The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has welcomed new funding for the Hydrogen head start initiative announced in the 2023-24 Federal Budget.

The Australian Government announced the establishment of the $2 billion Hydrogen head start initiative to underwrite the biggest green hydrogen projects to be built in Australia.

Funding will provide revenue support for investment in renewable hydrogen production through competitive production contracts. Funding will cover the commercial gap between the cost of hydrogen production from renewables and its current market price.

Hydrogen head start aims to support two to three flagship projects which could provide up to 1 gigawatt of hydrogen electrolyser capacity.

ARENA has been allocated $4.2 million this year to support the development and operation of the programme in consultation with the Department of Climate Change Energy Environment and Water (DCCEEW).

“Hydrogen head start will catalyse Australia’s hydrogen industry and other clean energy industries, and help position Australia as a global hydrogen leader,” ARENA CEO Darren Miller said.

The programme will be designed over the coming months in consultation with DCCEEW, industry and communities.

Mr Miller said the Hydrogen head start initiative will ensure large scale hydrogen projects already in development can get off the ground in Australia.

“Australia has an unparalleled opportunity to become a global green hydrogen leader, but we can’t afford to lose our momentum as other competing countries step up their ambitions and support,” he said.

“With this funding, we are looking to incentivise green hydrogen production in Australia by backing early projects that will be among the largest in the world.

“This funding will reduce the cost of green hydrogen produced via renewable electricity and will scale up our hydrogen sector. These projects will create thousands of regional jobs and will help reduce emissions in industry in line with our climate targets,” he said.

According to new analysis by McKinsey and modelling by DCCEEW, Australia’s hydrogen industry could generate $50 billion in additional GDP, and create more than 13,000 regional jobs and a further 13,000 jobs from construction of new renewable energy infrastructure by 2050.

This programme builds on ARENA’s existing work in hydrogen and track record of delivering transformative projects in the energy transition in pursuit of net zero.

ARENA has provided $236 million to 43 renewable hydrogen projects from early stage research to deployment projects including hydrogen refuelling and hydrogen trucks, hydrogen for producing green ammonia, hydrogen for use in alumina refining, gas blending and remote power.

Last year, ARENA conditionally approved $47.5 million for the first 10 MW electrolyser plant in the Pilbara being built by ENGIE as part of a $103 million Renewable Hydrogen Deployment Round.

ARENA has also recently announced $25 million for hydrogen research and developing funding, and $50 million for four hydrogen projects supported as part of the joint Australian-German HyGATE initiative.

Having provided more than $2 billion for over 650 renewable energy projects over the last decade, ARENA is now focussed on how Australia can maximise its advantage in renewable energy to become a clean energy superpower in a net zero global economy.

“ARENA is delighted to be involved in the design of this game-changing hydrogen funding initiative.”

Further information will be available on ARENA’s website. Interested participants can register their interest via DCCEEW’s website.

For more information visit www.arena.gov.au

Alkion Terminal Le Havre has taken its safety measures to another level by gaining a license to operate drones for professional purposes. This initiative makes ATLH the first SEVESO (Safety of Life and Environment from Industrial Risks) site in the Port of Le Havre to have a certified drone pilot among its employees. Sébastien Banville, the certified drone pilot, underwent approximately 80 hours of training, which was split into two parts, a theoretical and practical component.

The theoretical component of the training is based on the same training framework as an Ultra Léger Motorisé (motorised ultralight glider) pilot. It is complex and involves air regulations, meteorology, aircraft techniques, and other related topics. The theoretical component takes 40 hours, and learners study autonomously with documentation provided by the training centre. The training ends with an exam at the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC), the French national regulatory authority responsible for ensuring the safety and security of French air transport as well as providing training.

The practical component of the training took place at the training centre based in Le Havre and also at the ATLH site. It involved manoeuvring around the installations with different types of drones and various flight scenarios. Sebastien, who already had some experience, discussed topics related to future drone use in real depth with his instructor.

The drone provides two critical safety benefits for Alkion. Firstly, drones can be of valuable help in emergency response scenarios. Drones are quickly activated and eliminate the need to send personnel wearing respiratory protection equipment to deal with a significant chemical and/or thermal risk. In addition, the aerial view provided by drones is far superior to the terrestrial view, providing a visual of the place of intervention.

Secondly, drones enable easier inspection and maintenance. Drones allow easy access to difficult-to-reach locations, which would only be reachable using methods that involve time and complex technical equipment. The drone can eliminate all the technical difficulties that come with the installation of scaffolding, the use of rope access technicians, and other circumstances requiring physical access by employees.

ATLH is located in an area with a high concentration of SEVESO sites where drone flights are prohibited without authorisation. The use of a drone for a scheduled mission must, therefore, be granted at least five days in advance by the area manager, which is Haropa Port, as well by the National Air Operations Center (CNOA) based in Lyon. For emergency management, which is unpredictable, a simple telephone agreement with these authorities allows the immediate flight of the drone.

Alkion is the only SEVESO company in the port of Le Havre to have a drone and its drone pilot. At the Alkion site, Sébastien uses a DJI MAVIC 2 ENTERPRISE DUAL, which is equipped with a full HD camera, thermal and infrared sensor, powerful loudspeaker to transmit audio messages remotely, and an auxiliary light and a double projector for better visibility in low light conditions. It can fly for approximately one hour and 30 minutes at a time, powered by three batteries.

Using a drone to improve safety is a significant step forward for Alkion. It is also an example of the way in which Alkion encourages employees to improve and diversify their skills. Some of the images on the Alkion site and other communication materials were captured by Sébastien and his drone.

For more information visit www.alkion.com

A delegation from SK Group, one of the largest conglomerates in Republic of Korea, is visiting Lithuania on May 11-12th. During the visit, the developer and operator of petrochemical and liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals KN (Klaipėdos Nafta AB) and SK E&S, which is responsible for energy sectors such as LNG, renewable and hydrogen within the SK Group, signed a framework agreement on cooperation opportunities in the field of international LNG business development.

The Parties have reached an agreement to collaborate and exchange expertise and information, with the aim of jointly developing business opportunities across the LNG value chain, specifically, in areas of development of LNG infrastructure projects and open new LNG trading opportunities. Furthermore, the possibility of cooperation on renewable energy, clean hydrogen, and carbon capture projects is also under consideration.

As part of the signed agreement, the collaboration between the Parties will involve the exchange of information on international opportunities related to LNG terminals by jointly conducting assessment of such opportunities. The cooperation between the Parties will also encompass technological collaboration, education and training initiatives, and seminars related to joint projects.

According to Darius Šilenskis, the CEO of KN, both companies have a keen interest in collaborating on the development of LNG terminal projects worldwide, particularly in Europe and Southeast Asia.

“As the LNG terminal market continues to expand, KN is actively seeking new opportunities to participate in international LNG projects. This agreement will facilitate mutually beneficial cooperation between the two companies. We will utilise the strengths of each company to pursue projects globally, in the EU and Southeast Asia, considering added value to be gained from using each other’s experience, capabilities, resources, technologies and client relations and to maximise the benefits for both Parties.

Given our expertise and experience in LNG terminal development, coupled with a solid understanding of the EU regulatory environment, we can provide valuable support to SK E&S seeking to expand their markets through LNG project development. KN is extremely glad in contributing to expansion of business relations among the countries and enabling further cooperation growth”, notes the CEO of KN.

“SK E&S fully understands and appreciates Lithuania’s commitment to Green Energy Transition and Stable Energy Supply. In collaboration with KN, SK E&S is confident that this partnership will not only uncover new business opportunities, but also make significant contributions to the realisation of Lithuania’s national energy vision”, says Hyeongwook Choo, the CEO of SK E&S.

KN and SK E&S are also exploring the potential for collaboration on the development of a green energy hub in Eastern Europe. As part of this exploration, a joint feasibility study is being considered to assess the potential for projects related to hydrogen, energy storage systems, and low-carbon LNG.

The Republic of Korea holds strategic importance for Lithuania in the Indo-Pacific region. As Lithuania continues to diversify its supply chains into advanced and stable markets across Asia and Oceania, trade between Lithuania and Korea grew by 39 percent in 2021, and in 2022 growth rate was 22 percent. Furthermore, 2021 marked the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Lithuania and Korea, the same year in which the Lithuanian Embassy opened in Seoul.

For more information visit www.kn.lt

Shenzhen Gas Corporation Ltd. has awarded TGE a contract for the expansion of the Shenzhen LNG Storage and Peak Shaving II project.

The scope of work includes the construction of two 160,000 m³ full containment LNG storage tanks, a process plant, and a new loading/unloading berth for LNG vessels with storage capacities ranging from 3,000 to 217,000 m³. The extended plant will have a 2 MTA send-out capacity of LNG.

TGE will undertake the project in a consortium with CIMC Enric Engineering Technology Co., Ltd. (CET) and China Construction Second Engineering Bureau Ltd. (CSCEC). The project is expected to increase the LNG storage and send-out capacity in Shenzhen, meeting the energy demands of the region.

For more information visit www.tge-gas.com

The sun is becoming an increasingly important part of Alkion Terminals’ energy supply, as part of their company-wide commitment to sustainability. With the installation of solar panels, Alkion is taking meaningful steps towards the goals outlined in our ESG Report. In the past few years, Alkion terminals – Vado Ligure (ATVL) in Italy and Lisbon (ATL) in Portugal – have installed solar panels that now provide a significant amount of energy for the terminals.

ATVL was the first Alkion terminal to generate its own solar energy, having completed their solar panel installation in 2018. ATVL terminal manager Alessandro Sisti says: “Our solar panels were built on the rooftops of our operational buildings, an optimal usage of square footage that wasn’t being utilised otherwise.” The numbers speak for themselves: in the first year, ATVL produced 504 MWh of solar energy, which allowed for a reduction in energy purchases amounting to an average yearly saving of 37,5 percent per month.

In December 2021, ATL installed their own solar panels, which now provide more than 50 percent of the terminal’s energy consumption. And that’s just the beginning, according to ATL terminal manager Diogo Godinho: “This year we have already approved CAPEX for the second stage of their solar panel project, expanding their energy production even further.”

The energy produced by ATVL and ATL isn’t just for their own consumption. Godinho: “The surplus energy is sold and injected into the power grid, providing green energy for our community and additional revenue for the company.” The solar panels also allow ATVL and ATL to operate more independently from the unpredictable energy market and its volatile price changes.

Sisti of ATVL elaborates on these sustainability efforts: “We have to take care of our future. We have to show, as Alkion Terminals, that we are part of this change. And then additionally, these changes also have a positive impact on our business and our customers.”

ATL and ATVL have shown the many benefits of producing green solar energy, and their success is inspiring others: in Spain, Alkion Terminal Santander is currently exploring the possibility of installing solar panels, and more solar panels will become operational in Alkion Terminals around Europe in the future.

For more information visit www.alkion.com

Proton Ventures is awarded a feasibility study contract by Port of Rotterdam for the Scoping and Conceptual Design of an Ammonia Export terminal in Oakajee, Western Australia. 3 Million tonnes of ammonia per year is expected to be exported by 2030 to Port of Rotterdam via this future ammonia hub.

During this project Proton Ventures will demonstrate the technical and economical feasibility of an integrated port terminal facility for ammonia storage and loading. This facility will be state-of-the-art for ammonia, employing proven technology in a new application for transfer and loading of ammonia onto marine vessels.

Subsea Pipelines

For this project, Proton Ventures as main contractor, works together with Intecsea (designing the subsea pipelines) and Bluewater (designing the SPM) will employ storage tanks in combination with a unique floating Single Point Mooring (SPM). This innovative approach will accelerate the export of ammonia supporting Port of Rotterdams import targets.

This future hub will be deployed in Oakajee, Australia as export outlet for multiple ammonia production facilities to be built in the area.

For more information visit www.protonventures.com

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) producer and low-carbon solutions provider World Energy have announced a six-year, up to 27-million neat gallon agreement with the global energy management company World Fuel Services. The new contract has the potential to reduce over 200,000 metric tonnes of CO2 emissions from air travel, equivalent to the greenhouse gases from the electricity used in almost 40,000 homes.

“This long-term commitment from World Fuel Services shows confidence not only in the best-in-class carbon intensity of our fuels but in the strength of the sustainable aviation fuel industry as a whole,” said World Energy CEO Gene Gebolys. “Our continued partnership with World Fuel Services promises to deliver sustainable fuels at the scale necessary to meet customers’ ambitious emissions reduction targets and help them decarbonise their operations.”

World Energy controls its entire process from start to finish and is one of the only SAF producers that manufactures its product entirely in the United States. Its Paramount, California facility uses renewable feedstocks – including agricultural waste, fats, and oils – to produce neat SAF certified by Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) certified that reduces emissions by 84 percent compared to the same volume of traditional jet fuel. World Energy is also the only company producing RSB-certified SAF.

“We have been collaborating with World Energy since 2016, and this new agreement demonstrates the strength of our joint commitment to decarbonisation,” said Brad Hurwitz, senior vice president of supply and trading at World Fuel Services. “Our work together has enabled not only the significant expansion of World Energy’s Paramount refinery but also advances a greener future for the aviation industry by significantly increasing the immediate availability of SAF across World Fuel’s extensive network of FBO, business, and commercial aviation customers.”

Since 2016, World Energy and World Fuel Services have worked closely together to provide both sustainable aviation fuel supply and logistics for major carriers like United Airlines, KLM and JetBlue.

For more information visit www.worldenergy.net

Chinese solar cell maker Aikosolar and Austrian energy company Burgenland Energie on Monday signed a letter of intent here to jointly boost the deployment of solar power in the Austrian state of Burgenland.

The letter of intent covers the building of a joint innovation centre and a visitor centre in Burgenland as well as research and development cooperation in areas including microgrids, energy internet and carbon neutrality, Aikosolar, a solar solution provider founded in 2009, said in a press release.

At a signing ceremony on Monday, Chen Gang, chairman of Aikosolar, said both sides would make full use of their advantages and resources to help Burgenland promote sustainable development and achieve the state’s carbon neutrality target.

Stephan Sharma, CEO of Burgenland Energie, told Xinhua that his company’s collaboration with Aikosolar would contribute to Burgenland’s pursuit of carbon neutrality and energy independence.

Burgenland Energie, headquartered in Burgenland’s state capital Eisenstadt, is a leading solar and wind power producer in Austria.

With a global sales network, Aikosolar now sells products to Europe and Asian countries including South Korea, Japan and India, the company says.

For more information visit www.aikosolar.com

Matrix Service Company, a leading provider of engineering and construction services to the energy and industrial markets, announced that its subsidiary, Matrix PDM Engineering, has signed an exclusive Memorandum of Understanding with Tissot Industrie, headquartered in Podensac, France, which allows each to offer total Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) solutions for liquid hydrogen storage across the United Kingdom, Norway, Switzerland, and the European Union.

“We are excited about the significant role Matrix, together with Tissot, will play in building out the infrastructure needed to meet an enormous global demand for hydrogen. This partnership marries Matrix PDM’s unrivalled expertise in cryogenic engineering and technologies with Tissot’s world-class international construction expertise to provide complete solutions for customers across Europe that are seeking storage and terminal solutions to support their hydrogen ambitions,” said Matrix Service Company president and CEO John R. Hewitt. “We look forward to a long, mutually beneficial relationship.”

“Tissot started a partnership with PDM in the early nineteen sixties and today we are very proud to begin a new chapter with Matrix PDM Engineering. We are confident that this partnership will enhance our contribution towards the new energy transition in the markets where we operate” said Tissot Industrie president, Gérard Tissot. “With this partnership, Tissot brings its experience of over 650 spheres including design, fabrication, and erection. Together we will bring the highest standards and expertise from both companies to deliver the best in class to the hydrogen sector.”

Matrix brings more than 65 years of legacy expertise in the engineering and design of cryogenic infrastructure, positioning the company as a leading provider of cryogenic hydrogen storage for the next generation of low carbon energy.

Throughout its history, Matrix has designed multiple spheres for various products, most recently providing engineering, procurement, fabrication, and construction services for an 1,800 cm cryogenic sphere providing hydrogen for a wide range of industries, especially in the mobility sector.

For more information visit www.investors.matrixservicecompany.com

Marc-Simon Schaar (M.Sc. International Business) has been appointed as chief procurement officer and member of Outokumpu Leadership Team with immediate effect.

Marc-Simon Schaar has been working at Outokumpu since 2011 in senior roles in finance, M&A and raw materials procurement, most recently as SVP, Raw Materials Procurement.

“I am extremely happy to welcome Marc-Simon to Outokumpu’s Leadership Team. Through this newly established role combining raw material and general procurements, we can ensure immediate synergies throughout our purchasing operations in, for example, mitigating the impact of cost pressure. In addition to that, implementing our raw materials strategy plays a key role in Outokumpu’s decarbonisation journey. Marc-Simon has extensive experience in various areas of Outokumpu which forms a solid basis to succeed in this important role,” says Heikki Malinen, CEO, Outokumpu.

Marc-Simon Schaar is based in Germany and reports to CEO Heikki Malinen. Chief procurement officer is a new role in the company.

For more information visit www.outokumpu.com/en

Vitol and LBC Tank Terminals are pleased to announce the start of a partnership establishing a logistical supply chain for pyrolysis oil in Rotterdam. The collaboration strengthens the ambitions of both companies to be an integral part of Europe’s circular economy for years to come.

The transformation from waste to sustainable energy is based on a technology called pyrolysis that processes the plastic at high temperatures. The pyrolysis oil can be used in the production of new plastic products or as recycled carbon fuels.

LBC’s ISCC-certified terminal is based in Rotterdam, a key logistical hub in Europe. The availability of pyrolysis oil in Rotterdam is essential for the future plans of the surrounding petrochemical industry. The first deliveries are expected to arrive in the coming weeks.

Tom Baker, Global Head of Naphtha trading at Vitol, comments: “As the petrochemical industry pursues more sustainable solutions, we are pleased to work together with LBC to generate a more integrated pyrolysis supply chain, and provide circular feedstocks to our petrochemical customers.”

“As connected partner and integral part of Vitol’s supply chain, we are proud to leverage our expertise in efficient and responsible storage and handling for products that are shaping a more sustainable and circular economy. Together, we will continue to make significant progress in further driving the energy transition, and this partnership exemplifies our ambitions and shared commitment to a carbon-neutral future,” says LBC Tank Terminals’ CEO, Frank Erkelens.

For more information visit www.lbctt.com

Global integrated logistics and material management company, ASCO has been awarded a contract to supply a comprehensive package of logistics services for DNO’s drilling of the 25/7-11 Norma well in license PL984 offshore of Norway.

The contract is based on ASCO’s framework agreement with Well Expertise and will be supplied from ASCO’s state-of-the-art supply base in Tananger, Norway. The suite of logistics services includes loading and unloading of ships, storage, delivery of bulks, transport and freight forwarding services, waste management, cargo carrying unit services and material handling of equipment.

Work will commence in early July 2023, providing logistics operations for Odfjell Drilling’s Deepsea Yantai drilling rig. The contract will build on ASCO’s strong relationships with the teams following its experience supporting the Deepsea Yantai during previous offshore campaigns.

Øyvind Salte, commercial director for ASCO’s operations in Norway, said: “We are looking forward to an exciting drilling campaign where we can further test out our comprehensive digital solutions that contribute to increased efficiency and an overall lower emission of CO2. With our solutions, DNO will benefit from reduced emission solutions at the same time as the supply chain becomes more transparent and enables digital “track & trace” on all cargo.

“We are proud to have renewed trust from Well Expertise and DNO; this is an important contract for ASCO and will help to strengthen our activity in Tananger.”

For more information visit www.ascoworld.com

Vopak celebrates the opening of 16 new tanks with a combined capacity of 64,000 cubic metres at its Vlaardingen terminal in the Port of Rotterdam. The new tanks are designed to store waste-based feedstocks for the production of biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel, and will help meet the rising demand for energy from renewable sources in Europe. Vopak Vlaardingen has a long-term commercial agreement with Shell to store the feedstocks for Shell’s new biorefinery in Rotterdam. Shell’s biorefinery will be one of Europe’s largest sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production facilities, producing SAF and renewable diesel from waste materials such as used cooking oil, waste animal fat, and other residual products. Vopak Terminal Vlaardingen is strategically located in the Port of Rotterdam and is well-connected for logistics via vessels, barges, trucks, and trains. The terminal has extensive experience in storing products such as used cooking oil and tallow.

In 2021, Vopak started repurposing part of the terminal for waste-based feedstocks that supports the energy transition. Vopak has invested approximately EUR 90 million in new infrastructure which further diversifies the Vlaardingen portfolio with state-of-the-art assets.

This project is in line with Vopak’s strategic goal to accelerate towards new energy by developing infrastructure solutions that support customers and society in decarbonisation. As previously announced, Vopak will accelerate its portfolio investments towards new energies and sustainable feedstocks by allocating EUR 1 billion in growth capital to these activities by 2030. This is half of Vopak’s growth capital allocation till 2030. Vopak’s focus is on infrastructure solutions for low-carbon and renewable hydrogen, ammonia, CO2, long duration energy storage and sustainable feedstocks. This strategy will help shape the future of Vopak, but also contribute positively to the transition within key industrial clusters and the shaping of energy hubs of the future.

For more information visit www.vopak.com

TotalEnergies is joining forces with Tree Energy Solutions to study and develop a large-scale production unit in the United States for e-natural gas (e-NG), a synthetic gas produced from renewable hydrogen and CO2.

The project, which is expected to produce 100,000 to 200,000 metric tonnes of e-NG per year, will be equally owned by the partners and operated by TotalEnergies. This partnership combines TES’ e-NG know-how with TotalEnergies’ expertise in renewable power generation, large-scale project management and natural gas liquefaction.

The e-NG will be produced in two steps:

• to produce renewable hydrogen, a 1 gigawatt (GW) electrolyzer will be powered by approximately 2 GW of wind and solar energy supplied by TotalEnergies through long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs).
• this renewable hydrogen will then be combined with biogenic CO2 to obtain the e-NG.

The resulting e-NG produced can be transported and/or liquefied, then sold like natural gas, using existing infrastructure, and end customers will be able to use it without any adaptation to their facilities.

TotalEnergies and TES will carry out the preliminary studies and aim to reach a Final Investment Decision in 2024. The project is expected to benefit from tax credits under the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act.

“We are pleased to partner with TES to pioneer the development of the e-NG industry. This synthetic fuel will contribute to the energy transition by helping our customers to decarbonise their activities, notably the ones that are difficult to electrify. This product presents two significant advantages. First, it does not require any new logistical infrastructure since e-NG and natural gas have the same properties and can therefore be mixed in existing infrastructures. Second, our customers will not have to change their current industrial processes,” said Stéphane Michel, president, Gas, Renewables & Power at TotalEnergies. “The United States has many advantages for the development of our first e-NG project, including well-developed gas infrastructure, growing renewable power generation capacity, and significant public subsidies.”

“The strategic cooperation with TotalEnergies is an important milestone towards large-scale e-NG production. Our purpose and vision are to accelerate the race to zero emissions and the development of hydrogen. The innovative business model developed by TES will help to diversify the European and Asian energy mix, making affordable renewable energy available. This groundbreaking project testifies to the effectiveness of the Inflation Reduction Act in the United States. Today’s announcement confirms that cooperation among all players is what will make the energy transition possible,” said Marco Alverà, chief executive officer of TES.

For more information visit www.totalenergies.com

Hyphen Hydrogen Energy (Hyphen) has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Koole Terminals. The LOI covers the proposed important of green ammonia into north-western Europe by Hyphen to supply its customers through the import terminal being developed by Koole Terminals, located in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

CEO Hyphen Hydrogen Energy Marco Raffinetti: “This agreement represents another key milestone in our ambition of enabling Namibia’s rise as a global leader in green hydrogen production.”

Over the past year, Hyphen has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with a number of potential European customers, targeting the supply of up to 750,000 tonnes of green ammonia annually.

Marco Raffinetti, CEO of Hyphen Hydrogen Energy, said: “This agreement represents another key milestone in our ambition of enabling Namibia’s rise as a global leader in green hydrogen production. The Port of Rotterdam is a critical hub servicing north-western Europe and has moved rapidly to support the establishment of new green hydrogen import capacity to facilitate this region’s energy transition, with import capacity and access to markets being a key constraint in the supply chain. Koole Terminals, is one of the most advanced import terminals under development and we look forward to working with Koole Terminals and the Port of Rotterdam to meet first supply of ammonia from our project into Europe by early 2028.”

John Kraakman, CEO of Koole Terminals, said: ” We are pleased to work with Hyphen to become a launching customer of our planned Port of Rotterdam import terminal for Ammonia. This cooperation will allow us to further scale-up the multi-million tonne facility. Koole is an experienced independent operator of twenty-one liquid bulk terminals across seven countries, already handling and storing Ammonia. With our current and planned infrastructure, terminals, modalities, and integrated solutions, we play a leading role in facilitating the energy transition.”

CEO Koole Terminals John Kraakman: “This cooperation will allow us to further scale-up the multi-million tonne facility.”

Hyphen is targeting annual production of one million tonnes of green ammonia to come on line by the end of 2027, expanding to two million tonnes of green ammonia by 2029.

For more information visit www.koole.com

Despite the challenges stemming from the macroeconomic and political environment, Burckhardt Compression achieved a record- level order intake of CHF 1.27 bn, exceeding the CHF 1 bn mark for the first time in its history. Strong deliveries throughout the year underpinned sales growth of 27.5 percent versus the previous year, reaching a new record of CHF 829.7 mn, while the focus on operational excellence supported an improved operating margin of 11.4 percent and a new record operating income of CHF 95.0 mn. With these strong results, the Group achieved its Mid-Range Plan for the period 2018 to 2022, delivering on its stated ambitions to reach CHF 700 mn in sales and a 10 percent to 15 percent operating margin. On the strategic and operational side, Burckhardt Compression made significant advances in transforming the business and developing new growth avenues with the hydrogen mobility and energy market, made further progress on its digitalisation and sustainability agenda, and set a new Mid-Range Plan for 2023 to 2027, focusing on creating leading compression solutions for a sustainable energy future.

Well positioned in highly dynamic markets

Burckhardt Compression further positioned itself with innovative solutions in markets supporting the transition to more secure and sustainable energy sources, which contributed to the exceptional order intake of the Systems division. The growth was driven by an exceptional demand for low density polyethylene and ethylene- vinyl acetate compressors to support the solar panel industry, exceptional orders for Liquefied Natural Gas applications, and a high growth in hydrogen mobility and energy applications. The services division also had an exceptional sales growth of 22 percent, driven by pent-up demand after Covid-19, anticipated spare parts procurement from customers, a few large revamp projects and by exceptional orders for its PROGNOST® digital product line. From a geographical perspective, China, Korea and USA have driven the growth of the Group’s order intake.

Demonstrating resilience amid ongoing macroeconomic challenges

The fiscal year 2022 has not been without its challenges, and the Group continued to see headwinds stemming from the macroeconomic and political environment. Lockdowns in China, ongoing supply chain tensions and inflationary pressures on energy and specific material categories continued to present operational challenges. As a direct result of the war in Ukraine, Burckhardt Compression has refrained from accepting any orders from the Russian market since March 2022. Growth in other markets has more than compensated for the loss of volume in Russia, and the one-off costs related to the wind-down of the Russian backlog have been more than offset by global profitable sales growth, a favorable product mix in the Systems division and strong operational performance.

Strong financials in fiscal year 2022 and significant increase of dividends proposed

Gross profit was up 28.1 percent to CHF 244.5 min, yielding a gross profit margin of 29.5 percent (previous year: 29.3 percent). Research & development expenses increased by CHF 4.2 mn to CHF 23.9 mn to develop innovative solutions for the marine and hydrogen mobility and energy markets. Selling, marketing and general administrative expenses amounted to CHF 117.0 mn, or 14.1 percent of sales (previous year: 16.4 percent). Other operating income and expenses (net) were at CHF -8.6 mn, including non-recurring costs related to the exit from the Russian market in the amount of CHF 7.1 mn. Despite these one-off costs, the consolidated operating profit (EBIT) rose substantially by 35.0 percent to CHF 95.0 mn, corresponding to an EBIT margin of 11.4 percent (previous year: 10.8 percent). Net profit of CHF 70.0 mn clearly exceeded the previous year’s figure by 38.9 percent, while earnings per share attributable to Burckhardt Compression Group shareholders rose likewise by 39.3 percent, from CHF 14.82 to CHF 20.64.

Value creation was further enhanced, with a Return on Net Operating Assets (RONOA) substantially increased from 19.7 percent to 25.7 percent. The balance sheet total at the end of March 2023 was at CHF 940.6 mn, 12 percent higher than in the previous year, mainly due to the increase in advance payments from customers and the growth in inventories on the back of the high order intake. The net financial position at the end of fiscal year 2022 improved to CHF -7.1 mn (CHF -56.8 mn at the end of fiscal year 2021). Total equity increased to CHF 261.6 mn (+18.7 mn), while the equity ratio of 27.8 percent remained slightly below the mid-term ambition level of over 30.0 percent.
Based on these strong results, the Board of Directors will propose at the Annual General Meeting a dividend of CHF 12.00 per share, within the Group’s overall attractive dividend policy of 50 percent to 70 percent pay-out ratio and representing an increase of 60.0 percent compared with the previous year.

Confidence into 2023 and beyond, with sustainability at the core of Burckhardt Compression’s new strategy

Burckhardt Compression enters fiscal year 2023 in a solid financial position, with good momentum in both divisions, a strong team and an ambitious plan. As the world transitions towards more sustainable and secure energy sources, the Group expects to continue benefiting from its strong positioning in related applications. A key ingredient to its success in the past and the future is its people. The Group increased its workforce globally by 8.8 percent to 2’973 FTE and further ramped-up its training and development activities to deliver its increased order backlog and achieve its growth ambitions. In addition, it added bench strength with two new members of the Executive Management team that bring a wealth of experience from world-class industrial companies. On April 1st, 2022, Fabrice Billard took over as CEO and was succeeded as Systems Division President by Andreas Brautsch. In addition, Vanessa Valentin joined the Executive Management team as Chief Human Resources Officer.

Guidance for fiscal year 2023

The Group expects supply chain tensions in certain material categories to persist in the coming year as well as some uncertainty about the development of the global economy. However, based on the strong order intake over the past two fiscal years, it expects sales to reach between CHF 950 mn and CHF 1’000 mn at the Group level for fiscal year 2023. Operating margin is expected at a similar level as in fiscal year 2022, considering no further oneoff costs for Russian projects, an increased share of Systems business in the overall sales mix as well as a less favorable product mix within the Systems Division. Within the fiscal year, the second half is expected to be stronger than the first half due to the distribution of project deliveries.

Mid-Range Plan 2023–2027 started

Burckhardt Compression communicated its new Mid-Range Plan in November 2022, targeting CHF 1.1 bn in sales and a 12 percent to 15 percent operating margin in fiscal year 2027. Sustainability now sits at the core of its strategy, with implications on target markets, R&D projects, CAPEX investments, operational KPIs and long-term incentive plans for senior management. This new strategy is a step forward in achieving its purpose of creating leading compression solutions for a sustainable energy future. The Group aims, in particular, to achieve 40 percent of its order intake from applications that support the world’s energy transition and to reduce its greenhouse gas emission intensity by 50 percent (Scope 1 and Scope 2) by fiscal year 2027 compared to fiscal year 2021. Acknowledging the scale and urgency of combatting climate change, the Group has also made a commitment and developed a roadmap to achieve operational net-zero for its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 2035. The achievement of these goals will be supported by integrating sustainability into its operational excellence activities and continuous investments in innovation and digitalisation. On the financial side, in addition to the growth and profitability targets, the Group’s ambition is to reach a Return on Net Operating Assets (RONOA) of more than 25 percent, and it intends to keep an attractive dividend policy, with a 50 percent to 70 percent payout ratio.

Changes in the Board of Directors

After 15 years of active contribution in the development of Burckhardt Compression, Urs Leinhäuser decided to not stand for re-election as a member of the Board of Directors of Burckhardt Compression Holding AG. As a successor, the board of directors will propose to the shareholders the election of Kaspar W. Kelterbor (1964). Mr Kelterborn was ad interim Group CFO of Dormakaba AG until end 2022, Group CFO of Conzetta AG from 2006 to 2021 and he is an experienced board member. His international leadership experience in several industrial companies and his strong finance and controlling background make him a highly suitable person to join the board of directors of Burckhardt Compression.

The annual report 2022 and further information on the fiscal year 2022 are available on the website on: www.burckhardtcompression.com/financial-reports.

For more information visit www.burckhardtcompression.com

Technip Energies and its partner GE Gas Power have been selected by RWE Generation UK plc to perform a pre-FEED study for a new, decarbonised natural gas-fired Combined Cycle Gas Turbine plant with a fully integrated carbon capture facility.

The carbon capture CCGT will maintain security of supply whilst supporting the energy industry’s transition to net zero. It is sited near Stallingborough, Lincolnshire and is a capture partner of Viking CCS.

The pre-FEED study will address the challenges, benefits, economics, and optimal technical solutions when integrating a carbon capture facility with cutting-edge power station design.

GE Gas Power will provide proven expertise in natural gas combined cycle plant engineering, operability, and plant integration while Technip Energies will focus on the carbon capture facility using Shell’s Cansolv® carbon capture technology.

Christophe Malaurie, SVP Decarbonisation Solutions of Technip Energies, stated: “We are pleased to be entrusted by RWE for this project – a large green field development for a power plant with carbon capture in the East Coast Cluster of the UK. By leveraging our partnership with GE Gas Power and our expertise in carbon capture projects through Shell Cansolv® technology, we are fully committed to supporting our client in making this project an industrial success.”

Supported by its engineering and technical project partners, RWE is conducting feasibility assessments of the Stallingborough project with a view to participating in the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero Cluster Sequencing for CCUS deployment to secure a Dispatchable Power Agreement.

For more information visit www.technipenergies.com/en

OPW Engineered Systems is excited to announce that it will be exhibiting in Booth No. 639 at the upcoming 2023 International Liquid Terminals Association (ILTA) Operating Conference & Trade Show, which will be held from May 22-24 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, TX.

At the ILTA Show, OPW will introduce its new Stop-Lok™ Multi-Application Coupler, which has been designed for use in connecting piping and hoses that are used in higher heat and pressure fluid-handling applications – with no tools required to complete the connection. The Stop-Lok is suitable for loading and unloading fluids in chemical, water, steam, hydrocarbon and heating-and-cooling applications with pressures up to 400 psi (27.6 bar). Ease of use is found in the Stop-Lok’s scalloped connection sleeve that allows for a hand-tight, tool-free connection that cannot be over-tightened, which lets the user know that “When It Stops, It’s Locked.”

“Union Fittings and Couplers are widely used as connection points between pipes and hoses and our new Stop-Lok coupler offers advanced features that enable it to provide improved efficiency and better performance,” said David Jacobson, Global Product Manager for OPW Engineered Systems. “We are excited to highlight and demonstrate this new technology during the ILTA Show, which is one of our most important trade-show appearances of the year.”

The Stop-Lok is the latest addition to OPW’s Total Terminal SolutionsTM product offering, which includes the most complete lines of Top & Bottom Loading Arms, Overfill & Grounding Equipment, Swivel Joints, Couplers and Safety Breakaways for use in hazardous and high-value fluid-transfer applications. All of OPW Engineered Systems’ Terminal Solutions products are supported by industry and application experts who are ready to provide assistance and guidance to help optimise all types of terminal operations. Please visit Booth No. 639 at the year’s ILTA Show to learn more about how OPW’s full range of terminal products and how their capabilities can help optimise your fluid-handling operations.

For more information visit www.opwglobal.com/opw-es

As one of the leading energy infrastructure companies in Europe, Enagás will contribute its experience in the development and operation of new infrastructures in Germany – and specifically in Stade – in the future: Hanseatic Energy Hub GmbH has chosen the Spanish transmission system operator as its industrial partner for the operation of the terminal at the Stade industrial park. At the same time, with a 10 percent stake, subject to compliance with the conditions precedent inherent to this type of transaction, Enagás strengthens the existing project consortium consisting of the founding shareholder, the Hamburg-based Buss Group, the Partners Group (on behalf of its customers) and the industrial partner Dow. The previous minority shareholder Fluxys will sell its shares due to a strategic refocusing. The parties have agreed not to disclose the exact terms of the agreements until the final investment decision is taken throughout 2023.

“With the Hanseatic Energy Hub in the Hamburg metropolitan region, we are developing an import terminal that will secure Germany’s supply of LNG and green gases and at the same time prepare for the market ramp-up of hydrogen,” says Johann Killinger, HEH managing director and owner of Buss Group. “Enagás not only shares our vision, but also contributes with comprehensive technical expertise to help us make it a reality quickly and reliably.”

The Spanish Transmission System Operator is one of the world’s largest operators of regasification terminals and the second largest grid operator in Europe. Enagás is committed to being completely carbon neutral by 2040 and has extensive expertise in the use of hydrogen, biogas and bio-methane in addition to natural gas. Together with the TSOs of Portugal and France, Enagás submitted the first European hydrogen corridor project, H2Med, to the call for European Projects of Common Interest (PCIs). Also, it has submitted to the PCI call for proposals the Spanish Hydrogen Backbone, a linked infrastructure to this interconnection.

According to Arturo Gonzalo, CEO of Enagás, “This new agreement is an important milestone in meeting the European objectives of security of supply and decarbonisation, and a relevant step forward in the company’s compliance with its Strategic Plan. Enagás will contribute with its experience in the development of a hydrogen ready infrastructure that will be key for Germany.”

As a first phase, from the end of 2023 until the land-based terminal goes into operation, HEH will also be the site of one of the five Floating Storage and Regasification Units chartered by the German government.

In the beginning LNG and green energy sources such as bio-LNG and synthetic natural gas can be imported via the emission-free terminal from 2027. The planned regasification capacity is 13.3 billion m³/a. At the same time, the terminal, port, industrial park and connection infrastructure are designed in such a way that a conversion to ammonia as a hydrogen-based energy source can take place in a modular fashion.

“The Hanseatic Energy Hub is a key link in aiding the energy transition, a key investment theme we are following. We are targeting a final investment decision for the Hanseatic Energy Hub throughout 2023. The clear commitment of Enagás as industrial partner and co-shareholder demonstrates the maturity and strong foundation of our project,” said David Daum, managing director Private Infrastructure, Partners Group.

The planned investment volume for the terminal by HEH is around one billion euros. Back in April, HEH commissioned a consortium led by global EPC specialist Técnicas Reunidas S.A. to develop the land-based terminal for liquefied gases, subject to HEH´s final investment decision. Other consortium partners are the FCC Group and Entrade GmbH.

Now that the commercial marketing of the Hanseatic Energy Hub has been largely completed with 10 billion m³/a of long-term LNG capacity already contracted with key LNG customers such as EnBW and SEFE, and the project is now pushing ahead with the parallel ramp-up of hydrogen on an ammonia basis. Among other things, a market test is to clarify whether there is demand to build an additional, smaller ammonia tank before the large tanks are converted.

The basis for this is a future-flexible modular system for the green energy transition at the Stade Industrial Park. Dow already produces hydrogen on site on a large scale. The location also offers the possibility of an optimal networking of the chemical sector, logistics and the energy industry

“We are delighted to welcome Enagás as a highly experienced and reliable technical partner,” says Julia Schlenz, president Dow Germany. “Together, with the terminal for liquefied gases, we will not only make a concrete contribution to energy security and energy transition in Germany. At the same time, we will be able to leverage great efficiency potentials, among other things with the use of industrial residual heat from the Dow site for the regasification of the LNG. In this way, we are also making a significant contribution to the future viability of our site.”

Pascal De Buck, CEO of Fluxys comments on leaving the project, ”We are pleased that the commercial and technical course for implementing the Hanseatic Energy Hub has been set and are confident that the project will become a success. This gives us comfort to fully dedicate our focus to further projects where our contribution as essential infrastructure partner generates additional value for a low-carbon society.”

For more information visit www.hanseatic-energy-hub.de/en

IMTT are proud to invest $350 million in clean alternatives, as part of their mission to address their role in the fight against climate change and transitions towards a more sustainable future.

With a 35 percent increase in renewables, vegetable oils, and animal fats storage revenue since 2017, they invite you to join their efforts in creating a greener, cleaner future.

For more information visit www.imtt.com

Halliburton Company have announced it has acquired Resoptima AS, a leading Norwegian technology company that specialises in data-driven reservoir management. This strategic acquisition will integrate the industry-leading reservoir modelling and predictive analytics of Resoptima into the Halliburton Landmark DecisionSpace® 365 suite.

Resoptima provides technology solutions that enhance oil and gas operators’ ability to harness data for reservoir understanding, driving efficiency in oil extraction, resource management, and risk mitigation. To date, more than 130 active fields globally have benefited from Resoptima’s technology, enjoying improved production volume predictions and comprehensive assessments of uncertainties and risks.

Nagaraj Srinivasan, senior vice president of Landmark, Halliburton Digital Solutions, and Consulting, said, “The combination of Resoptima’s best-in-class reservoir engineering and science with Landmark’s leadership in geology and drilling allows Halliburton to offer unique and innovative solutions that enhance exploration success and reservoir recovery.”

Launched in 2013 and developed with input from dozens of customers, Resoptima’s software helps increase reservoir recovery factors and deliver cost savings on reservoir intervention projects by preventing costly mistakes like underperforming well drilling and unnecessary injection volumes.

“Oil and gas remain integral to global energy supply,” said Atila Mellilo, the former CEO of Resoptima who joins the Halliburton Landmark leadership team. “To ensure the industry continues to evolve, we must focus on technologies that promote highly efficient production processes. The vision we share with Halliburton Landmark of a unified ensemble modeling approach will allow us to drive innovation, deliver increasing value to our customers, and expand our market reach.”

DecisionSpace365 and Resoptima solutions provide open architectures and interoperability with third-party software. The combined portfolio will maintain these features, enhancing existing and future customers’ ability to capitalise on their previous investments.

Per Øyvind Seljebotn, senior vice president, Exploration and Reservoir Development at Aker BP, said, “Resoptima’s solutions have become an integral component of Aker BP’s digitalisation portfolio. As a long-term customer and investor in Resoptima, we look forward to the benefits of this joint technology.”

For more information visit www.halliburton.com

A record-breaking year of growth helped Burns & McDonnell maintain a strong standing among the nation’s leading design and construction firms. In 2022, the 100 percent employee-owned firm supported nearly 19,000 global projects and sales and revenue grew by nearly 50 percent to reach $6.9 billion.

Such growth helped the firm secure the No. 7 spot on the 2023 annual survey of Top 500 Design Firms, up from No. 8 in 2022. This year’s ranking is the firm’s sixth top-10 ranking within the Top 500 Design Firms.

“Burns & McDonnell is made up of 13,500 highly knowledgeable, hardworking and caring employee-owners and craft professionals who are focused on finding innovative solutions to the world’s biggest challenges,” says Ray Kowalik, chairman and CEO of Burns & McDonnell. “We offer our clients the best and brightest talent with an ownership mindset that has directly led to our growth and success.”

Burns & McDonnell continues to see strong growth from integrated engineer-procure-construct projects. The most robust markets continue to be mission critical, oil and gas, decarbonisation and electrification, logistics and supply chain alterations, and the digital transformation.

Burns & McDonnell maintained its No. 1 ranking in the Power category for the eighth consecutive year. In addition, Burns & McDonnell also ranks among the top 20 firms in six other categories:

• No. 2 in Telecommunications
• No. 7 in Industrial Process/Petroleum
• No. 10 in Manufacturing
• No. 15 in Hazardous Waste
• No. 15 in Water
• No. 19 in Sewer and Waste

For more information visit www.burnsmcd.com

Nordic Storage are currently implementing a new and improved operating management system. Nordic Storage asked André Svensson, one of their HSEC Coordinators, a few questions regarding the implementation.

André, what are the main benefits of the new OMS?

“The new OMS is a better and more effective way to ensure the safe, reliable, and responsible operations throughout our business. The aim of the OMS is to achieve quality at all levels and ensure the safety of our company, our customers, and our employees. The OMS describes how we conduct our business, why we do it and evaluates so that we can continuously improve our operations. This enables us to act in accordance with best practice. Everything we do must be anchored in a controlled system that everyone knows about.”

Last year Nordic Storage attended the Aquarius Energy International HSEC Summit in Fujairah. For the first time the HSEC departments from the entire Aquarius Energy group gathered to share best practice and participate in safety seminars and on-site visits.

André, could you please share your key takeaways from the summit?

“We are stronger together than if we function as individual units in the group. By having the summit, the connection within the group becomes stronger and we can share experiences, which benefits everyone in the future. Just this week I’ve been in contact with group colleagues in both Ghana and Argentina, the exchange is ongoing and the possibility to share feedback is so valuable. Outside of our own HSEC department at Nordic Storage, we have about 50 HSEC employees within the group who can help each other. It’s a win-win situation.”

For more information visit www.nordicstorage.se

ACME and IGL will work jointly to promote the adoption by the customers and create demand for Green Hydrogen in the country. The Companies will also work together to explore the opportunity of setting up hydrogen generation plants including setting up electrolyses to blend Green Hydrogen in IGL’s existing pipeline networks suppling gas to households, industrial & commercial set ups and CNG for vehicles.

Mr. Manoj Upadhyay, founder & chairman, ACME Group said, “I would like to thank IGL for their commitment to develop infrastructure and supply green hydrogen to customers. Both the partners will identify areas/projects for green hydrogen adoption in the country.”

Mr. Ashwani Dudeja, president & director (Green Hydrogen and Ammonia), ACME Group said, “The partnership would benefit both the Companies, where ACME will offer its experience and expertise, while IGL being a green energy provider to several cities and millions of homes, have a ready-made network to blend green hydrogen. We will also co-operate on policy matters and help the industry and Government to bring in enabling regulatory framework that facilitates and incentivises the customers to provide long term offtake commitments for green hydrogen and green ammonia.”

For more information visit www.acme.in

Navigator Terminals and Alfanar will enter a joint Front-End-Engineering-Design (FEED) study in 2023 to determine the key scope for the UK’s first Sustainable Aviation Fuel handling terminal that will be located on North Tees to transport feedstock and handle the production volumes from the innovative Alfanar facility.

The Lighthouse Green Fuels (LGF) project, backed by Alfanar, will see approximately 1 million tonnes of non-recyclable waste converted into Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at the facility which is to be deployed on Teesside. SAF produced at the plant has the potential to reduce emissions by up to 80 percent and the plant will produce >125,000 tonnes of SAF annually from 2028 (equivalent to >165 million litres per annum).

UK Government’s Jet Zero strategy will support aviation to reach net zero by 2050. SAF is seen as a key component as a ‘drop-in fuel’ that can be blended into fossil-based aviation fuel and used in existing aircraft and infrastructure without modification and therefore could deliver both short and longterm CO2 emissions savings. Some experts view SAF as the only alternative to kerosene for long-haul flights up to 2050 and beyond depending on the development of alternate flight powering technologies such as hydrogen and batteries. There alternate technologies are only in early stages of development and may never achieve the energy storage densities required for long-haul flights.

Navigator Terminals’ North Tees complex is a road fuel and crude oil storage facility with the region’s only deep-water jetty designed for petrochemicals, direct pipeline connecting to the North Sea and modern rail distribution facilities. Finished SAF will be exported via ship at the North Tees waterside complex. SAF may also be exported via rail or truck at Navigator’s inland North Tees rail terminal.

Jason Hornsby, Chief Executive Officer for Navigator Terminals said of the project: “Navigator Terminals is committed to playing a leading role in delivering net zero for the UK, as the UK’s leading transport, storage and handling experts, we operate a network of strategically located terminals. We have supported Alfanar progress its thinking around the Lighthouse SAF project for over 12 months and now are pleased to announce our formal partnership. It is exciting to bring forward plans for the UKs first Sustainable Aviation Fuel handling terminal on our North Tees dockside to rejuvenate this industrial land and push UK aviation that bit closer to net zero every time we fly.”

Mishal Almutlaq, Chief Investment Officer, Alfanar Global Development, said: “We are delighted to form a partnership with Navigator Terminals on Teesside., we kicked off the FEED study for our Lighthouse Green Fuels project in June 2022 and we are now looking to start engineering works associated with the build out the regional infrastructure on Teesside, and this includes partnering with Navigator Terminals. This will enable our facility to play a leading role in bringing SAF to the UK aviation sector and helping them to reach net zero. We see the LGF project creating high quality jobs to deliver and run our facility, but also creating a much wider regional economic boost as we start construction in 2024.”

For more information visit www.navigatorterminals.com

Zenith Energy Terminals, one of the largest storage terminals in the port, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with German company INERATEC to construct a Power-to-Liquid plant in the Port of Amsterdam. A Power-to-Liquid plant converts renewable energy (power) to a sustainable fuel (liquid). The plant has a planned annual production capacity of 35,000 tonnes and will be located on the terrain of Zenith Energy Terminals. The plant will be operational by 2027.

The production of the e-fuels requires green hydrogen and CO2. The green hydrogen will be produced locally and imported. The CO2 will be captured from Dutch industry. The aim is to produce sustainable kerosene, clean diesel and CO2-neutral gasoline, in order to serve the aviation, shipping and road transportation sectors.

Selection of the port of Amsterdam

The collaboration between Zenith Energy Terminals and INERATEC will leverage the existing infrastructure in the port of Amsterdam and the access to green hydrogen and CO2. The strategy of Port of Amsterdam on the energy transition and the circular economy is also viewed as an important catalyst. This new plant further strengthens the position of the Port of Amsterdam as a sustainable energy-hub.

For more information visit www.portofamsterdam.com/nl

Voortman Steel Machinery, an international well-known manufacturer of CNC steel processing machines, has acquired Müller Opladen GmbH, a leading German manufacturer of pipe processing machines. Effective January 1st, 2023, this acquisition expands Voortman’s product portfolio, adding profile cutting machines for steel pipes, pressure vessels, and structural steel.

Voortman is a high-end manufacturer of steel processing machinery and innovative software solutions for over 50 years. What started with the production of beam processing machines, followed by plate processing machines, has now evolved to the next step: introducing pipe processing machines. With a passion to build success and create products that provide real solutions for various steel processing industries, automation, quality, and customer service are primary values in this family-owned company.

For more information visit www.voortman.net/en/

Storage tank vapour loss is an issue in many different industries due to the monetary cost of product and environmental concerns for the surrounding communities. Many times, the product is stored at ambient temperature while being subjected to rising temperatures due to solar loading. When the sun continues shining on the metal surface of the tank roof, heat continues to build throughout the day in turn heating up the product inside.

Companies have turned to floating roofs that can move with the amount of vapour present to help contain it, but their construction and maintenance costs can be astronomical. Bulk insulation materials are usually not an option because of damage concerns when personnel need to access the roof, as well as CUI risk.

In 2019, a company that stores ethanol contacted Mascoat to find a solution to their vapour loss issues. Not only was the client realising financial loss because valuable product was vanishing from their tanks, but also strict regulations dictating acceptable levels of vapour loss have penalties attached to them.

Mascoat’s thermal insulating coatings are thin film coating that incorporate air-filled particles to reduce the rate of heat transfer through a surface. When applied to a tank roof, it can drastically diminish solar loading effects. Using specific information about the tank and the surrounding environment, Mascoat’s thermal engineer was able to show that just 1.0 mm of the coating can provide a 60.8 percent reduction in daily solar loading.

The challenge with calculating solar loading savings is that the actual watts being saved do not accurately reflect the savings of actual product. Every product has a different evaporation level at different temperatures and secondly, the fill level of the tanks and ambient conditions can change every day. However, some data can be gathered for Ethanol, as displayed in the graph to the right.

After consulting with the client and preferred applicator TAC Solve, the client decided to apply 1.5 mm of Mascoat Industrial-DTI to 6 tank roofs (close to 1000 square metres in total) over the course of 2 years. Ethanol loss was closely tracked for another year after application and the results outperformed everybody’s expectations. The client reported that they realised their Return On Investment within 1 year.

Results after 12 months (as reported by client):

· Realised savings post application of 120.000 Litres ethanol per annum

· Local ethanol sales price per Litre – 0,54 USD

· Total savings – 64.800 USD

· Cost of the installation – 55.000 USD

· Full ROI realised in just over 10 months

Other Benefits Realised Using Mascoat Industrial-DTI

• Reduced installation costs due to no scaffolding required and minimal application crew needed (usually only 3-4 people)
• One-part coating requires no additional welding or fabrication
• The coating has a proven longevity track record up of 20+ years without need for regular maintenance or inspection
• Provides a consistent insulation value for life of the coating with no degradation of the system
• The coating can withstand foot traffic for personnel access. A topcoat may be applied in high traffic areas like walkways if client requests one.
• All maintenance and quality control inspections (NDT Testing) can be made through Mascoat, reducing inspection costs and increasing security
• The water-based chemistry and dry-fall properties of the coating means the installation has a very low environmental impact
• Less waste on the job site thanks to lack of custom fabrication.
• The coating continues to reduce the total cost of ownership for years to come

Mascoat is a division of Seal For Life Industries. Whether it is performance coatings, fire protection and high temperatures, insulative and marine coatings or polymer flooring, our broad range of brands can provide the right coating solution.

For more information visit www.mascoat.com

BES Group are delighted to share that Alliance Inspection have joined the BES Group. Alliance Inspection are a North West based Non-Destructive Testing and Asset Integrity Inspection company, specialising in EEMUA and API assessments. This is their second acquisition of 2023 and they are extremely pleased to have welcomed their specialist team to their Group.

The Alliance Inspection team is made up of more than 20 people, all experts when it comes to NDT solutions and fitness for service assessments. They are focused on delivering the very best service for their customers, working with organisations such as United Utilities, Mersey Travel, Kimberley Clark, and many more, to help ensure the safety and operational efficiency of their machinery and equipment.

“From our first meeting with the BES Group, we were excited by the opportunities joining them would bring for our customers, the Alliance Inspection business and our excellent team. They continually invest in their ways of working to make sure their customers always have the very best experience, and we know this will be well received all round. Culturally, we are very much aligned with the BES Group and we’re extremely excited about our future as part of the wider team,” said Neil Edge, Alliance business development manager.

“Growth by acquisition is an ongoing focus for the BES Group. It’s important to us that we are welcoming businesses that are made up of the very best people that enhance the risk management solutions we offer our customers. We have found that with Alliance Inspection and we’re delighted to have them on board. We know they have a strong future ahead of them as part of the BES Group,” said John Campbell, Group CEO.

They will continue to support their customers with Marisa Gouldson, group manager, and Neil Edge, remaining in their existing roles.

For more information visit www.britishengineeringservices.co.uk

The Board of Directors of PBF Energy Inc. has named its current president, Matthew C. Lucey, as president and chief executive officer and appointed him to the Board, effective July 1, 2023. Mr. Lucey will succeed current CEO Tom Nimbley, who will continue as executive chairman of the Board of Directors.

Mr. Nimbley has been chief executive officer of PBF Energy since our initial public offering in 2012, after leading its private predecessor company as chief executive officer since 2010. In 2016, the Board of Directors appointed him chairman and chief executive officer.

“Tom’s vision and commitment are the reasons why PBF Energy is so well-positioned today,” said Gene Edwards, lead Independent director of the Board of Directors. “His deep refining knowledge has allowed PBF Energy to navigate challenging industry conditions as we pursued a path of growth as a development company with zero assets to being one of the largest independent refiners in North America today.”

PBF Energy has recorded many notable achievements under Mr. Nimbley’s leadership, including:

• Establishing PBF Energy as a leading independent refiner with a geographically diversified portfolio of six high complexity refineries and associated logistics assets;
• Focusing PBF Energy on investing for the future, as most recently demonstrated by the Company’s St. Bernard Renewables plant located in Chalmette, Louisiana, which will enable the Company to contribute diversified sources of energy to the global mix, lower the carbon intensity of its operations and products, and exponentially increase production of Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs)
• Creating a values-based organisation with a mission to operate our facilities safely, reliably and in an environmentally responsible manner, provide employees with a safe and rewarding workplace, become a positive influence in the communities that host us, and provide superior returns to our investors.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to thank Tom for his outstanding leadership as chairman and CEO,” Mr. Edwards continued. “I look forward to continuing to work with him as our executive chairman.”

“Matt is the right leader at the right time for PBF Energy,” Mr. Nimbley said. “I have partnered with him for many years, and I am confident he will continue to serve PBF Energy, our employees, host communities, and shareholders well.”

Mr. Lucey joined PBF Energy’s predecessor company at its formation in 2008, serving as the company’s first chief financial officer until 2014, when he became executive vice president. He has been president of the company since 2015, in charge of day-to-day operations and strategic projects. Prior to his tenure at PBF Energy, Mr. Lucey worked in private equity specialising in several sectors of the broader energy industry from 2001 to 2008. Before that, he spent six years in the banking industry.

“Tom’s leadership in fostering a culture of operating excellence and financial strength will continue to benefit us in the years to come,” Mr. Lucey said. “The company is on strong financial footing and remains committed to maintaining strength through our balance sheet while striving for superior shareholder returns. I am excited to continue working with him and the entire PBF team as the company takes on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

For more information visit www.pbfenergy.com

Cashco, Inc., a renowned manufacturer of industrial control products, is pleased to announce the promotion of Isaac White to marketing manager.

Isaac White joined Cashco, Inc. in December 2015 as a graphic designer and worked his way up to marketing specialist. When asked how he felt about his promotion, White said, “I felt an overwhelming sense of joy and gratitude because this is a goal I have been working towards since I started my career. I am also filled with a sense of responsibility and eagerness to take on the new challenges that come with the role.”

In his new role, White will lead the marketing team in developing and executing comprehensive marketing campaigns fostering brand awareness and strengthening Cashco’s market position. He will spearhead initiatives to communicate the company’s product portfolio, value proposition, and technological innovations to various customers and stakeholders. His strategic thinking, creativity, and strong leadership skills have contributed significantly to the company’s growth and market expansion, and will continue to do so in his new position.

“Isaac is one of those individuals that you see maybe two or three times in a career,” said Dimity Ankerholz, VP of sales & marketing. “He is excited every day to push the company forward in his space, leverage what has been done before, and expand on it. He is always willing to hear others’ opinions but is perfectly capable of operating with a clean sheet of paper and creating an image or content that raises Cashco to the next level,” Ankerholz said.

White holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design from Kansas State University. With his strong background in marketing and understanding of the industrial control products sector, White has been instrumental in developing and implementing successful marketing strategies for Cashco.

As Cashco, Inc. continues expanding its global presence and exploring new markets, White’s promotion as marketing manager reinforces its commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and delivering industry-leading solutions.

For more information visit www.cashco.com

The GF Piping Systems plant in Ratnagiri, India, is the first industrial manufacturing site in the country to receive two Platinum Certifications and one Gold Certification from the US Green Building Council and Green Business Certification Inc.

The LEED certification programme is an internationally recognised rating system for healthy, efficient, carbon and cost-saving green buildings. Now, GF Piping Systems India has received certifications for a total of three buildings. The on-site customisation building achieved Platinum Certification under the v4.1 Operations and Maintenance: Existing Buildings rating system with a total of 83 points, while the warehouse and main plant building also received Platinum and Gold Certifications respectively.

The certification process began in 2021, while the necessary measurement and monitoring equipment was registered and installed throughout 2022. This was followed by a period of rigorous auditing which resulted in the Gold Certification in March 2023 and the two Platinum Certifications in April 2023.

Shekhar Jagtap, managing director of GF Piping Systems India, is happy with the result: “Our Strategy 2025 stipulates that we reduce our CO2 emissions by 21 percent until 2025, and we have continually worked towards this goal. The LEED certifications prove to us and our customers that we are on track and successfully transforming the approach to industrial buildings.”

GF Piping Systems India is committed to enabling the safe and sustainable transport of water, gas, and chemicals. Previously, the company installed a solar energy system with 2239 modules on its production site and warehouse roof. The panels have a capacity of 750 kWp and reduce GF Piping Systems India’s CO2 emissions by approximately 1000 tonnes per year.

For more information visit www.gfps.com/landing-page.html

Gasum has entered into a liquefied biogas supply agreement with the Finnish company Vieremän Lämpö ja Vesi. Under the agreement, Gasum will supply biogas to Vieremän Lämpö ja Vesi’s biogas terminal starting in the autumn.

Vieremän Lämpö ja Vesi Oy is a company owned by the municipality of Vieremä and includes district heat, water and sewage treatment plants. District heat in the municipality is produced almost entirely with renewable biofuels.

The municipality of Vieremä has a biogas-based project under construction, where the first phase will involve a reception terminal for liquefied and compressed biogas, a backup biogas-fired power plant and a gas filling station serving transport. In addition, biogas can be used by industry and for electricity generation in Vieremä.

Gasum will supply the biogas to the terminal in liquefied form, meaning LBG. Gasum produces biogas in its own 17 biogas plants in Finland and Sweden and buys it from certified Nordic and European suppliers.

The LBG will be regasified so that it can also be compressed into CBG, which is suitable for refueling gas-powered passenger cars. The plan is for the terminal to be in use in early autumn, and the gas filling station will also open for everyone at the same time.

Aiming to create a biogas ecosystem

The project aims to create a biogas ecosystem in Vieremä. In practice, the introduction of biogas will increase security of supply, replace the use of heavy fuel oil in backup power production and allow industry in Vieremä to switch from using fossil gas to using biogas.

Vieremä also wants to create a market for locally produced biogas, which will pave the way for investments in biogas production as a new business for farms in the region. The goal is to switch to using biogas produced by local farms in the biogas terminal in stages as investments get underway.

In addition, the project will make biogas available as an alternative vehicle fuel for local residents and businesses. The project also means that the municipality of Vieremä will switch to using biogas-fueled vehicles in its own operations and in outsourced services.

Vieremä is a municipality in the North Savo region in eastern Finland and has a population of around 3,500. Vieremä is home to a lot of metal industry, but also, for example, concrete products manufacturing. Ponsse, a large manufacturer of forestry machinery, has its headquarters and factory in Vieremä.

The lifecycle emissions of biogas are 90 percent lower on average compared to traditional fossil fuels. Gasum’s strategic goal is to bring 7 TWh of renewable biogas yearly to market by 2027. This would mean annual savings of 1.8 million tonnes in carbon dioxide emissions for Gasum’s customers.

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

The Steel Tank Institute/Steel Plate Fabricators Association (STI/SPFA) Board of Directors were elected by members of the association. Officers for 2023 were also elected by the Board following the online Business Meeting. Terms of new Fabricator Member Board of Directors are for three years. A full list of Board members can also be found on the website.

2023 Officers, One-Year Term

• Robby Hagemann, President, Pressure Vessel Section (Boardman, LLC)
• Kyle Couture, Vice President, Chairman Pipe Section (American SpiralWeld Pipe)
• Steve Meeker, Treasurer, Chairman Finance Committee (Hamilton Tanks)
• Sonny Underwood, Chairman of the Board (Mid-South Steel Products, Inc.)
  2023 Newly Elected/Re-Elected Fabricator Board Members, Three-Year Term
• Robby Hagemann, President, Pressure Vessel Section (Boardman, LLC)
• Robert Hall, Shop Fabricated Tank Section (Hall Tank)
• Coby Hayes, Shop Fabricated Tank Section (J.L. Houston Co.)
• John Loucks, Shop Fabricated Tank Section (Modern Welding Co.)
• Paul Windham, Field Erected Storage Tank Section (Fisher Tank Company)
  Continuing Directors
• Mike Lattner, Affiliate Section Chairman (Morrison Bros. Co.)
• Bob Nemeth, Shop Fabricated Tank Section (Stanwade Metal Products Inc.)
• Pat Rezin, Shop Fabricated Tank Section (USEMCO)

STI/SPFA promotes and unites the steel plate fabricated products industry through standards development, education and communication.

Fo more information visit www.stispfa.org

Smartflow are honoured to share the news about MR ModuResources and Smartflow working together towards improved quality of inspection services, leveraging data, and providing more targeted and cost-effective inspections. Inspectors in the field use Smartflow’s mobile app to efficiently execute workflows and capture data online & offline, anytime and anywhere.

MR Group is further developing its digital inspection capability and platforms. When originally implemented some years ago, the digital tool was aimed at supporting surveyors in the field with inspection tasks, simplifying reporting, and allowing the data to be leveraged toward targeted inspections for clients.

The MR Group has recently engaged with Smartflow to adapt and customise Smartflow’s inspection software to advance MR Group’s service offerings further and utilise data to optimise the clients’ operations and assist in making informed decisions.

A pilot programme utilising the Smartflow software was agreed upon. The teams are working closely together to improve the quality of inspection services, leveraging data and providing more targeted and cost-effective inspection tools.

Duco de Haan, MR Group CEO, commented, “This is an important step forward to further build upon the Group’s digital and data vision. Feedback from both our front-line field personnel and clients has been instrumental in building upon the first generation of our digital inspection tools, and we are determined to further expand our capability. We are excited to draw upon the expertise of Smartflow and combine that with the Group’s expertise, including the team at MR Deepwater Subsea who pioneered subsea real-time data monitoring, to help build the next generation of digital and data for our clients.”

For more information visit www.smartflowapps.com

Following the release of Senator Cynthia Lummis’s (R-WY) new bill amending the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), the International Liquid Terminals Association (ILTA) is pleased with the progress being built around PFAS remediation.

While ILTA members do not manufacture Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) based firefighting foams, ILTA members have been required to use PFAS-based firefighting foams, per OSHA regulations and applicable engineering standards related to the storage of flammable liquids. As a result, ILTA facilities have used these PFAS-based firefighting foams in the past, but ILTA members support a standardized transition away from PFAS-based firefighting foams and are working to advance legislation establishing and clarifying a national transition away from PFAS-based firefighting foams.

ILTA member companies are stalwart environmental stewards. ILTA member companies support and participate in meaningful environmental stewardship to provide environmental sustainability. However, with respect to PFAS and the decision to use the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA or Superfund) to address the historic use of PFAS-based firefighting foams is the wrong method to achieve the desired result. Specifically, ILTA should not be liable under CERCLA for complying with the applicable law and engineering standards governing flammable liquid storage.

ILTA is hopeful that Congressional Leaders and the Biden Administration, along with industry and other stakeholders, will work to craft a meaningful and precise solution to the vast and ubiquitous problem presented by PFAS-firefighting foams and their historic impact on the environment. ILTA supports Senator Lummis’ narrowly tailored and crafted legislation as a positive step to finding and developing a fruitful solution to the impacts of PFAS.

For more information on ILTA, please contact Jay Cruz at (908) 202-6754.

For more information visit www.ilta.org