ONEOK, Inc. announced plans to expand its pipeline capacity to connect Mid-Continent and Gulf Coast refined products supply with the greater Denver area, addressing the growing demand and enhancing connectivity with Denver International Airport.

The project included constructing a new 230-mile, 16-inch diameter pipeline from Scott City, Kansas, to DIA, and upgrading certain pump stations along the existing refined products pipeline system. The total system capacity was set to increase by 35,000 barrels per day with additional expansion capabilities. The project, estimated to cost approximately $480 million, was expected to be completed by mid-2026.

Following the close of an open season earlier this year, the project was fully subscribed under long-term contracts.

Pierce H. Norton II, ONEOK president and chief executive officer, stated, “ONEOK is uniquely positioned to help meet the growing demand for refined products and renewable fuels across the greater Denver area of Colorado. This project will provide additional needed capacity for various transportation fuels, including aviation and sustainable aviation fuel, to support increasing demand from the expansion of Denver International Airport.”

Norton added, “This announcement is another example of the attractive-return growth opportunities ahead of us following the acquisition of our refined products and crude oil businesses. We remain focused on addressing growing energy demand while maintaining our commitment to safe and reliable operations.”

ONEOK, headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a leading midstream operator providing gathering, processing, fractionation, transportation, and storage services. Its extensive pipeline network of over 50,000 miles transports natural gas, natural gas liquid, refined products, and crude oil to meet domestic and international energy demands, contributing to energy security and providing reliable energy solutions. As one of North America’s largest diversified energy infrastructure companies, ONEOK continues to deliver energy that makes a difference in the lives of people in the US and around the world.

For more information visit www.oneok.com

Gasum and Equinor have announced a new long-term contract that will see Gasum continue to supply liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Equinor’s fleet of vessels. This agreement builds upon the success of their previous partnership and reinforces their commitment to sustainable energy. Gasum’s bunker vessels, including Coralius, Kairos, and Coral Energy, will be utilised for the bunkering operations.

In addition to LNG supply, the agreement also includes support services such as cooling down and gassing up, which have been a part of Gasum’s previous collaboration with Equinor. Gasum has already organized three separate LNG cool down operations for Equinor in Skagen this year.

Both Gasum and Equinor share a common goal of achieving sustainability in the energy sector. Equinor aims to become a net-zero emissions energy company by 2050. By using LNG in maritime transport, the companies can achieve significant environmental benefits. LNG enables the complete removal of sulfur oxides (SOx) and particles, as well as a reduction of up to 85 percent in nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions. Additionally, LNG reduces CO2 emissions by at least 20 percent compared to conventional marine fuel such as marine gasoil (MGO). Moreover, LNG can be interchanged with liquefied biogas (LBG/bio-LNG), which further reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 90 percent compared to conventional fuel.

By utilising LNG and bio-LNG, the maritime industry can immediately reduce emissions instead of waiting for future solutions. Gasum has set a strategic goal to bring seven terawatt hours (7 TWh) of renewable gas to the market annually by 2027. Achieving this target would result in a combined carbon dioxide reduction of 1.8 million tonnes per year for Gasum’s customers. This commitment highlights Gasum’s dedication to driving the transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

For more information visit www.gasum.com/en/

Greenergy’s Board announced today the appointment of Adam Traeger as chief executive officer, effective August 1st 2024. Traeger will succeed the current CEO, Christian Flach, who is retiring from the company.

Greenergy founder and chairman, Andrew Owens, commented: “Adam will be an excellent CEO. He has been with Greenergy for over 15 years and has a deep and broad understanding of the business, making him the outstanding candidate to lead Greenergy as it embarks on its next chapter. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Christian for his contribution over the last five years and we wish both our colleagues the very best for the future.”

Outgoing CEO, Christian Flach, expressed his sentiments: “It has been a privilege to serve Greenergy, its employees, and customers. After five years and with the forthcoming change of ownership, it is now the opportune time for me to step back. I have greatly enjoyed working alongside Adam and I know that he is the right person to take the business forward. I congratulate him on his new position.”

Incoming CEO, Adam Traeger, shared his thoughts: “I would like to thank the Board for their trust. Since joining Greenergy in 2008, I have seen the company transform through many growth phases. I am now looking forward to working with our people to drive the next growth phases of the company, while maintaining the quality and reliable supply for our customers that Greenergy has been built on.”

Adam Traeger’s extensive experience within Greenergy positions him well to steer the company towards continued success and growth, ensuring it remains a leader in providing quality and reliable energy solutions.

For more information visit www.greenergy.com

Energy Transfer LP and WTG Midstream, LLC  announced a definitive agreement in which Energy Transfer will acquire WTG Midstream Holdings LLC for approximately $3.25 billion. The transaction involves $2.45 billion in cash and about 50.8 million newly issued Energy Transfer common units. The acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2024, pending regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.

WTG Midstream offers extensive midstream services, including wellhead gathering, intra-basin transportation, and processing. Its 6,000-mile pipeline network serves key operators in the Midland Basin, particularly in Martin, Howard, Upton, Reagan, and Irion counties. WTG operates eight processing plants with a combined capacity of approximately 1.3 billion cubic feet per day and is constructing two additional plants to add another 0.4 Bcf/d. The first of these new plants is slated for service in the third quarter of 2024, and the second in the third quarter of 2025.

The WTG system processes significant volumes from large-cap, investment-grade producers with firm, long-term contracts and acreage dedications. The addition of WTG assets will enhance Energy Transfer’s access to growing natural gas and natural gas liquids supplies, boosting its Permian operations and downstream businesses. The acquisition also includes a 20 percent stake in the BANGL Pipeline, a 425-mile NGL pipeline connecting the Permian Basin to the Texas Gulf Coast with an initial capacity of 125,000 barrels per day, expandable to over 300,000 Bbls/d.

This acquisition is expected to positively impact Energy Transfer’s financial performance by generating additional revenue from downstream NGL transportation and fractionation fees. Energy Transfer anticipates the WTG assets will contribute approximately $0.04 of Distributable Cash Flow per common unit in 2025, increasing to around $0.07 per common unit by 2027. WTG’s cash flows are supported by a high-quality, predominantly investment-grade customer base with an average contract life exceeding eight years.

For more information visit www.energytransfer.com

Air Liquide’s innovative large-scale CO₂ liquefaction technology, Cryocap™ LQ, has been chosen by Stockholm Exergi, Stockholm’s energy company, to support its Bio-Energy Carbon Capture & Storage project. This cutting-edge technology is a significant addition to Air Liquide’s portfolio, advancing the development of large-scale carbon capture & storage value chains. The CO₂ liquefaction solution enables the transportation of CO₂ over long distances to carbon sinks for permanent storage, thereby enhancing the viability of CCS projects and the emergence of a low-carbon industry.

Under the agreement, Air Liquide will provide the CO₂ liquefaction technology and equipment for the BECCS project, which will be installed at an existing heat and power biomass (bio-cogeneration) plant in Stockholm. The Cryocap™ LQ CO₂ liquefaction unit supplied by Air Liquide will be one of the largest in the world, with a capacity of 3,500 tonnes per day. Once liquefied, the CO₂ will be transported for permanent storage. The BECCS facility aims to liquefy and store around eight million tonnes of biogenic CO₂ over its first ten years of operation. The BECCS project receives support from the European Innovation Fund, one of the world’s largest programmes for promoting innovative low-carbon technologies.

Air Liquide’s Cryocap™ LQ technology, which leverages the company’s expertise in cryogenics, is distinguished by its chemical-free, non-flammable process and compact design. Additionally, this advanced setup will enable the recovery and reuse of heat generated from the process to supply Stockholm’s district heating network. These features contribute to enhanced sustainability, safety, and best-in-class energy efficiency compared to traditional liquefaction solutions.

Philippe Merino, group vice president supervising engineering & construction at Air Liquide, stated:

“We are pleased that Air Liquide’s technology has been selected for the Stockholm Exergi innovative CCS project. Cryocap™ LQ CO₂ liquefaction technology is a new addition to Air Liquide’s portfolio of low-carbon technologies and is particularly suited to large-scale CCS projects. In line with Air Liquide’s strategic plan ADVANCE, our ambition is to contribute actively to the emergence of a low-carbon society. Drawing on our innovative capabilities and expertise, we are able to help our customers achieve their decarbonisation goals and forge a sustainable future.”

The selection of Cryocap™ LQ technology for the BECCS project marks a significant step towards the realisation of a sustainable and low-carbon future, reinforcing Air Liquide’s commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.

For more information visit www.airliquide.com

TE H2, a joint venture between TotalEnergies and EREN Groupe, along with VERBUND, Austria’s leading electricity company, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Republic of Tunisia to explore the implementation of a large green hydrogen project named “H2 Notos,” aimed at exporting to Central Europe via pipelines.

H2 Notos plans to produce green hydrogen using electrolysers powered by extensive onshore wind and solar projects, supplied with desalinated seawater. The project aims to produce 200,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually in its initial phase, with potential scalability to one million tonnes per year in South Tunisia. Access to the European market will be facilitated through the “SoutH2 Corridor,” a hydrogen pipeline project connecting North Africa to Italy, Austria, and Germany, expected to be operational around 2030.

TE H2 and VERBUND will lead the development, financing, construction, and operation of the integrated project, encompassing green electricity production and green hydrogen production. VERBUND will also coordinate the transport of the produced hydrogen to Central Europe.

David Corchia, CEO of TE H2, remarked: “The signing of this MOU with the Republic of Tunisia marks the actual start of this highly ambitious project after months of work and interactions with all stakeholders. We are delighted to partner with VERBUND to support the development of such a pioneering and ambitious endeavour in such a strategic location. H2 Notos has the potential to become a significant supplier of green hydrogen for Europe while fostering significant job creation in Tunisia. We are entering into a phase of greenfield development and major technical work to assess the feasibility of the project and we will need to further deepen the highly constructive and fruitful collaboration we have enjoyed with the national and local authorities through H2 Notos.”

Fatma Thabet Chiboub, Tunisia’s minister of industry, mines, and Energy, stated: “This agreement with TE H2 and VERBUND marks a significant step forward in our quest for clean, sustainable energy. Tunisia, firmly committed to its energy transition, sees in this project a strategic pivot to strengthen its attractiveness as a destination of choice for foreign investment in renewable energies.”

Michael Strugl, CEO of VERBUND AG, added: “Tunisia is a particularly important upstream region in terms of scalability and competitiveness and a significant part of VERBUND’s hydrogen plans. We have set ourselves the goal of supplying the European industry with green hydrogen. By combining competitive hydrogen production in Tunisia and pipeline-based transportation, we can ensure a long-term supply at scale to support a sustainable transition of our customers to green hydrogen as well as support a sustainable economic development in Tunisia. We are delighted to be working with a strong consortium capable of realising GW-scale projects and look forward to developing them in partnership and close collaboration with the Tunisian authorities and population.”

For more information visit www.totalenergies.com

QatarEnergy has signed an agreement with Chevron to acquire a 20 percent working interest in a production sharing contract for Block 5 offshore Suriname. According to the agreement, Chevron will retain a 40 percent interest, while Paradise Oil Company, an affiliate of Suriname’s national oil company “Staatsolie,” will own the remaining 40 percent.

In his remarks on the occasion, His Excellency Mr. Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, the minister of state for energy affairs and the president and CEO of QatarEnergy, stated: “This agreement highlights our continued commitment to exploring the promising basins of Suriname and marks an exciting new partnership with Chevron in the international upstream sector.”

Minister Al-Kaabi added, “We are pleased to conclude this acquisition with our partners and look forward to working with them in Block 5, offshore Suriname. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the authorities of the Republic of Suriname and our partner Chevron for their support in reaching this agreement.”

Block 5 is located offshore Suriname in shallow water depths of about 30-45 meters. The license is currently proceeding to its second exploration phase with a commitment to drill an exploration well.

For more information visit www.qatarenergy.qa

The fifth edition of the Industrial Valve Summit, held at the Bergamo Exhibition Centre from 14th to 16th May 2024, concluded with unprecedented success. Promoted by Confindustria Bergamo and Promoberg, this premier international event dedicated to industrial valve technologies and flow control solutions set new records in visitor attendance, exhibitor participation, and the number of scientific conferences.

IVS 2024 welcomed 15,000 visitors from 69 countries, a 25 percent increase from the previous edition’s 12,000 guests. The event featured 325 exhibitors from 14 countries, marking a 13 percent rise compared to 2022. The international presence was particularly notable, with foreign companies comprising 20 percent of the exhibitors, doubling their representation from the last summit.

The scientific programme of IVS also saw significant expansion, offering 52 events including conferences, roundtables, workshops, case studies, and laboratories—an increase of over 50 percent from the 34 technical events held in 2022. To accommodate this growth, two additional conference rooms were constructed in Pavilion C. The exhibition space spanned more than 15,000 square metres across three pavilions, solidifying IVS as a crucial platform for the global industrial valve and flow control supply chain.

The summit commenced with the opening conference on 14th May, during which the IVS-Prometeia Observatory report “The Oil & Gas Valve Industry in Italy 2024” was presented. This report highlighted Italy’s leading position in the European industrial valve sector, producing nearly 40 percent of Europe’s oil and gas valves. The sector’s production value in Italy approached EUR 3 billion in 2022, with a turnover increase of 12 percent from 2021, despite not yet returning to pre-pandemic levels. The industry’s workforce also grew, employing over 10,000 people, primarily concentrated in the province of Bergamo. Italian valve exports for the oil and gas industry surged by 5.7 percent in 2023, driven by demand in the Middle East and Asia.

The main exhibition days, 15th and 16th May, saw vibrant activity as the pavilions hosted international participants. A special matchmaking event on 17th May facilitated interactions between foreign delegations and key players in the extended oil and gas supply chain.

The partnerships with ICE, AVR ANIMA, Confindustria Assafrica & Mediterraneo, and SACE significantly boosted high-level international attendance. The summit gathered over 100 qualified end-user buyers and international EPCs, fostering valuable exchanges within the energy sector. Additionally, a delegation from Iraq, coordinated by UNIDO ITPO Italy, participated in the event.

Giovanna Ricuperati, president of Confindustria Bergamo, praised the summit for highlighting a cutting-edge sector and fostering significant business opportunities and scientific dialogue. Luciano Patelli, President of Promoberg, emphasized the summit’s role in promoting Bergamo and its positive impact on tourism. Francesco Apuzzo, President of Valve Campus, noted the increased value and number of scientific conferences, with a focus on sustainability and artificial intelligence in the industry.

The organisers have announced that the sixth edition of IVS will take place at the Fiera di Bergamo from 19th to 21st May 2026.

For more information visit www.industrialvalvesummit.com

BW Energy has signed a Letter Agreement with Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd to acquire approximately 16.8 million common shares and 16.8 million warrants for a total consideration of USD 16 million in ReconAfrica’s announced equity raise. By participating in the equity raise, BW Energy will also receive a 20 percent non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”), where ReconAfrica will provide BW Energy with a carry of USD 6.4 million based on the intended initial work programme. Additionally, BW Energy has committed to certain contingent payments to ReconAfrica based on specific field development milestones.

PEL 73 is located in northeast Namibia, covering an area of approximately 25,341 sq km. Two exploration wells are planned to be drilled in the Damara Fold Belt Basin in the second half of 2024. These wells target a combined un-risked resource potential of 489 million barrels of oil, based on the most recent prospective resource report by Netherland, Sewell & Associates Inc. (NSAI). Following the initial exploration wells, the partnership plans to conduct a 3D seismic survey of the Kavango Rift Basin in the second half of 2025, which may lead to two additional exploration wells.

“The transaction will enable BW Energy to expand its footprint in a strategically important energy region and further our position as a leader in Namibia’s development towards energy independence,” said Carl Krogh Arnet, the CEO of BW Energy. “The data and insights gained through ReconAfrica’s exploration campaign will enhance our understanding of the geology and petroleum system in Namibia and help de-risk planned exploration and development of our Kudu licence.”

The common shares are priced at CAD 1.30 per share, while the warrants have a validity of 24 months and are priced at CAD 1.70 per warrant. If specific milestones are met, BW Energy has agreed to further contingent payments to ReconAfrica of up to USD 125 million as specified below:

• USD 22.5 million upon final investment decision of a commercial development
• USD 22.5 million 365 days after first oil
• USD 5 million 60 days after first sale of commercial hydrocarbon production
• USD 25 million upon BW Energy achieving total cumulative Free Cash Flow (“FCF”) of USD 300 million
• USD 25 million upon BW Energy achieving total cumulative FCF of USD 600 million
• USD 25 million upon BW Energy achieving total cumulative FCF of USD 900 million

The completion of the transaction is subject to the parties entering into a definitive agreement and the fulfilment of customary conditions and precedents.

For more information visit www.bwenergy.no

Leading energy companies Equinor, Centrica, and SSE Thermal have unveiled plans for a series of low-carbon hydrogen projects on the north bank of the Humber. These initiatives will integrate with broader regional strategies to establish a robust hydrogen economy.

The announcement, made yesterday at the Houses of Parliament, detailed the transformation of the Easington gas terminal. The event was attended by MPs, civil servants, industry bodies, and regional stakeholders. Key speakers included energy minister Lord Callanan, Beverley & Holderness MP Graham Stuart, and representatives from Equinor, Centrica Energy Storage, and SSE Thermal.

The H2H Easington project, led by Equinor and Centrica, aims to develop a multi-stage green and blue hydrogen production facility. This project will scale up as the hydrogen economy grows, with engineering studies indicating potential production capacities of up to 1.2GW of blue hydrogen and 1GW of green hydrogen. Initial projects are slated for commissioning by the end of the decade, with further expansion planned through the 2030s.

A proposal for a green hydrogen electrolyser has been submitted to the government’s second Hydrogen Allocation Round. If approved, this system could be operational by early 2029, significantly reducing the Easington terminal’s CO2 emissions by 100,000 tonnes per year by displacing natural gas demand. The project also includes plans to produce hydrogen for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), supporting the aviation sector’s energy transition.

The hydrogen projects are expected to safeguard existing jobs at the historic gas terminal and create new employment opportunities. The 35-year economic impact of the green hydrogen initiatives at Easington is estimated to add £1.5 billion in gross value, supporting thousands of regional jobs.

The collaboration also envisions a dedicated hydrogen pipeline linking H2H Easington to Equinor’s proposed H2H Saltend hydrogen production facility at Saltend Chemicals Park and to Equinor and SSE Thermal’s proposed hydrogen storage facility at Aldbrough. These projects collectively form the Humber Hydrogen Hub.

Equinor and SSE Thermal are currently consulting on the hydrogen storage proposals at the existing gas storage site near Aldbrough. Utilising the underground salt caverns for storage will help balance the future hydrogen economy’s supply and demand, enhancing energy security.

The 45km hydrogen pipeline proposals include a crossing of the River Humber, providing connectivity between the north and south banks and potential linkage to the ‘Project Union’ gas network, expanding hydrogen infrastructure across the wider Humber region.

The launch event was attended by decision-makers from various government departments, including Energy Security & Net Zero, Business & Trade, and Transport. Levelling Up Minister Jacob Young MP and regional representatives, including MPs Graham Stuart and Martin Vickers, also participated.

MP Graham Stuart highlighted the projects’ potential to deliver on the UK’s net zero goals and hydrogen targets while supporting the government’s levelling up agenda. He expressed pride in having such strategic energy sites in his constituency, attracting investment and creating local jobs.

Dan Sadler, director for Hydrogen at Equinor’s UK Low Carbon Solutions, emphasised the commitment to decarbonising the Humber by linking hydrogen production with users and storage sites. This collaboration aims to reduce emissions and stimulate economic growth.

Martin Scargill, managing director of Centrica Energy Storage, noted the projects’ benefits for the Humber and their role in supporting the UK’s decarbonisation plans. John Johnson, director of development at SSE Thermal, highlighted the potential of hydrogen projects to deliver a low-carbon future for the Humber and accelerate the deployment of hydrogen infrastructure.

For more information visit www.equinor.com

In response to the King’s Speech delivered today by HM King Charles III, the Tank Storage Association welcomes the focus on economic growth, investment, and skills.

Peter Davidson, chief executive of the Tank Storage Association, said: “Our bulk storage and energy infrastructure sector has a key role to play in driving economic growth, boosting investment, and supporting the transition to Net Zero. We welcome the focus on economic growth, investment, and skills, as well as plans to establish an Industrial Strategy Council.

The TSA has called for a plan for the future that recognises the significant contribution of the bulk storage and energy infrastructure industry and its innovative capabilities to take full advantage of the many opportunities in the transformative journey ahead. It has also called for close collaboration and partnership to ensure that the sector becomes a driver of change and contributes to shaping the next decades. We look forward to working collaboratively with government and stand ready to share our sector’s expertise and insights.”

You can read today’s King’s Speech in full in the government background briefing notes : Click here 

For more information visit www.tankstorage.org.uk

QatarEnergy, along with its consortium partners TotalEnergies, Petronas, Petrogal Brazil, and Petrobras, has announced the final investment decision for the second development phase of the Sépia field, located in the prolific pre-salt Santos Basin, offshore Brazil.

The FID was commemorated with the signing of a contract with Seatrium O&G Americas Limited for the construction of a floating production storage and offloading unit. This FPSO will operate in the ultra-deep waters of the Sépia field and boasts a crude oil production capacity of 225,000 barrels per day and a gas processing capacity of ten million cubic metres per day.

His Excellency Mr. Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, minister of state for energy affairs and president and CEO of QatarEnergy, hailed the contract award as a significant milestone in QatarEnergy’s activities in Brazil.

The FPSO is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emission intensity per barrel of oil equivalent by 30 percent. This reduction will be achieved through an all-electric configuration and various optimisations to increase energy efficiency. The unit will also feature several environmental technologies, including zero routine ventilation (recovery of ventilated gases from cargo tanks and processing), deep seawater capture, speed variators in pumps and compressors, cogeneration (Waste Heat Recovery Unit), routine zero burning (torch gas recovery – closed flare), valves with low fugitive emissions, and the capture, use, and geological storage of CO2 from the gas produced.

The construction of the FPSO will be undertaken in shipyards located in Brazil, China, and Singapore. This will be the second FPSO in the Sépia field, complementing the existing Carioca FPSO, and will specifically target the northern part of the Sépia field.

This development phase represents a crucial advancement in the Sépia joint venture’s efforts to harness the rich resources of the Santos Basin, further solidifying QatarEnergy’s strategic initiatives in Brazil.

For more information visit www.qatarenergy.qa

BlastOne International has been contracted by Textron Systems, a key contractor for the US government specialising in military ground vehicles, to enhance its production process. BlastOne was commissioned to provide Textron Systems one blast booth and two paint booths, focusing on compliance with government stipulations and production efficiency.

Installation of these booths at Textron Systems production facility in Slidell, LA will provide support in meeting increased programme delivery timelines while maintaining compliance to quality standards.

BlastOne specialises in infrastructure build out for manufacturing facilities. Textron Systems’ objectives include installation of one blast booth and two paint booths ensuring compliance with cure times while minimising production time in these booths. BlastOne was selected as this provider based on their comprehensive, holistic approach to ensuring success within these areas.

With BlastOne’s manufacturing booth infrastructure build out, Textron Systems is well positioned to meet production targets, maintain compliance with government standards, and ensure continued success in their vital work for the US government and allied nations.

For more information visit www.blastone.com

Neste, a leading producer of renewable fuels, has significantly enhanced its capability to supply sustainable aviation fuel to European customers through a collaboration with VTTI, a global leader in energy storage and infrastructure development. Neste has commissioned terminal capacity at VTTI’s ETT terminal in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, for the storage and blending of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel™.

This strategic move marks a crucial step in expanding the availability of Neste’s SAF across Europe. It aligns with Neste’s broader efforts to scale up global SAF production and supply capabilities. The company’s renewables refinery in Singapore is ramping up SAF production, and modifications to its Rotterdam renewables refinery to enable SAF production are nearing completion.

The terminal in Rotterdam, situated in one of Europe’s largest fuel logistics hubs, offers access to the extensive European fuel infrastructure, including the Central European Pipeline System. This integration will facilitate a more sustainable and efficient fuel supply to customers and airports throughout Europe.

“Neste is fully committed to supporting the aviation industry in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and sustainable aviation fuel is a key lever to achieve this,” said Alexander Kueper, vice president of Renewable Aviation Business at Neste. “This expansion of our supply capabilities enables our customers to accelerate SAF usage at European airports and lays a strong foundation for fulfilling the requirements of the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation, which mandates a minimum share of SAF supply to European airports from 2025 onwards. It also shows how we are working together with partners like VTTI to repurpose existing fuel distribution infrastructure for more sustainable alternatives like SAF.”

Jaap Koomen, senior vice president of VTTI Netherlands Terminals, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership. “It is great to see the demand for more sustainable fuels rising. We’re delighted to play a role in Neste’s value chain so that they can reach even more of their customers across Europe. By 2028, our aim is to have half of our business in transitional and sustainable energies, and by having partners like Neste, who are also committed to the energy transition, it puts us one step closer to a more sustainable future.”

This collaboration between Neste and VTTI represents a significant advancement in the distribution and adoption of sustainable aviation fuel, supporting both companies’ commitment to fostering a more sustainable energy future.

For more information visit www.neste.com

Petro-Canada, a Suncor Energy business, is extending its longstanding partnerships with the Canadian Olympic Committee and the Canadian Paralympic Committee for another eight years. This commitment will ensure ongoing support for Canadian athletes, coaches, and their families. Petro-Canada will continue to be recognised as a national partner of the Canadian Olympic Committee and an official partner of the Canadian Paralympic Committee.

Dave Oldreive, Suncor’s executive VP – downstream, commented, “Our motto ‘Live by the Leaf’ extends to supporting those who wear the maple leaf, which is why we’re thrilled to carry on Petro-Canada’s longstanding partnership with the Canadian Olympic Committee and the Canadian Paralympic Committee. As we prepare to join fans in cheering on Team Canada in Paris, we’re equally excited about the future of Canadian sport and the role we play in the development of athletes through the Petro-Canada FACE programme.”

Each year, 55 emerging athletes and their coaches receive a $10,000 Fuelling Athlete and Coaching Excellence programme grant. These grants, which include $5,000 for the athlete and $5,000 for the coach, are awarded to athletes striving to represent Canada at the Paralympic or Olympic Games but who do not yet qualify for government funding. The funds are typically used for training, equipment, coach education, and travel expenses for competitions. Since its inception in 1988, the programme has supported over 3,500 athletes and coaches, providing $14 million in funding through their sport partners. The 2024 FACE class will be announced in August.

The renewed sponsorship agreement extends Petro-Canada’s partnership with Team Canada through to the end of 2032, covering upcoming Games in Milano Cortina 2026, Los Angeles 2028, Winter 2030, and Brisbane 2032.

David Shoemaker, CEO and secretary general of the Canadian Olympic Committee, expressed his appreciation, stating, “Petro-Canada has been a dedicated supporter of Team Canada for almost four decades, and we’re thrilled that they have committed to another eight years. Through programmes like FACE, the impact Petro-Canada has had on Canadian athletes and the overall success of Team Canada is immeasurable. We’re so glad to have Petro-Canada as part of the team heading into Paris 2024 and many years beyond.”

The Paris 2024 Olympic Games will run from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8.

Karen O’Neill, CEO of the Canadian Paralympic Committee, added, “Petro-Canada is a valued longtime partner, and we are so pleased to be extending our relationship. Petro-Canada and its leadership have shown a deep commitment to Canadian Paralympic sport and athletes, whether it’s through FACE grants, ParaTough Cup, our Family and Friends programme, or other initiatives. Thank you to Petro-Canada for their support in showcasing the power of inclusion in sport, and we look forward to continuing our work together for many years to come.”

Today also marks the launch of Petro-Canada’s 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games campaign, which will celebrate cheering fans across the country. The campaign invites Canadians to share their best cheers on Instagram and TikTok using the hashtag #LetsGoWithPetro for a chance to win prizes, including a trip for two to the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina, Italy.

For more information visit www.suncor.com

Aramco, one of the world’s leading integrated energy and chemicals companies, has signed definitive agreements to acquire an equity interest in the Jubail-based Blue Hydrogen Industrial Gases Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Air Products Qudra. The transaction, subject to standard closing conditions, also includes options for Aramco to offtake hydrogen and nitrogen.

Aramco expects its investment in BHIG to bolster the development of a lower-carbon hydrogen network in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, serving both domestic and regional customers. This move aligns with Aramco’s ongoing efforts to develop a lower-carbon hydrogen business and expand its portfolio of alternative energy solutions. Upon completion of the transaction, Aramco and APQ, a joint venture between Air Products and Qudra Energy, are expected to each hold a 50 Percent stake in BHIG.

At the signing ceremony are APQ CEO Ebubekir Koyuncu, sitting left, and Aramco acting senior VP of new business development Mohanad M. Alamdar, sitting right. Standing, from left, are Aramco executive VP of strategy & corporate development Ashraf Al Ghazzawi, APQ chairman Dr. Samir Serhan, Air Products chairman, president & CEO Seifi Ghasemi, Aramco president & CEO Amin H. Nasser, APQ vice chairman Mohammed Abunayyan, and Aramco downstream president Mohammed Y. Al Qahtani

Ashraf Al Ghazzawi, Aramco executive VP of strategy & corporate development, remarked, “This investment highlights Aramco’s ambition to expand its new energies portfolio and grow its lower-carbon hydrogen business. We are delighted to partner with APQ on this journey, and believe there are promising commercial opportunities for hydrogen with lower emissions. We intend to leverage our growing capabilities in carbon capture and storage, as well as our technical expertise in hydrogen, with the ambition to support the establishment of a vibrant marketplace for lower-carbon hydrogen — helping lay the foundations of a future energy system.”

Dr. Samir J. Serhan, Air Products Qudra chairman, stated, “It is an honour to further extend Air Products Qudra’s strong partnership with Aramco, working to accelerate the hydrogen economy and driving the creation of the largest hydrogen network in the Middle East, which is expected to serve the refining, chemical, and petrochemical industries. We look forward to providing our expertise in hydrogen and pipeline operations and supporting Aramco’s need for a reliable supply of lower-carbon hydrogen for domestic and regional requirements.”

BHIG, designed to produce lower-carbon hydrogen while capturing and storing CO2, is intended to commence commercial operations in coordination with Aramco’s CCS activities.

For more information visit www.aramco.com

MAIRE has announced that a consortium, consisting of its subsidiary Tecnimont and Baker Hughes, has been awarded an engineering, procurement, and construction contract by SONATRACH. This significant contract involves the implementation of three gas boosting stations and the upgrading of the gathering system at the Hassi R’mel gas field, located 550 kilometres south of Algiers. The Hassi R’mel gas field is the largest in Algeria and one of the largest globally. The overall contract is valued at approximately USD 2.3 billion, with Tecnimont’s share amounting to USD 1.7 billion.

The project’s scope includes the construction of three gas boosting stations, which will incorporate turbo-compressors to compress around 188 million standard cubic metres of natural gas per day. Additionally, the project encompasses the upgrading of the existing gas gathering system, which involves more than 300 kilometres of flowlines connecting the wells. The project is scheduled for completion within 39 months from the contract’s effective date.

These gas boosting stations, along with the upgraded gathering system, will maintain the pressure of the gas as it travels through the pipelines, ensuring efficient flow and a reliable, uninterrupted supply of natural gas to Italy and, subsequently, to Europe. This contract underscores MAIRE’s role as a pivotal engineering player in strategic energy projects, significantly enhancing the optimisation of gas supply from Algeria and diversifying energy sources for Italy and Europe. This initiative also strengthens the relationships between the Mediterranean regions, reinforcing EU-Africa cooperation.

Alessandro Bernini, chief executive officer of MAIRE group, stated: “Following the award of the linear alkyl benzene plant in Skikda’s industrial zone last March, SONATRACH has once again placed its trust in our group’s execution capabilities. The development of this crucial project not only solidifies our relationship with SONATRACH but also fortifies the bilateral relations between Italy and Algeria. This award is a strong endorsement of the entire Italian value chain, with Baker Hughes as a partner, and it holds significant economic implications for our country.”

For more information visit www.groupmaire.com

bp Australia has announced a binding agreement to acquire X Convenience, a prominent fuel and convenience retailer. This acquisition will expand bp’s network by over 50 sites across South Australia and Western Australia.

Frédéric Baudry, president of bp Australia and senior vice president of Mobility, Convenience, & Midstream, Asia Pacific, highlighted the strategic benefits of the acquisition. “This is an exciting day for bp and X Convenience, as we look to bring together two amazing businesses. We look forward to completing this transaction, integrating a high-quality network, and learning from the X Convenience team, leveraging offers that resonate so well with their customers.”

Baudry emphasised the significance of the deal for bp’s operations in South Australia. “We’re making our commitment to South Australia clear by investing in the expansion of our network throughout the state. Through X Convenience and our brilliant partners, bp will provide quality fuel, convenience, and card offers to our South Australian and national fleet customers, as we have for decades.”

The acquisition, pending customary approvals, aligns with bp’s global strategy to double the number of its strategic convenience sites from 2019 to 2030. This move is expected to enhance bp’s national presence and support its long-term growth objectives in the convenience retail sector.

Steven Kosmidis, director of X Convenience, expressed optimism about the future. “I am excited for this next chapter of the business as bp continues to build the X Convenience network and deliver for our customers.”

This acquisition not only marks a significant expansion of bp’s footprint in Australia but also showcases its commitment to enhancing customer service and operational efficiency through strategic partnerships.

For more information visit www.bp.com

OPW Engineered Systems, part of OPW^® Fluid Transfer Solutions, has introduced the new 8800 Series Overfill and Ground Monitoring System. The 8800 Series is an advanced solution for terminal operators who are looking to make their filling processes safer and more intuitive. It offers features that can be integrated into existing terminal-automation systems.

“Terminal operators are seeking solutions that optimise their loading processes,” said David Jacobson, Global Product Manager for OPW Engineered Systems. “The 8800 Series Monitoring System achieves this by utilising pictograms and LED lights to quickly communicate the loading status, regardless of language. Additionally, the 8870 model is engineered utilising the latest hardware and software technologies, providing advanced features that can be incorporated into today’s terminal-automation systems.”

The  8800 Series Monitoring System uses state-of-the-art electronics and software technology, which are housed in a sleek cabinet that is up to half the size and weight of other monitor products. It also possesses an industry leading IP68 weatherproof rating. Three models are available for users to address overfill-prevention and ground-monitoring requirements:

• 8870: Uses an industry-first OLED display and LED indicator lights for a more simpler and intuitive loading process. The 8870 can be integrated into existing terminal-automation systems;
• 8851N: utilises easy-to-understand LED indicator lights to communicate ground and overfill status, which provides the driver with a simple, intuitive loading process; and
• 8814: Provides ground verification through a simple solution with intuitive LED indicator lights that easily communicate ground status to the driver

For more information visit www.opw-es.com

TotalEnergies, in collaboration with operator Petrobras and their partners in the Atapu and Sépia consortiums, have reached the Final Investment Decision for the second development phase of the Atapu and Sépia fields. These fields are situated in the prolific pre-salt Santos Basin, offshore Brazil.

The Atapu field, operational since 2020, utilises the P-70 Floating Production Storage and Offloading unit, which has a production capacity of 150,000 barrels of oil per day. The second phase, known as Atapu-2, will introduce a newly built FPSO with a capacity of 225,000 bopd. In this field, TotalEnergies holds a 15 percent interest, partnering with Petrobras (65.7 percent, operator), Shell (16.7 percent), Petrogal (1.7 percent), and PPSA (0.9 percent).

Similarly, the Sépia field has been producing since 2021 through the Carioca FPSO unit, with a capacity of 180,000 bopd. The Sépia-2 phase will also involve a new FPSO capable of 225,000 bopd. TotalEnergies owns a 16.9 percent stake in the Sépia field, alongside Petrobras (55.3 percent, operator), Petronas (12.7 percent), QatarEnergy (12.7 percent), and Petrogal (2.4 percent).

The two new FPSOs are scheduled to commence production in 2029. Designed with an emphasis on minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, these units will feature an all-electric configuration and incorporate technologies such as waste heat recovery, closed flare systems, cargo oil tank gas recovery, and variable speed drives for compressors and pumps.

Nicolas Terraz, president of exploration & production at TotalEnergies, stated: “The decision to launch Sépia-2 and Atapu-2 is a new milestone in our strong growth story in Brazil, a core area for the Company thanks to its world-class low-emission and low-cost oil resources. Following the startup of Mero-2 in late 2023 and the upcoming startups of Mero-3 in 2024 and Mero-4 in 2025, Brazil will soon account for more than 200,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd) in equity production for the Company. At their plateau Sépia-2 and Atapu-2, the tenth and eleventh FPSO for TotalEnergies in Brazil, will contribute to maintaining TotalEnergies’ production in this key country above 200,000 boepd.”

This strategic decision underscores TotalEnergies’ commitment to enhancing its production capabilities in Brazil, leveraging the region’s substantial low-emission, low-cost oil resources while advancing sustainable energy practices.

For more information visit www.totalenergies.com

In a landmark agreement, Ørsted will sell an additional one million tonnes of carbon removal over a ten-year period to Microsoft from Avedøre Power Station, part of the bioenergy carbon capture and storage project known as the ‘Ørsted Kalundborg CO2 Hub’. This new deal builds on Microsoft’s existing commitment to purchase 2.67 million tonnes of CO2 from Asnæs Power Station, bringing the total contracted carbon removal to 3.67 million tonnes.

As part of the ‘Ørsted Kalundborg CO2 Hub’, Ørsted will implement carbon capture at its wood chip-fired Asnæs Power Station in Kalundborg and the straw-fired boiler at Avedøre Power Station in the Greater Copenhagen area. The project aims to capture 430,000 tonnes of biogenic CO2 annually from these combined heat and power plants, with the captured CO2 being shipped to a storage reservoir in the Norwegian part of the North Sea for permanent storage. The hub is set to become operational by early 2026.

The new agreement specifies that Microsoft will acquire one million tonnes of carbon removal from the straw-fired unit at Avedøre Power Station starting in 2026. This combined heat and power plant converts locally sourced straw, a by-product of agriculture, into electricity and district heating. By capturing and storing the biogenic carbon from biomass-fired plants, the process not only reduces but also removes CO2 from the atmosphere, creating negative emissions due to the natural biogenic carbon cycle of sustainable biomass.

The collaboration between Ørsted and Microsoft is crucial for the development of the ‘Ørsted Kalundborg CO2 Hub’, as bioenergy-based carbon capture and storage technology is still emerging. Although the project received a subsidy from the Danish Energy Agency, the revenue from the sale of carbon removal certificates was factored in before the investment decision and was a key element of the competitive offer submitted through the Danish subsidy scheme.

The importance of carbon removal technologies such as BECCS in limiting global warming is highlighted in the latest report by the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Projects like the ‘Ørsted Kalundborg CO2 Hub’ are essential for supporting companies like Microsoft in achieving their sustainability goals and contributing to global climate targets.

Ole Thomsen, senior vice president and head of Ørsted’s Bioenergy business, stated: “This expanded collaboration with Microsoft is a testament to our shared vision for a sustainable future. By combining Ørsted’s expertise in bioenergy carbon capture and storage with Microsoft’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, we’re showcasing how strategic relations can accelerate the transition to a greener economy.”

For Microsoft, this agreement represents another significant step towards its goal of becoming carbon-negative by 2030. Brian Marrs, senior director of energy & carbon removals at Microsoft, commented: “We’re proud once again to announce a landmark offtake agreement with Ørsted, which is pioneering responsible carbon removal development in Denmark while also meeting the needs of a decarbonised energy system. The urgency around climate goals means translating great planning into rapid action – and Ørsted remains a valuable collaborator in bringing big ideas to life. Today’s announcement is yet another tangible step towards building the technologies and commercial capabilities towards becoming carbon-negative by 2030.”

For more information visit  www.orsted.com

Energy company Mabanaft has submitted the approval documents for the planned construction of an ammonia import terminal in Hamburg to the Hamburg Authority of Environment, Climate, Energy and Agriculture. This terminal will be constructed on Mabanaft’s existing tank terminal Blumensand in the Port of Hamburg and will play a crucial role in expanding the hydrogen supply.

Subject to approval under the German Federal Immission Control Act (Bundesimmissionsschutzgesetz, abbreviated: BImSchG), Mabanaft’s primary construction measures include restructuring the existing Blumensand tank storage facilities. This restructuring, wholly owned by Mabanaft’s tank storage division, will allow for the import, storage, and processing of ammonia. To facilitate this, the demolition of two large petroleum storage tanks is necessary. The permit application submission marks a significant step forward for Mabanaft in realising its ammonia import terminal.

Philipp Kroepels, director of New Energy at Mabanaft, stated, “With the planned import terminal in the Port of Hamburg, we have the opportunity to implement yet another piece of the energy transition and bring it to Hamburg.” He added, “Our import terminal aims to make innovative energy solutions, such as ammonia, available for shipping and for further processing into hydrogen.”

In preparation for the permitting process, Mabanaft participated in a scoping meeting with BUKEA representatives and other parties in January 2024. The scoping meeting aimed to determine the scope of the voluntary Environmental Impact Assessment (Umweltverträglichkeitsprüfung, abbreviated: UVP) and the required documents to be submitted to BUKEA. Additionally, Mabanaft successfully completed an application conference and a HazID analysis in the spring and summer of 2023 to identify potential nautical risks.

In November 2022, Mabanaft announced its intention to build facilities for the import and handling of ammonia at its existing Blumensand tank terminal in the Port of Hamburg. This announcement was made in the presence of the German federal minister for economic affairs and climate action, Dr. Robert Habeck, and Hamburg’s first mayor, Dr. Peter Tschentscher. As part of the project, Mabanaft will be responsible for modifying the existing jetty, demolishing two large tanks, constructing a new tank for ammonia storage, and installing pipelines to transport ammonia from the jetty to the storage tank. The facilities are scheduled to commence operations in 2027, with Mabanaft’s investment volume in the triple-digit million range.

The successful implementation of this project is anticipated to make a significant contribution to the energy transition, supporting innovative energy solutions and reinforcing Hamburg’s role as a leader in sustainable energy initiatives.

For more information visit www.mabanaft.com

bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited, the joint venture between bp and Aberdeen City Council, has announced the final investment decision for its Aberdeen Hydrogen Hub project. This decision marks a significant milestone in the region’s energy transition ambitions and its pursuit to become a leader in lower carbon energy.

The Aberdeen Hydrogen Hub will feature a state-of-the-art hydrogen production, storage, and distribution facility. This facility, located at Hareness Road, Aberdeen, will be powered by electricity generated from a solar farm to be installed on the former Ness landfill site. This innovative approach aligns with the city’s net zero vision and demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

Aberdeen City Council co-leader Councillor Ian Yuill expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “This investment by the Council and bp is an important step towards the delivery of the Aberdeen Hydrogen Hub project. Aberdeen has been a leader among cities in bringing hydrogen to market for public transport and council fleet vehicles. This project is central to our vision to increase the supply and demand for hydrogen as a fuel in support of the city’s net zero vision.”

Councillor Christian Allard, co-leader of Aberdeen City Council, highlighted the city’s long-term commitment to a just transition, saying, “A just transition is something we have done in Aberdeen for more than 10 years – and this is another step towards the net zero future that everyone wants. Who would have thought that we would have a solar farm helping to create green hydrogen here in Aberdeen? The project will establish the city as the Net Zero capital of Europe.”

Dr Oliver Taylor, chief executive for bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited, commented on the milestone, “This is an exciting milestone for the project, Aberdeen, and its people. Not only does the hydrogen hub support bp and Aberdeen City Council’s shared ambition for the city’s future, it also presents a growth opportunity for the region’s supply chain and skills development.”

bp senior vice president Europe, Louise Kingham, praised Aberdeen City Council’s leadership, stating, “Aberdeen City Council deserves a huge amount of credit for showing leadership as they progress their plans to deliver lower carbon energy solutions and, for bp, this is further evidence of how we are backing Britain by investing in support of today’s energy needs and those of tomorrow.”

With the final investment decision made, the joint venture plans to commence construction activities by the end of 2024. The hub aims to begin production in 2026. Once operational, the facility will have the potential to produce up to approximately 300 tonnes of green hydrogen annually during the initial phase of the project. This output will be sufficient to fuel 25 buses and a similar number of other fleet vehicles per day.

This project positions Aberdeen at the forefront of the green hydrogen revolution and sets a precedent for other cities aiming to achieve net zero emissions.

For more information visit www.aberdeencity.gov.uk

RWE is set to invest a significant mid-eight-figure sum in constructing an electrolyser for trial purposes at the Emsland gas-fired power station. An additional €8 million in funding is being provided by the government of Lower Saxony. This pilot project marks a crucial first step towards developing large-scale electrolyser capacity and gaining valuable experience in the use of such facilities.

RWE is collaborating with several project partners to lay the foundation for an extensive electrolyser farm at the Lingen location. The pilot plant is expected to commence operations by the end of 2023 and, using renewable electricity, will be capable of generating up to 290 kilogrammes of green hydrogen per hour.

Technology: Pressurised Alkaline Process and Proton-Membrane Electrolysis

The pilot plant, boasting an initial capacity of 14 megawatts, will be among the largest hydrogen electrolysis facilities in Germany from the outset. RWE is testing two electrolysis technologies under industrial conditions:

1. Pressurised Alkaline Electrolyser: Dresden-based manufacturer Sunfire has installed a pressurised alkaline electrolyser with a capacity of 10 MW for RWE. The electrolyser consists of modules combined in groups of four to create two stacks, each almost ten metres long, housed in a specially constructed hall. Each of the eight modules weighs 15 tonnes.
2. Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolyser: Linde, a leading industrial gas and engineering company, is providing an additional 4 MW with a PEM electrolyser from ITM Power. The PEM electrolysers, divided into two 2-MW cubes, are compact and installed in the halls at the trial facility.

Future Prospects

RWE will own and operate the entire facility in Lingen. The produced hydrogen will be integrated into a public hydrogen network or mixed with gas as a climate-neutral fuel for turbines at the power plant. The transport sector and gas industry will also benefit through a public hydrogen fuel station and a non-public hydrogen trailer filling station, “H2 Filling Hub Lingen,” which will utilise hydrogen from the pilot plant. In the future, the hydrogen will also supply the hydrogen-ready gas turbine being planned for construction in Lingen by RWE and Kawasaki.

This initiative not only positions RWE at the forefront of green hydrogen production but also contributes significantly to the broader goal of achieving a sustainable, carbon-neutral energy future.

For more information visit www.rwe.com

Following the release of SSE’s full-year results, chief executive Alistair Phillips-Davies provides a strategic overview, highlighting a strong year of delivery. SSE is dedicated to accelerating the construction of renewable assets, providing critical flexible generation backup, and transforming electricity networks. These efforts align with SSE’s long-held purpose of building a better world of energy. The company’s focus on renewables, flexibility, and networks forms the foundation of the future energy system. With a diverse business mix and world-class assets, SSE is well-positioned to deliver on its mission.

SSE’s investment plans are flexible, allowing the company to pivot to the best opportunities in the clean electricity value chain. This strategic approach is evident in the adjustments made in the past year, with 90 percent of the £20.5 billion Net Zero Acceleration Programme Plus investment program geared towards networks and renewables. As the UK and Ireland’s clean energy champion, SSE benefits from significant tailwinds and broad political and societal consensus on the need to combat climate change. Supportive market design will be crucial for SSE to continue playing its part, and the company welcomed the bulk of the UK Government’s Review of Electricity Market Arrangements.

The year 2023/24 marked a period of accelerated delivery for SSE’s strategic plan, making significant progress toward a cleaner, secure, and more affordable future energy system. The company achieved record investment, with £2.5 billion spent on critical national infrastructure, pushing ahead with its fully-funded capital expenditure programme to 2026/27. Despite the challenges, SSE met its financial objectives, reaching the higher end of its full-year adjusted Earnings Per Share guidance.

A notable achievement was the significant reduction in SSE’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, recording the lowest values on record for total GHG emissions, scope 1 GHG emissions, and carbon intensity. This reduction was primarily due to a decrease in thermal generation output, and SSE will continue to track progress against its interim science-based targets.

The dedication and commitment of SSE’s highly skilled employees and contract partners are crucial to the company’s success. However, the loss of Richard Ellis, an employee of a contract partner who died in an offsite incident in October 2023, was deeply saddening. SSE remains committed to ensuring the safety of all its workers, emphasising the importance of safety in a growing workforce.

SSE made significant strategic progress in the past year, achieving key milestones on major infrastructure projects within its two growth engines: networks and renewables. The construction of SSE Renewables’ flagship projects, including Scotland’s largest offshore wind farm, Seagreen, and the Viking project on Shetland, progressed well. Despite some delays with the Dogger Bank A project due to poor weather and supply chain issues, the company remains on track to complete it in the first half of 2025.

SSEN Transmission continued to deliver critical grid infrastructure, making good progress on enabling work for the Eastern Green Link 2 and other major projects. The pioneering HVDC Shetland link saw all 260 km of subsea cable laid in 2023, with full energisation expected in summer 2024.

SSE operates in a dynamic energy landscape, navigating it with a blend of diverse technologies and revenue streams. The company’s business mix, spanning market-facing and economically-regulated businesses, offers stable economic returns and multiple investment options. SSE’s agility allows it to pivot capital to areas with the greatest impact on net zero and create the most value.

While SSE Renewables and SSEN Transmission are the current growth drivers, other businesses within the Group contribute to the delivery of the climate-focused strategy. SSE Thermal provides system flexibility for energy security, SSEN Distribution is investing to electrify streets and homes, SSE Energy Markets manages risk and navigates market volatility, and customer businesses ensure a valuable route to market with new products and systems.

Looking beyond the NZAP Plus, SSE anticipates continued growth. With steady regulatory earnings and well-established infrastructure, electricity networks are increasingly recognized as a crucial part of the energy system. SSEN Transmission is set to deliver £20 billion of network upgrades in the north of Scotland, with an additional £5 billion earmarked for early delivery under Ofgem’s Beyond 2030 plan.

SSE’s development pipeline of energy assets needed for net zero includes renewables projects like Berwick Bank, Seagreen 1A, Coire Glas, and Arklow. Future auction possibilities and other opportunities in home markets and abroad, along with flexibility options across various technologies, promise continued growth.

SSE’s primary focus remains on delivering the five-year plan, bringing lasting value to shareholders and society. With much of the anticipated growth factored into the later years of the plan and a significant portion of forecast earnings being regulated and inflation-linked, SSE is confident in its guidance to 2026/27. The company’s fully-funded investment plan, strict capital discipline, quality assets and people, resilient business mix, and strong balance sheet with the majority of debt held at fixed rates all contribute to this confidence.

For more information visit www.sse.com

Saipem has been awarded two significant offshore projects in Saudi Arabia under its existing long-term agreement with Saudi Aramco. The combined value of these projects is approximately $500 million.

The first project involves the engineering, procurement, construction, and installation of a crude trunkline for the Abu Safa Field. This trunkline will span roughly 50 km with a diameter of 42”. The second project includes production maintenance programmes for the Berri and Manifa Fields.

These awards further consolidate Saipem’s positioning in the Middle East, highlighting the company’s continued growth and success in the region.

For more information visit www.saipem.com

One of the UK’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of pigging products, North Yorkshire-based iNPIPE PRODUCTS, has announced the launch of an innovative pipeline blockage and leakage detection product. The new product, named Acoustek, utilises advanced acoustic reflectometry technology to identify blockages, obstructions, and leaks in pipelines.

Acoustek is believed to be the first product of its kind on the market, employing reflectometry—the use of wave and pulse reflections—to detect anomalies. This technology can identify full or partial blockages, leaks, and obstructions while also checking valve opening speeds and capabilities.

Simon Bell, managing director at iNPIPE PRODUCTS, highlighted the significance of this launch: “Acoustek will be a game changer in the offshore industry, allowing owner-operators to practically eliminate the significant costs and risks associated with previous blockage, leak detection, and valve performance technology.

“What Acoustek now provides them with is a technology that can be rapidly deployed – with surveys completed in just hours – and which can provide wholly accurate acoustic data that pinpoints with absolute precision any anomalies or the speed of valve performance. Most importantly, this can all be achieved without any risk to people or assets, with no requirements for costly support services such as ROVs, and with no disruption to normal operations.”

Acoustek operates by connecting directly into a live pipeline and injecting an acoustic pulse. By measuring the reflected pulse, it can detect reductions in bore or partially open or closed valves. The system can verify with 100 percent accuracy the closing efficiency of emergency shutdown valves and accurately detect and locate reductions up to 10 km from the installation point.

The technology is suitable for complex pipeline networks and provides continuous monitoring capability with remote surveying. Acoustek is easy to integrate with existing pipeline equipment, requiring installation at only one end of the pipe, and can accurately locate blockages or obstructions up to 10 km away.

Recently, Acoustek was deployed on a North Sea platform to validate the performance standards of a gas import/export subsea isolation valve required to close within 60 seconds. Situated subsea at the base of the riser, at a water depth of 136 m and located 338 m along the pipeline length, the SSIV was successfully measured in just one shift. Using acoustic data generated from Acoustek, it was determined that the SSIV closed well within the performance standards required.

The launch of Acoustek represents a significant advancement in pipeline maintenance and monitoring, offering a safer, more efficient, and cost-effective solution for the offshore industry.

For more information visit www.inpipeproducts.com

For more information visit www.energytransfer.com

px Group has formed a strategic partnership with Hydrogen Solutions, a leading Norwegian company specialising in the development, construction, and operation of green hydrogen production plants. This collaboration aims to accelerate the energy transition towards a low-carbon future by leveraging the strengths of both companies in the renewable technologies and solutions market.

Geoff Holmes, CEO of px Group, highlighted the importance of this partnership: “There is an imminent need for an integrated engineering and operating provider specialising in hydrogen and hydrogen derivatives, specifically in the Nordic region. We are now looking forward to taking on this role together with HYDS whilst also exploring further decarbonisation partnerships and development opportunities throughout the region.”

The initial focus of the partnership will be the Nordic region, with plans for future expansion across Europe and beyond. The collaboration is expected to expedite the development of low-carbon, renewable fuels and power, contributing significantly to the decarbonisation efforts in these regions.

Thor-Henrik W. Hagen, CEO of HYDS, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We have already cooperated for more than a year, during which we have noticed a set of common values, especially the joint focus on safety. Through our experience from developing, building, and operating hydrogen production plants, we foresee the need to secure capacity to handle the balance of plant of our own projects. Additionally, we realise the significance of this and the potential it gives us to develop, build, and operate also for others, both within our countries and internationally.”

Raymond Smebye, business development director Scandinavia at px Group, added, “Our shared values of safety, putting talented people at the heart of our operations, and commitment to decarbonisation make the relationship between HYDS and px Group an exciting one.”

px Group, known for managing multiple strategic and critical energy and infrastructure assets in the UK, is already operational in Norway and expanding activities across Europe, including the Netherlands, Germany, and the Nordic region. HYDS operates Stord Hydrogen and Kaupanes Hydrogen, both located in Norway.

This announcement marks the second strategic move in the hydrogen sector for px Group in recent months. In April, px Group acquired a majority stake in Lifte H2, a German hydrogen engineering solutions business. HYDS is currently developing several new projects, and the partnership will enable both companies to optimise plant designs and prepare for the operation of larger hydrogen production plants. HYDS has multiple projects in the feasibility stage, with the first final investment decisions expected in the first half of 2025.

The partnership between px Group and HYDS underscores their commitment to advancing green hydrogen production and supporting the global shift towards sustainable energy solutions.

For more information visit www.pxlimited.com

Hintco GmbH has announced Fertiglobe as the successful bidder in the inaugural H2Global pilot auction for renewable ammonia, a project funded by the German Government. Fertiglobe, a strategic partnership between ADNOC and OCI, will commence production of renewable ammonia for delivery starting in 2027, with a maximum contract value of EUR 397 million. This renewable ammonia will be delivered to the Port of Rotterdam and subsequently sold by Hintco in standardised quantities through annual auctions. Initial supply is projected at 19,500 tonnes in 2027, potentially increasing to a cumulative total of 397,000 tonnes by 2033, subject to production and supply availability.

Hintco acts as a ‘market maker’ to foster the development of markets for clean hydrogen and low-emission fuels. By purchasing hydrogen from early-stage production facilities and selling it to end-users, Hintco bridges the gap between supply prices and demand prices through grants. At this nascent stage, buyers and sellers often have differing expectations regarding price, volume, and contract terms. Hintco employs H2Global’s double-auction mechanism to reconcile these expectations, thereby mitigating risks and providing the necessary certainty for producers to finance projects and for end-users to purchase these products on acceptable terms. This first phase of the double-sided auction is funded by the German Government, which contributed EUR 900 million to compensate for price differences.

Overzicht van de Rotterdamse haven – Martens Multimedia

Fertiglobe will source renewable hydrogen from Egypt Green Hydrogen, which will serve as feedstock for the production of renewable ammonia at Fertiglobe’s existing ammonia plant in Ain Sokhna. The pilot auction has set the initial price signal at a contract price of EUR 1,000 per tonne, including delivery to Europe, with a net price of EUR 811 per tonne for renewable ammonia. The produced renewable ammonia will achieve an emissions intensity reduction of approximately 75.5 percent compared to ammonia produced from unabated fossil fuels. The emissions savings associated with the contractual maximum supply commitment of 397,000 tonnes over seven years are equivalent to the annual emissions of 62,000 cars.

This landmark agreement marks a significant step towards establishing a robust market for renewable ammonia, supporting global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to sustainable energy sources.

For more information visit www.portofrotterdam.com

The American Petroleum Institute has honoured Marathon Pipe Line with the 2023 API Distinguished Pipeline Safety Award in the large operator category. This prestigious award recognises industry leaders for their outstanding safety performance, public engagement, and innovative efforts to achieve zero mainline releases. API president and CEO, Mike Sommers, praised Marathon Pipe Line, stating, “Marathon Pipe Line stood out for its excellence in every category of review.”

Safety is deeply embedded in the culture at Marathon Pipe Line. The company’s commitment to safety is reflected in its proactive measures and innovative approaches, which have set new benchmarks in the industry. Each year, API, a standards-setting organisation representing all segments of the US natural gas and oil industry, selects three pipeline operators—one small, one medium, and one large—to receive the Distinguished Pipeline Safety Award. These operators are chosen by their peers based on their implementation of the Pipeline Safety Management System framework and their dedication to industry-wide learning and sharing.

(L to R): MPLX senior vice president logistics & storage Shawn Lyon, environmental safety security compliance director Michael Gray, vice president logistics & engineering Greg Amburgey, MPL president Rich St. Amour, vice president operations John Hunt, and environmental, safety & security director Duane Deboo with the 2024 API Distinguished Pipeline Safety award. 

In 2023, Marathon Pipe Line distinguished itself by developing a revolutionary safety course for leaders. Sommers highlighted MPL’s achievements, stating, “Their innovative approach to right-of-way aerial monitoring and vegetation maintenance and significant strides in integrity management have advanced the knowledge base of both the company and the industry as a whole.”

MPL’s robust safety improvement plan, executed last year, prioritised an enhanced safety culture. This included the Tools for Exceptional Safety Leadership training, designed to empower leaders with effective safety tools. MPL also focused on enhancing pipeline integrity programmes, sharing insights with other operators, and making improvements in geohazard management and girth weld defect assessments. Their commitment to safety innovation is further demonstrated by their investment in Flyscan technology, which uses aerial imagery and artificial intelligence to detect leaks and threats along pipelines.

Rich St. Amour, MPL president, expressed his pride in the company’s safety culture, stating, “At Marathon Pipe Line, safety is not just a priority – it’s ingrained in our culture. This recognition is a testament to the dedication and commitment of every individual in our organisation to prioritise safety above all else and to advance the industry.”

Marathon Pipe Line’s achievements in 2023 underscore their unwavering dedication to safety and their role as a leader in the pipeline industry. Their innovative practices and commitment to excellence continue to set high standards and inspire advancements in pipeline safety.

For more information visit www.marathonpetroleum.com

The announcement of a major expansion to Victoria’s Iona underground gas storage facility has been warmly welcomed by Venice Energy, the developer of an LNG import terminal in South Australia.

Kym Winter-Dewhirst, chair of Venice Energy, stated that the 25-year agreement between Snowy Hydro and Iona facility owner, Lochard Energy, ensures the South Australian terminal can cover any forecasted gas shortfalls in both Victoria and South Australia.

“This is a strategic move by the Federal Government through Snowy Hydro, as it guarantees sufficient gas storage at Iona, thereby preventing state-wide blackouts amid declining domestic gas supplies in the next few years,” said Winter-Dewhirst.

Winter-Dewhirst emphasised the critical question of gas supply sources, explaining that the gas will be supplied from Venice Energy’s terminal at Port Adelaide via the 687km SEA Gas pipeline directly linking Adelaide to Iona.

“We will deliver around 60 petajoules per year directly to Iona, with an additional 30 PJs to the Port Campbell pipeline and around 20 PJs remaining within the South Australian network,” he detailed.

Winter-Dewhirst highlighted the importance of securing new gas supplies to cover forecast shortfalls and ensuring this imported gas is competitively priced compared to the rising costs of domestic gas as local production declines.

“We believe our $300 million LNG import terminal at Port Adelaide can meet these requirements, ensuring both security of supply and cost-effective gas pricing, supporting the transition from coal towards a net-zero future,” he said.

Venice Energy also revealed that the Victorian expansion project coincides with a formal offer from a major international infrastructure developer to become the balance sheet partner and fully underwrite the South Australian terminal project.

Following eight months of discussions with various companies, Venice Energy has identified a leading contender and entered formal negotiations. They expect to finalise the legal and commercial elements of the agreement within the next 6-8 weeks, declare FID following the signing of the deal, and begin construction later this year.

For more information visit www.veniceenergy.com

Enbridge and EDF Renewables celebrated a significant milestone in renewable energy today with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the first phase of the Fox Squirrel Solar project in Madison County, Ohio. This initial phase, featuring 1.4 million panels and 159 inverters, represents one of the largest utility-scale solar developments east of the Mississippi. At peak construction, 650 workers installed 10,000 panels daily, highlighting the project’s scale and efficiency.

During the event, Amazon announced power purchase agreements for the entire generation capacity of the Fox Squirrel project. This agreement aligns with Amazon’s commitment to match all its electricity usage with 100 percent renewable energy by 2030, a goal the company is on track to achieve by 2025.

Thomas Carbone, Enbridge’s vice president of power business development, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to expand Enbridge’s presence in Ohio. “Fox Squirrel is a key part of our commitment to the energy transition and our plans to continue investing in these types of projects,” Carbone said. He also emphasised the importance of collaboration as the company advances construction on Phases 2 and 3.

The first phase of Fox Squirrel has a generation capacity of 150 megawatts of solar energy. Phase 2, expected to be operational by mid-2024, will add up to 250 MW, while Phase 3, slated for late 2024, will contribute an additional 177 MW. The project reinforces the longstanding partnership between Enbridge and EDF Renewables, which began with four wind projects in Canada 12 years ago and now includes several offshore wind projects in France.

Enbridge’s operations in Ohio now encompass renewable power, liquids pipelines, natural gas transmission pipelines, and gas utilities. The company’s solar power initiatives, which began in southwestern Ontario in 2008, continue to grow, with the number of homes powered by their solar investments surpassing 45,000 annually, excluding partners’ stakes.

Carbone expressed his satisfaction with the progress made alongside EDF Renewables, stating, “I am so pleased at how far we’ve come on this journey with our partners, EDF Renewables, and all we’ve achieved together.”

The Fox Squirrel Solar project exemplifies the vital role of renewable energy in meeting corporate sustainability goals and supporting economic growth in Ohio, illustrating the state’s commitment to attracting business and fostering a sustainable future.

For more information visit www.enbridge.com