To tackle the challenge of decarbonising the transport sector, the Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) is set to increase to 25 percent (by energy content) starting January 1, 2025. This requirement mandates a higher proportion of transport fuel to be derived from renewable sources, impacting all vehicles on the road.

The “Energy in Ireland 2024” report published by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) indicates that the transport sector is the largest contributor to energy demand within the Irish economy, with transport energy demand increasing by 4.5 percent in 2023. Road transport was responsible for 75 percent of total transport energy consumption, with private cars making up nearly 40 percent of that total.

In 2023, overall demand for road diesel in Ireland rose by 1 percent. However, due to mandates that increased the blending of biofuels into road fuels, the usage of fossil diesel decreased, leading to a reduction in emissions from road diesel. As the RTFO legislation continues to mandate the use of biofuels, these fuels are poised to play a vital role in Ireland’s strategy for decarbonisation.

The RTFO requirements are expected to rise consistently, with blending mandates primarily fulfilled through Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), commonly known as renewable diesel. This biofuel is chemically similar to fossil-based diesel, which allows for higher blending rates.

Inver is responsible for importing HVO into its jointly owned terminal in Foynes. The terminal’s flexible infrastructure enables Inver to adjust the blending of HVO with fossil-based diesel efficiently, ensuring compliance with the RTFO.

The HVO supplied by Inver is sourced from auditable and certified supply chains, adhering to the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) scheme. The ISCC is a globally recognised sustainability system approved under the European Union’s Renewable Energy Directive (RED II), which ensures compliance with legal requirements.

For more information visit www.inverenergy.ie

EnQuest PLC has announced the signing of a sale and purchase agreement to acquire Harbour Energy’s business in Vietnam, including a 53.125 percent equity interest in the Chim Sáo and Dua production fields. This acquisition aligns with EnQuest’s strategy to expand its international footprint by investing in fast-payback assets with low capital requirements and reduced carbon intensity.

The transaction, effective from 1 January 2024, is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025. Valued at $84 million, the final consideration payable by EnQuest at completion is projected to be approximately $35 million, accounting for interim period cash flows. This acquisition marks EnQuest’s entry into Vietnam and strengthens its presence in Southeast Asia, complementing its successful operations in Malaysia, where the group was recognised as Operator of the Year by Petronas in 2024.

EnQuest will assume operatorship of the Chim Sáo and Dua fields (Block 12W) upon completion, leveraging its expertise in late-life and FPSO (Floating Production Storage and Offloading) asset management to optimise production and progress discovered resources into reserves. As of 1 January 2025, Block 12W contains 7.5 million barrels of oil equivalent in net 2P reserves and 4.9 million boe in 2C resources.

Production from the fields has responded positively to recent investments, including three infill wells drilled in 2023 and multiple well interventions during 2023–2024, which added approximately 3.0 MMboe to 2P reserves. In 2025, net production is forecast to average 5,300 barrels of oil equivalent per day (kboepd), with further potential upside from ongoing well interventions.

The Chim Sáo and Dua fields produce high-quality oil, approximately 73 percent of output, which commands a 10 percent premium to Brent. Gas is commercialised under an Associated Gas Gathering Agreement. The fields operate at a breakeven cost of around $40 per boe, with minimal capital expenditure requirements and a decommissioning liability covered by a PSC (Production Sharing Contract) fund. The resulting free cash flow underpins their value as strategic anchor assets for EnQuest’s entry into Vietnam.

The Block 12W Production Sharing Contract runs until November 2030, with an option for extension. Additional opportunities include three gas discoveries and several unexplored targets within the block, offering further growth potential that EnQuest intends to pursue.

Amjad Bseisu, CEO of EnQuest, commented on the acquisition:
“Our entry into Vietnam complements EnQuest’s well-established and high-performing Malaysia business, significantly enhancing our scale and opportunities in Southeast Asia. The region is central to EnQuest’s growth and diversification strategy, and we are excited to apply our expertise to optimise and enhance the Block 12W assets. We look forward to welcoming new employees from Harbour Energy and collaborating with our partners, Bitexco and PetroVietnam Exploration Production Corporation Ltd, to explore additional opportunities within the assets.

As EnQuest continues to progress a transformational transaction in the UK North Sea, this agreement reflects our disciplined approach to growth and commitment to deploying capital where it delivers the most favourable returns.”

For more information visit www.enquest.com

Vår Energi has announced a strategic partnership with Aker Solutions, Honeywell, and StS-ISONOR, building on an established collaboration model with clear incentives for working as an integrated team to achieve shared objectives.

The partnership includes a five-year contract with an option to extend up to 11 years. Aker Solutions’ executive vice president, Paal Eikeseth, emphasised the importance of collaboration: “We are proud to be a trusted and strategic partner for Vår Energi. At Aker Solutions, we believe that strong partnerships drive efficiency, foster continuous improvement, and enable a leaner project organisation.”

This collaboration focuses on joint project planning, safe and efficient execution, and the alignment of objectives to create value.

Vår Energi’s chief operating officer, Torger Rød, highlighted the significance of this four-party alliance:
“Aker Solutions, Honeywell, and StS-ISONOR represent world-leading technical expertise and extensive experience in areas of strategic importance to our activities. With Vår Energi’s clear growth ambitions, a strong and long-term partnership is crucial. We are working purposefully to achieve results through close collaboration, actively utilising our partners’ core competencies. By year-end, we will increase production to around 400,000 barrels per day, making us one of the world’s fastest-growing oil and gas companies.”

Vår Energi operates across the Norwegian Continental Shelf, managing a diversified portfolio of 200 licenses and 42 producing fields.

As part of this collaboration, Aker Solutions signed a sizeable frame agreement in December 2024 to provide maintenance and modification services for Vår Energi’s Jotun, Balder, and Ringhorne assets in the southern Norwegian Continental Shelf. This agreement, valued between NOK 0.5 billion and NOK 1.5 billion, is an integral component of the strategic partnership.

This alliance exemplifies the commitment of Vår Energi and its partners to advancing efficiency, innovation, and sustainable growth in the oil and gas sector.

For more information visit www.akersolutions.com

After training over a thousand individuals across various levels of the marine storage terminal industry, it has been observed that many professionals are unaware that they may be operating incorrectly while appearing to do things right. This was tested by inquiring whether participants had ever read the International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals (ISGOTT) or the Society of International Gas Tankers and Terminals (SIGTTO) guide.

Despite smooth operations and a low number of accidents, a concerning dependency on others to perform correctly was evident. For example, one loading master was found to be unaware of the difference between ‘port’ and ‘starboard,’ yet he was responsible for the cargo loading/discharge agreement and the Ship/Shore Safety Checklist. This individual had not received formal training but rather learned through experience from a predecessor who had also not consulted the ISGOTT and SIGTTO guidelines.

Onboard, this loading master feigned understanding of the relevant questions and terminology, completing checklists without inquiry and ensuring documentation was signed and stamped. He did not request to inspect the deck, engine room, or pump room, as he had not been instructed to do so, thus relying solely on the chief officer’s knowledge.

ISGOTT encompasses 25 chapters of quantifiable information, which is essential for all safety and natural systems. A significant perception issue exists: individuals often do not recognise the importance of optimising the information and knowledge available to them unless directed to do so.

When asked, most terminal managers admitted to not having read the international guidelines or adapted their policies accordingly. TankTerminalTraining conducted a global assessment of this information deficit and discovered that only a handful had made the necessary efforts.

It is critical for terminal managers, operators, and supervisors to understand that only systems utilising optimal information function effectively. When an information deficit is identified, performance suffers, leading to inefficiencies that can be characterised as uncertainty. In physics, these uncertainties are referred to as entropy, or disorder resulting from information deficiency. Entropy can be understood in various contexts:

– Physical Entropy: Refers to information as energy that is unavailable for productive work, rendering optimal functionality impossible.
– Information Entropy: Involves a lack of information necessary to comprehend messages, leading to misunderstandings and communication breakdowns. This form of entropy encompasses both the information that is absent and that which is intentionally suppressed.
– Social Entropy: Similar to physical entropy, this concept describes information as energy that cannot be utilised effectively, resulting in societal inefficiencies and uncertainty.

TankTerminalTraining provides courses aimed at helping operators enhance their performance.

For more information visit www.tankterminaltraining.com

Exolum has announced a significant achievement in its Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carrier project in the United Kingdom, marking the successful completion of the transportation and storage phase.

This innovative project demonstrates the feasibility of integrating hydrogen into existing fuel infrastructure, allowing for its safe and efficient transport and storage alongside aviation, road, and heating fuels. The success of this phase highlights the potential of LOHC technology to revolutionise hydrogen logistics.

“At Exolum, we believe that the future of hydrogen largely depends on its logistics,” stated the company. “LOHCs offer a flexible and adaptable solution to support the development of the global hydrogen economy.”

Exolum’s progress with LOHC technology underscores its commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and contributing to the transition to a low-carbon future. The project represents a significant step forward in making hydrogen a viable energy source for diverse industries worldwide.

For more information visit www.exolum.com

Evos has successfully installed over 1,500 new solar panels at its Amsterdam West terminal, bringing the total to 1,700 panels. This renewable energy initiative is set to produce approximately 650 MWh of electricity annually, supporting the Port of Amsterdam’s goal of achieving 350,000 m² of solar panels by 2025. Evos is contributing 5,200 m² to this ambitious target.

This development underscores Evos’s commitment to sustainability and the ongoing transition to cleaner energy. In addition to the solar panels, the terminal has also installed 12 new electric vehicle charging points, further promoting green transportation options.

“We are proud of this project and what it represents for both Evos and the Port of Amsterdam,” said Edgar Leenen, MD at Evos Amsterdam. “This is a tangible step forward in our commitment to sustainability, and it is only the beginning. By investing in renewable energy, we are helping pave the way for a cleaner, greener future for the entire port community.”

Evos expressed special appreciation for project manager Dorien Kalmijn and construction manager Cor Kievith for their dedication to bringing this initiative to fruition. The company also acknowledged its valued partner, EQUANS, for their engineering and construction expertise.

The solar panel installation at Amsterdam West is part of a broader renewable energy expansion across Evos terminals in Amsterdam East, Ghent, Hamburg, and Malta. These efforts highlight Evos’s growing role in fostering sustainable energy solutions.

For more information visit www.evos.eu

Stolthaven Revivegen Kaohsiung Terminal Co., Ltd., the joint-venture terminal located at Kaohsiung Port, Taiwan, is making significant strides in its development.

Since opening last year, SHRVK has begun serving both international and domestic customers with its specialised warehouse and distribution facilities. The terminal handles a range of products, including traditional chemicals, biofuels, and ethanol. The state-of-the-art storage facility is now approaching completion, marking a key milestone in its operational capabilities.

Strategically situated on a major shipping route, SHRVK is set to become a comprehensive hub for storage, warehousing, aggregation, and distribution. It aims to meet the needs of both local and global customers conducting business in Taiwan and throughout the Asia Pacific region.

Amid the ongoing regionalisation of supply chains driven by evolving global trade dynamics, SHRVK is well-positioned to offer reliable and adaptable supply chain solutions to its clients. This progress reinforces its role as a pivotal player in supporting efficient trade flows and meeting the region’s growing logistics demands.

For more information visit www.stolt-nielsen.com

Exolum, a global leader in bulk liquid logistics, and ADIF, Spain’s state-owned railway infrastructure operator, have signed an agreement to explore the creation of a railway logistics network dedicated to the transport of liquid bulk products critical to decarbonisation efforts. This network will focus on the transportation of products such as captured CO2, e-fuels, and biofuels.

The initiative aims to utilise and enhance existing infrastructure to reduce costs, implementation times, and environmental impact, while advancing Spain’s leadership in sustainable and efficient logistics solutions.

Ignacio Casajús, Global Strategy & Growth Lead at Exolum, emphasised the significance of the collaboration, stating:
“This agreement will enable us to optimise the logistics of these new products through an efficient and sustainable transport network that meets market demands and maximises the reuse of existing infrastructure.”

The partnership underscores the commitment of both organisations to advancing Spain’s energy transition and achieving carbon reduction targets by developing innovative and sustainable logistics solutions tailored to the evolving needs of the market.

For more information visit www.exolum.com

ADNOC Gas plc, a leading integrated gas processing company, has entered a landmark long-term partnership with Emirates Water and Electricity Company to support the UAE’s energy transformation. The collaboration is underpinned by a 10-year flexible natural gas sales and purchase agreement worth $10 billion between ADNOC Gas Facilities LLC and EWEC.

The partnership was announced during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025 at the World Future Energy Summit, with key representatives including Fatema Al Nuaimi, CEO of ADNOC Gas, and Othman Al Ali, CEO of EWEC.

Fatema Al Nuaimi highlighted the partnership’s strategic importance, stating:
“This 10-year agreement underlines our commitment to leveraging Abu Dhabi’s vast gas reserves to support the UAE’s net-zero ambitions. By fueling over two-thirds of the nation’s industries, we are driving sustainable economic growth and diversification while ensuring energy self-sufficiency.”

Othman Al Ali emphasised the critical role of natural gas in bridging the transition to renewable energy, saying:
“This agreement secures a stable and flexible natural gas supply pivotal to the UAE’s energy transition. By enabling a decarbonised water and electricity system and supporting renewable integration, we are contributing to the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative while powering economic growth and sustainability.”

The agreement ensures the delivery of natural gas to gas-fired plants across Abu Dhabi and the UAE, providing essential transitional capacity to integrate large-scale renewable and clean energy. Gas-fired plants’ ability to adapt output to real-time demand complements solar power during peak periods, supporting a resilient and lower-carbon energy system.

By collaborating with EWEC, ADNOC Gas underscores its role in advancing the UAE’s energy transformation. The partnership highlights the shared commitment to sustainability, with ADNOC Gas providing secure, flexible, and affordable lower-carbon energy solutions to reduce the carbon footprint of its customers.

This collaboration reflects ADNOC Gas’s broader strategy to drive value for its shareholders and contribute to the UAE’s economic growth while advancing digital technologies and decarbonisation efforts. The partnership reinforces the alignment of both organisations with the UAE’s strategic goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, further cementing their roles as leaders in the global energy transition.

For more information visit www.adnocgas.ae

LBC Tank Terminals Rotterdam has announced an exciting milestone in its ongoing expansion project. This weekend, the terminal received the first eight tanks, which were meticulously constructed by Verwater Group B.V. in Antwerp and safely transported to the Rotterdam site by ship.

These eight tanks mark the beginning of a larger initiative that will see the addition of 36 new tanks in total. Once completed, this project will increase LBC Tank Terminals’ storage capacity from 180,000 m³ to an impressive 240,000 m³, further enhancing its ability to meet growing customer demand.

LBC Tank Terminals extended its gratitude to Verwater Group B.V. for their expertise and professionalism throughout the construction and delivery process, ensuring the successful and secure arrival of the tanks.

The company is looking forward to the next phases of the project and remains committed to sharing updates on its progress as it continues to develop its infrastructure and capabilities.

For more information visit www.lbctt.com

Essar Energy Transition Hydrogen has signed an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction contract with ENKA for the development of its flagship low carbon hydrogen production plant. The facility, located at the Stanlow Manufacturing Complex in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, marks a significant advancement in the UK’s transition towards sustainable energy solutions.

HPP1 will be the UK’s first large-scale low carbon hydrogen project, supported by funding announced by the UK Government in October 2024 as part of the HyNet Cluster initiative. The plant will feature a production capacity of 350 MW and is expected to capture approximately 600,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually—the equivalent of removing around 250,000 cars from UK roads.

This project represents a major step forward for EET Hydrogen, contributing to its goal of developing 4 GW of low carbon hydrogen production to support industrial businesses in the North West of England. The initiative aims to facilitate decarbonisation, safeguard jobs, and drive regional economic growth.

ENKA, a leading global engineering and construction firm headquartered in Istanbul, Turkey, was selected for the contract following a competitive tender process. Known for delivering complex infrastructure projects, ENKA has a strong UK presence, having worked on major projects such as the Hinkley Point Power Plant in Somerset and the Shotton Mill Paper Mill Factory in Flintshire.

Joe Seifert, CEO of EET Hydrogen, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership:
“Following a highly competitive tender process, we are excited to announce this critical contract with ENKA. Having been awarded over 580 contracts in 57 countries, ENKA has an excellent track record in delivering complex projects like HPP1. The team brings a wealth of experience, and we are delighted to partner with them as we deliver on our ambition to become the UK’s premier producer of low carbon hydrogen.”

Hakan Kozan, Member of ENKA’s executive committee, highlighted the project’s importance:“We are thrilled to partner with EET Hydrogen on the HPP1 project, a transformative initiative that will play a key role in advancing the UK’s low carbon hydrogen industry and contributing to global decarbonisation efforts. As a global engineering and construction company, we bring expertise, engineered solutions, and a commitment to excellence to every project we undertake. This project reinforces our commitment to supporting the HyNet Cluster’s mission of reducing emissions and fostering sustainable economic growth. We look forward to delivering a safe and successful project for our distinguished customer.”

The HPP1 project underscores EET Hydrogen’s commitment to transforming the UK’s industrial sector by providing sustainable and scalable hydrogen solutions. With its strategic partnership with ENKA, EET Hydrogen is well-positioned to lead the charge in decarbonising the region’s economy while contributing to broader global sustainability goals.

The project is a critical component of the HyNet Cluster and a landmark development for the UK’s low carbon energy landscape, aligning with the nation’s ambitions for a cleaner, greener future.

For more information visit www.eethydrogen.com

Advario Finland Oy has announced a major milestone with the signing of a long-term agreement to handle and store sulfuric acid at its Mussalo terminal, located in the Port of HaminaKotka. This development underscores Advario’s dedication to supporting domestic business, serving local customers, and ensuring the seamless import of critical chemicals vital to Finland’s industrial sector.

The agreement comes at a pivotal time as Advario Finland Oy seeks to diversify and develop new business opportunities in response to global trade transitions. Through this partnership, the company strengthens its domestic operations and reinforces its capability to deliver safe, efficient, and sustainable logistics solutions tailored to the needs of Finnish industry.

Jari Kokko, commercial and business development manager at Advario Finland Oy, commented: “This agreement marks a significant step forward for Advario Finland Oy as we open new growth opportunities and reinforce our commitment to supporting Finnish industry. By working closely with our partners, we ensure a stable and reliable supply chain for sulfuric acid while adhering to the highest safety and sustainability standards. This milestone highlights our dedication to delivering world-class logistics solutions that create long-term value for our customers and the region.”

The Mussalo terminal’s advanced infrastructure and rigorous safety protocols will play a central role in the partnership. The facility is recognised for its operational excellence and commitment to environmental sustainability, making it an ideal hub for managing sensitive chemical logistics.

The agreement also involves significant investments to bolster the regional sulfuric acid supply chain and contribute to the economic growth of the Mussalo port area. Its flexible framework allows for future expansions to adapt to evolving business needs.

This milestone reflects Advario Finland Oy’s dedication to fostering strong domestic partnerships and supporting the industrial backbone of Finland. By securing this agreement, the company demonstrates its strategic focus on creating resilient supply chains and delivering value to both customers and the broader region.

For more information visit www.advario.com

CNOOC and Shell Petrochemicals Company Limited, a joint venture between Shell Nanhai B.V. and CNOOC Petrochemicals Investment Ltd, has announced its final investment decision to expand its petrochemical complex in Daya Bay, Huizhou, South China.

The expansion will include a third ethylene cracker with a planned capacity of 1.6 million tonnes per year, alongside associated downstream derivatives units producing chemicals such as linear alpha-olefins. The project also includes a new facility designed to produce 320,000 tonnes per year of high-performance speciality chemicals, including polycarbonates and carbonate solvents, which play a vital role in everyday applications.

Linear alpha-olefins are integral to producing detergent alcohol and synthetic lubricant base oils, while polycarbonates enable impact-resistant plastics as a lighter alternative to carbon-intensive steel. Carbonate solvents are essential for lithium-ion batteries, supporting the electric vehicle and energy storage sectors.

Primarily targeting domestic demand in China, the new facilities will produce a diverse range of chemicals used across agriculture, industrial, construction, healthcare, and consumer goods sectors. The investment will enhance CSPC’s competitiveness by extending its value chains, fostering further integration with the existing site, and enabling greater innovation to meet the evolving needs of the Chinese market.

“For more than two decades, CSPC has provided high-value products to the market, becoming one of the largest petrochemical joint ventures in China,” said Huibert Vigeveno, Shell’s downstream, renewables, and energy solutions director. “This new investment is a key enabler to realise CSPC’s transformation strategy towards more premium and highly differentiated chemical products. It aligns with Shell Chemicals & Products’ strategy to pursue targeted growth at advantaged locations and demonstrates our strong partnership with CNOOC.”

The expanded facilities are expected to be operational by 2028.

For more informaiton visit www.shell.com

A new year means a fresh start in areas that were less than successful last year. When it comes to corrosion control, the rewards of making and keeping practical corrosion resolutions are not only satisfying but often save time and money. For those who want to do better in 2025, Cortec^® Corporation suggests the following five resolutions to kickstart the year.

#1: Resolve to End Customer Corrosion Complaints

New parts that arrive at their destination speckled with rust are almost sure to prompt customer complaints and demands to make things right. The easy way to avoid such headaches and losses is to implement a rust-preventative packaging plan that matches the shipping environment and duration. The possible combinations of VpCI^® packaging are endless, but some favourites include slipping a Cor-Pak^® 1-MUL Pouch inside small packages (one per cubic foot [28 L]), wrapping auto parts in CorShield^® VpCI^®-146 Paper, or adding BioPad^® to a VpCI^®-126 Bag filled with metal components. Vapour-phase corrosion inhibitors diffuse out of these materials and form a protective molecular layer on metal surfaces within the package.

#2: Resolve to Be Ready to Go

Good corrosion protection also plays a vital part in mission readiness. Power plants, hospitals, and oil and gas facilities need to have critical spares and redundant assets to back up primary turbines, boilers, pumps, and other components in case of failure. Once again, Vapour phase corrosion inhibitors in the form of VpCI^® packaging or water treatment (e.g., Boiler Lizard^® or Boiler Dragon^™) provide comprehensive protection and are relatively easy to remove, minimising installation delays and maximising uptime.

#3: Resolve to Restore Rusty Spare Parts

Unfortunately, many facilities already have thousands or hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of rusty spares stored in warehouses. These represent a major liability to the facility, especially if a replacement is not available when needed, leading to financial losses from production downtime. Fortunately, it is not all that hard to set up a rust removal station with three containers: one with VpCI^®-422, one with rinse water, and one with VpCI^®-414 for neutralisation and flash corrosion protection. Dipping rusty components in this sequence of liquids has resulted in many success stories and an estimated millions of dollars in assets reclaimed around the world.

#4: Resolve to Extend Structural Service Life

Members of the concrete industry have been finding that it can be tough to find sustainable solutions that do not shorten service life. Cortec^® MCI^® is one technology that looks at the bigger picture and supports sustainable construction by slowing down the corrosion process on embedded rebar. By extending service life, less replacement concrete will need to be made through energy-intensive, carbon emitting processes. For an added sustainability perk, engineers can specify MCI^®-2005, a corrosion-inhibiting admixture that is a USDA Certified Biobased Product.

#5: Resolve to Try a New Biobased Product

In addition to MCI^®-2005, Cortec^® has a long list of USDA Certified Biobased Products that can be used for corrosion control with a nod to sustainability. These include more popular products such as VpCI^®-422, BioCorr^®, EcoShield^® VpCI^®-144, and BioPad^®, as well as newer options such as CorroLogic^® CUI Inhibitor Injection (for inhibiting corrosion under insulation) and EcoLine^® AL-Corr^™ (for protecting aluminum irrigation pipes).

Get Ready for a Successful Year of Corrosion Control!

For more information visit www.CortecVCI.com

OPW® Engineered Systems, a brand within the OPW Fluid Transfer Solutions business unit, has unveiled its new Loading Arm Central™ microsite, designed to provide customers with convenient access to essential information for the installation, operation, and maintenance of OPW loading arms.

The microsite can be accessed via a yellow QR-code sticker placed on every loading-arm shipping crate. Scanning the QR code with a smartphone or mobile device directs users to a video tutorial that guides them through the step-by-step process of uncrating and installing a loading arm. Additionally, the microsite offers a Product Category menu with direct links to detailed product and service information for the loading arm’s components. Installers can also download the latest OPW Loading Arm Installation Manual in English or Spanish from the site. Direct access is available at www.opwglobal.com/loading-arm-support.

“At OPW Engineered Systems, our priority is to facilitate a safe and efficient uncrating and installation process for loading arms,” said Dave Jacobson, global product manager for OPW Engineered Systems. “The videos hosted on the Loading Arm Central microsite provide comprehensive guidance, ensuring installers have all the resources necessary to achieve reliable system performance. This initiative reflects OPW’s ongoing commitment to delivering superior service and support for its loading-arm systems and their users.”

The Loading Arm Central microsite is a testament to OPW’s dedication to enhancing user experience and ensuring the optimal performance of its loading-arm systems through accessible and practical support.

For more information visit www.opwglobal.com

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence and data centres is driving a surge in natural gas demand, creating significant opportunities for infrastructure and energy providers. Energy Transfer, a leading player in the energy sector, is well-positioned to benefit from this trend, according to co-CEO Tom Long, who spoke during the company’s third-quarter earnings call.

Energy Transfer has observed a sharp increase in requests for natural gas connections from power plants and data centres across the United States. The company is currently evaluating requests from approximately 45 power plants in 11 states and over 40 potential data centres in 10 states.

With a vast network of interstate and intrastate natural gas pipelines, Energy Transfer’s infrastructure spans key regions, enabling it to meet rising demand effectively. The company already serves gas-fired power plants in 15 states, with approximately 185 plants connected either directly or indirectly.

Tom Long highlighted the unprecedented level of demand pull:
“We have never seen this level of activity from a demand pull standpoint, and these opportunities are truly spread across our natural gas footprint from Arizona to Florida and from Texas to Michigan.”

Energy Transfer’s strategic positioning allows it to supply natural gas to critical sectors such as AI and data centres, natural gas power plants, industrial operations, and onshore manufacturing facilities. This demand is expected to drive growth for decades to come.

The company continues to expand its capabilities to serve this growing market, underscoring its role as a key enabler of the AI-driven and data-centric economy. As industries increasingly rely on natural gas for power generation and operational stability, Energy Transfer is set to play a pivotal role in supporting the energy transition while meeting evolving market needs.

For more information visit www.energytransfer.com

Infinium, the pioneer of ultra-low carbon eFuels, has announced the acquisition of Greyrock Technology, a leader in gas conversion solutions, alongside the completion of the first tranche of a Series C Preferred Stock fundraise led by Brookfield Asset Management.

The funding round introduced several prominent investors, including the Japan Hydrogen Fund, Development Bank of Japan, Japan Organisation for Metals & Energy Security, Mitsubishi Corporation, University of Michigan, and RockCreek. They join existing stakeholders such as Amazon, AP Ventures, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, SK, Neuman & Esser, and NextEra Energy Resources. BofA Securities acted as the placement agent for the fundraise.

This new capital infusion will support Infinium’s growing project pipeline and expand its market offerings in advanced energy solutions.

Infinium’s North American production facility, Project Pathfinder, is the first in the world to produce and ship commercial volumes of ultra-low carbon eFuels to customers across the United States and Europe. Designed as drop-in synthetic alternatives to conventional fuels, eFuels reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by over 90 percent.

Customers include leading companies such as Amazon, American Airlines, Borealis, and airline consortium IAG. Infinium eFuels provide a viable solution for reducing emissions in hard-to-abate sectors like aviation, shipping, and heavy transportation without requiring new infrastructure.

Robert Schuetzle, CEO of Infinium, remarked: “Infinium eFuels allow our customers to use their existing infrastructure — planes, trucks, ships — while dramatically reducing greenhouse gas emissions in hard-to-abate categories. The continued confidence of our investors demonstrates the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions that give our customers flexibility to solve their greatest energy challenges.”

The acquisition of Greyrock Technology strengthens Infinium’s intellectual property portfolio, now encompassing over 250 global patents. Greyrock’s expertise in proprietary catalysts and Power-to-Liquids technologies enhances Infinium’s capacity to deliver cutting-edge gas conversion solutions across a broad range of applications.

This strategic move cements Infinium’s position as a leader in sustainable energy innovation, providing scalable solutions to meet the growing global demand for decarbonisation in energy-intensive industries.

For more information visit www.infiniumco.com

ADNOC and AIQ have announced the successful completion of the proof-of-concept trial for ENERGYai, a groundbreaking artificial intelligence solution specifically designed for the energy sector. This first-of-its-kind platform combines a 70-billion-parameter large language model with over 50 years of ADNOC’s proprietary knowledge and petabytes of operational data to enhance optimisation and efficiency across its operations.

The 90-day trial demonstrated ENERGYai’s potential to revolutionise upstream exploration and production processes. By employing agentic AI – task-specific AI agents tailored for various functions across the energy value chain – the system achieved significant improvements in seismic survey analysis and reservoir monitoring. Key outcomes included:

• 70 percent improvement in accuracy in major aspects of seismic interpretation.
• Enhanced anomaly detection and advanced reservoir monitoring.
• Delivery of actionable insights in natural language, enabling intuitive interaction for engineers.

ENERGYai also vastly improved data quality by identifying errors, standardising formats, and enriching operational datasets, further enhancing the reliability and usability of input data.

Musabbeh Al Kaabi, ADNOC Upstream CEO, stated:
“The successful completion of this proof of concept for ENERGYai has shown extremely promising results, confirming the solution’s potential to drive value creation and sustainable energy production. By leveraging petabytes of data, ENERGYai will empower our workforce and position ADNOC as the world’s most AI-enabled energy company.”

Magzhan Kenesbai, acting managing director of AIQ, added:
“This achievement reflects close collaboration between ADNOC’s subject matter experts, more than 100 AI specialists, and a secure AI infrastructure. These foundational elements will support even greater advancements in future phases.”

Building on the trial’s success, ADNOC plans to launch the first operational, scalable version of ENERGYai in the first half of 2025. This version will feature five fully operational AI agents focused on subsurface operations. It will undergo test deployments across multiple upstream assets, with plans to expand its application to thousands of additional wells.

ENERGYai represents a significant leap forward in the integration of artificial intelligence into the energy sector, paving the way for enhanced efficiency, accuracy, and sustainability in ADNOC’s operations. As the company continues to invest in cutting-edge technology, it sets a new benchmark for AI-driven innovation in the global energy industry.

For more information visit www.adnoc.ae

Evos Hamburg has announced the launch of DigiTank, an ambitious research initiative aimed at transforming tank storage logistics through digitalisation. Supported by the IHATEC II programme, the project leverages cutting-edge technologies such as digital twins, artificial intelligence, and robotics to address pressing industry challenges, including environmental risks, operational inefficiencies, and workforce shortages.

Pioneering a Safer and More Efficient Future
Over the next four years, DigiTank will focus on turning Evos Hamburg’s terminal into a state-of-the-art facility. The initiative is designed to deliver safer, more efficient, and sustainable operations, setting a new benchmark for the industry. By integrating advanced automation and digital tools, the project will mitigate environmental risks, reduce control room pressures, and improve working conditions for employees.

Evos Hamburg MD Michael Lübke emphasised the critical importance of this transformation, stating:
“Without significant automation and digitalisation, the long-term viability and security of operations is at risk. But this challenge presents an opportunity — to create one of the most modern and efficient terminals in the industry.”

Collaborative Innovation
The success of DigiTank is being driven by a collaborative effort involving several key partners, including:

• Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) Anstalt öffentlichen Rechts
• Schotte Automotive GmbH & Co KG
• University of Duisburg-Essen
• Hafen Hamburg Marketing e.V.
• ma-co maritimes competenzcentrum GmbH
• Unabhängiger Tanklagerverband e.V. (UTV)

This partnership brings together expertise in digitalisation, sustainability, and workforce training, ensuring a comprehensive approach to modernising tank storage logistics.

Industry Support and Vision
The project is made possible through the vital support of the Bundesministerium für Verkehr und digitale Infrastruktur and the IHATEC II programme, reflecting a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability in logistics.

By adopting a forward-thinking approach, Evos Hamburg and its partners aim to establish DigiTank as a model for the future of tank storage, setting a new standard for safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility in the industry.

For more information visit www.evos.eu

The Energy Institute’s highest honour, the President’s Award, will be presented to Secretary John Kerry during the International Energy Week Dinner in London on 27 February 2025. Recognised for his extraordinary contributions to global climate diplomacy, Secretary Kerry will also share his insights as part of the evening’s proceedings.

A Legacy of Impactful Leadership
Secretary Kerry’s career is marked by steadfast commitment and transformative influence in addressing climate change. As Secretary of State during the Obama administration and later as the first Special Presidential Envoy for Climate under President Biden, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the global response to the climate crisis.

From brokering the landmark Paris Climate Accord in 2015 to facilitating the recent agreement at COP28 to transition away from fossil fuels, Secretary Kerry has been instrumental in fostering international cooperation. His ability to build trust and consensus across nations, including bridging divides with China to prompt action from the world’s two largest emitters, has been critical in advancing climate solutions.

A Champion for Climate Finance and Equity
Beyond high-level diplomacy, Secretary Kerry has demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting developing nations in their fight against climate change. His efforts to mobilise climate finance have set a benchmark for ensuring that vulnerable nations can address the challenges of climate adaptation and mitigation.

An Evening of Recognition and Reflection
The Energy Institute’s President’s Award serves to honour individuals whose contributions have significantly shaped the energy sector and its alignment with sustainability goals. Secretary Kerry’s receipt of this prestigious accolade underscores his enduring impact on climate diplomacy and global energy transitions.

The Energy Institute looks forward to celebrating his achievements and hearing his perspectives on the future of sustainable energy during the International Energy Week Dinner.

For more information visit www.ieweek.co.uk

CB&I has been awarded a significant contract by VMOS, S.A., to oversee the engineering, procurement, fabrication, and construction of a 630,000-cubic-metre (4 million barrels) storage facility for the Vaca Muerta crude oil exportation project. The facility, located in Punta Colorada, Rio Negro Province, Argentina, is part of a strategic initiative aimed at increasing the country’s crude oil exports to both regional and international markets.

Strategic Importance of Vaca Muerta
Vaca Muerta, one of the world’s largest unconventional oil and gas reserves, is a key driver of Argentina’s ambitions to boost its energy exports. The associated Vaca Muerta Sur pipeline will span 437 kilometres, transporting crude oil from the Vaca Muerta formation to a coastal export terminal.

The project is being developed by VMOS, a midstream oil company formed by Argentina’s state-owned energy company, YPF, alongside Pan American Energy, Vista Energy, and Pampa Energía as initial shareholders.

CB&I’s Role in Optimising the Project
CB&I played a pivotal role in the project’s optimisation, supporting the facility’s development from the front-end engineering design phase through to EPC competition. By incorporating value engineering, CB&I helped reduce the project’s overall costs and schedule, ensuring timely commencement of crude oil exportation.

Leadership Perspective
“We are excited to be VMOS’s storage solutions partner for this critical export infrastructure project in Argentina,” said CB&I CEO Mark Butts. “CB&I brings industry-leading safety, quality, and project execution professionalism to every client we serve. We look forward to delivering on our commitments to YPF and the VMOS-associated project partners and shareholders.”

Timeline for Completion
Construction activities are slated to begin in the second quarter of 2025, with the project targeted for completion by the fourth quarter of 2026.

This project underscores CB&I’s expertise in delivering large-scale infrastructure solutions while contributing to the development of Argentina’s vital energy sector.

For more information visit www.cbi.com

In a historic achievement, the Troll field in the North Sea delivered its highest-ever annual natural gas production in 2024, reaching 42.5 billion standard cubic metres. This milestone marks a nearly 10 percent increase from the previous record of 38.8 billion standard cubic metres set in 2022.

A Pillar of Energy Security
The record-breaking output underscores Troll’s critical role in ensuring energy security for Europe. Equinor’s executive vice president for exploration & production Norway, Kjetil Hove, highlighted the significance of the accomplishment: “With record-high production in 2024, the Troll field confirms its position as a pillar of Europe’s energy security. The field contributes to a stable gas supply for millions of households and is essential for European industry. This milestone is the result of decades of targeted work to recover the Troll oil and gas resources efficiently and sustainably. It is rewarding to deliver such substantial volumes of gas when Europe needs it most.”

The Troll A platform in the North Sea Photo: Jan Arne Wold/Elisabeth Sahl – Equinor

Sustainability and Efficiency
Since its inception in 1996, Troll A and the processing plant at Kollsnes have operated with electrification, resulting in some of the industry’s lowest emissions from production and transport. In 2024, partial electrification of the Troll B and C platforms further reduced CO2 emissions by an estimated 90,000 tonnes—an approximate 15 percent decrease.

The enhanced production also benefitted from high operational regularity, the absence of turnarounds, and efficiency upgrades. Key developments such as riser replacement on Troll B and the 2021 expansion to include the gas cap in the western reservoir have significantly bolstered output.

Infrastructure Improvements at Kollsnes
The Kollsnes gas processing plant has undergone substantial upgrades in collaboration with operator Gassco. Capacity increased from 144.5 million to 156 million standard cubic metres per day, playing a pivotal role in supporting the record production levels.

Long-Term Perspective
Helge Haugane, Equinor’s senior vice president for gas and power trading, emphasised the importance of these achievements:
“The efforts to recover more Troll gas and increased export capacity clearly help ensure that our customers in Europe get the energy security and long-term perspective they need.”

The Troll field continues to demonstrate its significance in meeting Europe’s energy needs while setting new standards in sustainable resource management.

For more information visit www.equinor.com

On January 15, 2025, the ship Zhi Yuan Kou from COSCO SHIPPING docked in Antwerp, Belgium, carrying a significant delivery—a colossal furnace measuring 60 metres in height.

A Crucial Component of Project ONE
The furnace is a vital element of INEOS’s Project ONE, a groundbreaking ethane cracker facility under development. It will generate the necessary heat to convert ethane into ethylene, a key chemical used across a wide range of industries. Ethylene serves as a raw material in manufacturing products such as automotive components, medical devices, and sustainable energy solutions.

Image copyright :INEOS

In addition to the furnace, several pipe racks were also delivered. These structures are essential for supporting pipelines and related equipment. However, despite their considerable size, these components represent only a fraction of the overall scope of Project ONE. Earlier in June, Gosselin facilitated the delivery of a splitter—a critical part of the ethane cracker—at the PSA Breakbulk terminal in Antwerp.

Gosselin’s Role in Project Logistics
Gosselin, the appointed logistical service provider for Project ONE, oversees a range of activities including transportation, temporary storage, on-site material movements, assembly, inspections, and other value-added services. Acting as the control tower for the project, Gosselin ensures efficient and timely management of all logistical aspects.

Europe’s Largest Chemical Investment Since 2000
Scheduled to commence operations by mid-2026, Project ONE represents the largest investment in the European chemical industry in over two decades. Construction milestones include the foundation stone laid on December 15, 2022. The project is anticipated to create approximately 450 new jobs.

Additionally, the new ethane cracker aims to set environmental benchmarks by producing half the CO2 emissions of the least polluting 10 percent of ethane crackers currently operating. This aligns with INEOS’s commitment to sustainability while advancing Europe’s chemical industry.

For more information visit www.portofantwerpbruges.com

USA BioEnergy has finalised the acquisition of over 1,600 acres of land in East Texas for its groundbreaking $2.8 billion advanced biorefinery. The facility is designed to convert wood waste into sustainable, net-zero aviation fuel and has already secured a 20-year offtake agreement with Southwest Airlines, marking a significant step forward in the production of ultra-low-carbon fuels for the aviation sector.

The greenfield facility, to be constructed in Bon Weir, Texas, is currently in the detailed design and engineering phase. It will process sustainably sourced forest thinnings to meet the growing demand for SAF. Under the agreement, Southwest Airlines Co. may purchase up to 680 million gallons of neat SAF over 20 years. When blended with conventional jet fuel, this SAF has the potential to produce 2.59 billion gallons of net-zero fuel and reduce CO₂ emissions by 30 million metric tonnes over the contract’s term. According to USABE, this equates to enabling approximately 112,000 short-haul flights or 7,000 long-haul flights per year with net-zero emissions.

“This milestone in advanced-fuels facility development highlights USA BioEnergy’s dedication to the future of aviation and energy security,” said Nick Andrews, CEO of USA BioEnergy. “It also supports our vision of creating good-paying jobs in Newton County, Texas, an area with one of the lowest per capita incomes in the state. This project is a win for the community, the industry, and our business objectives.”

The biorefinery’s initial footprint spans approximately 300 acres, leaving ample space for future growth and expansion. Once engineering and design are complete, construction is anticipated to take two years, followed by a commissioning period of six to eight months. The state-of-the-art facility is expected to process one million tonnes of sustainably sourced forest thinnings annually, producing 65 million gallons of premium net-zero transportation fuels, including SAF and renewable naphtha. Over its lifetime, the plant will capture and sequester over 50 million metric tonnes of CO₂.

The project is supported by state, county, and federal credits and tax incentives totalling approximately $150 million. Local organisations backing the initiative include the Texas Forest Country Partnership, Texas Forestry Association, the City of Newton, Newton County, the Newton Independent School District, Jasper County, the Sabine River Authority, and the Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office of the Governor.

The acquisition and development of this facility underscore USA BioEnergy’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the advancement of the aviation industry toward net-zero operations.

For more information visit www.usabioenergy.com

WPU has announced the appointment of Jeffrey van Geloof as its new CEO. Jeffrey brings extensive commercial and operational expertise to the role, having most recently served as managing director of Vitol’s VPR refinery in Rotterdam. During his tenure, he spearheaded significant technical innovations and efficiency improvements that drastically reduced the refinery’s environmental footprint. Key achievements under his leadership include:

• A 40 percent reduction in energy consumption
• A 50 percent reduction in NOx emissions
• An 80 percent reduction in SO₂ emissions
• Achieving a leading processing carbon intensity of 3.5 kgCO₂e per barrel refined, compared to the global average of 40 kg

These environmental advancements were accomplished alongside a 25 percent increase in production, highlighting Jeffrey’s ability to deliver sustainable and scalable operational excellence.

Commenting on his new role, Jeffrey expressed enthusiasm about contributing to the development of innovative and large-scale solutions for waste plastic recycling. He stated:
“I am excited by the opportunity to use my experience to be involved at the cutting edge of waste plastic recycling, focusing on innovation and scale to underpin the possibility of a circular plastics system. My focus will be on building upon the strong foundation already in place and creating sustainable growth for the future. I look forward to working alongside our talented team, partners, and stakeholders to achieve our shared vision.”

Jeffrey also extended his gratitude to WPU’s former CEO, Niels Bagge, and the founding shareholders for their commitment to the energy transition and for laying the groundwork for WPU’s future success.

As WPU moves forward under Jeffrey’s leadership, the company aims to strengthen its position as a leader in waste plastic recycling and circular plastics innovation.

For more information visit www.vitol.com

Affiliates of Langford Energy Partners, a privately held oil and gas operating company, have announced the completion of their acquisition of Midland Basin assets from Murchison Oil and Gas, LLC.

In remarks regarding the acquisition, Lance Langford, the CEO of LEP, expressed that this acquisition presents a significant opportunity for the company to build upon its long-standing history of operational success and deliver value to its investors. He noted that the new asset will serve as a foundation for further expansion through additional bolt-on acquisitions within the Midland Basin.

Bud Brigham, the executive chairman of the company, shared his enthusiasm about LEP’s acquisition of what he considers a high-quality asset that aligns perfectly with the company’s strategic goals. He also reflected on his personal connection to the Midland Basin, where he began his career and drilled his first wells.

The acquisition details include approximately 8,000 net acres located primarily in Howard, Borden, and Midland Counties, Texas, with a net production of around 7,200 barrels of oil equivalent per day (72 percent oil), primarily sourced from 63 operated horizontal wells. The asset offers substantial potential with a fully delineated inventory of quality drilling locations and is supported by established oil, gas, and water infrastructure, including two owned saltwater disposal wells, to facilitate future production and development. The acquisition was finalised on December 6, 2024.

To finance the acquisition, LEP utilised equity from its flagship fund, Langford Energy Partners I, LP, along with senior bank debt from a new credit facility led by Texas Capital Bank.

Legal counsel for LEP was provided by Vartabedian Hester & Haynes LLP, Vinson & Elkins LLP, and Kirkland & Ellis LLP. Murchison was advised by RBC Richardson Barr as the exclusive financial advisor, with legal counsel from Holland & Knight LLP.

For more information visit www.langfordep.com

TotalEnergies, alongside partners Basra Oil Company and QatarEnergy, has commenced construction of the ArtawiGas25 processing facility, a key component of the Gas Growth Integrated Project. Located in Iraq’s Basra region, this facility will process 50 million cubic feet per day of associated gas from the Ratawi field, which was previously flared.

Representing an investment of approximately USD 250 million, ArtawiGas25 will supply gas to local power plants, meeting the energy needs of around 200,000 households in the Basra region.

The GGIP, signed in September 2021, is a USD 10 billion multi-energy initiative aimed at optimising Iraq’s natural resources while improving the country’s electricity supply. A cornerstone of this project is the development of a large-scale gas processing plant, with an initial phase targeting the recovery of 300 Mcf/d of flared gas from three oil fields, which will fuel 1.5 GW of power generation capacity.

ArtawiGas25, designed with a modular approach, is expected to significantly reduce gas flaring at the Ratawi field by the end of 2025. This innovative design could serve as a model for similar projects across other Iraqi oil fields. In addition to environmental benefits, the project will generate substantial employment opportunities, creating up to 160 direct and indirect jobs during construction and 30 positions during the operational phase.

Julien Pouget, senior vice president Middle East & North Africa, Exploration & Production at TotalEnergies, remarked: “We are very pleased to launch the ArtawiGas25 project. It will provide the Iraqi people with a tangible demonstration of the benefits of the GGIP, which aims to deliver more energy with fewer emissions. This project showcases TotalEnergies’ ability to deliver impactful and fast-track solutions aligned with the government’s expectations and Iraq’s energy needs. We are eager to advance further milestones of the GGIP, including the upcoming construction of a 1 GW solar project.”

ArtawiGas25 is a significant step towards enhancing Iraq’s energy infrastructure, reducing emissions, and addressing the nation’s electricity demands.

For more information visit www.totalenergies.com

Devon Energy Corporation has announced significant updates to its executive leadership team. The company has promoted John Raines to senior vice president of E&P Asset Management and Trey Lowe to senior vice president and chief technology officer. Clay Gaspar, the incoming CEO, remarked on their promotions, stating, “Both John and Trey have consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to Devon and the achievement of our goals. We look forward to them building on their successes and broadening their impact in their new capacities as part of our executive leadership team.”

Additionally, Tom Hellman has been appointed as senior vice president of E&P Operations. Gaspar expressed enthusiasm about Hellman’s arrival, noting, “Tom has over 30 years of experience in oil and gas across multiple companies in various operational roles and senior management positions. He is not only a seasoned leader but also someone who embodies our core values. We look forward to his contributions to our executive leadership team as we navigate the opportunities before us.”

John Raines, who previously held the position of vice president for the Delaware Basin, has been with Devon since 2005. Throughout his tenure, he has occupied various management roles, including vice president of the Rockies business unit and vice president of Land and Regulatory. Raines holds a bachelor’s degree in finance and energy management from the University of Oklahoma and a juris doctor degree from the Oklahoma City University School of Law. He is a licensed attorney in Oklahoma and a member of the Oklahoma Bar Association.

Trey Lowe, who was formerly vice president and chief technology officer, leads a team that encompasses Devon Energy Ventures, operational technology, IT, and other digital teams. Joining Devon in 2005 from Schlumberger, where he held various engineering and management positions, Lowe earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Oklahoma State University and has served as a past Distinguished Lecturer for the Society of Petroleum Engineers.

Tom Hellman comes to Devon from Marathon Oil Corporation, where he spent seven years in several leadership roles, most recently as vice president of Operations for Marathon’s Permian and Oklahoma assets. He has also held leadership positions at WPX Energy, APA Corporation, and BP plc, among other energy companies. Hellman graduated from the University of Alberta in 1991 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering.

Devon Energy Corporation, based in Oklahoma City, is an independent energy company engaged in oil and gas exploration and production. It is recognised as a leading US-based independent oil and gas producer and is included in the S&P 500 Index.

For more information visit www.devonenergy.com

Sensor specialist Baumer has launched the innovative 50 Series, a trio of high-performance sensors designed to meet the diverse needs of process automation. Tailored for applications requiring precise measurements of pressure, temperature, conductivity, or a combination of these critical parameters, the 50 Series sets a new benchmark in performance, efficiency, and sustainability.

The range includes the PP56H/PP56 high-precision pressure sensors, the PT55H/PT55 ultra-compact RTD temperature sensors, and the PAC50H/PAC50S conductivity sensors. Together, these cutting-edge solutions enable seamless process monitoring and control across a variety of industries.

Renowned for their precision, the PP56H and PP56 pressure sensors are equipped with advanced active temperature compensation, ensuring reliable and accurate pressure measurement across a range of media. With a flush membrane and touchscreen interface, these sensors are particularly well-suited for hygienic and industrial applications, including hydrostatic level detection, pressure monitoring, and demanding process environments.

The PT55H and PT55 RTD temperature sensors boast the largest measuring range in their class, spanning –50°C to 250°C. Their ultra-compact design and rapid response times make them ideal for monitoring process temperatures in industries such as food and pharmaceuticals, cooling circuit control in machinery, and temperature measurement in water treatment facilities. These sensors deliver exceptional reliability and accuracy, even in the most challenging environments.

Designed for applications requiring real-time conductivity monitoring, the PAC50H and PAC50S sensors offer industry-leading response times. These sensors are invaluable for maintaining process efficiency and ensuring product quality in sectors such as chemical processing, water treatment, and food production.

Baumer’s 50 Series delivers robust performance and advanced technology, providing process operators with reliable tools to enhance efficiency and maintain stringent quality standards. These sensors represent a significant step forward in process automation, ensuring sustainability and operational excellence for a wide range of industrial applications.

For more information visit www.baumer.com

Chevron Corporation has announced the appointment of Laura Lane as vice president and chief corporate affairs officer, effective February 1. In her new role, Lane will lead Chevron’s government affairs, communications, and social investment activities. Based in Houston, she will succeed Al Williams, who is set to retire in April after an accomplished 34-year tenure with the company.

“Laura’s extensive experience in both the private and public sectors, her leadership in complex global organisations, and her background working across diverse regions make her ideally suited to head Chevron’s global corporate affairs initiatives,” said Mike Wirth, Chevron chairman and CEO.

Wirth also expressed gratitude for Williams’ contributions, stating: “Al has been an exceptional leader across Upstream, Downstream, Midstream, and corporate roles. His impact on Chevron’s success throughout his career has been significant.”

Lane joins Chevron with an impressive professional background. She most recently served as executive vice president and chief corporate affairs and sustainability officer at UPS. Her career also includes senior roles at Citigroup and Time Warner. Earlier, she held a senior government position with the US Trade Representative’s office and served as a diplomat in the US Department of State’s Foreign Service.

Lane earned a master’s degree from Georgetown University and a bachelor’s degree from Loyola University Chicago. Her appointment reflects Chevron’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team to navigate evolving industry and corporate affairs landscapes.

For more information visit www.chevron.com

Turbotech, Safran, and Air Liquide have successfully completed ground demonstration testing of a hydrogen-fueled gas turbine aeroengine based on an ultra-efficient regenerative cycle. The system was powered by liquid hydrogen stored in a cryogenic tank, marking a significant step in the development of fully decarbonised aircraft propulsion.

This achievement builds on an earlier test phase in January 2024, which utilised gaseous hydrogen to perform the initial characterisation of the engine. In the latest demonstration, the engine was integrated with Air Liquide’s cryogenic storage system (operating at –250°C) to replicate a complete aircraft propulsion system, demonstrating end-to-end functionality.

“This is a major step forward in the transition to fully decarbonised aircraft propulsion, which will be ready to fly as soon as the world mass-produces green hydrogen,” said Damien Fauvet, CEO of Turbotech. “The project aimed to achieve energy density comparable to conventional aviation fuels while addressing challenges related to retrofit, operability, and certification of a cryogenic hydrogen propulsion system. The success of this rapid development is a testament to the teamwork of aerospace leaders and SMEs involved.”

Pierre-Alain Lambert, VP of Hydrogen Programs at Safran, highlighted the significance of the demonstration: “By integrating our technology with Air Liquide’s cryogenic storage system, we’ve shown that a zero-emission, high-tech propulsion solution is viable and can be directly applied to light aircraft. This complements Safran’s exploratory projects targeting the challenges of hydrogen propulsion for commercial aviation.”

Xavier Traversac, VP of Air Liquide Advanced Technologies, added: “This success underscores the importance of collaboration in decarbonising aviation. As a leader in hydrogen technologies, Air Liquide is proud to contribute to accelerating innovation through initiatives like this, supported by our state-of-the-art test facilities. Hydrogen remains a key component of the energy transition, and this project represents another step toward low-carbon aviation.”

The testing is part of the BeautHyFuel joint research project, established in June 2022 by Turbotech, Elixir Aviation, Safran, Air Liquide, and Daher. The project aims to design and certify a hydrogen propulsion system for light aviation and develop a methodology for its retrofit certification. It combines expertise from Turbotech’s light turbine technologies, Safran’s aeroengine and fuel system design, Air Liquide’s cryogenic storage solutions, Elixir’s innovative light aircraft manufacturing, and Daher’s experience in aircraft development and maintenance.

Supported by the French government through DGAC and the national post-pandemic stimulus program, BeautHyFuel complements Safran’s broader initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in air transport. This successful demonstration reinforces hydrogen’s potential to revolutionise aviation and contribute to a sustainable future.

For more information visit www.airliquide.com

Kinder Morgan, Inc. has announced that its subsidiary, Hiland Partners Holdings LLC, has entered into an agreement to acquire a natural gas gathering and processing system in North Dakota from Outrigger Energy II LLC for $640 million. The acquisition includes a 270-million-cubic-feet-per-day processing facility and a 104-mile high-pressure rich gas gathering pipeline with a capacity of 350 MMcf/d. This strategic system connects gas supplies from the Williston Basin to high-demand markets and is supported by long-term contracts with major customers in the region.

“This acquisition aligns seamlessly with our existing Hiland gas assets, enabling us to aggregate additional supplies from the Bakken and expand our services to meet customer needs,” said Tom Dender, president of KMI Natural Gas Midstream.

The integration of this system enhances Kinder Morgan’s ability to provide incremental transportation and processing services while leveraging the company’s existing footprint in the area.

The acquisition is expected to deliver immediate value to KMI shareholders, with a projected 2025 adjusted EBITDA multiple of approximately 8 times on a full-year basis. This calculation excludes approximately $20 million in expected 2025 cash payments subject to deferred revenue recognition. Additionally, the transaction is anticipated to lower future capital expenditures required to support the growth of Kinder Morgan’s existing Bakken customers.

KMI plans to fund the acquisition through a combination of short-term borrowings and cash on hand.

Regulatory Approval and Closing

The transaction is subject to clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025.

Kinder Morgan’s investment in this gathering and processing system underscores its commitment to expanding infrastructure in the Williston Basin, enhancing service offerings, and creating value for its shareholders.

For more information visit www.kindermorgan.com

Exolum, a leading logistics company specialising in the transportation and storage of bulk liquids, has announced a significant leadership transition. After nearly a decade of service, CEO Jorge Lanza and chairwoman Rosa García will step down following the annual shareholders’ general meeting in May 2025. This marks the beginning of a new phase in Exolum’s journey as the company advances its strategic goals.

Transformational Leadership Legacy

Under the stewardship of Lanza and García, Exolum (formerly Compañía Logística de Hidrocarburos – CLH) has undergone remarkable transformation and growth. Key achievements include the company’s international expansion to 11 countries and diversification into chemical products and new energy vectors, such as hydrogen and ammonia, in alignment with global energy transition goals.

Exolum has also solidified its leadership in aviation fuel management, serving 170 million passengers annually across 48 airports worldwide. These efforts have resulted in substantial growth, with the company’s EBITDA rising from €339 million in 2015 to €700 million in 2023.

The board of directors extended its gratitude to Lanza and García for their exceptional leadership, which has laid a strong foundation for the company’s continued pursuit of excellence and sustainability.

New Leadership for a New Era

The Board has appointed Alfredo Barrios as the new chairman and Javier Goñi as CEO, entrusting them to steer Exolum into its next phase. Their combined expertise will focus on furthering the company’s international growth ambitions and strengthening its role in the energy transition.

Alfredo Barrios brings over 30 years of international management experience, including roles as Executive Chairman of BP in Spain and Portugal and chief executive of Rio Tinto Aluminium. Barrios previously served on Exolum’s Board between 2007 and 2012 and will officially assume the chairmanship in August 2025.

Javier Goñi, a seasoned executive with a background in law, economics, and an MBA from INSEAD, has a distinguished career spanning over 20 years. Formerly a partner at McKinsey, Goñi most recently led the Fertiberia Group, where he drove significant achievements. He will assume the role of CEO on 1 April 2025.

Future Vision

The leadership transition reflects Exolum’s commitment to becoming a key player in the energy transition by developing infrastructure essential for sustainable mobility and the industry of the future. The incoming leadership team is poised to build on Exolum’s strong foundation, guiding the company towards continued innovation and global relevance.

As Exolum prepares for this new chapter, it remains dedicated to its mission of delivering sustainable and high-quality solutions in the bulk liquid logistics sector.

For more information visit www.exolum.com

Baker Hughes, an energy technology company, announced that it had received an order from Bechtel Energy Inc. to supply gas technology equipment for two liquefaction plants, which will have a total capacity of approximately 11 million tonnes per annum as part of Phase 1 of Woodside Energy Group Ltd’s Louisiana LNG development opportunity. This order represents a significant milestone as Woodside aims for final investment decision readiness by the first quarter of 2025.

The awarded contract includes eight main refrigeration compressors powered by LM6000PF+ gas turbines and eight expander-compressors. This project will utilise Baker Hughes’ established LNG technologies to support both Bechtel and Woodside, with the company’s extensive experience with both firms aiding in the delivery of Phase 1.

Paul Marsden, president of Bechtel Energy, emphasized the importance of the Louisiana LNG project, stating, “Louisiana LNG will play a vital role in meeting the world’s increasing LNG demand.” He expressed pride in partnering with Baker Hughes to advance this critical initiative.

Ganesh Ramaswamy, executive vice president of Industrial & Energy Technology at Baker Hughes, highlighted the company’s commitment to providing proven technology for the LNG industry to address the growing energy demand. He noted Baker Hughes’ 40-year history in the LNG sector and established relationships with both Bechtel and Woodside, expressing eagerness to support this significant project and contribute to sustainable energy development.

In addition to this recent award, Baker Hughes had previously been selected to supply Woodside with electric-powered Integrated Compressor Line packages and other turbo machinery equipment for the pipeline associated with the LNG export terminal.

For more information visit www.bakerhughes.com

Flowquip has officially announced its new partnership with SoundWater Technologies, LLC, positioning itself as the exclusive distributor of the company’s products in the UK. SoundWater Technologies has built a strong reputation for its expertise in designing and developing innovative ultrasonic clamp-on flow meters that are both reliable and easy to install. These state-of-the-art devices stand out for their speed and accuracy, having demonstrated effectiveness across a diverse range of applications.

The partnership between Flowquip and SoundWater Technologies marks a significant step in expanding access to advanced flow measurement solutions within the UK market. Flowquip Ltd is dedicated to enhancing the operational capabilities of various industries that depend on precise and efficient flow measurement. By introducing these cutting-edge flow meters, Flowquip aims to provide businesses with the tools they need to optimise their processes and improve overall efficiency.

As industries increasingly seek reliable solutions for flow measurement, this collaboration is expected to play a crucial role in meeting those demands. Flowquip’s commitment to delivering high-quality products and services aligns perfectly with SoundWater Technologies’ innovative approach, paving the way for a successful partnership that benefits both companies and their customers.

For more information visit www.flowquip.co.uk

Prostar Capital has officially announced that operations have begun at the first two of seven hydrogen fuel cell (HFC) power generation facilities, which are integral to the Changwon Green Energy Project in South Korea. This initiative is a collaborative effort with Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) and highlights the advantages of an urban distributed power supply model.

The newly operational HFC facilities are designed to significantly reduce carbon emissions, achieving reductions of 70 percent and 30 percent compared to traditional coal-fired and gas-fired power plants, respectively. This advancement is a crucial step in supporting the transition of the Korean economy towards a more sustainable future, aligning with global efforts to achieve net-zero emissions. By leveraging hydrogen fuel cell technology, Prostar Capital and KHNP are contributing to a cleaner energy landscape in South Korea, underscoring the growing importance of innovative energy solutions in addressing climate change.

For more information visit www.prostarcapital.com