing visitors to explore how distributed safety technologies are applied across regulated industrial and commercial environments.

At the exhibition, Desu Systems will place particular emphasis on its Flame and Gas Detection division and its Kitchen Fire and Hygiene Solutions portfolio. The stand will host ongoing presentations and hands-on demonstrations, supported by dedicated meeting spaces that enable direct interaction with technical specialists and commercial teams from each division.

As a master distributor for the European market, Desu Systems works closely with technology leaders including Spectrex, Rosemount, Hansentek, Buckeye, and Sensia. Through these partnerships, the company delivers a carefully curated portfolio of flame and gas detection and fire safety solutions, supporting installers, consultants, EPCs, and end users with both product availability and application expertise.

Ronald Verkroost, CEO of Desu Systems, noted that events like The Fire Safety Event are valuable because they create space for meaningful conversations. He emphasised that the company’s role goes beyond supplying technology, explaining that Desu Systems works closely with partners and customers to ensure solutions are applied correctly, perform reliably, and meet the demands of real operating environments.

Emile Hippe, The managing director added that the UK market places strong emphasis on compliance, reliability, and long-term performance. He noted that by exhibiting with the full team at stand H40, the company can offer visitors direct access to the people who support projects from early specification through to implementation and ongoing operation.

Journalists and industry professionals are invited to book pre-arranged meetings or private briefings with the Desu Systems team to discuss market developments and current fire safety requirements.

The Fire Safety Event 2026 follows a milestone year for Desu Systems, which marked its 20-year anniversary in 2025. Since its founding, the company has grown into an international organisation operating in over 60 countries, while maintaining a strong focus on technical knowledge, availability, and responsive support.

For more information visit www.desusystems.com

SK Innovation has been selected to lead a landmark LNG power project in Vietnam, marking a significant step in the company’s global energy strategy. The project, valued at approximately USD 2.3 billion (about KRW 3.3 trillion), will be developed in Nghe An Province, located in north-central Vietnam.

The consortium, comprising SK Innovation, PV Power (PetroVietnam Power Corporation, a subsidiary of Vietnam’s state-run PetroVietnam group), and Vietnamese company NASU, has been designated by the government of Nghe An Province as the project developer for the Quynh Lap LNG Power Project. The initiative will establish a 1,500MW combined cycle gas power plant, a 250,000m³ LNG terminal, and a dedicated port in the Quynh Lap region, approximately 220 kilometres south of Hanoi. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027 and be completed by 2030.

SK Innovation’s participation brings together its proven expertise in LNG power generation and its global LNG value chain, complementing the local strengths of its Vietnamese partners. This collaborative approach is expected to deliver optimal synergy and contribute to the region’s long-term energy and industrial development.

The Quynh Lap LNG Power Project attracted interest from leading global companies, with participants from Korea, Japan, and Qatar advancing through the initial bidding and preliminary evaluation in 2024. The final project developer selection was conducted among these shortlisted firms in January 2026.

SK Innovation is also considering expanding the LNG terminal into a regional hub to supply gas to nearby power plants. This approach is expected to enhance project efficiency, ensure timely energy supply, and support the integrated growth of energy infrastructure and industry, in line with Vietnam’s national development plans.

Building Shared Prosperity: The SEIC Model for Vietnam’s Industrial and Low-Carbon Growth

Over the past four years, SK Innovation has collaborated closely with the Vietnamese government to establish a long-term roadmap supporting both industrial advancement and carbon neutrality. Central to this vision is the Specialised Energy-Industry Cluster (SEIC) model, which leverages stable LNG power generation as a foundation for regional growth and sustainable development.

The SEIC model is designed to foster high-value industries near the power plant, such as AI data centres and logistics hubs, contributing to job creation, talent development, and overall economic vitality. SK Innovation’s phased approach using LNG for immediate energy needs while preparing for future zero-carbon power sources underscores the company’s commitment to shared and sustainable prosperity.

Chairman Chey Tae-won of SK Group and SK Innovation’s leadership have engaged in ongoing discussions with Vietnamese government officials to refine and align the SEIC model with Vietnam’s energy policies and development strategies. The company’s dedication to this collaborative vision was reaffirmed through high-level meetings in 2025. Through the SEIC model, SK Group has also emphasised its strong commitment to contributing to Vietnam’s industrial and economic development and to achieving mutual growth alongside its Vietnamese partners.

Leading the Way: SK Innovation’s Global Expansion of the Integrated LNG Value Chain

The Quynh Lap project represents the first overseas application of SK Innovation’s integrated LNG value chain, a model already proven in Korea’s private sector. In contrast to conventional methods, which focus solely on constructing power plants or trading LNG—SK Innovation has proposed a business model that leverages its global LNG portfolio to transport LNG directly to Vietnam’s terminal and use it as fuel for the power plant. This integrated approach not only enhances fuel supply stability but also enables the project to flexibly respond to fluctuations in global market conditions, ensuring greater energy security for the region.

With these strategies, SK Innovation plans to expand its global LNG portfolio to 10 million tonnes by 2030, reinforcing its commitment to global energy leadership.

An SK Innovation spokesperson noted that the project demonstrates the strength of international collaboration and the competitiveness of SK’s integrated LNG value chain and that the company looks forward to contributing to Vietnam’s energy development and regional prosperity through its close work with the Nghe An provincial government and its partners.

For more information visit www.askinno.com

The Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, together with Deputy Minister Graham Maré, will represent South Africa as the official government host of the 2026 Africa Energy Indaba.

The release outlines key programme highlights, including:
• The Minister’s opening address and participation in high-level ministerial roundtables
• The Presidential keynote by Cyril Ramaphosa
• The South African Investment Forum
• The Nuclear Forum and Mission 300 Day
• Clean cooking, women in energy, and regional power integration initiatives

The Honourable Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Electricity and Energy of South Africa

The Department’s participation reflects South Africa’s commitment to regional energy integration, infrastructure development, clean energy transition and sustainable investment across the continent.

For more information visit www.africaenergyindaba.com

Technip Energies, as leader of a joint venture with Consolidated Contractors Company and Gulf Asia Contracting, has been awarded a major engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning contract by QatarEnergy for the onshore LNG facilities of the North Field West project.

The award covers the delivery of two mega trains, each with a capacity of 8 MTPA (million tonnes per annum) of liquefied natural gas, as a replication of the two trains under construction by Technip Energies and CCC for the North Field South (NFS) project. Similar to North Field East and North Field South (NFS), NFW will capture and sequester an additional 1.1 MTPA of CO₂, bringing the total to 2.2 MTPA from NFS and NFW combined.

The expansion project will produce approximately 16 MTPA of LNG, and together with the NFE and NFS projects, will increase Qatar’s total LNG export capacity from 77 MTPA to 142 MTPA.

Qatar represents a country of strategic importance to Technip Energies, which has maintained a strong local presence since 1986.

Arnaud Pieton, CEO of Technip Energies, emphasised the significance of the award. “We are honoured by QatarEnergy’s continued trust, which further reinforces our long-term strategic partnership built on shared values, performance, delivery predictability, and a common vision for the future of LNG,” he said. “This award reflects not only the continuity of our engagement across the North Field developments but also a crucial contribution to meeting growing global LNG demand. Building on our leadership in LNG and, together with our long-standing partners CCC and GAC, we are proud to continue delivering world-class LNG facilities that combine scale, efficiency, and significantly reduced carbon intensity.”

For more information visit www.ten.com

MET International AG, the trading and wholesale arm of Swiss-based integrated energy company MET Group, and Shell Global LNG Limited have signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to expand their existing long-term cooperation in LNG and gas trading.

The MOU provides a framework to explore the potential sale by Shell and purchase by MET of approximately 0.5 million tonnes per annum of LNG between 2027 and 2033, sourced primarily from Shell’s US LNG portfolio, for delivery to various European regasification facilities. The companies also intend to explore cooperation in LNG and gas trading to facilitate access to European markets through the Vertical Gas Corridor, including sales into various European regasification facilities. The cooperation with Shell aims to enhance the security of gas supply in Europe.

MET operates a uniquely customer-focused energy model in Europe, structuring its sourcing and supply around the needs of end customers. That customer focus has driven MET to build one of the most geographically diverse LNG import portfolios in Europe. In 2025, MET delivered LNG into 17 different markets in Europe and beyond.

The agreement furthers MET’s strategy to diversify supply sources while reinforcing its strong and steadily expanding customer portfolio across more than 20 European countries.

Huibert Vigeveno, Group CEO of MET Group, emphasised the strategic significance of the agreement. “MET is proud to support the strategic cooperation between the United States and the European Union in the field of LNG supplies. This MOU represents another important step in strengthening transatlantic energy ties and will contribute to enhancing the energy security of the EU,” he said.

For more information visit www.met.com

Tepsa’s sustainability performance was assessed by independent international organisations in 2025, resulting in the renewal of the company’s EcoVadis Silver Medal with an improved score and a CDP Climate rating of B. The recognitions reflect strengthened environmental, social, and governance practices and a reinforced commitment to transparency with customers, partners, and stakeholders.

For the fourth consecutive year, Tepsa’s sustainability approach has been evaluated by external ratings bodies, providing an objective perspective on how the company’s commitments are structured, implemented, and monitored over time.

EcoVadis Silver Medal Renewed

Tepsa has been awarded the EcoVadis Silver Medal with a score of 74/100, up 3 points from the previous year. This places the company in the 90th percentile of the warehousing and storage industry, confirming steady progress within a demanding evaluation framework.

EcoVadis assesses companies across four key themes: environment, labour & human rights, ethics, and responsible procurement. These ratings are increasingly used by companies during supplier assessments and tender processes, making sustainability performance an integral component of business relationships.

The improvement achieved in 2025 reflects the continued consolidation of Tepsa’s policies and the strengthening of its management systems. Progress was made across all evaluated areas, particularly in ethics and sustainable procurement, where existing practices were further optimised and documented.

CDP Climate Rating: Transparency in Environmental Performance

Tepsa also reports its environmental performance through CDP, a global non-profit that operates one of the world’s leading environmental disclosure platforms used by investors and companies.

In 2025, the company obtained a CDP Climate rating of B, demonstrating a structured approach to assessing climate impacts, reducing CO₂ emissions, and transparently reporting environmental performance.

Participation in CDP is voluntary within the sector, highlighting Tepsa’s commitment to openly communicating its environmental strategy and contributing to greater transparency across the value chain.

Supporting Responsible Partnerships

These recognitions support Tepsa’s objective of continuously improving its practices while meeting the growing expectations of customers and partners regarding sustainability performance. By relying on independent assessments and transparent reporting, the company aims to foster responsible partnerships and facilitate sustainable storage solutions.

For more information visit www.tepsa.com

Power2X, an industry leader in clean molecule projects and industrial decarbonisation, has announced the acquisition of HyCC, the Netherlands-based large-scale green hydrogen project developer. The acquisition strengthens Power2X’s position as a clean molecules leader, focused on clean fuels and feedstocks for industries in the Netherlands and Germany.

The deal creates greater scale and efficiencies, reflecting the consolidation of the clean molecules sector as projects transition from early development into large-scale delivery. HyCC has developed a strong portfolio of hydrogen and clean molecules projects in the Netherlands and Germany in locations including Amsterdam, Delfzijl and Rotterdam. In the combined company, these projects will benefit from increased scale, broader capabilities and a strong capital base. The expertise and industrial experience from the HyCC team will support further development and delivery of projects in the Power2X portfolio.

Supporting Clean, Competitive and Resilient Industry

Clean molecules, including green hydrogen, have a critical role to play in strengthening Europe’s industrial competitiveness and energy security. The combined portfolio has the potential to unlock material investments in the coming years and could provide a significant boost for the local chemical sector. For the realisation of these projects, a reliable, stable regulatory framework across Europe, the Netherlands and Germany will be crucial.

Power2X’s acquisition of HyCC strengthens the entire ecosystem by de-risking investments, accelerating project delivery, and advancing Europe’s resilience and decarbonisation leadership.

Occo Roelofsen, founder and CEO of Power2X, highlighted the strategic value of the acquisition. “With the acquisition of HyCC we are adding valuable, and strategic projects in key industrial hubs to our portfolio,” he said. “It brings us into a new phase where we have increased focus on delivery and a more diverse group of industrial customers. We look forward to working closely with Nobian and other partners on project delivery and operations in Dutch and German clean molecules market.”

Marcel Galjee, managing director of HyCC, reflected on the company’s development and the rationale for the transaction. “Our ongoing focus on water electrolysis has enabled us to develop a strong portfolio of green hydrogen projects at HyCC,” he said. “Now it is time to move to the next phase of these projects, and with Power2X we have found the perfect partner to do so. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to this achievement and look forward to the next chapter with Power2X.”

The transaction underscores Power2X’s ambition and positions the company to scale competitive clean molecules assets capable of delivering at industrial scale.

For more information visit www.power2x.com 

AD Ports Group, a leading global enabler of trade, industry, and logistics solutions, and Nimex Terminals have marked the groundbreaking of the UAE’s first private-sector Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) terminal hub at Khalifa Port, reinforcing the nation’s position as a global energy logistics and trading hub.

Announced in November 2025 alongside the LNG terminal hub development, the LPG terminal hub is being developed to accommodate large, long-haul gas carriers and will deliver large-scale refrigerated storage and marine handling infrastructure for propane, butane, and LPG mix products.

The development will further strengthen the UAE’s role in facilitating global LPG flows between major production centres and high-growth demand markets across Asia, Africa and Europe. The facility will expand Khalifa Port’s energy infrastructure capabilities to meet the evolving demands of international energy trade.

Saif Al Mazrouei, CEO of the Ports Cluster at AD Ports Group, emphasised the strategic importance of the project. “The Nimex LPG terminal exemplifies the type of high-quality strategic infrastructure investment that strengthens the port’s energy ecosystem and reinforces its position as a leading regional and international gateway. This development reflects a shared commitment to disciplined execution, operational excellence, safety and long-term value creation,” he said.

Phase 1 of the development will comprise two full-containment refrigerated storage tanks of 50,000 and 67,000 cubic metres for propane and butane, respectively, together with four mounded LPG bullet tanks with an aggregate capacity of 21,000 cubic metres for mixed LPG products. A similar expansion is planned under Phase 2, bringing total terminal capacity to approximately 280,000 cubic metres.

The project also includes the construction of dedicated LPG jetties with a 16-metre depth, enabling efficient berthing and handling of large-scale LPG carriers and supporting seamless maritime trade flows. Phase 1 is expected to be commissioned within 36 months from the commencement of construction.

Azmat Mahmood, chairman of Nimex Terminals, described the groundbreaking as a defining milestone. “Today’s groundbreaking represents a defining milestone for Nimex Terminals. Our vision is to build a resilient, world-class LPG logistics platform that connects global supply with regional demand through Abu Dhabi. We are proud to work alongside AD Ports Group in delivering strategic infrastructure that supports trade growth, enhances energy connectivity, and underpins the UAE’s role as a trusted global energy hub,” he stated.

The terminal will be developed and operated in accordance with the highest international standards for safety, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence. Safety has been embedded into the project from inception, with full-containment tanks and mounded LPG bullet storage selected to enhance protection, mitigate risk, and ensure long-term operational reliability.

The Nimex LPG terminal will strengthen regional energy security and storage resilience, providing traders and industrial users with enhanced flexibility and optionality, while supporting the continued growth of Khalifa Port as a multi-commodity gateway. The project reflects growing private sector investment in advanced energy infrastructure aligned with the UAE’s long-term trade and logistics ambitions.

For more information visit www.adports.ae

Vopak has announced its intention to commence a multi-year share buyback programme of up to EUR 500 million, expected to be executed by year-end 2030 in multiple tranches. The share buyback programme is part of Vopak’s shareholder distributions programme of around EUR 1.7 billion through year-end 2030.

In addition to the multi-year share buyback programme, Vopak has enhanced its progressive dividend policy, through which the company intends to increase its dividend per share by 5 percent or more annually. Further details are available in the FY 2025 press release published on 25 February 2026.

The first tranche of the multi-year share buyback programme, of up to EUR 100 million, will commence on 26 February 2026 and end no later than 26 February 2027, barring unforeseen circumstances. Vopak will cancel the repurchased shares subject to the relevant board and shareholder approvals.

The share buyback programme will be executed pursuant to the safe harbour regime of the Market Abuse Regulation and within the limits of the existing authority granted at the 2025 Annual General Meeting on 23 April 2025, and, subsequently, the authority (if granted) by the 2026 Annual General Meeting on 22 April 2026.

The programme will be executed by an independent intermediary, allowing the execution of open market transactions during both open and closed periods. Vopak has confirmed the absence of any agreement with its existing shareholders regarding their potential participation in the share buyback programme.

The share buyback programme is separate from any share transactions Vopak may execute to cover obligations under its long-term incentive programmes for employees. The programme may be suspended, modified or discontinued at any time.

Vopak will provide weekly updates on the progress of the share buyback programme through press releases and transaction details on the company’s website for the duration of the programme.

For more information visit www.vopak.com 

Essar Energy Transition has announced that its subsidiary, Stanlow Terminals Limited (STL), has entered into a collaboration agreement with Spirit Energy and Progressive Energy Limited to explore the feasibility of a new, integrated carbon capture, storage and shipping facility.

The agreement intends to assess the joint business case and development planning feasibility of a CO₂ shipping import terminal, based at STL’s Tranmere Terminal within the Port of Liverpool and at the Stanlow Manufacturing Complex. The partnership will also assess the opportunity to transport CO₂ volumes received via the new STL shipping import terminals to Spirit Energy’s Morecambe Net Zero (MNZ) carbon store in the East Irish Sea.

The collaboration marks the latest step in the ambitious, multi-project vision to transform the Stanlow manufacturing complex into a decarbonised energy hub supporting long-term, sustainable jobs and industrial innovation across the region. It further supports Essar Energy Transition’s US$3 billion investment into its decarbonisation programme, aiming to become one of Europe’s leading low-carbon fuel producers.

Mike Gaynon, CEO of Stanlow Terminals Limited, welcomed the partnership. “We’re delighted to be working alongside Spirit Energy and Progressive Energy on this important collaboration. It brings together the right partners with the right expertise to open up new opportunities for CO₂ movement and storage and drives forward Stanlow’s broader decarbonisation ambitions. This work has the potential to strengthen the region’s industrial future, and we’re excited to work with our partners on this project,” he said.

Matt Browell-Hook, energy transition, decommissioning and projects director at Spirit Energy, emphasised the strategic importance of carbon capture and storage. “Carbon capture and storage is not the only answer to net zero 2050 but it is a key enabler to decarbonise industry in the UK. We are progressing with MNZ—one of the largest offshore carbon stores in the world—and through this new collaboration with Essar Energy Transition and Progressive Energy, we’re investigating the potential to provide a route to decarbonisation for emitters from around the UK via the Stanlow site. Partnerships such as these are crucial to deliver the goals of industrial decarbonisation, protecting existing jobs and boosting economic growth in the UK,” he stated.

Chris Manson Whitton, CEO of Progressive Energy Limited, highlighted the company’s contribution to the project. “Progressive Energy brings long-standing expertise in developing low-carbon infrastructure, and this collaboration gives us the opportunity to apply that to accelerate sustainable industry. Working alongside EET and Spirit Energy, we are focused on designing practical, technically robust solutions for capturing, transporting and storing CO₂ at scale. Our project development capability will help create the infrastructure needed to secure a strong future for UK industry, safeguard skilled jobs and strengthen the region’s position as a leader in low carbon energy innovation. We look forward to working closely with our partners to realise this opportunity,” he said.

For more information visit www.stanlowterminals.co.uk

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) will lead a high-level delegation to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on 22 to 26 February 2026 to deepen bilateral oil and gas ties between Venezuela and Africa.

As an honorary member of the African Petroleum Producers Organization, Venezuela has consistently supported Africa in its oil and gas endeavours.

“I am honoured to travel to Venezuela to promote our joint interest in making African energy poverty history. African energy investors will play a role working with their Venezuelan counterparts to rekindle the oil industry in Venezuela,” states NJ Ayuk, executive chairman of the African Energy Chamber, adding, “I look forward to working on discussions with our friends and allies in Venezuela to advance our mutually beneficial interest in ensuring global energy security, energy additions and, most importantly, improving quality of life through energy security.”

The delegation will meet with government officials, business leaders and energy stakeholders to foster bilateral energy trade relations and opportunities for future energy investments.

For more information visit www.EnergyChamber.org

Uniper has been awarded the EcoVadis Gold Medal, placing the company in the top 5 percent of companies in the electricity and gas sector globally. The achievement marks a significant improvement in the company’s sustainability performance, with its EcoVadis score rising from 63 in 2023 to 79 in 2025.

The score reflects progress across the four areas assessed by EcoVadis, one of the world’s leading sustainability rating providers: Environment, Labour & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement. Behind every point gained is concrete work that includes:

• Expanded and more transparent environmental reporting
• Stronger documentation on labour, human rights, and safety
• Enhanced information security aligned with ISO 27001
• Sustainability requirements systematically embedded in procurement

For Uniper, EcoVadis represents more than just a rating,it serves as a practical tool that helps the company make its sustainability efforts transparent, track progress, and continuously improve. The company stated that its work on sustainability continues.

For more information visit www.uniper.energy

With governments and operators from across Africa’s gas frontier confirmed to participate, the Invest in African Energy Forum (Paris, April 22–23, 2026) arrives as the continent’s LNG sector enters a new phase of growth. Major export projects are moving into expansion, emerging producers are scaling floating liquefaction capacity, and several large undeveloped gas discoveries are advancing toward commercialisation. Together, these developments are shaping where capital, partnerships, and infrastructure investment will flow across Africa’s next wave of LNG and gas opportunities.

Grand Tortue Ahmeyim Expansion – Mauritania & Senegal

With first LNG already achieved, the strategic focus has shifted to Phase 2 expansion of the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim development. Partners are advancing plans for a low-cost scale-up that could roughly double liquefaction capacity before the end of the decade, leveraging existing floating LNG infrastructure and proven offshore reserves. Because core infrastructure and export routes are already in place, Phase 2 represents one of the clearest near-term LNG growth opportunities in Africa, offering comparatively lower development risk alongside meaningful production upside.

Yakaar-Teranga – Senegal’s Pre-FID Gas Anchor

Senegal’s Yakaar‑Teranga discovery remains one of the world’s largest undeveloped gas resources, with commercialisation structure and domestic-versus-export allocation still under negotiation. This positioning places Yakaar-Teranga among the continent’s most consequential pre-FID gas opportunities, capable of underpinning future LNG trains, long-term gas-to-power supply or industrial feedstock development – making it a focal point for upstream financiers and infrastructure developers evaluating scalable, long-life reserves.

Nigeria’s Domestic LNG & Gas-to-Power Build-Out

Nigeria is accelerating gas monetisation through supply growth, LNG expansion and downstream utilisation. A 2026 gas master plan targets an additional 1.8 billion cubic feet per day (bcf/d) of supply, forming part of ambitions to reach 10 bcf/d by 2027 and 12 bcf/d by 2030, alongside more than $60 billion in sector investment. Parallel rollout of mini-LNG and small-scale liquefaction projects is expanding gas access for off-grid industry, transport and distributed power – creating multiple entry points for midstream investors, technology providers and infrastructure financiers across the value chain. For capital markets, Nigeria’s strategy signals a shift from export-only LNG toward integrated domestic gas ecosystems with diversified revenue streams.

Libya’s Gas Redevelopment Potential

Libya is working to raise gas production to nearly one billion cubic feet per day in the second half of 2026 through offshore redevelopment and the rehabilitation of legacy infrastructure, with the dual aim of stabilising domestic electricity supply and rebuilding export capacity. If financing conditions and political alignment continue to improve, the country could re-emerge as a major Mediterranean gas supplier later this decade – representing one of North Africa’s most significant, yet still undercapitalised, gas investment opportunities.

Congo LNG – Fast-Track Floating Liquefaction Growth

The Congo LNG development has rapidly positioned the Republic of Congo as a new LNG exporter. Phase 2 began operations in December 2025, adding 2.4 million tonnes per year of capacity and lifting total output to about 3 million tonnes annually. Built around floating LNG units and modular upstream tie-ins, the project demonstrates a replicable, lower-cost commercialisation model – reducing timelines compared with traditional onshore terminals. For investors, the modular structure and expansion-ready design create opportunities across upstream supply, LNG shipping, processing services and regional gas infrastructure partnerships, offering a clear pathway to participate in a fast-growing and relatively lower-risk African LNG market.

For more information visit www.energycapitalpower.com

INEOS has announced a €300 million investment, supported by French government grants, that will deliver the next phase of its Lavera regeneration plan and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 331,000 tonnes per annum—the equivalent of taking over 70,000 cars off the road each year. The programme will also improve the long-term competitiveness of one of France’s most important industrial assets, securing thousands of skilled jobs.

The French government is providing support under the ‘Appel d’Offres Grands Projets Industriels de Décarbonation’ (AO GPID) scheme, part of the France 2030 investment plan and operated by ADEME. AO GPID provides annual grants to support large industrial decarbonisation projects that deliver verifiable emissions reductions over a 15-year period to reduce France’s reliance on fossil-based energy.

Image of the Lavera site: Source INEOS

At a time when chemical plants are closing across Europe due to pressure from high energy costs and global competition, this investment will provide stability for around 2,000 direct employees and more than 10,000 workers across the wider supply chain. Lavera is a central pillar of French manufacturing, with its products and pipelines feeding directly into essential value chains across pharmaceuticals, healthcare, aerospace, transport, clean energy, food packaging and defence. Maintaining these capabilities inside France is considered vital for industrial strength, economic resilience and the country’s long-term technological leadership, particularly as Europe faces rising dependence on imports from China and the United States.

The upgrades will make Lavera a profitable, lower-carbon facility with a clear pathway to net zero as electrification and carbon capture technologies mature. The investment will also support French circular economy objectives by enabling the Lavera cracker to process more sustainable feedstocks made from recycled plastics and bio-sourced materials, replacing fossil-based inputs.

Combined with the €250 million investment announced in November 2025, the total planned investment in the Lavera site now exceeds €550 million.

INEOS continues to call for urgent political action to restore competitiveness in Europe’s strategically vital chemical sector, warning that without such action, millions of jobs will be lost, emissions will rise, and key European industries will become dangerously dependent on imports.

The announcement underlines INEOS’ long-term commitment to France. The company stated it will work closely with the French Government throughout the investment programme, from planning through to delivery, to ensure Lavera remains competitive, resilient and aligned with France’s industrial and climate objectives.

For more information visit www.ineos.com

Caturus, an independent integrated natural gas and LNG company, has announced the signing of a Sale and Purchase Agreement between Commonwealth LNG and Aramco Trading, a subsidiary of Saudi Aramco. Under the SPA, Aramco Trading will purchase 1 million tonnes per annum of LNG from the Commonwealth LNG export facility currently under development on the Gulf Coast in Cameron Parish, Louisiana.

David Lawler, CEO of Caturus, welcomed the new partnership. “We’re pleased to welcome Aramco Trading among an expanding group of prominent international customers who have entered into offtake contracts from the Commonwealth LNG facility,” he said. “This agreement highlights the strong international demand for U.S. LNG and underscores how our longstanding relationships and capabilities position Caturus to serve global markets.”

Lawler added that the contract demonstrates the differentiated value Caturus can deliver through its global reach in offering wellhead-to-water services.

Mohammed K. Al Mulhim, president & CEO of Aramco Trading, emphasised the strategic importance of the agreement. “This agreement reflects Aramco Trading’s efforts to secure a reliable, long-term energy supply for global markets while strengthening our presence in the LNG sector,” he said. “Our contract with Commonwealth LNG allows us to diversify supply sources, strengthen energy security, and deliver value across the entire energy chain.”

Commonwealth LNG is advancing toward a final investment decision with visibility to secure its remaining capacity. Aramco Trading joins Glencore, JERA, PETRONAS, Mercuria, and EQT among international energy companies that have entered into long-term offtake contracts with the platform.

Commonwealth’s Phase 1 development is expected to generate approximately $3.5 billion in annual export revenue. The project is anticipated to employ approximately 2,000 workers at the peak of construction and provide approximately 300 full-time jobs when the facility begins operations in 2030. Technip Energies, a world leader in modular engineering, design, and delivery of LNG projects, is providing engineering, procurement, and construction services.

The SPA will become fully effective upon the satisfaction of customary conditions, including an affirmative final investment decision on the Commonwealth LNG project.

For more information visit www.caturus.com

Wood has secured a 16-month contract extension with Shell UK Limited to provide technical personnel and engineering support services across key assets in the Southern North Sea.

Over 150 Wood specialists will work across the Leman and Sole Pit offshore gas platforms, associated normally unattended installations (NUIs), the Kroonborg walk-to-work (W2W) vessel and the Shell-operated Bacton Gas Plant.

The Leman and Sole Pit platforms transport gas supply to the Shell Bacton Gas Plant, which is connected to the National Transmission system and contributes up to 33% of the UK’s gas supply.

Since the contract was initially awarded in 2021, Wood has increased its on-site workforce by 25 percent to service these strategically important assets.

Darren Anderson, senior vice president of UK operations at Wood, emphasised the importance of the work. “Maintaining and optimising the UK’s oil and gas producing assets is essential to ensure reliable, homegrown energy for millions of people across the country,” he said. “We are proud to continue delivering the expertise and local knowledge that underpin this success.”

Wood has worked with Shell UK Limited for decades, delivering brownfield engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) across offshore and onshore assets.

For more information visit www.woodplc.com

Erasmus Energy Club has announced a new collaboration with Royal Vopak, connecting a team of international students to work on advancing the energy transition at one of Vopak’s sites.

Over the coming 10 weeks, the students will tackle a concrete industry challenge: increasing the share of electrically generated steam while operating within the constraints of the local electricity grid. The project focuses on how industrial processes that traditionally rely on fossil-based steam can transition toward electric alternatives without overloading the grid infrastructure.

The initiative requires both technical insight and strategic thinking around infrastructure, capacity constraints and system integration, providing students with hands-on experience addressing real-world energy transition challenges.

Erasmus Energy Club expressed appreciation for Vopak’s collaboration and confidence in the partnership, stating they look forward to the innovative solutions and insights the students will develop throughout the project.

For more information visit www.eur.nl

Baker Hughes, an energy technology company, has announced a multiyear preferred provider agreement with Marathon Petroleum, the largest US petroleum refiner, to supply hydrocarbon treatment products and services across refineries throughout the United States. The agreement was signed during Baker Hughes’ 26th Annual Meeting in Florence, Italy.

Under the agreement, Baker Hughes will provide its portfolio of downstream chemical technologies, including XERIC™ heavy oil demulsifiers, TOPGUARD™ corrosion inhibitors, BIOQUEST™ renewable additives, and digital monitoring tools. These technologies will be deployed across 12 oil refineries and two renewable fuel facilities in the United States to support reliable operations and environmental compliance while reducing nonproductive time.

Amerino Gatti, executive vice president of oilfield services & equipment at Baker Hughes, underscored the importance of the partnership. “Providing the energy that powers modern industry requires refiners to be flexible, efficient, reliable and sustainable,” he said. “The solutions engineered by Baker Hughes are helping our customers meet that challenge. Baker Hughes has established itself as the leader in downstream chemicals, and our three decades of collaboration with Marathon Petroleum are a testament to the innovation, commitment and expertise of our team.”

The agreement builds on a longstanding relationship between the two companies spanning three decades, reinforcing Baker Hughes’ position as a leading provider of downstream chemical solutions in the US refining sector.

For more information visit www.bakerhughes.com

HELLENiQ ENERGY in collaboration with Chevron, signed today the lease agreements with the Hellenic Republic for the exploration of four offshore blocks located south of Crete and the Peloponnese, marking a significant milestone for Greece’s upstream development.

The successful consortium, with Chevron at 70 percent interest and being the operator and HELLENiQ ENERGY at 30 percent interest, was selected following a competitive international tender launched by the Greek State in 2025.

The four offshore blocks – South Crete 1, South Crete 2, South of Peloponnese, and Block A2 – cover a total area of approximately 47,000 square kilometres. Under the terms of the lease agreements, the joint venture will undertake a three-phase exploration programme to help assess the hydrocarbon potential of the areas.

The target areas lie in ultra-deepwater settings – some beyond 1,500 meters of sea depth – with complex geological structures.

Andreas Shiamishis, CEO of HELLENiQ ENERGY, commented:

“This new concession agreement represents a strategically important step in HELLENiQ ENERGY’s long-term growth strategy and the further diversification of our portfolio. While investing in the energy transition, we recognize that hydrocarbons will continue to play a critical role in ensuring security of supply for many years to come.

 

Our participation in offshore exploration reflects a value-driven approach, focused on selective investments and partnerships that combine scale, technical excellence and deep industry experience. The collaboration with Chevron, one of the world’s leading energy companies, significantly strengthens this effort and underlines the importance we place on working alongside partners with proven expertise in complex offshore environments”.

Gavin Lewis, Chevron’s vice president of Global New Ventures, stated:

“We look forward to working with our partners HELLENiQ ENERGY and the Hellenic Republic to evaluate the hydrocarbon potential of these frontier areas. With our expertise in developing oil and gas projects worldwide, Chevron has the resources, experience, and technology to advance and unlock new energy supplies in this frontier region”.

The signing ceremony took place in Athens in the presence of the Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis and senior representatives from the Ministry of Environment and Energy, Chevron, and HELLENiQ ENERGY.

Signatory parties were the Minister of Environment and Energy, Stavros Papastavrou and the CEO of Hellenic Hydrocarbons and Energy Resources Management company (HEREMA), Aristofanis Stefatos, representing the Greek state, while Chevron and HELLENiQ ENERGY were represented by Gavin Lewis, VP of Global New Ventures, and by Andreas Shiamishis, Group CEO, respectively.

The lease agreements are now subject to ratification by the Hellenic Parliament.

For more information visit www.helleniqenergy.gr

Zeeco, a global leader in advanced combustion and environmental solutions, has announced the acquisition of Applicot Corporation, a leading Japanese combustion company. The strategic move strengthens Zeeco’s footprint in the Japanese domestic market and enhances local support for Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) customers throughout the region.

Applicot has operated as an official licensee of Zeeco for more than 35 years. The acquisition combines Applicot’s strong market presence with Zeeco’s global resources, manufacturing infrastructure, and innovative technologies to deliver comprehensive combustion solutions to customers in Japan.

Darton Zink, president and CEO of Zeeco, highlighted the significance of the transaction. “Bringing Applicot fully into the Zeeco family marks an exciting milestone in our growth strategy,” he said. “This acquisition reinforces our commitment to providing localised expertise backed by global capabilities, ensuring our customers receive the highest level of service and support.”

While Applicot’s core business has historically focused on flare systems, Zeeco plans to expand its capabilities to include a full range of combustion and environmental solutions, delivering greater value to customers across multiple industries.

Susumu Morita, managing director of Applicot, welcomed the transition. “Zeeco has played a trusted and important role in Applicot’s history for decades,” he said. “Becoming a fully integrated member of the Zeeco family is a natural progression and one that creates new opportunities for our team and the customers we proudly serve.”

Applicot will continue as a trusted brand in Japan, operating as a wholly owned subsidiary of Zeeco. The acquisition was finalised on January 13, 2026.

For more information visit www.zeeco.com

The Tank Storage Association has officially launched its 2026 Careers Week campaign, an initiative aimed at showcasing career and apprenticeship opportunities in the bulk storage and energy infrastructure sector.

From business and operations to engineering, safety, marketing, IT, supply and trading, and many other disciplines, the sector offers a wide range of rewarding career opportunities. It also provides excellent opportunities for graduates in environmental science, chemistry and engineering, as well as training and apprenticeships.

Careers Week will run from 16 to 20 February 2026 and aims to encourage everyone to learn about and consider a future in the bulk storage and energy infrastructure industry. Throughout the week, the Tank Storage Association will be sharing stories, career insights, and information about apprenticeships and training pathways.

Peter Davidson, CEO of the Tank Storage Association, said: “After the positive response to our first Careers Week in 2025, we are proud to be launching the campaign for a second year and shine a spotlight on the people and opportunities that drive the bulk storage and energy infrastructure sector. Through Careers Week, we invite everyone to explore what it’s like to work in this dynamic and rewarding sector and how to take the next steps.”

 Anyone interested in learning more about careers and apprenticeships in the bulk storage and energy infrastructure sector, can visit www.jobs.tankstorage.org.uk

With just two weeks remaining until the Africa Energy Indaba, momentum is rapidly building for what promises to be one of the most influential energy gatherings on the continent.

The upcoming edition will convene:

• Fifteen African Energy Ministers
• The African Union Commissioner
• Representatives from Africa’s Power Pools
• Continental utilities
• Leading investors, regulators and infrastructure developers

All under one roof.

The Africa Energy Indaba continues to serve as a strategic platform where policy direction is shaped, procurement priorities are discussed, and energy partnerships are forged to accelerate Africa’s power sector transformation.

Key Programme Highlights Include:

• Mission 300 Day hosted by the World Bank, AfDB, GEAPP, SEforALL and the Rockefeller Foundation
• Indaba Energy Leaders Dialogue hosted by Pele Green Energy
• Ministerial Roundtable hosted by AUDA-NEPAD and GET.invest
• Power Pools Forum
• Deep Dive Energy Forums
• A dynamic Exhibition Showcase featuring leading energy technologies and solution providers
• The South African Energy Investment Forum, hosted by the Department of Electricity and Energy

“The Africa Energy Indaba provides a critical platform for alignment between governments, utilities, investors and solution providers. With ministerial participation at this level, meaningful dialogue can translate into tangible action,” said Liz Hart, Managing Director of the Africa Energy Indaba.

Africa’s energy gap remains one of the defining development challenges of the decade. To meet power demand, expand capacity and achieve universal electricity access by 2030, the continent will require a dramatic scale-up in both infrastructure and investment. Studies estimate Africa needs around US $450–$500 billion in power sector investment between now and 2030 — roughly US $60–$65 billion per year — to expand generation, transmission and access capacity across the continent.

Current infrastructure shortfalls mean hundreds of millions still lack reliable electricity, and financing gaps, especially in clean energy, must be closed if Africa is to unlock economic growth, industrialisation and energy security.  As Africa accelerates grid expansion, renewable integration and infrastructure investment, the Indaba offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage directly with decision-makers shaping the continent’s energy future.

With momentum building and delegate registrations accelerating, stakeholders across the energy value chain are encouraged to secure their participation.

With seats filling quickly, stakeholders across the energy value chain are encouraged to secure their participation.

Don’t miss your seat at Africa’s energy table.

For more information and to register click :Register now

The licensees of the Albuskjell, Vest Ekofisk and Tommeliten Gamma fields, operated by ConocoPhillips Skandinavia AS, have submitted two Plans for Development and Operation (PDOs) to the Ministry of Energy for the Previously Produced Fields Project (PPF) in the Greater Ekofisk Area (GEA) in the North Sea.

The project comprises a combined redevelopment of the three fields with estimated recoverable gas and condensate resources of 90–120 million barrels of oil equivalent. The development builds on the subsea development factory in the GEA, where nearly 400 million barrels of oil equivalent have been added through four development projects across various licences in recent years, including the PPF Project. Advanced well technology and more efficient subsea concepts for Tor II, Tommeliten A, and Eldfisk North have enabled these developments.

Steinar Våge, president, Europe and North Africa for ConocoPhillips, emphasised the strategic importance of the investment. “With our partners, we are making long-term, profitable investments in the Greater Ekofisk Area to enable new resource development and production at a low cost of supply. This project adds value and boosts Europe’s energy security with additional gas,” he said.

Planned investments total approximately NOK 14 billion gross for Albuskjell and Vest Ekofisk, and about NOK 5.5 billion gross for Tommeliten Gamma. The development will include 11 wells and four subsea templates tied back to the Ekofisk Complex via a shared multiphase pipeline. Albuskjell will have two subsea templates and six wells, while Vest Ekofisk and Tommeliten Gamma will each have one subsea template with three and two associated wells respectively.

The PDOs are subject to regulatory approvals, with first gas expected in the fourth quarter of 2028. Peak production is anticipated to reach 36,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (gross). Estimates indicate the project will create 5,900 jobs during the project execution period, with more than 80% of contracts awarded to Norwegian companies, contributing to significant employment.

About Previously Produced Fields

Albuskjell and Vest Ekofisk are located in PL018B and PL018F, while PL044 and PL044D comprise Tommeliten Gamma. The three fields were shut in before end-of-life in 1998 due to decommissioning of infrastructure and limited processing capacity at Ekofisk. Capacity is expected to become available in the late 2020s, enabling future gas production from these fields.

ConocoPhillips operates the fields with the following partner and licence interests:

Albuskjell & Vest Ekofisk:

• ConocoPhillips Skandinavia AS: 35.1 percent
• Vår Energi ASA: 52.3 percent
• Orlen Upstream Norway AS: 7.6 percent
• Petoro AS: 5 percent

Tommeliten Gamma:

• ConocoPhillips Skandinavia AS: 28.3 percent
• Vår Energi ASA: 9.1 percent
• Orlen Upstream Norway AS: 62.6 percent

For more information visit www.conocophillips.no

Viva Energy Australia’s Geelong refinery has received international certification for producing co-processed renewable diesel and advanced recycled plastics, marking a significant advancement in Australia’s transition toward cleaner, low-carbon fuels and sustainable packaging.

The certification for renewable diesel represents an important breakthrough for Viva Energy, positioning the Geelong refinery as an early manufacturer of low-carbon liquid fuels in Australia. The co-processed renewable diesel produced will enable diesel users, including heavy vehicle fleet operators, to reduce their carbon footprint without requiring different technology or modifications to existing vehicles.

By transforming used cooking oil and waste plastics into valuable products, Viva Energy is supporting businesses in reducing emissions and adopting greener alternatives without the need for costly upgrades or operational disruptions.

The certification marks a milestone for both environmental sustainability and the Australian economy, demonstrating the potential for existing refinery infrastructure to play a key role in the country’s decarbonisation efforts.

For more information visit www.vivaenergy.com.au

Blue Circle Olefins and Chane have signed an agreement for co-siting and logistic services for Blue Circle’s 200 ktonne olefins production facility at Chane’s Terminal Nieuwe Maas in the Port of Rotterdam. The agreement formalises a strategic partnership between the companies and provides Blue Circle Olefins with a strategic location to develop its circular Methanol to Olefins (MTO) production facility, benefitting from Chane’s professional logistic services and storage facilities for renewable methanol feedstocks.

Ralph Koekkoek, CEO of Blue Circle Olefins, expressed satisfaction with the partnership. “We are very pleased to partner with Chane for our ProjectNL in Rotterdam, securing an outstanding location for the development and operation of our MTO facility,” he said. “After a comprehensive evaluation of potential sites, we are confident this location offers the optimal conditions for the project. We are particularly enthusiastic about the synergies available at Chane’s site and its close proximity to our clients in the Port area. This partnership represents an important milestone in our journey, enabling us to move forward with site-specific engineering.”

Fabian Ziegler, CEO of Chane, highlighted the terminal’s role in supporting new industrial development. “This agreement demonstrates how Chane’s terminal infrastructure can support the development of new industrial projects,” he stated. “By hosting Blue Circle Olefins at Chane’s Terminal Nieuwe Maas in the Port of Rotterdam, we are providing a well-connected site with the logistics, storage and operational services required to integrate methanol-based feedstocks efficiently into existing port infrastructure. We look forward to supporting Blue Circle Olefins as the project advances into the next development phase.”

Boudewijn Siemons, CEO of Port of Rotterdam, emphasised the significance of the agreement in the context of the port’s sustainability transition. “The Port of Rotterdam is facing a unique challenge with the transition to a sustainable port taking centre stage while available space is becoming increasingly scarce,” he said. “It is therefore excellent news that Blue Circle Olefins has found the right location at the Chane site for the further development of its circular methanol-to-olefins plant. This underlines the strength of the highly integrated Rotterdam port industrial cluster, where companies can collaborate intensively and benefit optimally from each other thanks to their proximity.”

For more information visit www.chane.eu

A single misfill can contaminate inventory, halt transfers, and lead to safety and environmental incidents. This risk affects not only tank farms and tank terminals, but also on-site tank farms, storage tanks and process tanks at chemical and process plants – where chemicals are delivered, temporarily stored, or fed into production processes.

With LiquiScope, SensoTech GmbH provides a solution for automated, real-time liquid identification. It verifies incoming product inline and provides early alerts when deviations occur.

Ultrasonic sound velocity as a “digital fingerprint”

LiquiScope is based on continuous ultrasonic measurement of sound velocity in the flowing liquid. The measured values are automatically compared with stored reference values – similar to a “digital fingerprint”. If the values deviate from the expected product, an alert is triggered immediately so filling or transfer can be stopped before a misfill occurs.

Applications: tank farms and on-site storage in the process industries

The solution addresses applications where liquids must be clearly verified before storage, custody transfer, or feeding into the process – for example:

• Tank farms & tank terminals: verification at goods receipt before storage, and during transfers/product changeovers
• Chemical and process plants: incoming inspection at on-site tank farms (hazardous materials storage) as well as at storage/process tanks before feeding into the process
• Pipelines and loading/unloading points: monitoring the product before it reaches the tank farm or plant

Simplified setup for single-product tanks

In many applications, one defined liquid is assigned to each tank. Here, LiquiScope can be used as a setpoint-versus-actual check: a target sound-velocity value is stored; if the measured value falls significantly outside the tolerance, a deviation is detected and filling can be interrupted.

Integration with existing automation

Recorded data is available locally on the device display and centrally in the control system. This allows automatic product verification to be integrated into existing workflows – helping operators increase process safety, quality assurance and efficiency while reducing manual checks.

“With LiquiScope, operators add an additional, independent verification layer at goods receipt and during transfers  in real time and directly in the process. This helps prevent misfills and sustainably reduce operational risk. [Robert Benecke, managing director, SensoTech]

For more information visit www.sensotech.com