The Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP), the global authority in materials protection and performance, and the Active Shipbuilding Experts’ Federation (ASEF), representing national shipbuilders of IMO Member States, have signed a Global Cooperation Agreement to strengthen collaboration in shipbuilding technology, corrosion-mitigation practices, standards development, and maritime safety.

The agreement establishes a formal, nonexclusive framework for cooperation that enables both organisations to exchange technical expertise, advance progress in corrosion control and protective coatings, and support coordinated engagement with the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

“This agreement strengthens the technical bridge between the global shipbuilding community and the corrosion-control expertise that AMPP brings to the maritime sector,” said Jennifer Merck, vice president of Maritime at AMPP. “By formalising collaboration with ASEF, we are enabling shipbuilders across IMO Member States to access clearer guidance, stronger standards alignment, and advanced tools that directly support maritime safety, long-term asset integrity, and environmental stewardship.”

Both organisations emphasised the importance of coordinated global action to strengthen maritime safety and improve coatings and corrosion-control practices across shipbuilding markets.

“This agreement marks an important step forward in advancing international cooperation and standards alignment in the shipbuilding industry,” said Takuya Minato, ASEF secretary general. “Together with AMPP, ASEF will promote corrosion-control technologies and the harmonisation of coating standards, contributing to enhanced maritime safety and sustainability.”

Through this agreement, AMPP and ASEF will enhance global knowledge exchange, support regulatory alignment, and expand access to training, standards, and best practices, benefiting shipbuilders worldwide.

“This cooperation agreement strengthens AMPP’s global footprint and our ability to support shipbuilders with proven corrosion-control expertise and standards-based solutions,” said AMPP CEO Alan Thomas. “Working alongside ASEF ensures that AMPP’s voice and technical leadership remain central to improving maritime safety, sustainability, and regulatory outcomes worldwide.”

The Global Cooperation Agreement reinforces both organisations’ commitment to strengthening corrosion-mitigation practices, supporting global regulatory alignment, and enhancing the shipbuilding industry’s capacity to design, build, and maintain safe, resilient, and environmentally responsible vessels.

For more information visit www.ampp.org

Emerson, a global leader in automation technology and software, has opened registration for Emerson Exchange 2026, taking place May 19-21 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The company’s flagship users’ conference – being held in the Middle East for the first time – will bring together professionals from across the global industrial automation community to envision, shape and co-create the next era of innovation.

“With the theme ‘Imagine the Next’, this year’s users’ conference will call on delegates to look beyond today’s wave of digital transformation and envision the breakthroughs that will define tomorrow’s operations,” said Liam Hurley, president, Middle East & Africa at Emerson. “Our customers are striving to make faster, smarter decisions, advance towards truly autonomous operations and unlock new levels of performance and value. Exchange will provide them with the inspiration and insight they need to realise these goals.”

Emerson Exchange 2026 takes place on May 19-21 at the Dubai World Trade Centre and is set to attract more than 2,000 attendees from over 50 countries.

Set to attract more than 2,000 attendees from over 50 countries, Emerson Exchange 2026 will be a dynamic forum for innovation, collaboration and learning. Delegates can network with peers, industry leaders and Emerson experts to explore how advanced automation technologies are driving demonstrable gains in reliability, productivity and sustainability performance.

The conference will feature over 300 expert-led presentations across multiple tracks, covering topics such as intelligent automation, safety excellence, production optimisation, asset performance and reliability, sustainability and energy transition, and modernisation projects. A 5,000 square-metre interactive technology expo will showcase the latest innovations from Emerson and its partners, providing an immersive look into the future of automation.

A diverse range of user case studies will showcase how cutting-edge technologies are solving real-world challenges and maximising return on investment. Complementing these technical sessions, a series of executive panels will explore the forces shaping the industry, including sustainability, digital transformation and workforce development.

Hands-on training courses, with over 600 seats available, will foster personal and professional development, while specialised forums for key industries such as oil and gas, refining, chemical, power, life sciences, and metals and mining will address the global energy transition, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and other emerging priorities.

“Companies across the Middle East region are embracing next-generation automation technologies to drive transformational improvements in operational efficiency, safety, reliability and sustainability,” said Hurley. “Their ambition to accelerate innovation and position the region as a global hub for advanced manufacturing makes Dubai the perfect setting for Emerson Exchange 2026, with its focus on sharing expertise and building a smarter, more connected world.”

For full details on the agenda and to secure a place at the event, visit Emerson.com/Exchange2026.

Reliable liquid detection is an essential requirement in many industrial sectors, including plant engineering. To meet these needs, Elesa has introduced two new products: the HSC capacitive level sensor, suitable for conductive liquids such as water and non-conducting liquids such as oil or diesel, and the HSO optical level sensor, ideal for translucent liquids. Both ensure accuracy and robustness, yet differ in their operating principles and application fields.

HSC | Capacitive Level Sensor

The HSC model, based on capacitive technology, uses a conductive electrode coated in PTFE, inserted directly into the tank or container where the liquid level must be detected. Its operating principle relies on the variation of electrical capacitance generated inside the tank. The probe and the surrounding metal walls form a capacitor whose capacitance changes according to the liquid level.

As the fluid level rises, the probe’s electrical capacitance increases accordingly, enabling precise detection. In practice, capacitance is low when the tank is empty and high when it is full.

This solution is versatile and suitable for conductive fluids such as water (W version) and for oils and diesel fuel (O version). The maximum operating temperature ranges from –30 to +125 °C, while pressure resistance reaches 50 bar.

HSO | Optical Level Sensor

The HSO optical sensor detects the presence or absence of liquids by exploiting the different refraction of the generated infrared beam. When no liquid is present, the beam is completely reflected toward the receiver. When liquid is present, the prism’s refractive index changes and part of the infrared beam is dispersed into the liquid, causing the output to switch.

This technology does not require direct contact with the liquid. Its flexible installation, both horizontal and vertical, makes it a reliable and practical solution even in demanding operating conditions, withstanding up to 100 bar of pressure and temperatures between –30 and +110 °C.

Shared Advantages

Both solutions share several advantages, including compact size and simple construction; no mechanical parts subject to wear; low energy consumption; and minimal maintenance requirements.

HSC and HSO offer two different responses to level control needs. The former provides versatility and resistance in harsh environments. The latter is designed for applications where hygiene, compactness and optical precision are essential.

For more information visit www.elesa.com

TES, TotalEnergies, Osaka Gas, Toho Gas and ITOCHU have signed a Joint Development and Operating Agreement, granting the Japanese companies a combined 33.3 percent stake in the Live Oak project, a large-scale facility to produce electric natural gas (e-NG), also known as e-methane, initiated by TES and TotalEnergies and currently under development in Nebraska, United States. Following the agreement, TES and TotalEnergies will each maintain a 33.35 percent stake in the project.

The partners are now preparing the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) phase, targeting a capacity of approximately 250 MW of electrolysis and 75 ktpa of methanation. The project, subject to a Final Investment Decision in 2027, is scheduled to begin commercial operations by 2030, with plans to export e-NG to Japan. Osaka Gas and Toho Gas will be the primary offtakers. The project helps the Japanese gas majors achieve their goal of injecting 1 percent carbon neutral gas (such as e-NG) into the gas grid by 2030.

Strategic Partnership Expansion

The agreement builds on the strategic partnership established between TES and TotalEnergies in 2023 to pioneer at-scale production of e-NG. The Live Oak project will leverage Nebraska’s abundant biogenic CO₂ resources, captured from bioethanol plants, and the growing renewable power generation capacity in the United States.

The participation of Osaka Gas, Toho Gas and ITOCHU (as a coordinator of Japanese companies) underscores their commitment to decarbonisation with the adoption of e-NG and positions Live Oak as the leading project for carbon-neutral gas production for Japan.

About e-NG

e-NG is a synthetic gas produced from renewable hydrogen and CO₂. Chemically identical to conventional natural gas, e-NG can be seamlessly integrated into existing LNG infrastructure—liquefaction, transport, regasification and distribution—without any alterations to consumer equipment.

For more information visit www.tes-h2.com

Technical Toolboxes has announced the acquisition of the software assets of B3PE LLC, including the widely trusted GASCalc™ and GASWorkS™ applications. The acquisition also includes the StationManager™, WaterCalc™ and LiquidCalc™ software assets.

The acquisition represents a milestone in Technical Toolboxes’ commitment to supporting the gas utility and distribution sector with purpose-built tools. The move allows the company to expand its offerings, accelerate innovation and continue delivering technical depth and support that B3PE customers have relied on for decades.

Jim Schuchart, CEO of Technical Toolboxes, said: “We couldn’t be happier to continue the innovation on the B3PE LLC software assets, building on what their team has done for decades now. We look forward to better serving the needs within the utility market globally with this acquisition.”

B3PE will continue to operate as an independent utility consulting firm. The acquisition includes only the software products.

Bradley Bean, senior partner & managing member at B3PE LLC, said: “I felt that Technical Toolboxes was the right steward for our technology moving forward. They have committed to continue to expand and improve the products, and support our existing customer base for years to come.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of GASCalc and GASWorkS within Technical Toolboxes

• Bradley Bean joins Technical Toolboxes as a consultant to assist during the transition phase and as an advisor on the company’s Pipeline Expert Board
• There is no disruption to service of the current software assets
• Technical Toolboxes will build on these products using the power and recognized innovation of its cloud-based Pipeline HUB platform

New Innovation for GASCalc Customers and Utility Operators

Technical Toolboxes will begin meeting directly with B3PE customers in mid-December to gather feedback, answer questions and identify immediate improvements. The engagement represents an opportunity for customers to help shape the next generation of GASCalc.

Customer-Centered Approach

Technical Toolboxes has positioned itself as a trusted software partner for pipeline engineers across North America by placing customers at the centre of its operations. The company is bringing the same approach to the gas utility space with these new software assets.

For more information visit www.technicaltoolboxes.com

As part of the eM-Rhône project, which focuses on producing e-methanol for the chemical industry and maritime transport, Elyse Energy and Tepsa France have formed a strategic partnership to advance low-carbon solutions. The collaboration marks a significant milestone in the development of sustainable energy infrastructure in France.

Under this partnership, the two companies will build and operate dedicated storage capacity at Tepsa’s Salaise-sur-Sanne site. This facility will play a key role in supporting the production, handling, and distribution of e-methanol, a cleaner alternative fuel with growing importance across multiple sectors.

SALAISE-SUR-SANNE – TEPSA FRANCE – ©Gilles-Dacquin

Tepsa France expresses its pride in supporting Elyse Energy in strengthening a domestic value chain for sustainable fuels. The initiative reflects both organisations’ commitment to accelerating the transition towards greener industrial practices and contributing to a more resilient, low-carbon future.

For more information visit www.tepsa.com  or www.elyse.energy

For more than two decades, Amfico has established itself as a trusted name in India’s liquid logistics sector. Known for its comprehensive range of services and products tailored to the bulk liquid industry, the company has also gained recognition for offering reliable logistics and safety solutions. As the all-India representative for several globally renowned brands seeking growth in the Indian subcontinent, Amfico has evolved into a one-stop solution provider within the liquid logistics ecosystem. Building on this legacy, the company is now extending its footprint into the South East Asian market.

In a significant development, Amfico has announced its new representation of CLIIN Robotics, the innovators behind the award-winning Magnetic Universal Crawler (MUC). This groundbreaking robotic solution features a highly adaptable tooling plate engineered with simple click-technology, enabling users to customise applications effortlessly for a wide range of ferromagnetic surfaces. The modular design allows industries to attach different tools based on their specific operational needs, delivering exceptional efficiency and flexibility across a variety of tasks.

The MUC is equipped with strong magnetic adhesion and supports a payload of up to 250 kg, making it suitable for demanding applications such as industrial cleaning, inspection, and maintenance. Its capability to operate at heights and navigate angles up to 90 degrees further enhances its value in environments where safety and accessibility are paramount. Despite its powerful performance, the crawler remains compact—no larger than a standard check-in suitcase—allowing seamless entry into confined or hard-to-reach spaces while reducing manpower requirements and risk exposure.

Through the integration of customised tools, the MUC enables users to optimise workflows, reduce operational downtime, and tackle complex industrial challenges with greater ease. This adaptability positions the crawler as a vital asset for organisations aiming to boost productivity and operational versatility.

Manufactured in Denmark, the MUC is constructed using advanced, non-corrosive materials such as duplex stainless steel, titanium, carbon glass, and reinforced polymers, ensuring durability, chemical resistance, and long-term performance even in demanding industrial environments.

For more information visit www.cliin.dk/robotic-crawler

EEMUA has expanded its e-learning portfolio with the release of a new course on refrigerated liquefied gas (RLG) storage tanks.

The ‘Refrigerated Liquefied Gas Storage Tanks’ e-learning will benefit anyone involved in the design, operation or management of RLG storage facilities. There has been a dramatic expansion in RLG tank capacity worldwide over the past decade with the trend expected to continue over the next twenty years.

The 60-minute awareness-level course provides a concise introduction to the key engineering principles for the safe design, construction, operation, and maintenance of RLG storage tanks as set out in EEMUA Publication 147, Recommendations for refrigerated liquefied gas storage tanks.

The e-learning covers single, double and full containment storage tanks as well as membrane tanks for liquids down to -165°C, and essentially at atmospheric pressure. It applies to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), ethylene, ethane, liquefied natural gas (LNG) and similar hydrocarbons, together with ammonia. The course is aimed primarily at engineers, technicians and managers responsible for RLG tanks, including design engineers, maintenance and inspection personnel, operations and project managers, and process safety professionals.

Individuals can access the e-learning through the EEMUA website and on completion take the online test to achieve awareness-level certification.

For more information visit www.eemua.org

LBC Vlissingen has been awarded a €6.6 million subsidy to further develop its terminal in Zeeland. The investment advances the transition toward a future-proof and sustainable port infrastructure.

The project encompasses the development of a terminal for the storage and transshipment of new energy products, the implementation of a digital twin to simulate and monitor terminal operations, and the creation of new jobs around this innovative facility. Through this initiative, LBC Vlissingen demonstrates a strong commitment to both technological advancement and the strengthening of the regional labour market.

The subsidy is provided under the OPZuid programme of the Just Transition Fund (JTF), a European fund that supports regions in their transition to a sustainable, climate-neutral economy and promotes projects that drive innovation, sustainable infrastructure and employment.

For more information visit www.lbctt.com

Sunoco LP has completed its acquisition of Parkland Corporation, the parent company of Sol Petroleum, effective November 1, 2025. With this milestone, Sol now becomes part of a broader energy platform spanning the Caribbean, Central America, South America, the United States, Canada and Europe.

The transition represents a strengthening of Sol’s long-term vision, with the company’s people and brands remaining at the core of its continued success, driving sustained growth across the region and positioning the business for future achievements.

Roger Bryan Appointed President

Leading Sol’s Caribbean business through this new chapter is Barbadian Roger Bryan, newly appointed president. Bryan brings over 30 years of experience in the petroleum industry, having served in a wide range of leadership roles across engineering, operations, marketing and commercial management. His expertise and leadership have long made him an integral part of Sol’s senior management team.

Bryan’s career includes 16 years at Shell, where he held senior positions influencing project management, commercial development, general management and government relations. He previously served as Shell Jamaica’s country chairman and general manager (LPG) for the Caribbean and Central America, with additional professional experience in Spain and the United Kingdom.

Within Sol over the past 19 years, Bryan has held roles such as vice president of Commercial Business, overseeing aviation and LPG, and vice president of Corporate Development, where he led mergers and acquisitions across the Caribbean. His track record of strategic insight and team development positions him to guide Sol in this new era as part of Sunoco LP.

Commitment to the Caribbean

Sol’s commitment to the Caribbean and the communities it serves remains constant. As part of Sunoco LP, the company will continue to support local employment, enhance community investment and deliver safe, reliable energy solutions to its customers. The combined strengths reinforce Sol’s dedication to operational excellence and long-term regional resilience.

Together with Sunoco LP, Sol is positioned to deliver enhanced service and energy solutions with greater scale, expanded capabilities and a renewed commitment to the region.

For more information visit www.solpetroleum.com

Officials and individuals from the Mississippi Development Authority, Jackson County Economic Development Foundation, the Jackson County Board of Supervisors, the Jackson County Port Authority and Chevron Corporation joined BWC Terminals for a groundbreaking ceremony celebrating the construction of BWC’s newest terminal facility in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The new facility supports BWC’s significant growth trajectory as it continues to expand across the United States, with ongoing construction projects currently underway in Baltimore, Jacintoport, and Manchester.

The terminal will be built on the former Mississippi Phosphates Corporation facility and will initially include seven above-ground storage tanks, with an expected operational date in the fall of 2026. BWC’s construction plan for the initial buildout and future buildouts will be done so in connection with the approved remediation activities by US Environmental Protection Agency.

The terminal is being built and operated to support an agreement with Chevron Products Company to receive, store, and deliver petroleum products for the nearby Chevron Pascagoula Refinery. The refinery will benefit from increased storage and throughput of various feedstocks as well.

In addition to the storage tanks, the terminal will include direct pipeline connectivity to the refinery, unit train unloading capabilities, and connectivity to marine infrastructure to load/unload ships and barges. To support these operational activities, BWC plans to offer a minimum of 25 new employment opportunities within the first two years of operation.

“This groundbreaking marks a significant strategic milestone for BWC Terminals, enhancing our presence along the Gulf Coast,” said Adam Smith, president and CEO of BWC Terminals. “We would like to thank our partners—the State of Mississippi, MDA, JCEDF, the Board of Supervisors, the Port and Chevron—for their collaborative efforts and strategic planning that made this new facility possible. We are eager to unlock long-term growth opportunities that will not only benefit our organisation but also positively impact the local community by creating jobs and fostering economic development.”

“We welcome BWC Terminals to Jackson County and look forward to their continued success in partnership with Chevron Products Company.  BWC’s strategic location in Jackson County is a testament to a community whose diverse economy supports employers like Chevron and logistics and distribution suppliers like BWC,” said George Freeland, executive director, Jackson County Economic Development Foundation.

For more information visit www.bwcterminals.com

With the final delivery of critical components for Europe’s most sustainable ethane cracker construction project, deugro has successfully delivered a total of 85,500 cubic metres of cargo to the project site at the Port of Antwerp.

The first 52,600 cubic meters of cargo—ten oversized storage bullets weighing up to 738 metric tonnes and measuring up to nearly 50 meters in length—were delivered in two shipments from China. Following this, a further 33,000 cubic metres were shipped by three charters from the UAE and Oman. These encompassed a variety of oversized and heavy lift (OSHL) components, including a 331-metric-tonne marine control building measuring 32 × 15 × 6.8 metres; a 404-metric-tonne local equipment room building measuring over 25 × 14 × 7 metres; several substation units up to 438 metric tonnes and 35.9 × 12.6 × 7.2 metres; and a 338-metric-tonne local equipment room building measuring almost 30 metres in length.

The most impressive unit—a 1,040-metric-tonne substation measuring over 67 × 16 × 7 metres was shipped on the final vessel, the Rolldock Storm.

Complex Operational Challenges

Given the dimensions and weights involved, each movement demanded meticulous planning and operational precision. Strict project milestones imposed extremely tight shipping schedules. Simultaneously, the requirement for a specific berth at a persistently congested loading port necessitated intense coordination with port authorities. Additional challenges included adverse weather conditions and the mandatory rerouting of all vessels via the Cape of Good Hope due to the Red Sea crisis.

For safe delivery via a combination of deck carrier, heavy lift and semi-submersible vessels in accordance with the project schedule and budget, as well as the supplier’s and construction site’s individual requirements, deugro UK, acting as project control tower, assembled and orchestrated an experienced cross-disciplinary team of project managers, transport engineers and chartering experts from the UK, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, China, UAE and Oman.

Specialized Loading Solutions

To ensure maximum safety, most components were loaded via RO/RO, requiring intense planning—particularly concerning the SPMT configuration and the ramping system on the quayside. The 67-metre substation alone necessitated the mobilisation of two SPMT trains with 50-axle lines each and nearly 75 metres of quay packing to create a suitable ramp for safe transfer.

In addition to the main cargo, the final vessel was loaded on short notice with special self-loading equipment: a barge measuring 66.04 × 19.1 × 4.25 metres. Consequently, cargo had to be stowed partly on the vessel’s tween deck and simultaneously on the secured barge below. This required specialised loading, stowage and securing plans, including dual ballasting calculations.

Giovanni Nigro, Senior Naval Architect at dteq, said: “Even loading by means of two SPMT lines with 50 axles each represented a challenge, in conjunction with a particular fendering system at Hamriyah Port in UAE which didn’t allow the vessel’s ramp to get directly in line with the quay surface. To overcome this obstacle, a ramping structure of about 75 meters, composed of a mix of steel and azobe wood mats, was built on the quay to allow for a smooth driving of the axles on board. An additional operational and engineering challenge was the conditions of the cargo hold of a pre-loaded barge. This barge, an integral part of the vessel loading equipment, required an extensive assessment in terms of local and global strength, besides proper ballasting considerations during loading and securing.”

Technical Engineering Excellence

With dimensions of 67 × 16 × 7 metres and one-third extending over the vessel length, the 1,040-metric-tonne substation presented the biggest technical challenges.

Giovanni Nigro added: “Such modules require a very accurate evaluation of eventual deflections transferred by the vessel onto the module and the appropriate engineering to mitigate it. For the same reason, a different securing solution was engineered, consisting of transversal and longitudinal bracings that ‘choked’ the cargo inside the cargo hold while still allowing it to displace vertically and avoid structural stress generated from vessel deflections.”

Marco Lauwrier, country manager Benelux at deugro, said: “Acting as the on-site project manager, coordinating the delivery of over 85,600 cubic meters of critical components from China, UAE and Oman to the Port of Antwerp was no small feat. As intensive as the planning process was, being on the quayside during execution is the real differentiator, allowing for quick thinking and providing solutions as the loading environment constantly changes on these large-scale global projects.”

Ben Cunnington, country manager at deugro UK, said: “Thanks to the excellent collaboration with all partners, we were not only able to ensure the successful delivery of these complex and sensitive cargo units on schedule and in accordance with the highest safety standards. In close teamwork with the client, we were also able to successfully utilise the vessel’s substantial storage space, which had unexpectedly become available at short notice on the second ocean voyage, by flexibly collecting and loading over 6,000 cubic metres of additional cargo from the client—thereby avoiding significant dead freight costs.”

For more information visit www.deugro-group.com

Energy Capital Partners, a leading investment firm in the energy transition infrastructure sector, along with its 50/50 joint venture partner Centrica plc, has announced the completion of the Grain LNG acquisition from National Grid for an enterprise value of approximately £1.5 billion.

Matt Delaney, partner at ECP, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Centrica, who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the UK energy markets, as we execute our joint vision to enhance this world-class asset, expand our customer base, and set up Grain LNG for success for decades to come. With the UK and Europe’s growing need for dependable LNG supply, Grain LNG is uniquely positioned to deliver secure, affordable energy. This investment reflects ECP’s long-term commitment to supporting the energy transition by investing in strategic assets that deliver both reliability and sustainability.”

Slaughter and May acted as legal adviser to Centrica. Latham & Watkins served as legal adviser to ECP and to Garden Bidco Limited as purchaser.

About Grain LNG

Grain LNG is Europe’s largest LNG regasification terminal and is located at Isle of Grain, to the east of London. The core service is the provision of LNG storage and regasification capacity to primarily strong investment-grade customers under long-term, inflation-linked capacity contracts. The terminal has annual regasification capacity of 21.7 bcm and tank storage capacity of 1,000,000 cubic metres.

Grain is currently undergoing an expansion of 5.3 bcm additional regasification capacity and an additional 200,000 cubic metres of storage capacity. After completion of the ongoing expansion of the site, it will be able to provide up to a third of the UK’s gas demand. Grain also offers additional services such as ship reloading, transshipment and road tanker loading.

Long-Term Contract Portfolio

Grain is 100 percent contracted until 2029, more than 70 percent contracted until 2038 and more than 50 percent contracted to 2045. It is envisaged that future capacity auctions will be held on an arm’s length basis in accordance with current regulated third-party access requirements. Grain’s strategic location east of London offers efficient loading and storage capabilities and advantaged access to UK markets.

For more information visit www.ecpgp.com

HES Bulk Terminal Rotterdam (HBTR), the largest dry bulk terminal within the HES International network, has strengthened its commitment to sustainable logistics with the purchase of a Maxus E90L electric vehicle in October 2025 from Van Mossel Nijmegen. With an expected battery range of 340 kilometres, this rugged, off-road orientated vehicle marks a major step forward in reducing emissions across terminal operations and accelerating the shift toward cleaner on-site mobility.

The introduction of the Maxus E90L aligns with HES International’s wider ambition to modernise its fleet and reduce its environmental footprint. By integrating electric vehicles into daily operations, HBTR reinforces its position as an early adopter of innovative, low-emission technologies within the bulk logistics sector.

Paul van Gelder, Group CEO of HES International, stated, “Integrating electric vehicles like the Maxus E90L into our operational fleet reflects our proactive approach to sustainability and innovation. We are committed to reducing emissions while ensuring that our terminals remain efficient, reliable, and future-ready.”

As with most electric vehicles, HBTR expects the Maxus E90L to deliver lower maintenance needs compared to diesel-powered alternatives, supporting long-term cost efficiency and operational continuity. HBTR continues to explore opportunities for further electrification and technological upgrades across its terminal. Several additional initiatives are already under consideration to strengthen sustainability performance and enhance future operational capabilities.

For more information visit www.hesinternational.eu

i6 Group, a global leader in digital fuel management technology, has announced a new partnership with Slovnaft, a Slovak refining and petrochemical company that operates one of the most complex petroleum refineries in Europe. As part of the MOL Group, a leading integrated energy corporation in Central and Eastern Europe, Slovnaft will work with i6 to digitise into-plane operations at Bratislava Airport (BTS). The collaboration marks a significant milestone in the digital transformation of the region’s aviation fuel sector.

Transforming Fuel Operations in Central and Eastern Europe

By implementing i6’s connected platform, Slovnaft will streamline into-plane refueling at Bratislava Airport, integrating real-time data capture, automated dispatching and paperless workflows. The technology enables more precise fueling operations, live visibility across sites and improved collaboration between dispatchers, fuel operators and airline customers.

Alex Mattos, co-founder of i6 Group, said: “Partnering with Slovnaft, member of MOL Group, marks another important step in our expansion across Central and Eastern Europe. The company’s extensive network and experience across the full fuel value chain make them an ideal partner as we continue helping leading energy companies digitise and optimise their aviation operations.”

For more information visit www.i6.io

Equinor and Shell have completed a deal to combine their UK offshore oil and gas operations to form a new company. Adura, which launched today, will be the UK North Sea’s largest independent producer.

Adura CEO Neil McCulloch, who brings more than 30 years of experience in the energy sector, said: “It’s a rare privilege to be part of a company’s first chapter. A commitment to safety, a belief in the future of the North Sea, and the combined expertise from Equinor and Shell form the foundation of our exciting new company. I can’t wait to begin working with this exceptional team.”

Strategic Joint Venture

Adura, jointly owned by Shell (50 percent) and Equinor (50 percent), combines decades of North Sea expertise into a joint venture positioned to deliver a more cost-competitive portfolio and maximize long-term value for UK assets.

Rich Howe, Shell’s executive vice president for Conventional Oil & Gas, said: “Forming the largest independent producer together with Equinor is an historic moment for our business and the UK energy industry. With an exceptional asset base and industry leading expertise, Adura is well-positioned to lead in this mature basin.”

Philippe Mathieu, Equinor’s executive vice president for Exploration and Production International, said: “Adura represents a new chapter in the UK North Sea, bringing together two strong portfolios and decades of experience. With the focus, scale and operational flexibility needed to succeed, the company is positioned for long-term impact. As owners, we are confident that Adura will generate long-term value and reinforce the UK North Sea’s role in meeting the country’s energy needs.”

Comprehensive Asset Portfolio

Adura assumes Equinor and Shell’s interests in 12 producing oil and gas assets and projects in execution, including: Mariner, Rosebank, Buzzard, Shearwater, Penguins, Gannet, Nelson, Pierce, Jackdaw, Victory, Clair and Schiehallion. The company also holds a number of exploration licenses.

The company is headquartered in Aberdeen. Staff from both Shell and Equinor have transferred into Adura, ensuring that industry-leading expertise is retained.

For more information visit www.equinor.com

Chane has announced the launch of its Connected Port Initiative, a comprehensive project designed to improve delivery reliability through smarter data integration and increased operational transparency. The initiative represents a strategic collaboration between Chane and its long-term technology partners UAB-online and Systems Navigator, the provider of the Dropboard planning and scheduling software.

Led by Chane’s customer service manager Lissy Helbers and operational excellence specialist Bob Möhlmann, the Connected Port Initiative aims to ensure that all stakeholders in the supply chain have access to clear, accurate and timely information.

“We want to make sure we deliver as reliably as possible on what we promise. To do that, everyone in the chain needs clear, accurate, and timely information,” said Möhlmann.

Advanced Data Integration

The project integrates multiple systems to enable seamless data flow across platforms, eliminating the need for duplicate data entry. Advanced applications will analyse past performance to help predict and manage future operations, providing tools that support operational decision-making.

A new shared portal will provide customers and third parties, including load surveyors, with enhanced real-time insight into vessel schedules and operations. “This improves transparency but also enables the whole supply chain to plan better and reduce delays,” said Helbers.

Strategic Partnership Approach

The Connected Port Initiative brings together UAB-Online, which facilitates remote data exchange with vessels before arrival to reduce waiting times, and Systems Navigator’s Dropboard platform, which coordinates vessel arrivals, berth allocations and resource usage in real time.

“It is about working closely with trusted partners to create solutions that add value for stakeholders across the chain,” noted Möhlmann. “Having one shared portal rather than multiple separate systems is a true step forward for all stakeholders.”

Visual Storytelling

To showcase the initiative, Chane has produced a short film that illustrates how the Connected Port Initiative operates in practice. The film takes viewers through the port of Rotterdam, using dynamic drone footage, on-site shots and animated graphics to demonstrate how data is exchanged at every step of the process.

“It is fast-paced, inspiring, and it shows exactly how information flows through our operation,” Möhlmann said.

For more information visit www.chane.eu

Vallourec, a world leader in premium tubular solutions, has announced the appointment of Nathalie Delbreuve as CFO of the Group. She will join the Executive Committee and assume her new role as of December 1, 2025. Nathalie Delbreuve was previously chief financial officer of Verallia, the European leader and world’s third-largest producer of glass packaging for beverages and food products. She will succeed Sascha Bibert who, following a transition period, will leave the group in December to pursue a new opportunity.

Philippe Guillemot, chairman of the board of directors and CEO of Vallourec, stated: “I am delighted to welcome Nathalie Delbreuve to our executive committee. Her strong expertise and in-depth knowledge of all finance functions required in an industrial and global business environment are essential assets that will contribute to Vallourec’s future development. With Nathalie joining the team, we remain focused on improving profitability and return on invested capital as we drive Vallourec towards operational excellence.”

Nathalie Delbreuve Biography

Nathalie Delbreuve began her career in 1996 at the audit firm PwC in the Netherlands and then in Lyon. In 2003, she joined the Norbert Dentressangle group (now XPO Logistics) and became finance controller and member of the executive committee of the transport division. In 2010 she became Director of Group Consolidation and Management Control at Plastic Omnium (now OPmobility) and then Chief Financial Officer Europe for the Intelligent Exterior Systems division in 2015.

In 2020 she joined Verallia Group following the IPO sponsored by Apollo and was appointed Group CFO, member of the Executive Committee. She pursued the financing restructuring and the strengthening of the finance function, supporting the two investment-grade ratings obtained by the company. Since 2022, Nathalie Delbreuve has also been a member of the Board and Chairman of the Audit Committee of Beijer Ref Group (Nasdaq Stockholm). Nathalie Delbreuve is a graduate of ESCP Europe with a master’s degree in finance.

For more information visit www.vallourec.com 

North Atlantic France has announced the successful closing of its acquisition of an 82.89 percent controlling interest in Esso S.A.F. at €26.19 per share and 100 percent of EMCF from ExxonMobil following a competitive auction process initiated in 2024.

The transaction has received all required regulatory approvals, including French foreign direct investment authorisation and clearance under the EU Foreign Subsidies Regulation. As of today’s closing, Esso S.A.F. has been renamed North Atlantic Energies, marking the beginning of a new chapter for a key player in France’s energy and industrial landscape.

Ted Lomond, president and CEO of North Atlantic Group, said: “This acquisition represents a major step forward in North Atlantic’s international expansion. Over the past four decades, we have successfully transformed and operated complex industrial assets across Canada, combining safety, performance and sustainability. We bring that same commitment to France, where we aim to invest for the long term and support the energy transition. With the creation of North Atlantic Energies, we are proud to establish a bridge between North America and Europe which reflects our ambition to build a premier transatlantic energy group.”

Simon Fenner, president of North Atlantic France, added: “Today marks the start of a new chapter for North Atlantic Energies, and a strong signal of our long-term confidence in the Gravenchon site and its teams. I am proud of all the teams involved in making this transition a success, and of our shared ambition to strengthen Gravenchon’s position as a world-class industrial platform in the years to come. We see major opportunities to invest, to grow, and to contribute to the vitality of the Normandy region and to France’s energy and industrial future.”

North Atlantic will ensure that North Atlantic Energies sustains its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of product quality and service, and to sustaining trusted relationships with its customers across France and beyond. North Atlantic Energies will also continue to collaborate with ExxonMobil under long-term supply and technology agreements that ensure operational continuity while supporting innovation and reliability.

Next steps

In accordance with French securities law, North Atlantic France will implement a simplified tender offer (the “Offer”) for the remaining North Atlantic Energies shares not already held by North Atlantic France, at an offer price of €28.93 per share. In this context, and as previously disclosed, the board of directors of Esso S.A.F., now North Atlantic Energies, has appointed Ledouble SAS, represented by Ms. Agnès Piniot and Mr. Romain Delafont, as an independent expert to issue a fairness opinion on the financial terms of the Offer which North Atlantic France intends to file with the AMF upon completion of the independent expert’s work. North Atlantic France also intends to implement a squeeze-out procedure if the conditions are met at the end of the Offer.

For more information visit www.northatlantic.ca

Sunoco LP and SunocoCorp LLC have announced that Sunoco completed the acquisition of Parkland Corporation on October 31, 2025.

Parkland shares are expected to be delisted from the Toronto Stock Exchange as of the close of markets on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Until such time, the shares will continue to be traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange.

The Common Units of SunocoCorp to be received by Parkland shareholders in connection with the Transaction will begin trading on the New York Stock Exchange on Thursday, November 6, 2025 under the ticker symbol “SUNC.” This will follow the settlement of the Parkland shares and completion of the allocation process for the SunocoCorp Common Units.

For more information visit www.sunocolp.com

Aster, a leading provider of energy and chemical solutions in Southeast Asia, has announced an agreement with Hitachi Asia Ltd (Hitachi) to acquire advanced compressor solutions to double its ethylene export capacity at the Aster Bukom island facility. The investment strengthens Aster’s ability to meet rising regional and global demand for ethylene, a vital petrochemical building block for products spanning plastics, textiles and specialty chemicals.

Under the agreement, Hitachi, through its factory in Japan operated by Hitachi Industrial Products, Ltd., will deliver two new compressor units for scheduled delivery in January 2027. The investment will enable installation of a parallel ethylene chiller system, expand outbound ethylene logistics and enhance operational flexibility and efficiency. The project will also deepen synergy between Bukom and the Chandra Asri cracker facility in Cilegon, unlocking further integration and optimisation across the regional C2 derivatives value chain.

Mashhad Dohadwala, Aster’s director for projects & technology, said: “With the installation of a parallel chiller to double ethylene export capacity, Aster is strengthening the regional supply network while supporting Singapore’s position as a key petrochemical export hub, backed by 1.1 million metric tons of cracker capacity annually. This project complements Aster’s continued focus on efficiency, reliable supply and innovation as outlined in our recent investments, including enhancement of crude and product logistics, renewable operations and the expansion of sustainable packaging solutions. Our partnership with Hitachi is a clear demonstration of how we are expanding our assets with trusted global partners to build a resilient and integrated chemicals ecosystem.”

Chew Huat Seng, general manager of Industrial Products Business Unit, Hitachi Asia Ltd., said: “We are honoured to be part of this critical expansion project led by our valued customer. Building on a long and deep-rooted partnership with Aster, Hitachi Asia and Hitachi Industrial Products will ensure smooth project execution, delivery, commissioning and further our long working term relationship with Aster. We remain focused on delivering meaningful goals and shaping a sustainable future together.”

For more information visit www.aster.com.sg

Gerotto has signed an exclusive distribution agreement for Italy for the sale of magnetic robots for cleaning the vertical walls of tanks, ships and metal structures. Thanks to this partnership, the Italian company completes its already wide range of robotic solutions for remediation in confined spaces and areas at risk of explosion.

In particular, MagTrack was presented at ECOMONDO 2025: it is a modular system built around a universal carrier. The crawlers are designed to be used on flat and slightly curved steel surfaces. Depending on the application, the carrier can easily be fitted with a full range of modular tools. All water jetting tools work with high pressure jets up to 3000 bar.

«Italy – comments Arco Den Hollander, international sales manager at Derc Salotech – is a very interesting market for industrial cleaning because it boasts numerous industrial assets in different sectors. Gerotto is a company with which we share an approach to innovation and is the ideal partner to bring a new approach to cleaning operations».

“Derc Salotech,” says Alessandro Gerotto, president and CEO of Gerotto, “is a European leader that has built a reputation for excellence in industrial cleaning over time. We are delighted with this partnership, which is based on mutual respect and a vision focused on robotics and innovation.”

“Becoming the Italian distributors for Derc Salotech,” emphasises Daniel Devò, sales manager of the Gerotto Robotics Business Unit, “was a natural step to complete the range of robotic solutions we already offer: like Gerotto, we specialise in no-man entry robots that vacuum material from the bottom of tanks. With Derc’s magnetic robots, we are able to meet the needs of customers who also require state-of-the-art machinery to work in complete safety on vertical surfaces.”

For more information visit www.gerotto.it

LBC Tank Terminals Group B.V. and Duisburger Hafen AG have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining their intention to jointly develop a new inland ammonia and CO₂ terminal in Duisburg, Germany. The agreement represents a notable step forward in both organisations’ efforts to support the energy transition and drive the decarbonisation of European industry.

Situated in the centre of Germany’s industrial Ruhr region, Duisburg offers considerable logistical advantages as Europe’s largest inland port. The proposed terminal is expected to operate as a satellite to LBC’s flagship development in Vlissingen, the Netherlands, where the company is progressing a major ammonia import, storage, and cracking hub. The Duisburg facility would receive ammonia by barge from Vlissingen and incorporate on-site infrastructure for ammonia cracking, along with distribution capabilities for the German market.

By establishing a direct supply chain link between Vlissingen and Duisburg, LBC intends to offer customers an integrated solution for the import, storage, and inland distribution of ammonia and hydrogen, as well as the collection and export of captured CO₂ for offshore sequestration.

According to LBC’s CEO, Frank Erkelens, the partnership is poised to make a meaningful contribution to Europe’s developing hydrogen and CO₂ supply chains. He noted that the collaboration brings together leading logistics and terminal expertise to support European industry in delivering sustainable solutions, while accelerating regional decarbonisation.

Duisport CEO Markus Bangen described the cooperation as another important step in strengthening the Rhine corridor as a sustainable logistics axis—alongside the ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp—to make European industrial supply chains both more efficient and more environmentally responsible. He emphasised the pivotal role ports play in the energy transition, highlighting that the joint project complements existing plans for a tank farm at Rheinkai Nord and opens new opportunities for handling future energy sources within the Port of Duisburg. According to Bangen, the initiative sends a strong signal for transformation in North Rhine-Westphalia.

The new terminal in the Port of Duisburg is planned to commence operations by 2030.

For more information visit www.lbctt.com

Venture Global, Inc.  and Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd have announced the execution of a new, long-term liquefied natural gas sales and purchase agreement. Under the SPA, Tokyo Gas will procure 1 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of LNG from Venture Global for 20 years, starting in 2030. The deal marks 7.75 MTPA of SPAs signed by Venture Global in the last six months.

Mike Sabel, CEO of Venture Global, commented: “With nearly 8 MTPA of new long-term commitments signed this year, Venture Global is pleased to build on our commercial momentum through this new partnership with Tokyo Gas. Tokyo Gas is a pioneer in the LNG industry and leading provider of natural gas to Japan, and we look forward to working with them as we grow our position as a top LNG supplier to Japan. This agreement will contribute significantly to the US-Japan balance of trade over the duration of the SPA, providing Japan with affordable, reliable American LNG.”

For more information visit www.ventureglobalLNG.com

ADNOC Gas Plc and its subsidiaries, a world-class integrated gas processing company, have announced the signing of a landmark agreement valued between $3.5 and $4.2 billion with EMSTEEL, one of the region’s largest integrated steel and building materials manufacturers.

The 20-year agreement, effective January 1, 2027, secures a stable and reliable supply of lower-carbon natural gas to power EMSTEEL’s operations and future growth. The milestone reinforces the long-standing partnership between ADNOC Gas and EMSTEEL and demonstrates both companies’ commitment to driving sustainable economic growth in the UAE.

The agreement secures a dependable energy supply for one of the country’s leading industrial producers while strengthening ADNOC Gas’ competitive position as a key enabler of industrial resilience and cleaner energy transition.

Fatema Al Nuaimi, CEO of ADNOC Gas, said, “This landmark agreement to supply EMSTEEL with lower-carbon natural gas underpins ADNOC Gas’ role in boosting the UAE’s industrial growth and economic development. We remain firmly committed to delivering reliable, lower-carbon energy that powers national industries, drives value creation, and helps secure the UAE’s long-term prosperity.”

Engineer Saeed Ghumran Al Remeithi, Group CEO of EMSTEEL, said: “EMSTEEL is proud to extend its long-standing partnership with ADNOC Gas through this landmark agreement, which reflects the strength of collaboration between two national champions driving the UAE’s industrial and economic transformation. This strategic partnership not only ensures a secure and sustainable energy supply for our operations but also reinforces our shared commitment to maximising in-country value and supporting national economic resilience. With ADNOC Gas as a key energy partner, EMSTEEL will continue advancing green steel production, enhancing efficiency across our value chain, and contributing to the sustainable growth of the nation’s industrial ecosystem.”

In recognition of ADNOC Gas’ strategic importance, the ADNOC Board of Directors selected Habshan, one of its most critical operational sites, to hold its annual meeting last Monday. The decision underscores the vital contribution of ADNOC Gas to the UAE’s energy security, industrial resilience and global standing as a responsible and dependable energy provider.

During the visit, their Highnesses toured key facilities and were briefed on ADNOC Gas’ ongoing expansion programmes, including major processing, compression and sustainability initiatives that strengthen operational excellence and support the UAE’s long-term energy strategy. The Board’s presence at Habshan reflects strong confidence in the company’s direction, its people and its growing contribution to the national economy.

EMSTEEL is the UAE’s largest publicly listed steel and building materials company, operating an integrated manufacturing plant and exporting its products globally. By delivering a stable, long-term supply of lower-carbon natural gas, ADNOC Gas is enabling EMSTEEL to scale production while managing emissions and strengthening the resilience of the UAE’s manufacturing base.

For more information visit www.adnocgas.ae

HES Botlek Tank Terminal has secured a new long-term agreement with one of its key customers, resulting in 65 percent of its storage capacity being dedicated to biofuels as of 1st January 2026. The achievement surpasses HBTT’s strategic target of 60 percent biofuels by 2028, more than two years ahead of schedule.

The milestone represents a significant step in HES International’s broader sustainability strategy, reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting the energy transition. By facilitating the growing demand for renewable fuels, HBTT strengthens its position as a forward-looking logistics partner for sustainable energy solutions.

Paul van Gelder, Group CEO of HES International, commented: “Reaching this milestone ahead of schedule demonstrates our proactive approach to sustainability and our ability to adapt to market needs. We are proud to contribute to the energy transition and to offer our customers reliable, future-proof infrastructure for renewable fuels.”

HBTT continues to invest in infrastructure upgrades and operational capabilities to support further growth in sustainable products. Several additional investments have already been defined to ensure long-term capacity and flexibility for biofuels and other renewable products.

For more information visit www.hesinternational.eu

Stolt-Nielsen has been awarded the Chemical Logistics Service Leader of 2025 at the Global Chemical Supply Chain (China) Summit, held this year in Shanghai.

The recognition forms part of the prestigious Chemical Golden Chain Awards, which celebrate excellence and innovation across the chemical supply chain. The award shines a spotlight on the commitment and operational expertise demonstrated by teams spanning Stolt-Nielsen’s core liquid logistics divisions — Stolt Tankers, Stolthaven Terminals, and Stolt Tank Containers.

According to the Summit committee, the accolade reflects the Group’s sustained focus on safety, efficiency, and reliability in liquid chemical logistics, as well as its ongoing collaboration with customers and industry partners.

Stolt-Nielsen emphasised that the award also honours the technical knowledge, discipline, and passion of its global workforce, who support chemical transport, handling, and storage across highly regulated international markets.

Speaking on behalf of the business, Yong Jin Ng, regional director of China, expressed appreciation for both customer partnership and internal alignment.

He said the award highlighted “the continued trust of customers and partners, and the dedication of Stolt-Nielsen’s operational teams who safeguard every shipment and push for higher standards in an evolving market.”

He added that Stolt-Nielsen would “continue to uphold the highest operational and compliance standards, working alongside industry stakeholders to shape a safer, more sustainable and more efficient chemical logistics ecosystem.”

The Group reiterated that this purpose remains aligned to its long-term mission of enabling industrial progress through secure and cost-effective liquid logistics, delivered via integrated assets across sea, port, and land.

For more information visit www.stolt-nielsen.com

VTTI has announced the successful commissioning of its new bitumen facility at VTTI Malaysia (ATB), marking another milestone in the company’s continued growth and investment in Asia.

Janice Kuan, senior vice president commercial at VTTI, commented on the development: “This development reinforces VTTI’s commitment to delivering energy solutions that support our regional growth, diversification and reliability across Southeast Asia. We are ready to provide safe, reliable and responsive bitumen services to our customers – supporting the infrastructure that connects communities and drives economic growth.”

Following the successful commissioning and first bitumen import, VTTI Malaysia has taken another step forward in delivering trusted energy logistics solutions to meet the region’s growing infrastructure and industrial needs.

The expansion brings VTTI Malaysia’s total commercial storage capacity to 1.45 million cubic metres, broadening the company’s product portfolio to include gasoline, jet fuel, gasoil, fuel oil, crude oil, biofuels and now bitumen.

Bitumen, also known as asphalt, is a vital material for modern infrastructure, used in roads, airport runways and waterproofing applications. As urbanisation accelerates across the region, demand for secure and efficient bitumen supply and storage continues to grow.

Looking ahead, VTTI remains committed to advancing its bitumen operations to meet the evolving needs of communities and economies throughout Southeast Asia.

For more information visit www.vtti.com

Africa’s Dual Imperative

The African continent stands at a pivotal juncture, defined by a dual imperative that will shape its economic trajectory for the decades ahead: achieving universal energy access (SDG7) by 2030, while simultaneously orchestrating a rapid, inclusive green industrial transformation. Success in this decade hinges on overcoming the glaring ‘Paradox of Abundance’ and the so-called “Resource curse”.  Africa possesses extraordinary endowments—an estimated 60% of the world’s best solar resources, a massive 300 GW of untapped hydropower potential (of which only 11% is exploited), and vast deposits of critical minerals essential for the global clean energy transition. Yet over 600 million people still lack access to electricity, and the continent currently attracts less than 2% of global clean energy investments. This stark mismatch, coupled with low manufacturing value added (MVA) to GDP and a negative manufacturing trade balance, confirms that the primary hurdles on Africa’s road to universal access and green industrialisation are not geological or technological, but systemic.

Author: Towela Nyirenda-Jere, head of AEEP Secretariat.

Africa’s long-term success lies in building the institutional structures necessary for a unified African energy market. This foundational vision rests on the African Single Electricity Market (AfSEM) and its technical blueprint, the Continental Power System Masterplan (CMP). Both are Flagship Projects of the AU Agenda 2063. This article outlines the pathways for Africa to seize this moment, making the case for a renewed green partnership of equals with Europe to unlock both energy access and industrial might.

Bridging the Access Gap with Decentralized Solutions

For Africa to come within reach of the ambitious SDG 7.1 universal access target by 2030, the rate of progress must accelerate significantly. This urgency necessitates a strategic shift towards rapid, scalable solutions that can effectively leapfrog conventional grid-based development models in underserved regions.

Decentralised Renewable Energy (DRE), encompassing robust mini-grids and stand-alone solar systems, is universally recognised as the fastest and most vital pathway to closing the access deficit. DRE technologies are game changers, particularly for connecting communities in rural and remote areas where conventional grid extension is either prohibitively expensive or technologically unviable in the short term. However, the mass deployment of DRE is often stalled by profound regulatory fragmentation and complexity

Under the umbrella of the African Single Electricity Market (AfSEM), African institutions are actively standardising regulatory best practices for mini-grids across the continent. This collaborative effort focuses on developing and validating guidelines—such as the African Model Mini-Grid Regulations Tool—designed to help national regulators standardise complex licensing procedures, define cost-reflective tariffs, and establish clear commercial rules for integration with the main grid. Improving and harmonising these national frameworks dramatically reduces regulatory risk, which is the essential first step to mobilising the private capital needed for mass DRE deployment and ensuring the millions currently unconnected gain access to reliable power.

Green Industrial Transformation

The second, non-negotiable pathway for Africa is leveraging its energy resources to achieve Green Industrial Transformation and secure a central, high-value role in the global clean energy economy. This rests on three complementary pillars.

First, Africa must use its vast, low-cost RE (solar, wind, and hydro) to catalyse industrial growth by creating competitive, energy-intensive manufacturing hubs. By strategically deploying utility-scale RE plants and developing dedicated, high-capacity transmission corridors, African nations can guarantee the reliable and affordable electricity necessary for large-scale industrial operations, such as textiles, automotive assembly, and chemical production. This approach transforms low-cost RE from an environmental asset into a direct economic advantage, enabling locally manufactured goods to compete with imports. This requires focused public and private investment in grid modernisation, digitalisation (smart grids), and energy storage solutions to ensure these hubs receive the 24/7 high-quality power needed to anchor sustained industrial output.

Second, the continent must pursue localising the clean energy supply chain by moving beyond raw material extraction. By leveraging low-cost renewable power to process its Critical Minerals (CRMs)—such as cobalt, lithium, and graphite—Africa can establish regional manufacturing hubs for components like battery precursors, solar panels, and wind turbine parts, meeting both burgeoning domestic and intra-African demand under the AfCFTA. This strategy, emphasised by the African Green Minerals Strategy (AGMS), drives economic diversification and secures greater retained wealth by turning mineral reserves into value-added, finished industrial goods.

Third, Green Hydrogen (GH₂) and Power-to-X (PtX) technologies offer massive opportunities, but only if anchored in African development needs. For Africa, the goal must not be merely to export green molecules but to use GH₂ as a vital input for green industrial processes at home, such as creating green iron and green steel from locally sourced minerals. This elevates exports from raw materials to high-value-added products, supporting industrialisation and establishing a new era of resource-based development.

The Africa-EU Partnership: Mobilizing Ambition towards a Green Partnership of Equals

The Africa-EU Energy Partnership (AEEP) and the EU’s Global Gateway strategy are essential vehicles designed to translate Africa and Europe’s shared energy ambitions into tangible action. The Global Gateway has pledged approximately €150 billion for sustainable infrastructure in Africa, with the Africa-EU Green Energy Initiative (AEGEI) targeting the deployment of at least 50 GW of new renewable electricity capacity and ensuring access for at least 100 million people by 2030.

The EU’s support is vital for both large-scale Variable Renewable Energy (VRE) and Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE). For VRE, Global Gateway funds high-voltage transmission lines and cross-border interconnectors (like the Zambia-Tanzania Interconnector) essential for integrating large-scale solar and wind projects. For DRE, it directly targets rural electrification projects, including mini-grids and off-grid systems in countries like Cameroon and Madagascar, which are the fastest, most effective pathways to access.

However, for the partnership to succeed, it must move decisively beyond the traditional “donor-recipient” dynamic to a partnership of equals. This requires co-creation and shared (green) value chains, ensuring mutual agenda-setting and shared benefits. This means that in addition to providing opportunities for European private sector, European investments must prioritize local processing and manufacturing in Africa. At the same time, African institutions must play an active role in setting the joint strategic agenda, designing financing, and monitoring implementation.

In conclusion, the path to a prosperous, sustainable Africa runs directly through energy access and industrialisation. The foundations, built upon the AU’s Agenda 2063 and flagships such as AfSEM and CMP and reinforced by political platforms such as the AEEP and the financial muscle of initiatives like Global Gateway, are now firmly in place. However, the successful translation of political vision into scalable infrastructure hinges on resolving systemic structural weaknesses. By focusing on these Africa and Europe can leverage their unique position to bridge the gap between continental aspiration and on-the-ground reality, ensuring that the next decade delivers universal energy access and a just, green industrial future for both continents.

Dr. Towela Nyirenda-Jere will be among the distinguished speakers at the Africa Energy Indaba 2026 – Africa’s premier energy conference and exhibition – happening 3-5 March 2026 in Cape Town. Join policymakers, investors and innovators driving the continent’s sustainable energy transformation. 

For more information visit www.africaenergyindaba.com

Peninsula has announced the expansion of its strategic infrastructure at the Port of Rotterdam with the opening of a new storage and blending facility at Chane Terminal. The development marks an advancement in Peninsula’s commitment to delivering sustainable and flexible fuel solutions to customers across Europe.

Phase 1: Now Live

Peninsula’s Chane Terminal features nine new tanks dedicated to biofuel blending and storage, with a total capacity of 30,000 cubic metres. The facility is ISCC certified and Nea registered, ensuring full compliance and traceability for all operations. Enhanced infrastructure includes three jetties and seven berths for barges up to 135 metres, plus a jetty for seagoing vessels, supporting efficient logistics and inter-terminal transfers (ITT) with major oil companies.

Phase 2: Expansion

The second phase, scheduled for January 2026, will bring an additional eight tanks online, boosting total capacity to 110,000 cubic metres. This expansion strengthens Peninsula’s operational capabilities in the ARA region and reinforces its role as a key player in supporting Europe’s energy transition.

Peninsula’s new setup allows for the blending of any biofuel grade (HSFO/VLSFO), from B5 to B100, with full control over the blending process and product quality. The facility’s flexibility enables Peninsula to blend products to preferred ratios, enhancing both quality and customer choice.

The Chane Terminal will play a pivotal role in advancing Peninsula’s biofuel strategy, supporting decarbonisation efforts and delivering value to customers throughout Europe.

Thomas Van Hoeteghem, regional supply manager North-West Europe at Peninsula, commented: “We are delighted to expand our footprint in Rotterdam, Europe’s largest port. This new facility not only strengthens our operational capabilities but also demonstrates Peninsula’s ongoing commitment to sustainable marine energy solutions. By investing in advanced infrastructure and flexible blending options, we are empowering our customers to meet their decarbonisation goals with confidence.”

For more information visit www.peninsula360.com

HES International, together with the Netherlands Business Support Office (NBSO) Lyon, hosted the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Mr. Jan Versteeg, in Marseille for a strategic meeting focused on strengthening business ties between France and the Netherlands.

A key focus of the discussions was the further development of bilateral business relationships between the two countries, exemplified by HES International’s expansion in Fos-sur-Mer in July 2025. The expansion serves as a demonstration of how Dutch companies can successfully grow in the region through close collaboration with local partners.

Image: HES International

Jeroen van der Neut, Group COO of HES International, outlined the rationale behind the company’s decision to expand: “We see a positive economic outlook for the region across key European industrial segments such as steel and cement, which was a major driver behind our decision. Of course, this would not have been possible without the excellent partnerships we have built with the ecosystem of local, regional and national stakeholders.”

The meeting brought together representatives from several key organisations in the port ecosystem, including the GPMM (Grand Port Maritime de Marseille), the GMIF (Groupement Maritime et Industriel de Fos), the UMF (Union Maritime et Fluviale), as well as Dutch Honorary Consul Camille Trillat. These stakeholders play a central role in developing Fos-sur-Mer into a globally attractive logistics hub.

Ambassador Versteeg emphasised the importance of Franco-Dutch cooperation, stating: “Initiatives like this show how collaboration between our two countries can create real, sustainable economic value. Fos-sur-Mer is a strategic gateway, and partnerships of this kind strengthen our shared ambition for long-term growth.”

The meeting concluded with an agreement to continue strengthening this collaboration. The Embassy, NBSO Lyon, HES International and local partners reaffirmed their commitment to facilitating Franco-Dutch cooperation and working together to position Fos-sur-Mer as the Mediterranean logistics hub of choice for key, resilient industries.

For more information visit www.hesinternational.eu

PortXchange, a digital solutions provider focused on accelerating the maritime industry’s transition to lower emissions and smarter port operations, has been named as one of three finalists in the European DIGITAL SME Award’s Green Category. The awards recognise small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) developing digital solutions that contribute to positive change.

The Green Category honours digital SMEs that have demonstrated how technology can drive positive environmental outcomes. This year’s finalists represent organisations advancing digital innovation and data-driven sustainability across multiple sectors. The nomination acknowledges technologies that create measurable climate impact and contribute directly to greenhouse gas emissions reduction, with PortXchange shortlisted alongside Builtrix and Vaayu.

Sjoerd de Jager, CEO of PortXchange

PortXchange earned its nomination for EmissionInsider, its flagship emissions-intelligence platform that provides ports with comprehensive visibility into emissions across sea-going vessels, barges, trucks and rail. By delivering a transparent overview of a port’s emissions footprint, the platform enables more informed decision-making and accelerates decarbonisation throughout the port ecosystem.

EmissionInsider combines AI-driven intelligence with hotspot and heatmap analysis to identify key emission sources and patterns. The platform provides detailed breakdowns by vessel, facility, modality and pollutant, and supports shore power planning through demand and avoided-emissions insights. It also includes “what-if” scenario modelling and voyage-emissions tracking, delivering standardised reporting that integrates seamlessly with third-party systems.

The Port of Rotterdam, the launch customer, uses EmissionInsider across multiple departments to standardise reporting, prioritise decarbonisation investments and coordinate environmental action across the wider port community.

As a certified B Corporation, PortXchange’s recognition in the Green Category reinforces its commitment to using business as a force for good. The company’s mission to reduce emissions and improve efficiency across global port ecosystems extends beyond technology delivery, reflecting a broader responsibility to support sustainable maritime operations, transparent reporting standards and collaborative climate action. The nomination underscores how PortXchange continues to uphold B Corp principles while scaling tools that help ports deliver measurable environmental progress.

PortXchange’s shortlisting follows a year of significant growth, marked by expanded collaborations across Northern and Southern Europe and the launch of new decarbonisation projects in the Americas. The company works closely with ports that treat emissions reduction as a strategic imperative and a catalyst for long-term operational resilience.

Sjoerd de Jager, CEO of PortXchange, commented on the nomination: “To be recognised as one of three finalists confirms the importance of the work we’re doing. EmissionInsider proves that ports don’t have to wait for 2030 or 2050 to take meaningful action; they can, and should, reduce emissions now. Transparent, data-driven insight is the foundation of credible decarbonisation. This nomination reflects the dedication of our team and the ports choosing to lead rather than wait.”

As regulatory, financial and community expectations rise, ports face growing pressure to understand and reduce the full scope of their emissions. EmissionInsider enables ports to move beyond static reporting and embrace data-driven climate management, a crucial step toward building lower-emission ports of the future.

The European DIGITAL SME Awards Green Category recognises digital solutions that contribute to measurable emissions reductions and support the shift toward more sustainable operations across various industries. The awards ceremony will take place in December, where PortXchange CEO Sjoerd de Jager will attend on behalf of the company.

PortXchange’s selection as a finalist highlights how its technology is helping accelerate the transition within the port sector, enabling cleaner, more efficient and more sustainable port ecosystems.

For more information visit www.port-xchange.com

The Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources of Timor-Leste (MPRM) and Woodside Energy Ltd have announced the signing of a Cooperation Agreement to advance studies for a Timor-based liquefied natural gas (LNG) development. The agreement represents a significant step forward in efforts to develop the Greater Sunrise gas fields and signals renewed collaboration between the parties.

Under the terms of the agreement, MPRM and Woodside will undertake commercial and technical work to mature a greenfield Timor-based LNG facility with an approximate capacity of 5 million tonnes per annum. The proposed project would include a domestic gas facility and a helium extraction plant. These maturation activities will proceed alongside ongoing negotiations between the Sunrise Joint Venture and the Timor-Leste and Australian governments regarding fiscal, regulatory and legal frameworks for the upstream development of Greater Sunrise.

The agreement outlines a high-level plan identifying key activities needed to advance the opportunity. According to the framework, first LNG production could potentially commence between 2032 and 2035, contingent on concept selection and final investment decisions.

Timor-Leste’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, His Excellency Francisco da Costa Monteiro, said the agreement demonstrates alignment between the Government of Timor-Leste and Woodside in their shared goal of bringing Greater Sunrise into production in a manner that benefits all stakeholders.

“The TLNG project presents the best economic, social, and strategic benefits for the people of Timor-Leste, and we are committed to working constructively with Woodside, the Greater Sunrise joint venture and other parties to take the project forward and to make our vision for Greater Sunrise a reality,” the minister stated.

Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill welcomed the agreement as the next step in the relationship and the shared commitment to developing the Greater Sunrise fields. She explained that the work builds on last year’s concept study and will address remaining considerations necessary for concept selection, including establishing an appropriate downstream commercial structure to attract financing and determining the preferred route for the gas export pipeline.

For more information visit www.woodside.com

In a recent analysis authored by Malcolm Forbes-Cable, vice president of Upstream and Carbon Management Consulting, and Will Taylor, principal consultant for EMEA Downstream Consulting at Wood Mackenzie, the central role of the United Kingdom in Europe’s oil supply chain is brought sharply into focus. Their independent study—commissioned by Ithaca Energy and endorsed by Offshore Energies UK (OEUK)—reveals the true extent of the interconnected energy system that binds the UK and continental Europe.

Forbes-Cable and Taylor highlight that Europe’s energy security rests on a foundation more complex and integrated than many fully appreciate. The continent relies on imports for 80 percent of its crude oil needs, consuming approximately 12.6 million barrels per day (b/d) while producing only around 2.5 million b/d domestically. Within this landscape, the United Kingdom emerges not as a peripheral participant but as a critical stabilising force.

According to the authors, the UK is Europe’s second-largest oil producer after Norway, and its crude oil flows are essential to maintaining refining activity across the region. More than 80 percent of UK crude production is exported, with 86 percent of those exports bound for European refineries. This includes a significant pipeline of 370,000 b/d moving to Northwest Europe—volumes that represent nearly three-quarters of all UK crude exports.

The analysis underscores the mutual dependence that defines the UK-Europe oil relationship. After processing UK crude, Northwest European refineries send 288,000 b/d of refined oil products back to the UK. In total, 89 percent of UK crude production is refined somewhere in Europe. Remarkably, Forbes-Cable and Taylor note that 65 percent of the crude produced in the UK ultimately serves the UK market, either through domestic refining or by returning as imported refined products from Europe.

This ecosystem, the authors argue, demonstrates a crucial reality: the UK and Europe function as a single, deeply integrated energy system. UK crude production supports the stability of European refining, helps diversify regional supply sources, and reduces reliance on imports from outside Europe. In return, European refining capacity provides the UK with access to a broad slate of refined products, enhancing supply flexibility and strengthening national energy security.

As Forbes-Cable and Taylor emphasise, this interdependence must not be overlooked as Europe navigates the energy transition. Policy decisions made in the UK directly influence European refining markets, while changes in European refining policy reverberate back across the UK’s supply chain. In their view, the role of UK crude production is not merely important—it is critical to the resilience and stability of Europe’s broader energy system.

Their report ultimately illustrates a fundamental truth: the UK and Europe are not separate actors competing within an isolated marketplace. They are partners in an integrated network whose cooperation underpins regional energy security today and will continue to do so as both sides navigate the complexities of future energy policy.

For more information visit www.woodmac.com

OCI Global, a leading global producer and distributor of nitrogen products, has announced an agreement to sell 100 percent of its equity interests in OCI Ammonia Holding B.V. to AGROFERT, a.s., a notable European nitrogen products manufacturer, for a total consideration of EUR 290 million.

OCI Ammonia Holding owns two key operational entities: OCI Terminal Europoort B.V., OCI’s ammonia import and storage terminal in Rotterdam, and OCI Ammonia Distribution B.V. OCI’s ammonia distribution platform serving third-party off-site European customers.

The transaction is expected to close during the first half of 2026, subject to satisfaction of certain regulatory approvals, other customary closing procedures, and OCI N.V. shareholder approval at an extraordinary general meeting to be convened.

Despite the sale, OCI Nitrogen OCI’s production facility in Geleen will maintain access to OTE through a throughput agreement, ensuring continued ammonia sourcing flexibility for the production site.

OCI continues to evaluate strategic options for its production facility in Geleen and has indicated it will provide market updates on this matter in due course.

The divestment allows OCI Global to streamline its portfolio while AGROFERT expands its presence in European nitrogen product distribution and storage infrastructure.

For more information visit www.oci-global.com