Repsol ventures into the biomethane market through a deal to acquire a 40 percent stake in Genia Bioenergy, aiming to capitalise on the sector’s burgeoning potential. This partnership enables Repsol to tap into considerable expertise and technical capabilities, positioning itself as an early entrant in this expanding domain.

Biomethane holds strategic significance for the European Union, which aims to ramp up its production eightfold by 2030 under the RePower EU initiative. In Spain, biomethane could potentially satisfy nearly half of the country’s natural gas demand, according to estimates by the Spanish Gas Association.

The agreement encompasses 19 biomethane plants currently under development by Genia Bioenergy, along with 11 additional projects in the early stages. Repsol commits to purchasing all gas produced by these ventures, fostering agro-industrial ecosystems that stimulate local economies and offer waste valorization solutions.

Genia Bioenergy stands out as Spain’s sole company integrating the entire biogas and biomethane value chain, from technology development to project engineering, construction, and operational management. Biomethane, derived from organic matter like agricultural and livestock waste, not only serves as a renewable substitute for natural gas but also finds application in renewable fuels, green hydrogen production, and chemical manufacturing, contributing to greenhouse gas reduction.

The burgeoning biomethane industry in Spain and Portugal addresses the challenge of organic waste management while generating economic activity, particularly in rural areas. For Repsol’s executive managing director of industrial transformation and circular economy, Juan Abascal, this alliance represents a crucial step towards transforming waste into valuable fuels, aligning with the company’s circular economy strategy.

Gabriel Butler, CEO of Genia Bioenergy, underscores the role of biomethane plants in Spain’s decarbonisation efforts, energy independence, and compliance with European waste management directives, envisioning job creation and economic growth, especially in rural settings.

Repsol’s collaboration with Genia Bioenergy aligns with its 2024–2027 strategy, focusing on industrial complexes’ transformation into multi-energy hubs producing low-carbon products. The company’s commitment to renewable energy extends to initiatives like the Cartagena plant, set to become the Iberian Peninsula’s first dedicated renewable fuel facility, and investments in wind and solar energy projects worldwide.

Since 2019, Repsol has pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 in line with the Paris agreement, demonstrating its proactive approach to environmental sustainability and energy transition.

For more information visit www.repsol.com

Rhône Energies, a consortium comprising Entara LLC and Trafigura Pte Ltd, has initiated exclusive negotiations to acquire the Fos-sur-Mer refinery and the Toulouse and Villette de Vienne terminals from Esso. The proposed acquisition is subject to a formal information and consultation procedure with employee representative bodies and regulatory approvals, with an expected completion by the end of 2024. The financial terms remain confidential.

Rhône Energies was established by Entara and Trafigura to leverage the expertise of a seasoned refinery operator and a global leader in energy and commodities. Entara, founded by former Crossbridge Energy executives with experience in refinery asset management, will oversee the Fos-sur-Mer asset’s operations, maintenance, commercial activities, and environmental performance.

Trafigura, operating in over 150 countries and trading over 5.5 million barrels of oil and petroleum products daily, brings extensive experience in direct investment, capacity utilisation, and supply and offtake arrangements with refineries.

“We are eager to acquire and oversee Esso’s Fos-sur-Mer refinery operations, and we anticipate engaging with operational management, employee representatives, and government stakeholders to affirm our commitment to the operation and outline our future plans,” stated Nicholas Myerson, CEO of Entara. “Our priority is to uphold the operation’s high standards of environmental responsibility, safety, and operational excellence.”

“The Fos-sur-Mer refinery is a strategically located, efficient, and well-managed operation on France’s Mediterranean coast,” noted Ben Luckock, global head of oil for Trafigura. “It will remain a vital contributor to energy security in the region and can benefit from Trafigura’s global trading and logistics network.”

Rhône Energies aims to retain the current workforce, consisting of approximately 310 employees who will transfer to Rhône Energies upon completion of the transaction, offering competitive compensation, benefits, and learning opportunities.

Under the proposed acquisition terms, Trafigura would enter into a minimum 10-year exclusive crude oil supply and product offtake agreement, ensuring a secure feedstock supply and reliable off-take of refined products. Rhône Energies commits to continue supplying Esso SAF in the region.

Rhône Energies plans to leverage the refinery’s skilled teams and manufacturing performance, aiming to enhance margin capture, crude flexibility, and process utilisation while investing in personnel and process safety. Sustainability initiatives include reducing carbon intensity and expanding renewable fuel production through co-processing of biogenic feedstocks.

With a crude oil processing capacity of 140 thousand barrels per day, Fos-sur-Mer benefits from a major port access, competitive costs, and versatility in processing various crude oil feedstocks.

For more information visit www.trafigura.com

Baker Hughes, an energy technology company, announced that it had been awarded an order from Black & Veatch, a global engineering, construction, and consulting leader, to supply Cedar LNG in Canada with electric-driven liquefaction technologies. The award was booked in the first quarter of 2024.

Baker Hughes will supply a range of turbomachinery equipment, including four electric-driven main refrigeration compressors, two electric-driven boil-off gas compressors, and six centrifugal pumps. Powered by renewable electricity, Cedar LNG will be one of the lowest carbon intensity LNG facilities in the world.

The Cedar LNG project brings together the Haisla Nation and Pembina Pipeline Corporation to develop the Haisla Nation-led project. The project is a key element of the Haisla Nation’s economic and social development strategy and will further advance reconciliation by allowing the Haisla Nation, for the first time ever, to directly own and participate in a major industrial development in its territory. Today, the Haisla people are centred on Kitamaat Village. Home to approximately 700 of the 2,023+ Haisla membership, Kitamaat Village sits at the head of the Douglas Channel in British Columbia, Canada.

“Black & Veatch is committed to helping our clients and the communities they serve make meaningful progress on their decarbonisation journey,” said Laszlo von Lazar, president of Black & Veatch’s Energy & Process Industries business. “The Cedar LNG project represents an important step towards reducing carbon emissions through lower-carbon LNG facilities that can supply customers looking to move away from more carbon-intensive feedstocks. This is an important aspect of near-term decarbonisation plans around the world, and Canada’s abundant natural gas supply means Cedar LNG is in a strong position to accelerate this phase of the energy transition. And our team is eager to take on this opportunity with our long-standing partner, Baker Hughes.”

“This award is the latest important milestone for Baker Hughes in the LNG market, demonstrating the strength of our portfolio and our commitment to collaborating with industry partners while providing efficient and lower-carbon solutions for the natural gas market,” said Ganesh Ramaswamy, executive vice president of Industrial & Energy Technology at Baker Hughes. “Over the next decade, electrification will play a critical role in the energy transition, enabling further reductions of carbon emissions from natural gas.”

The award continues the positive demand momentum for Baker Hughes’ gas technology equipment portfolio following several major LNG orders throughout the past year.

For more information visit www.bakerhughes.com

Stolt-Nielsen Limited has reported strong unaudited results for the first quarter of 2024, marking a solid start to the year. The company recorded a net profit of $104.0 million and revenue of $707.3 million in the first quarter, compared to a net profit of $99.8 million and revenue of $708.7 million in the same period last year.

Key highlights for the first quarter of 2024 include:

•  Stolt-Nielsen Limited consolidated EBITDA of $207.2 million, slightly lower than the $215.6 million reported in the first quarter of 2023.
• Earnings per share for the quarter increased to $1.94 from $1.86.
• Stolt Tankers reported an operating profit of $93.0 million, up from $87.1 million.
• The STJS average time-charter equivalent revenue for the quarter was $29,944 per operating day, representing a 3.0 percent increase from $29,066.
• Stolthaven Terminals reported an operating profit of $28.5 million, up from $25.1 million.
• -Stolt Tank Containers reported an operating profit of $13.3 million, down from $39.3 million.
• Stolt Sea Farm reported an operating profit before fair value adjustment of biomass of $6.9 million, up from $5.7 million.
• Stolt-Nielsen Gas reported an operating loss of $2.0 million, compared to a loss of $3.4 million.
• Corporate and Other reported an operating cost of $10.7 million, reflecting profit sharing accruals and other non-divisional expenses.

Udo Lange, chief executive officer of Stolt-Nielsen Limited, expressed satisfaction with the strong start to the new financial year. He attributed the firm market conditions experienced by Stolt Tankers in 2023 to the continued success in the first quarter, which was further supported by the restricted transits of the Panama and Suez canals. Lange also highlighted the strengthening of spot rates during the first quarter, with the effects expected to be seen in the second quarter onwards. However, he noted that some contract volumes have declined as customers adjust to supply chain disruptions.

Lange mentioned that Stolthaven Terminals achieved record operating results, focusing on higher-margin business opportunities. At Stolt Tank Containers, shipment volumes increased significantly, reaching a record 40,047 shipments in the first quarter, representing a 22 percent growth compared to the same quarter last year. He also mentioned that the reductions in margins and demurrage revenue experienced in 2023 have leveled off.

Stolt Sea Farm continued its strong operating performance into the first quarter, driven by rising sales volumes and firming prices for turbot and sole.

During the quarter, the company’s deep-sea joint venture, NYK Stolt Tankers, announced a new building order for six stainless-steel fuel-efficient ships from Nantong Xiangju Shipyard in China. These newbuildings are expected to be delivered from late 2026 onward. This order brings the total deep-sea orderbook to 12 ships, providing a favourable delivery schedule that aligns with the retirement of older tonnage.

For more information visit www.stolt-nielsen.com

Watson Farley & Williams has proudly welcomed renowned energy experts Clarinda Tjia-Dharmadi and Merrick White to its team as partners in Singapore, previously hailing from McDermott, Will & Emery.

Clarinda’s addition to the firm’s esteemed Global Energy Sector Steering Group, comprising seven partners, underscores her pivotal role in fostering enhanced collaboration and communication across WFW’s Energy Sector worldwide. Her responsibilities also entail bolstering the firm’s global energy brand and offerings within the wider Asia Pacific region, complementing the firm’s distinguished presence in Vietnam, spearheaded by Linh Doan, head of Asia projects.

With over two decades of experience, Clarinda brings unparalleled expertise in project development and finance, with a notable focus on Asia’s landmark power, oil and gas, petrochemicals, infrastructure, and mining projects. She is renowned for her adept handling of bespoke and pioneering structures, often setting precedents for subsequent projects.

Clarinda’s profound understanding of the Indonesian energy sector is particularly noteworthy, having been instrumental in advising on groundbreaking projects within Indonesia’s IPP programme and major oil and gas ventures.

Merrick, with a comprehensive grasp of the global energy landscape, contributes his wealth of experience in oil, gas, LNG, refining, petrochemical, and power project development. His extensive practice encompasses renewable power and transition projects, including geothermal, wind, solar, and hydrogen development.

Henry Stewart, WFW global energy sector co-head, expressed his excitement about the new additions, affirming their transformative impact on the firm’s presence in Asia.

Clarinda expressed her enthusiasm for joining WFW’s dynamic team and shared her eagerness to collaborate with her colleagues to expand the firm’s energy practice in Asia.

Merrick echoed Clarinda’s sentiments, expressing his delight in joining WFW and highlighting the firm’s strategic presence in key Asian business hubs, which aligns perfectly with his practice’s expansion goals.

For more information visit www.wfw.com

Borealis has recently unveiled a significant EUR 4.5 million investment initiative aimed at upgrading the cracker furnaces within its Porvoo steam cracker facility. This substantial investment is poised to enhance the production capabilities of the Porvoo steam cracker, which forms an integral part of a highly integrated petrochemical complex. The primary objective of this investment is to augment the proportion of renewable and recycled raw materials utilised in the production of ethylene and propylene, thereby aligning with Borealis Strategy 2030 and fostering the transition towards a circular economy.

The investment programme for the Porvoo facility has already been set in motion and is anticipated to reach completion by the year 2025. The Porvoo steam cracker, boasting a nameplate capacity of 430 kilotons of ethylene and 263 kilotons of propylene annually, functions as a crucial facility responsible for thermally “cracking” various feedstocks such as naphtha, propane, butane, and liquefied petroleum gas into smaller molecules.

At the heart of this upgrade initiative lies the modification of three out of the ten cracker furnaces within the olefins unit. These modifications are geared towards facilitating the annual production of 120 kilotons of base chemicals derived from renewable and recycled feedstocks. Notably, the base chemicals produced at Borealis’ Porvoo site have received the prestigious ISCC PLUS certification, underscoring adherence to the highest environmental standards. The ISCC PLUS certification is a voluntary scheme that encompasses the entire supply chain, employing mass balance accounting to ensure compliance with stringent environmental criteria.

Wolfram Krenn, Borealis executive vice president operations and base chemicals, expressed enthusiasm regarding the investment, stating, “With a focus on reinventing essentials for sustainable living, our EUR 4.5 million investment in our steam cracker in Porvoo moves us closer towards a future of circular economy transformation. Through strategic furnace modifications and a commitment to renewable and chemically recycled base chemicals, we are poised to elevate annual production to 120 kilotons, forging a path of environmental stewardship and economic resilience.”

For more information visit www.borealisgroup.com

Axpo has recently entered into a cooperation agreement with French energy investor ENEGO to explore the feasibility of establishing a 100 MW green hydrogen plant in Sicily. The announcement of this collaboration was made today. The proposed project is slated to be situated within the Priolo-Augusta industrial complex on the eastern coast of the island.

This initiative aims to contribute to the establishment of a ‘hydrogen valley’ stretching between Catania and Siracusa, catering to the burgeoning demand for green hydrogen from industries in the surrounding vicinity. For Axpo, this represents a significant stride forward in its strategy of actively participating in the advancement of the green hydrogen economy, both within Switzerland and across Europe.

Axpo, in partnership with HYNEGO, a division of ENEGO Holding, will conduct a thorough assessment to evaluate the feasibility of constructing a 100 MW green hydrogen production facility in southeast Sicily. Depending on market demand, there exists the possibility of scaling up the plant’s capacity to a maximum of 300 MW. Positioned within the Priolo-Augusta petrochemical complex, the envisaged plant aims to generate green hydrogen primarily for local industrial applications and transportation purposes.

Moreover, the establishment of this plant is expected to foster the creation of a ‘hydrogen valley’ in Sicily, potentially integrating into the broader European hydrogen network through initiatives such as the European Hydrogen Backbone initiative. This strategic move underscores Axpo’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and embracing the transition towards a greener, more environmentally conscious future.

For more information visit www.axpo.com

Global Energy Storage and Provaris Energy Ltd. have forged a collaboration agreement aimed at developing a gaseous hydrogen import facility at the GES terminal situated in Rotterdam.

GES is in the process of establishing a multi-client, multi-product terminal in Rotterdam, designed to accommodate the importation of both refrigerated ammonia and compressed hydrogen. This terminal will enable redeliveries into various modes of transportation, including barges, rail, trucks, and the H2 grid operated by Gasunie.

The collaboration between GES and Provaris entails the completion of a comprehensive pre-feasibility study to showcase the technical and economic feasibility of berthing and unloading Provaris’ H2Neo compressed hydrogen carriers. Additionally, the collaboration involves joint marketing efforts for the proposed facility, with Provaris handling the transportation of hydrogen in the H2Neo carriers, and GES overseeing the discharge and injection into the hydrogen grid.

Both GES and Provaris share the conviction that the GES terminal in Rotterdam presents an optimal location for the bulk-scale import of green hydrogen, particularly due to its early connection to the HyNetwork grid, which facilitates gaseous supply to industrial users in the Port of Rotterdam and key industrial users across Europe. Provaris’ compressed hydrogen supply chain offers a competitive alternative to chemical carriers from regional supply sources, spanning across the Nordic region, the Baltics, the North Sea, Iberia, and extending down to North Africa.

The collaboration underscores the commitment of both companies to advancing an energy-efficient and timely supply of green hydrogen to industrial users in Europe, thereby supporting ambitious decarbonisation goals.

Peter Vucins, CEO of GES, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, highlighting its alignment with GES’s commitment to facilitating the energy transition through storage and logistics solutions. Martin Carolan, CEO of Provaris Energy, echoed Vucins’s sentiments, emphasising the potential of the collaboration to accelerate the availability of green molecules for industrial users and support ambitious import volumes required for the European market.

Throughout 2024, GES and Provaris will focus on completing prefeasibility level studies, encompassing various aspects such as jetty facilities, scavenging compression, storage, grid connection, risk and safety assessments, emissions, as well as permitting and environmental considerations.

Provaris has already made significant progress with the H2Neo hydrogen carrier, having obtained design approval for an extensive FEED package in December 2022. Currently, a prototype tank is under construction, with testing underway in Norway to support final construction approval from Class, targeted for mid-2024.

VTT, GTK, and various industrial partner organisations are spearheading a groundbreaking research initiative titled Hydrogen UnderGround (HUG), focusing on the underground storage of hydrogen. With Finland prioritising the development of its national hydrogen industry, large-scale hydrogen storage research emerges as a pivotal advancement. This venture marks Finland’s inaugural public hydrogen storage endeavour of such magnitude.

Recognised as integral components of the green hydrogen value chain, hydrogen underground storages are vital for balancing hydrogen production and demand. As companies increasingly rely on green hydrogen, the stability of its supply becomes imperative. Traditional above-ground storage methods, akin to those used for natural gas, prove impractical due to cost and safety concerns. Preliminary assessments endorse underground storage as the most cost-effective and secure option on a large scale. Given Finland’s lack of natural ground formations suitable for gas storage, the HUG project focuses on engineered gas storage solutions.

Over a two-year span, the project unites 16 esteemed partners, with VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and the Geological Survey of Finland GTK assuming pivotal roles in project coordination and research activities.

Pasi Valkokari from VTT and Teemu Lindqvist from GTK, project managers of HUG, elucidate the project’s overarching objective, stating, “The HUG project aims to establish the groundwork for a large-scale hydrogen storage concept within the Finnish hydrogen business and technology ecosystem. Additionally, the project seeks to forge pathways for ongoing research, inviting partner companies to contribute to continual advancements in the field.”

Co-funded by Business Finland, the project forms part of Neste’s and Valmet’s Veturi ecosystems.

Antti Pohjoranta, representing Neste’s renewable hydrogen & Power-to-X innovation business platforms, underscores the significance of Project HUG in advancing the national hydrogen industry. “Hydrogen is integral to Neste’s refinery processes, and we are committed to propelling the national hydrogen industry forward. Project HUG offers invaluable support towards this objective. Leveraging the collaborative strength of our Veturi ecosystem, we aim to unite industry and academic stakeholders, pooling collective expertise and resources.”

Juha-Pekka Jalkanen, director of process automation at Valmet, affirms the project’s importance in addressing critical automation technology queries essential for hydrogen storage and the broader hydrogen production and consumption ecosystem. “The HUG research project seeks to address vital automation technology questions crucial not only for hydrogen storage but also for the entire hydrogen value chain. This endeavour aligns with Valmet’s Beyond Circularity R&D programme and ecosystem, designed to facilitate our customer industries’ transition to carbon neutrality and facilitate the green transition.”

For more information visit www.vttresearch.com

TotalEnergies and SONATRACH have formalised their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at concluding a hydrocarbon contract in the north-east Timimoun region, in accordance with Law n°19-13 governing hydrocarbon activities.

The MoU delineates a comprehensive work programme for the appraisal and development of gas resources in the North-East Timimoun region. This programme is designed to synergize with existing processing facilities for production in the Timimoun field, with the overarching goals of cost reduction and emissions mitigation.

Julien Pouget, senior vice president of Middle East and North Africa Exploration and Production at TotalEnergies, commented on the significance of the MoU, stating, “This Memorandum of Understanding reflects our shared commitment to expanding our strategic partnership with Sonatrach.”

Earlier this year, TotalEnergies and SONATRACH extended their cooperation into the liquefied natural gas sector, prolonging their contractual relationship until 2025. As part of this extension, SONATRACH will deliver two million metric tonnes of LNG to TotalEnergies at the port of Fos-Cavaou, near Marseille, in 2025. This collaboration contributes directly to the security of energy supply in France and Europe.

For more information visit www.totalenergies.com

Under the watchful gaze of employees, contractors, and other stakeholders, the commencement of Phase 4 expansion at Rubis Terminal Rotterdam has officially begun. Following tradition, a coin was ceremoniously thrown in with the first piling, symbolising the start of another successful project.

Phase 4 is scheduled to be operational by April 2025 and will feature nine tanks with a combined capacity of 28,000 m3. These tanks are strategically configured to handle a diverse range of chemicals, biofuels, and circular products, including pyrolysis oils.

In anticipation of the project’s success, Rubis Terminal Rotterdam extends gratitude to all involved parties, acknowledging their indispensable contributions as the true driving force behind this endeavour. Updates on the progress of Phase 4 will be provided to keep stakeholders informed and engaged throughout the expansion process.

For more information visit www.rubis-terminal.nl

As of April 4th, px Group has announced the integration of UAB-Online’s innovative liquid bulk handling software into their sea shipping operations at Saltend Chemicals Park in Hull, UK. This collaboration brings together px Group and leading global companies such as Ineos Acetyls, Mitsubishi Chemical, Vivergo Fuels, and Yara on the collaborative platform provided by UAB-Online. The integration of this advanced software marks a significant milestone in px Group’s optimisation journey.

UAB-Online is excited to join forces with px Group in working towards a future that prioritises safety, efficiency, and sustainability in both inland and sea shipping worldwide. With their smart and affordable application, UAB-Online aims to deliver a solution that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of users, offering direct benefits in terms of efficiency and safety. By adhering to the ISGOTT6 process, UAB-Online ensures a streamlined and standardised approach to liquid bulk handling.

The application provided by UAB-Online not only improves the lives of those involved in shipping but also indirectly benefits the entire supply chain. By implementing their software, px Group and its partners can expect enhanced operational efficiency, reduced risks, and improved sustainability practices. This collaboration signifies a shared commitment to driving positive change in the shipping industry.

With this integration, px Group and UAB-Online are poised for a successful collaboration that will pave the way for safer, more efficient, and sustainable shipping practices. Together, they are dedicated to revolutionising the industry and shaping a future where liquid bulk handling is optimised for the benefit of all stakeholders.

For more information visit www.uab-online.com/news

Mabanaft GmbH & Co. KG, a leading independent and integrated energy company headquartered in Hamburg, announced today that it has successfully completed the strategic acquisition of WESTFA Energy GmbH, including all its subsidiaries and shareholdings, following the earlier announcement of signing an agreement in December 2023 to purchase the business from Adeleon Familienholding GmbH, formerly WESTFA Holding GmbH.

Mabanaft is a trusted partner to its customers, providing efficient and reliable energy solutions that support their everyday lives, both now and in the future. This strategic acquisition further strengthens Mabanaft’s position in the energy market, allowing the company to expand its product portfolio and enhance its ability to meet the evolving demands of its customers.

By expanding the product range to include LPG, this strategic step aims to make the Mabanaft Group even more resilient and adaptable to the energy market dynamics, making its energy solutions even more diversified, more reliable and increasingly more sustainable, by being able to offer lower carbon pathways to more customers. Mabanaft sees continued opportunities in the heating and mobility markets, and this acquisition helps the company complete and further improve the current offer.

WESTFA is a liquid gas distribution company with close to 300 employees based in Hagen, Germany, active in purchasing, logistics and distribution of LPG for heating and mobility purposes, serving around 50,000 customers, both in the commercial and private sectors. WESTFA’s strong position in the downstream LPG market across Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Luxembourg is a great complement to Mabanaft’s existing business and aligns seamlessly into the long-term growth strategy. The acquisition opens new opportunities for both companies, as WESTFA’s services fit perfectly with Mabanaft’s customer portfolio in the heating and mobility sectors.

“We are happy to welcome all WESTFA colleagues to the Mabanaft Group. WESTFA is a well-positioned business with great access to end customers. The combination of Mabanaft and WESTFA allows us to strengthen our market position and expand our footprint in Northwest Europe”, says Jon Perkins, CEO of Mabanaft. “Our focus, together with the WESTFA team, is to continue serving the loyal customers and building on the existing relationships that WESTFA has developed over the years. The energy transition offers great opportunities for all of us, especially when leveraging and combining our forces and experience. Together we can develop a path to more sustainable energy solutions for all our customers”, he continues.

Mabanaft looks forward to maximising the synergies generated by this acquisition and remains steadfast in its commitment to driving innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction across all its operations.

For more information visit www.mabanaft.com 

The Association for Materials Protection and Performance, the global authority in materials protection and performance, recently published “Guide 21569-2024, Guidance on Implementing Corrosion Control Methodologies to Align with New PHMSA Regulatory Procedures,” a comprehensive document developed by Standards Committee SC 15 – Pipelines and Tanks, aimed at bolstering the safety and integrity of onshore gas transmission pipelines.

In response to the United States’ Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s revised Federal Pipeline Safety Regulations, AMPP’s Guide 21569-2024 offers a detailed roadmap for pipeline operators to implement corrosion control requirements for onshore gas transmission as required in Part 2 of the PHMSA Gas Mega Rule. The PHMSA revisions encompass an array of enhanced safety measures, including improved repair criteria, integrity management, cathodic protection, and management of change, all intended to mitigate risks associated with pipeline corrosion and ensure compliance with the most current safety standards.

“I’m very proud to have served as document project manager for this development team comprised of an incredible group of industry pipeline subject matter experts across the country,” said Kimberly-Joy Harris, a retiree from Enbridge Pipelines with more than 30 years leading pipeline integrity and corrosion programmes and vice chair of the AMPP board of directors. “Our main goal was to assist US natural gas pipeline companies with a guidance document that aligns with the new PHMSA Regulatory Mega Rule requirements related to integrity management, repair criteria, cathodic protection, and management of change, all to prevent and reduce failures.  In addition, this document will be very useful globally to assist pipeline companies with improving their integrity programmes and reducing failures.”

Guide 21569-2024 caters to US gas transmission pipeline operators while providing critical insights for international counterparts aiming to improve their corrosion control measures. This guide emerged from the industry’s need for a cohesive approach to comply with the new corrosion control, operations, maintenance, and integrity management PHMSA regulations that went into effect for transmission pipelines placed into service after February 24, 2024. It presents practical strategies for incorporating these requirements and leverages established practices to protect pipeline assets.

Harris added, “Our project committee members and AMPP staff members did an amazing job working with the team through this process, and we were pleased to complete this project in record time, less than one year from initiation to publication.”

For more information visit www.ampp.org

UM Terminals has been honoured with a prestigious award, showcasing its unwavering dedication to health and safety excellence.

The company clinched a SILVER Award in the achievement category at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) annual awards.

The renowned RoSPA Awards programme, now in its 68th year, stands as the UK’s largest and most impactful health and safety initiative. Drawing nearly 2,000 entries annually from over 50 countries and impacting over seven million employees, these awards shine a spotlight on a steadfast commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in health and safety practices.

Rebecca Lee, environmental, health, and safety manager at UM Group, expressed, “The team at UM Terminals have worked extremely hard over the past 12 months to elevate our safety standards. Everyone has embraced the introduced changes and increased their participation in the initiatives to drive progress forward.”

Julia Small, RoSPA’s achievements director, stated, “Workplace accidents don’t just pose financial risks and operational disruptions; they significantly impact the quality of life for individuals. This is why acknowledging and rewarding excellent safety performance is vital. We congratulate UM Terminals for winning a prestigious RoSPA Award and showing an unwavering commitment to keeping employees, clients, and customers safe from accidental harm and injury.”

Sponsored by Croner-i, the RoSPA Awards scheme stands as the longest-running of its kind in the UK, receiving entries from organisations across the globe. This makes it one of the most coveted achievement awards within the health and safety industry.

Ben Chaplain, managing director at Croner-i, commented, “We are proud to sponsor the RoSPA Awards for a second year, which emphasises our dedication to prioritising health and safety—an essential foundation for lasting success and wellbeing at work.”

For more information visit www.umterminals.co.uk

Mabanaft’s UK operations have announced the appointment of Caroline Watkins as their new managing director and head of UK. Based in Hamburg, Germany, Mabanaft is a prominent independent energy company that offers innovative energy solutions for transportation, heating, industrial, and agricultural needs.

Caroline brings over three decades of experience in the oil and shipping markets to her new role. Prior to joining Mabanaft, she served as the Director of International Crude Trading at Suncor, where she led the supply and trading business in the UK and collaborated with teams across North America and beyond. Her extensive background also includes roles at Chevron and Shell, primarily focusing on crude oil trading.

In her capacity as managing director of the UK branch, Caroline will work closely with colleagues, suppliers, and customers on a global scale. She will play a key role in advancing Mabanaft’s sustainable and renewable energy initiatives in the UK, contributing to the company’s commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.

Caroline expressed her enthusiasm for joining the Mabanaft UK team, highlighting her eagerness to engage with customers, industry partners, and suppliers. She aims to drive Mabanaft UK towards achieving its sustainability objectives and promoting renewables as the future of energy, with a focus on fostering a greener future in the UK.

For more information visit www.mabanaft.co.uk

PROTEGO®, a global leader in providing comprehensive safety solutions for industrial process applications, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Setpoint Integrated Solutions, a renowned sales, service, and manufacturing company. Effective April 1st, 2024, Setpoint Integrated Solutions will officially represent the PROTEGO® brand across the Texas Gulf Coast, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi markets.

The collaboration with Setpoint Integrated Solutions marks a significant milestone in PROTEGO®’s commitment to providing unparalleled service and support to clients in key regions. Setpoint Integrated Solutions’ extensive expertise, along with its 11 locations, will enhance PROTEGO®’s ability to deliver cutting-edge safety solutions to customers in the designated territories. Additionally, ten of Setpoint’s locations will be qualified Protego Authorised Repair Centres, covering Texas Gulf Coast, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Louisiana.

“We are thrilled to welcome Setpoint Integrated Solutions to the PROTEGO® family,” said Chris Mason, chief executive officer at PROTEGO®. “Their proven track record and dedication to excellence align perfectly with our mission to safeguard industrial processes and protect lives. Together, we look forward to delivering exceptional value and innovation to customers throughout Eastern Texas Gulf Coast, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi.”

Setpoint Integrated Solutions will offer the full range of PROTEGO® products, including pressure and vacuum relief valves, flame arresters, and tank accessories. With Setpoint Integrated Solutions’ local presence and industry knowledge, customers can expect tailored solutions and responsive support to meet their specific safety requirements.

For more information about visit www.protego.com

ACME Group, one of the world’s leading sustainable and renewable energy companies, and German pioneer in liquid organic hydrogen carriers, Hydrogenious LOHC Technologies, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on a feasibility study to explore the joint development of large-scale hydrogen supply chains from ACME’s projects in Oman to supply hubs in Europe using the innovative LOHC technology. Both parties intend to extend the partnership to evaluate the hydrogen value chain from USA to Europe.

Oman benefits from abundant renewable energy resources such as solar and onshore wind while US Inflation Reduction Act offers production incentives leading to competitive hydrogen production cost. The green hydrogen produced by ACME in these projects can be stored in LOHC and transported by tanker to Europe to supply and decarbonize industrial offtakers, energy and mobility.

Hydrogenious’ LOHC technology is perfectly suited for large-scale hydrogen imports via maritime supply chains, enabling viable and cost-effective import vectors to Europe. By safely binding hydrogen to the thermal oil benzyltoluene in a chemical process, the volatile green molecules can be efficiently stored and transported at ambient pressure and temperature using the existing liquid fuel infrastructure.

For more information visit www.acme.in

The Angel CCS Joint Venture has announced a collaborative effort with Yara Pilbara Fertilisers Pty Ltd to explore the feasibility of utilising carbon capture and storage to decarbonise Yara Pilbara’s existing operations near Karratha in Western Australia. Spearheaded by Woodside Energy, the Angel CCS Joint Venture aims to establish a large-scale, multi-user CCS hub with the potential to facilitate decarbonisation efforts for Australian and international industries.

Yara Pilbara has entered into a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with the Angel CCS Joint Venture to assess the viability of employing CCS technology to decarbonise their operations in the Burrup Strategic Industrial Area. Woodside vice president carbon solutions, Jayne Baird, highlighted the significance of the MOU in showcasing the role of CCS in decarbonising both existing and emerging industries in the Pilbara region.

“A multi-user CCS hub near Karratha would be strategically positioned to aggregate emissions from various industrial sources across the Pilbara, offering users access to a local, cost-effective, and scalable emissions reduction solution,” remarked Baird. “Furthermore, apart from decarbonising existing industries, a CCS hub could catalyse the growth of new, lower-carbon sectors such as hydrogen production, ammonia, and green steel, thereby fostering economic diversification in Western Australia.”

The proposed size of the CCS facility is contingent upon further technical, regulatory, and commercial assessments, but it could potentially have a processing capacity of up to 5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, positioning it as one of the largest CCS hubs in the Asia-Pacific region. In addition to serving domestic markets, the Angel CCS Joint Venture is exploring opportunities to extend its services to international customers, offering emissions reduction solutions to Australia’s trading partners while creating a new export avenue for the country.

For more information visit www.woodside.com

The 2024 AMPP Annual Conference + Expo not only marked a year of significant achievements and milestones for the Association for Materials Protection and Performance but also showcased the unyielding spirit and solidarity of its community in the face of unexpected challenges, as nearly 6,000 attendees from the corrosion and coatings industries descended on New Orleans, Louisiana, from around the world from March 3-7, 2024.

Amid the celebration of its 100th chapter announcement and the unveiling of a new, inclusive membership model, the conference encountered a significant weather-related obstacle: a substantial roof leak at the venue. However, the incident did little to dampen the spirits of attendees; instead, it highlighted the resilience and cooperative spirit of the AMPP community.

“I am genuinely impressed and inspired by the spirit of our exhibitors and the unity of our community,” said Greg Muha, AMPP’s director of conferences, exhibits, and sponsorships. “The way everyone rallied together in the face of adversity was remarkable. Our members and attendees have expressed how this year’s conference felt even more member-focused, which is a testament to the positive energy and collaborative effort of everyone involved. It’s clear that challenges do not define us; rather, it’s our response to those challenges that truly matters.”

Despite the leak, the conference flourished, underscoring the industry’s resilience and its members’ dedication to progress. This success highlighted the AMPP community’s ability to transform challenges into opportunities for solidarity and focus.

In an enlightening keynote address, renowned physicist and author Dr. Michio Kaku captivated a packed house with his insights into the future of artificial intelligence and its applications within the industry. Dr. Kaku’s vision of AI-enhanced materials that self-report corrosion and wear and tear challenges propelled the conversation on integrating technology in materials protection and performance.

The 2024 AMPP Annual Conference and Expo not only celebrated a significant increase in attendance compared to the previous year but also featured a comprehensive agenda that included 45 research technical symposia, over 400 technical papers, and numerous workshops and presentations. This robust programme highlighted the technical insight, innovation, and camaraderie within the AMPP community.

“The 2024 conference reflected the connectedness, passion, and strength of AMPP’s members and constituents,” Muha said. “We demonstrated how we truly are stronger together, as one AMPP.”

The event provided a platform for showcasing the latest corrosion control and protective coatings technology, with 383 companies participating in the expo. Highlights included a hands-on cathodic protection test field and the EMERG Student Camp, engaging the next generation of industry professionals.

The conference also featured several awards programmes celebrating technical excellence, innovation, and leadership within the industry. Among these were AMPP’s Scholarship Awards and EMERGing Leaders Bash (sponsored by BP and Sherwin-Williams), the CoatingsPro Contractor Awards, spotlighting individuals and projects that exemplify the best in materials protection and performance, and AMPP’s Honoree Night, celebrating annual technical, service and project award winners.

AMPP is excited about the next Annual Conference and Expo, scheduled for April 6-10, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee.

For more information visit www.ampp.org

Chevron New Energies, a division of Chevron U.S.A. Inc., has announced a significant lead investment in ION Clean Energy, a Boulder-based technology company renowned for its post-combustion point-source capture technology, specifically its third-generation ICE-31 liquid amine system. ION has successfully raised $45 million in Series A financing, with CNE spearheading the investment. The capital infusion will bolster ION’s organisational expansion and support the commercial deployment of its ICE-31 liquid amine carbon capture technology, primarily aimed at addressing hard-to-abate emissions.

CNE’s strategic investment in ION underscores its objective to utilise ICE-31 technology to cater to customers grappling with high volume and low concentration CO2 emissions. Additionally, this partnership provides CNE with the opportunity to collaborate with ION customers on projects aimed at scaling the technology at a faster pace.

Chris Powers, vice president of CCUS & Emerging at CNE, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, “We continue to make progress on our goal to deliver the full value chain of carbon capture, utilisation, and storage as a business, and we believe ION is a part of this solution.”

ION’s founder and executive chairman, Buz Brown, lauded Chevron’s investment as a significant endorsement of their technology’s potential. “We have truly special solvent technology,” Brown noted. “This investment from Chevron is a huge testament to the hard work of our team and the potential of our technology.”

In conjunction with the investment, ION announced the appointment of Timothy Vail as chief executive officer. Vail brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as CEO of Arbor Renewable Gas, LLC, and as founder and CEO of G2X Energy, Inc.

“With this investment, we are well positioned to grow ION into a worldwide provider of high-performance point source capture solutions,” Vail remarked.

This investment expands Chevron’s technology portfolio to include conventional amine-based capture technology, complementing its existing portfolio of CCUS technologies. CIBC Capital Markets acted as the exclusive financial advisor to ION for the raise.

For more information visit www.chevron.com

Panoro Energy ASA  has announced that it has reached an agreement with the Government of Equatorial Guinea on the key terms and conditions for the award of offshore Block EG-23.

The Heads of Terms agreement, signed by Panoro, GEPetrol, and the Ministry of Mines and Hydrocarbons, sets the stage for a period of exclusive negotiations to finalize a Production Sharing Contract for Block EG-23 and the development of a work program and budget. Panoro anticipates that its participating interest in Block EG-23 upon the award of a PSC will be up to 80 percent initially.

Situated offshore Equatorial Guinea north of Bioko Island and adjacent to the producing Alba gas and condensate field, Block EG-23 covers a surface area of approximately 600 km2 in water depths ranging from 50 metres to 100 metres. To date, 19 wells have been drilled on Block EG-23, resulting in seven hydrocarbon discoveries, including four oil, two gas, and one gas/condensate. Some of these discoveries have been tested. Previously held by Marathon, Panoro’s technical evaluation suggests the existence of a range of plays on the block, with several prospects and leads identified in addition to the existing discoveries.

Panoro’s initial work programme for Block EG-23 is expected to focus on reprocessing existing seismic data to advance prospects and leads to a drill-ready state, with the option to proceed to a second stage involving drilling.

John Hamilton, CEO of Panoro, expressed gratitude to the Government of Equatorial Guinea for the opportunity to enter into a PSC for the highly prospective Block EG-23. He emphasised that the award of a PSC for Block EG-23, once finalised, would complement Panoro’s existing acreage portfolio in Equatorial Guinea. Hamilton also looked forward to collaborating with GEPetrol to leverage their collective core subsurface skill sets and increase exposure to various play types, prospects, and leads in the vicinity of existing infrastructure.

For more information visit www.panoroenergy.com

In an endeavour to accelerate industrial decarbonisation at scale, SLB has announced an agreement to merge its carbon capture business with Aker Carbon Capture.

The combination aims to leverage ACC’s commercial carbon capture product offering and SLB’s new technology developments and industrialization capability. By bringing together complementary technology portfolios and leading process design expertise, the collaboration seeks to create a platform for introducing disruptive early-stage technology into the global market on a commercial, proven platform. Following the transaction, SLB will hold an 80 percent stake in the combined business, with ACC owning the remaining 20 percent.

According to the International Energy Agency, carbon capture, utilisation, and sequestration are expected to play a crucial role in the net-zero transition. The IEA estimates that over one gigaton of CO2 per year will need to be captured by 2030, scaling up to over six gigatons by 2050.

Olivier Le Peuch, chief executive officer of SLB, highlighted the significance of scaling up CCUS technologies to meet global net-zero ambitions. He emphasised the importance of lowering capture costs, which often account for a significant portion of the total expenditure of a CCUS project. Le Peuch expressed excitement about partnering with ACC to accelerate the deployment of carbon capture technologies across high-emitting industrial sectors.

As part of the agreement, SLB will pay NOK 4.12 billion to acquire 80 percent of Aker Carbon Capture Holding AS, which holds the business of ACC. Additionally, SLB may make further payments of up to NOK 1.36 billion over the next three years based on the performance of the business.

The transaction is contingent upon regulatory approvals and is anticipated to close by the end of the second quarter of 2024.

For more information visit www.slb.com

Stolthaven Terminals is thrilled to announce that its Singapore terminal has once again been honoured with the prestigious Dow SEA S4TAR Best Terminal award, marking the fourth consecutive year of recognition.

Established by Dow Chemicals, the S4TAR SEA (South East Asia) programme aims to acknowledge logistics services partners in the region who exhibit exceptional performance in safety, service, sustainability, and social responsibility.

Image Stolthaven Terminals

Singapore’s remarkable feat of clinching the award for four consecutive years underscores its unwavering dedication to excellence across these key areas.

Chek Chai Foo, general manager of Stolthaven Singapore, expressed gratitude, saying, “Many thanks to all Stolthaven Singapore employees for their contributions to this achievement and for the tremendous support we receive from across the global Stolthaven Terminals network.”

For more information visit www.stolthaventerminals.com

The Sleipner field centre, in conjunction with the Gudrun platform and other associated fields, has commenced partial operations powered from shore, marking a significant step towards reducing annual emissions from the Norwegian continental shelf by 160,000 tonnes of CO2.

All installations on the Utsira High are now benefitting from power supplied from shore, resulting in emissions savings equivalent to approximately 1.2 million tonnes of CO₂ per year. This electrification initiative aligns with the plan for development and operation for Johan Sverdrup phase 2, which received approval from the Norwegian parliament in 2019.

The Sleipner field in the North Sea Photo: Øyvind Gravås and Bo B. Randulff / Equinor

Geir Tungesvik, executive vice president for projects, drilling, & procurement, underscores the importance of electrification, stating, “Electrification is the most effective tool in our toolbox in our quest to achieve the national target of halving greenhouse gas emissions from Norwegian oil and gas production by 2030.”

At the Sleipner A platform, one of two operative gas turbines will gradually be decommissioned as systems transition to utilising power from shore. The remaining gas turbine will serve as a backup power source during an initial transition period, with plans for full operation on power from shore in the longer term.

Since March 24, 2024, the Sleipner field centre has been supplied with onshore power via a cable from the Gina Krog platform, while the Gudrun platform has been connected to electricity through the existing cable to Sleipner.

Kjetil Hove, executive vice president for Exploration & Production Norway, highlights the significance of this milestone, stating, “With power from shore, we can develop new discoveries and resources from low-emission production, and gas exports from the area can be maintained for a long time to come.”

As among the largest gas producers in the North Sea, the Sleipner fields serve as a crucial hub for gas transport to Europe, contributing to the EU’s energy transition goals. The electrification of these fields not only facilitates more efficient utilisation of gas resources but also creates employment opportunities and positive ripple effects for the Norwegian supply industry.

Investments in the electrification project total NOK 1.08 billion, with key contracts awarded to Aibel and NKT for engineering, procurement, construction, installation, and commissioning work. The project has generated 250 full-time equivalents at Aibel’s Stavanger office, offshore, and at the shipyard in Haugesund, further underscoring its positive impact on local employment and economic growth.

For more information visit www.equinor.com

Baker Hughes, a prominent energy technology company, revealed on Wednesday its acquisition of a contract, set to be recorded in the first quarter of 2024, from Snam, Europe’s leading operator in natural gas transportation, storage, and regasification. The contract entails providing three NovaLTTM12 gas turbine-driven compressor trains for a new gas compressor station in Sulmona, Italy.

The station forms a vital component of the Adriatic Line, a Snam pipeline initiative included in Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan as part of the REpowerEU Plan. The Adriatic Line aims to construct a 425-kilometre-long, hydrogen-ready pipeline, facilitating the transportation of additional energy supplies from Azerbaijan, Africa, and the Eastern Mediterranean region to northern Europe.

The selection of Baker Hughes’ NovaLTTM12 turbines, capable of running on 100 percent natural gas or hydrogen blends up to 10 percent, signifies a significant step in decarbonising the Italian gas network infrastructure. It also aligns with Snam’s strategy to achieve carbon neutrality on direct emissions by 2040.

Ganesh Ramaswamy, executive vice president of Industrial & Energy Technology at Baker Hughes, remarked, “This milestone in our long-standing collaboration with Snam demonstrates that the energy transition requires continuous partnership. Together, we are innovating and delivering critical world-firsts for the decarbonisation of gas networks.”

In addition to the Sulmona project, Baker Hughes highlighted progress on several significant hydrogen initiatives, including a new hydrogen testing facility in Florence, Italy, the manufacturing and testing of NovaLT™16 hydrogen turbines for the Air Products Net-Zero Hydrogen Energy Complex in Edmonton, Canada, and the delivery of advanced hydrogen compression solutions for the NEOM project in Saudi Arabia.

Baker Hughes boasts extensive experience and a comprehensive portfolio serving the entire hydrogen value chain, from production to transportation and utilisation. With roots dating back to the 1910s, the company offers advanced compressors, gas turbines, valves, centrifugal pumps, non-metallic pipes, hydrogen sensors, and monitoring and diagnostics solutions, along with clean power solutions for producing power with hydrogen and hydrogen blends.

For more information visit www.investors.bakerhughes.com

Following a successful and thorough year-long evaluation process, Verdagy, a leading renewable hydrogen electrolysis company, has announced Shell’s technical endorsement of its eDynamic® electrolyzers. With over a decade of technology development expertise, Verdagy has gained recognition as a qualified supplier for Shell’s upcoming green hydrogen initiatives.

Shell’s endorsement comes after a comprehensive assessment, including a hazard and operability study focusing on safety, as well as detailed design and technology development reviews of Verdagy’s electrolyzers. These evaluations are crucial steps towards commercial adoption within Shell’s projects.

Andrew Beard, vice president of hydrogen at Shell, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Verdagy has developed dynamic and cost-competitive electrolyzers suitable for infrastructure-scale projects. We are pleased with the results of our evaluations and look forward to further collaboration with Verdagy.”

Shell’s technical assessments covered Verdagy’s 20-megawatt eDynamic Electrolysis system, evaluating aspects such as performance, stability, and safety. Verdagy’s scalable electrolyzer technology serves as a foundation for larger renewable hydrogen installations, reaching capacities of 100 MW and beyond.

Marty Neese, CEO of Verdagy, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration’s outcome, stating, “The successful completion of this year-long collaboration marks an important milestone for both Verdagy and Shell. We anticipate widespread adoption of Verdagy’s advanced electrolyzers in the industry following Shell’s endorsement.”

Verdagy’s electrolyzers boast the lowest levelized cost of hydrogen by leveraging high current densities, broad operating ranges, and rapid response capabilities, enabling seamless integration with renewable power sources. Committed to advancing renewable hydrogen production, Verdagy aims to achieve the US Department of Energy’s cost target of $2/kg by 2026. The company has recently been awarded a $39.6 million grant (pending negotiations) by the Department of Energy to expedite the high-volume manufacturing of Advanced Alkaline Water Electrolysis eDynamic Electrolyzers.

For more information visit www.verdagy.com

Hans Olav Raen is appointed CEO of Yara Clean Ammonia, effective 1^st May 2024. Mr. Raen, formerly business director overseeing OCI’s fertiliser business in Europe, brings over 25 years of expertise in the fertiliser industry to his new role. His extensive experience includes twelve years at Norsk Hydro and Yara International, where he held various commercial and managerial positions across Europe and Africa from 1997 to 2009.

Hans Olav Raen holds a master’s degree from the College of Europe and a degree in digital leadership fromYara Clean Ammonia ESSEC Business School in Paris.

Magnus Krogh Ankarstrand, EVP corporate development at Yara International, expressed confidence in Mr. Raen’s appointment as the head of Yara Clean Ammonia. Ankarstrand believes that Mr. Raen, alongside the dedicated YCA team, will propel the company forward, leading it to new heights in the rapidly expanding clean ammonia sector. Ankarstrand will continue to serve as chairman of the Yara Clean Ammonia Board.

For more information visit www.yara.com

Setpoint Integrated Solutions is delighted to announce a strategic partnership with PROTEGO®, a renowned leader in tank equipment and safety solutions for industrial process applications. Effective April 1, 2024, Setpoint Integrated Solutions will become the official representative of the PROTEGO® brand across the Texas Gulf Coast, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi markets.

Under this alliance, Setpoint Integrated Solutions will offer the complete range of PROTEGO® products, encompassing pressure and vacuum relief valves, flame arresters, and tank accessories. Ten of Setpoint’s locations will be designated PROTEGO® Authorised Repair Centres, serving Texas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Louisiana. These centres will play a crucial role in product assembly, ensuring industry-leading lead times and exceptional levels of customer service.

Benjamin Davis, vice president of sales at Setpoint Integrated Solutions, expressed enthusiasm about the addition of PROTEGO® to their portfolio of distinguished OEMs. He highlighted Setpoint’s commitment to delivering premium products and services, resonating with PROTEGO®’s reputation for quality and excellence in tank equipment and pressure safety solutions. Recognised globally as the standard in its field, PROTEGO® aligns seamlessly with Setpoint’s values, promising unparalleled quality and lead times for customers.

The partnership between Setpoint Integrated Solutions and PROTEGO® capitalises on their combined expertise to offer unmatched service and solutions in safety devices and systems, vital in an industry prioritising safety and efficiency. This collaboration represents a significant milestone for both entities and is poised to deliver substantial benefits to customers in the region, ensuring enhanced safety and operational efficiency.

For more information visit www.setpointis.com

Aramco, a prominent global player in the integrated energy and chemicals sector, has announced the awarding of engineering, procurement, and construction contracts totaling $7.7 billion for a significant expansion of its Fadhili Gas Plant situated in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. This expansion initiative aims to enhance the plant’s processing capacity from 2.5 to up to 4 billion standard cubic feet per day.

The anticipated increase of 1.5 bscfd in processing capacity aligns with Aramco’s strategic objective to elevate gas production by over 60 percent by 2030, in comparison to 2021 levels. Scheduled for completion by November 2027, the Fadhili Gas Plant expansion is projected to augment sulphur production by an additional 2,300 metric tonnes per day.

Signing ceremony for engineering, procurement and construction contracts for the Fadhili Gas Plant expansion in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, on April 2.

Wail Al Jaafari, Aramco’s executive vice president of technical services, underscored the significance of these contract awards in advancing the company’s objectives to bolster natural gas supplies, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and optimise crude oil utilisation for value-added refining and export purposes. He emphasised collaboration with leading international entities to propel gas production goals forward and highlighted the expansion’s support for Aramco’s aspirations to cultivate a lower-carbon hydrogen business, alongside the critical role of associated gas liquids as feedstock for the petrochemical sector.

EPC contracts for the Fadhili Gas Plant increment project were granted to distinguished companies including SAMSUNG Engineering Company, GS Engineering & Construction Corporation, and Nesma & Partners, signifying a concerted effort to leverage expertise and resources for the successful execution of this strategic initiative.

For more information visit www.aramco.com

McDermott has proudly announced the mechanical completion of a groundbreaking industrial-scale biosurfactant plant for Evonik. Within less than two years from the contract award, Evonik has successfully initiated the production of Rhamnolipids, a bacterial surfactant poised to revolutionise cleaning products and greatly reduce their environmental footprint.

The project solidifies Evonik’s position as a trailblazer in the production of high-quality, sustainable biosurfactants on a commercial scale.

The comprehensive contract encompassed engineering, procurement, and construction management services for the new biosurfactant plant. Engineering and procurement services were conducted from McDermott’s office in Brno, Czech Republic, while construction management operations took place at Evonik’s site in Slovakia.

Rob Shaul, McDermott’s senior vice president of low carbon solutions, expressed admiration for the remarkable achievement, emphasising the dedication of the team and their seamless collaboration with Evonik. He highlighted the significance of Rhamnolipids in advancing the burgeoning biosurfactant market, heralding a new era of sustainable cleaning and personal care products.

McDermott was chosen as Evonik’s partner for the pioneering biosurfactants project in 2021, reflecting the company’s expertise and commitment to driving sustainable solutions in the chemicals industry.

For more information visit www.mcdermott-investors.com

Kinder Morgan, Inc. has announced the nomination of Amy W. Chronis to stand for election as a director at its upcoming annual meeting of stockholders on May 8, 2024.

Ms. Chronis, currently a senior partner at Deloitte, is slated to retire from the firm effective June 1, 2024. Her tenure at Deloitte includes serving as vice chair and US energy & chemicals industry leader from January 2021 to January 2024, and as managing partner of Deloitte’s Houston practice from February 2018 to January 2024. She joined Deloitte as a partner in June 2002. In addition to her professional achievements, Ms. Chronis holds board positions at the Greater Houston Partnership, the United Way of Greater Houston, Texas 2036 (a nonpartisan data-driven public policy think tank), and the non-profit Central Houston, Inc. She earned a BSBA degree in accounting and international studies from Ohio State University in 1983, and has completed an executive education programme at Columbia Business School. Additionally, she is a CPA licenced in the State of Texas.

Richard D. Kinder, KMI’s executive chairman, expressed confidence in Chronis’ nomination, highlighting her extensive expertise in financial management, executive leadership, strategic planning, technology, sustainability, and risk management. He stated, “Amy will be a valuable addition to our talented board.” Ms. Chronis will stand for election alongside KMI’s current directors at the May 8, 2024, annual meeting.

For more information, visit www.kindermorgan.com

JERA Co., Inc has entered into a Joint Study Agreement with Petroliam Nasional Berhad, facilitated by its subsidiary – PETRONAS CCS Solutions Sdn. Bhd., to assess the feasibility of capturing and storing CO2 emissions produced by JERA in Japan, followed by transportation to Malaysia for storage.

Carbon capture and storage plays a vital role in mitigating CO2 emissions, particularly for industries facing challenges in emission reduction. Governments globally are actively supporting CCS initiatives, with significant momentum observed in the Asia-Pacific region.

Malaysia, rich in potential sites for underground CO2 storage, is actively pursuing CCS projects. Leveraging PETRONAS’ expertise in CCS, the collaboration with JERA holds promise for establishing a global network for cross-border CO2 transport and storage.

The JSA entails a comprehensive examination of the CCS value chain, encompassing CO2 separation and capture in Japan, transportation modalities for cross-border CO2 transport, and storage in Malaysian gas fields.

As part of its “JERA Zero CO2 Emissions 2050” initiative, JERA is committed to achieving net-zero CO2 emissions from its domestic and international operations by 2050. To further CCS projects, JERA is intensifying its evaluation of CO2 capture and storage technologies, alongside assessing associated economic considerations.

For more information visit www.jera.co.jp

ELESA vacuum components (vacuum suction cups, vacuum cup holders, and related accessories) represent the ideal solution for automatically and safely handling parts with different shapes, sizes, and surfaces (e.g. metal, glass, plastic, ceramic).
The function of these components is based on the presence of a vacuum generator that, by creating a depression inside the vacuum suction cup, allows it to adhere to the surface of the part to be moved. The load grip is maintained as long as there is vacuum in the system.

Thanks to their versatility, Elesa vacuum suction cups with dimensions ranging from 4 mm to 125 mm, in the classic cup, flat, elliptical, bellows, or multi-bellows shapes, can be used for multiple applications and sectors such as food packaging, in particular in flow pack packaging using plastic films, the electronics sector, the paper converting sector for labels and sheets of paper or cardboard, the automotive sector for handling metal parts or glass windshields, the medical/pharmaceutical sector or for different objects such as ceramic or clay tiles, marble or glass slabs, items made from concrete, wood, and plastic components.

ELESA Vacuum Cup Holders( left) ELESA Vacuum Suction Cups (right)

The vacuum suction cups, available in different compounds (oil-proof rubber, silicone, natural or para-natural rubber) are compatible with all products, even those with irregular, rough surfaces or in the presence of oil or liquids.
The presence of grooves and the contoured shape of the vacuum suction cup support surface ensures a strong grip with the load surface, in particular on oiled sheets, glass or marble sheets, facilitating the drainage of any liquids.

The vacuum cup holders allow the vacuum suction cups to be fixed to the automation device gripper and are made up of:

• a brass or stainless steel threaded stem,
• a spring (external or built-in) to cushion the impact of the vacuum suction cup and at the same time maintain a constant pressure with the load to be lifted,
• a quick fitting for connection to the suction hose.

They are available in different configurations, sizes (also mini and micro) and different materials, allowing them to be used in all industrial sectors.

For more information visit www.elesa.com

MidOcean Energy, under the stewardship of EIG, has completed the acquisition of Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd’s interests in several Australian integrated LNG projects, marking a significant milestone in the company’s expansion endeavours. This strategic move bolsters MidOcean’s presence in the LNG market, positioning it strategically across various stages of the LNG value chain, from upstream operations to liquefaction and sales. Notably, the acquired portfolio encompasses stakes in prominent projects like Gorgon LNG, Pluto LNG, and Queensland Curtis LNG, which are key players in the Australian LNG landscape.

The decision to establish an office in Perth, Australia, underscores MidOcean’s commitment to efficiently support and oversee these projects. This move not only facilitates operational oversight but also signifies MidOcean’s dedication to fostering strong partnerships and collaborations within the Australian LNG sector.

R. Blair Thomas, EIG’s chairman and CEO, emphasised the pivotal role of LNG in driving the global energy transition. He reiterated MidOcean’s commitment to offering unique exposure to the LNG asset class, highlighting the company’s strategic vision and long-term objectives in the evolving energy landscape. The acquisition of Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd’s interests aligns seamlessly with MidOcean’s overarching strategy of diversification and expansion in the LNG sector.

De la Rey Venter, CEO of MidOcean, echoed these sentiments, recognising the acquisition as a significant step towards realising the company’s ambition of becoming a leading global player in the LNG industry. He underscored the importance of the acquired assets in strengthening MidOcean’s position in key LNG markets and enhancing its capabilities to meet the evolving needs of customers worldwide.

The transaction was facilitated by leading financial advisors Barrenjoey, Barclays, and JP Morgan, further validating MidOcean’s strategic growth trajectory and commitment to excellence. With a clear focus on facilitating the world’s transition to a low-carbon future, MidOcean remains dedicated to driving innovation, sustainability, and value creation in the LNG sector and beyond.

For more information visit www.eigpartners.com