Penspen has announced a series of senior appointments as part of its strategy to support continued business growth and deliver complex projects across key global markets.

These hires – including the appointment of a new chief financial officer – will play a pivotal role in enhancing Penspen’s operational capabilities and expanding its presence across the energy sector.

From Left to right : Chris Wood – director of asset integrity (Europe) ,Tim Sell – ,manager of proposals (Europe) , Graeme Maude – chief financial officer 

The announcement comes at a significant point in the company’s growth trajectory, as Penspen delivers on major contracts such as the detailed engineering scope for the HyNet CO₂ transportation pipeline in Liverpool Bay, and a hydrogen gap analysis for the Trans Adriatic Pipeline, part of the EU’s Southern Gas Corridor.

Penspen also recently marked a major milestone by relocating to new premises in Aberdeen to support several flagship projects.

New Appointments 

Graeme Maude – chief financial officer 

Graeme joins Penspen as CFO, based at the company’s headquarters at 150 Holborn, London.

A Chartered Accountant, Graeme began his career with Deloitte before holding senior finance roles at multinational firms including Atlas Copco and Fullers. He then spent 25 years in the recruitment sector, starting as European CFO for US-listed staffing firm Spherion, before progressing into operational leadership roles in the UK and internationally, including Singapore and Hong Kong.

In 2019, he joined Dutch-listed energy and engineering recruiter Brunel International as COO, where he led operations across the Americas, oversaw M&A activity, and shaped group strategy. His experience at Brunel sparked a deep interest in the energy sector – a key driver behind his move to Penspen.

Chris Wood – director of asset integrity (Europe) 

Chris Wood joins the Europe leadership team as director of asset integrity, based in Penspen’s Newcastle office and reporting directly to CEO Peter O’Sullivan.

A Chartered Mechanical Engineer with 20 years of experience, Chris has worked across the oil & gas, nuclear, and subsea sectors. His early career focused on product design and development, with a later shift toward asset integrity management, full-scale testing, and R&D.

He joins Penspen following nine years at Rosen, where he served as principal engineer and lead process professional. His previous roles include positions at Technip Umbilicals, FlexLife, and Soil Machine Dynamics.

Tim Sell – ,manager of proposals (Europe) 

Tim brings over 25 years of experience in energy and engineering to his new role as manager of proposals (Europe), based at 150 Holborn. He will report to the director of sales & marketing (Europe).

Tim spent the last 12 years at Wood’s offshore and agile projects business, progressing from information management department manager to senior commercial and business management roles. He led the development and pricing of proposals ranging from £200k to over £50M for both onshore and offshore upstream assets in oil, gas, and renewables.

Earlier in his career, Tim delivered IT projects across energy, rail, and financial services sectors, with a focus on information and document management systems and associated business change.

Spokesperson said: “Graeme, Chris and Tim bring invaluable expertise and insight to our team, reinforcing our commitment to building a strong, forward-focused business. Penspen is delivering technically complex projects around the world and playing a key role in supporting the energy transition, which makes having the right talent, in the right place, more important than ever.

“We’re proud to be shaping the future of energy access and sustainability for communities worldwide. As we continue to grow our team, we look forward to expanding our impact through our global practice.”

For more information visit www.penspen.com

Vopak Terminal Jakarta has reached a significant safety milestone and is celebrating the achievement of seven consecutive years free from reportable incidents. This exceptional accomplishment demonstrates the terminal’s unwavering commitment to workplace safety and environmental protection.

The achievement means that for the past seven years, no serious injuries have occurred among personnel working at the Jakarta facility, and no significant environmental spills have been recorded. This milestone reflects the dedication and vigilance of the entire team in maintaining the highest safety standards.

Safety remains Vopak’s top priority across all operations. The company maintains a steadfast commitment to ensuring that every employee can return home safely at the end of each working day. This philosophy drives decision-making at all levels of the organisation and underlies every operational procedure.

The seven-year safety record at the Jakarta terminal exemplifies Vopak’s broader mission to help the world flow forward responsibly. By maintaining exceptional safety standards, the terminal continues to serve as a reliable link in global supply chains while protecting both its workforce and the surrounding environment.

This milestone represents not just the absence of incidents, but the presence of a strong safety culture built through continuous training, rigorous procedures, and the collective commitment of every team member at Vopak Terminal Jakarta.

For more information visit www.vopak.com

Vitol-owned ViGo Bioenergy has commenced biomethane injection into the grid from its latest biogas digester facility in Lithuania, marking a significant milestone in the company’s strategy to expand biomethane availability for heavy trucking across Europe. The facility represents a crucial development in sustainable transport fuel production and circular economy implementation.

The Lithuanian facility began operations with biomethane injection into the grid, initiating a production process that will deliver substantial renewable energy output once fully operational. When the facility reaches full capacity, it will produce 125 GWh of carbon-negative biomethane annually, providing a significant volume of sustainable fuel for heavy transport applications.

The biomethane produced at the facility will directly replace fossil diesel in heavy trucks refuelling at ViGo stations across Europe. This substitution represents a direct impact on transport decarbonisation efforts, targeting one of the most challenging sectors for emissions reduction due to the energy-intensive nature of heavy freight transport.

ViGo Bioenergy’s focus on biomethane production addresses critical requirements for effective decarbonisation solutions in the transport sector. Biomethane offers significant greenhouse gas emissions reduction potential while maintaining compatibility with existing gas infrastructure, providing a practical pathway for immediate implementation without requiring extensive infrastructure modifications.

The production process involves purifying and liquefying biogas generated through anaerobic digestion of organic waste materials, including agricultural residues, food waste, and manure. This approach transforms waste streams into valuable energy resources while addressing waste management challenges across multiple sectors.

The environmental advantages of biomethane production extend beyond simple fossil fuel replacement. The fuel is chemically identical to conventional LNG but derives from renewable sources, delivering substantial greenhouse gas savings compared to traditional diesel fuels. Manure-based biomethane demonstrates particularly impressive environmental performance, offering close to -200 percent carbon intensity when compared to fossil diesel.

This negative carbon intensity results from the process preventing methane emissions that would otherwise occur from organic waste decomposition while displacing fossil fuel consumption. The combination of avoided emissions and renewable energy production creates a net carbon benefit that exceeds neutral impact.

The biomethane production process exemplifies circular economy principles by utilising waste streams that would otherwise contribute to environmental challenges. By converting agricultural residues, food waste, and manure into renewable energy, the facility addresses waste management while producing valuable fuel resources.

The production process generates additional environmental benefits through by-product utilisation. The digestate produced during biogas generation serves as an organic fertiliser that improves soil health on arable land, replacing synthetic fertilisers and supporting sustainable agriculture practices.

Beyond fuel production, the facility captures CO2 during the biomethane purification process, creating opportunities for commercial and industrial applications. This captured CO2 can replace fossil-based CO2 in various industrial processes, further contributing to overall emissions reduction and resource efficiency.

The integrated approach to waste utilisation, energy production, and by-product recovery demonstrates how biomethane facilities can serve multiple economic and environmental objectives simultaneously. This model supports the development of sustainable industrial ecosystems that maximise resource efficiency.

ViGo Bioenergy’s expansion into Lithuania reflects the company’s broader European strategy to develop biomethane infrastructure that supports heavy transport decarbonisation. The facility’s connection to the grid enables flexible distribution of biomethane across European markets, supporting the company’s network of refuelling stations.

The strategic positioning of production facilities across Europe enables ViGo to serve regional markets while building resilient supply chains for sustainable transport fuels. This approach supports the development of a comprehensive biomethane ecosystem that can scale to meet growing demand for renewable transport fuels.

The facility’s operations contribute to agricultural methane emissions reduction by processing organic waste materials that would otherwise decompose and release methane into the atmosphere. This approach addresses one of the most potent greenhouse gases while converting waste into valuable energy resources.

The agricultural sector benefits from this waste processing approach through improved waste management practices and reduced environmental impact. The integration of waste-to-energy systems supports sustainable farming practices while providing additional revenue streams for agricultural operations.

The compatibility of biomethane with existing gas infrastructure facilitates rapid deployment and scaling of sustainable fuel production. This compatibility enables immediate utilisation of biomethane in existing LNG systems without requiring extensive infrastructure modifications or new distribution networks.

The facility’s integration with grid infrastructure demonstrates how biomethane production can leverage existing energy systems while supporting the transition to renewable energy sources. This approach maximises the utility of current infrastructure investments while enabling sustainable fuel deployment across European markets.

For more information visit www.vitol.com

Woodside has announced the successful completion of the sell-down of a 40 percent interest in Louisiana LNG Infrastructure LLC to Stonepeak, a prominent global investment firm specialising in infrastructure and real assets.

This milestone follows Woodside’s announcement on April 7, 2025, regarding the signing of an agreement with Stonepeak, which is expected to enhance the economics of Louisiana LNG and strengthen Woodside’s ability to deliver shareholder returns in the near term.

As part of the transaction, Stonepeak will contribute $5.7 billion towards the anticipated capital expenditure for the foundational development of Louisiana LNG at an accelerated pace, covering 75 percent of the project’s capital expenditure in both 2025 and 2026.

The closing payment of approximately $1.9 billion received by Woodside reflects Stonepeak’s share of capital expenditure funding incurred since the effective date of January 1, 2025.

Woodside’s CEO, Meg O’Neill, expressed confidence that Stonepeak would bring additional value to the Louisiana LNG Project. She noted, “Our partnership with Stonepeak highlights the attractiveness of Louisiana LNG and represents a significant milestone towards achieving a successful final investment decision. Stonepeak is a high-quality partner with extensive investment experience across U.S. gas and LNG infrastructure.”

O’Neill added that the accelerated capital contribution from Stonepeak would improve returns on the Louisiana LNG project and bolster Woodside’s capacity for shareholder returns prior to the first cargo from the Scarborough Energy Project in Western Australia, which is targeted for the latter half of 2026. She also mentioned ongoing strong interest from other potential partners in Louisiana LNG.

James Wyper, senior managing director and Head of US private equity at Stonepeak, expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Woodside. He stated, “Louisiana LNG will be a timely and strategic addition to the US LNG export landscape as global demand for cleaner, more flexible, and more affordable energy continues to rise. We look forward to leveraging our expertise and capital to support the construction and future operation of Louisiana LNG, and we are excited to continue developing critical North American LNG infrastructure with a global impact.”

For more information visit www.woodside.com

UPEI – the voice of Europe’s independent energy and mobility suppliers – and FETSA – the Federation of European Tank Storage Associations – have warmly welcomed the European Parliament’s adoption of its resolution on Energy Security of Supply.

The two organisations expressed encouragement following the Parliament’s comprehensive approach to addressing Europe’s energy security challenges. Recent crises have exposed critical vulnerabilities in Europe’s energy systems and underscored the urgent need to build lasting resilience across all energy carriers, making the resolution’s adoption particularly timely.

The resolution includes several provisions that both organisations view as crucial for strengthening Europe’s energy security framework:

The Parliament has called for a review of the Oil Stocks Directive to better reflect evolving risk profiles and energy needs. This review would ensure that existing regulations align with current energy market realities and security requirements.

The resolution urges the development of a dedicated EU strategy on liquid fuels, recognising the continued importance of these energy carriers in Europe’s overall energy mix. Such a strategy would provide clearer guidance for industry stakeholders and policy makers.

The document emphasises the importance of dual-use infrastructure, promoting greater synergy between civilian and military preparedness. This approach acknowledges that energy security has both civilian and defense dimensions that must be addressed holistically.

The resolution acknowledges the strategic role of NATO in Europe’s future energy security architecture, recognising the alliance’s importance in coordinating defense-related energy security measures across member states.

Finally, the Parliament supports accelerated permitting procedures for critical energy infrastructure, including storage and distribution facilities. This provision could help streamline the development of essential energy infrastructure projects across Europe.

Both organisations emphasised that strategic storage and distribution infrastructure represent more than mere logistical assets. These facilities serve as vital enablers of Europe’s industrial competitiveness, crisis preparedness, and societal resilience. As such, they must be fully recognised and supported within the EU’s evolving energy security architecture.

The groups stressed that proper recognition of infrastructure’s strategic importance will be essential for maintaining Europe’s energy security and economic stability in an increasingly uncertain global environment.

UPEI and FETSA have urged the European Commission and the EU Council to take the Parliament’s position into account as they shape future energy security policies. The organisations indicated their readiness to engage constructively in the follow-up to this resolution and contribute to building a resilient, inclusive, and diversified energy landscape for Europe.

The resolution’s adoption represents a significant step forward in European energy security policy, with industry stakeholders now looking toward implementation measures that will translate the Parliament’s vision into concrete actions and regulatory frameworks.

For more information visit www.upei.org

Evos has announced the appointment of Daan Vos as its CEO, effective August 16, 2025. Vos brings extensive experience as a business leader, having previously served as CEO of bulk terminal company HES International. Before that role, he was co-CEO of liquid storage logistics company Oiltanking, where he spent most of his career after starting his professional journey at Vopak.

Vos holds a master’s degree in business economics from the University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and will be based in Amsterdam in his new role.

Jesper Lok, non-executive chair of the Evos Supervisory Board, expressed satisfaction with the appointment, stating that the company is delighted that Vos will join Evos as CEO. Lok noted that Evos has positioned itself over the last five years as a leading liquid energy and chemicals storage company, operating in strategic locations at the heart of Europe’s energy supply chain.

The board chair emphasised that the company will continue its drive for the growth of its essential infrastructure and is very well set up to achieve this through its strong portfolio of terminals and broad base of reputable customers. Lok indicated that Vos has the right experience to steer Evos through the next phase of its growth together with the company’s current leadership.

Vos expressed enthusiasm about joining the organisation, stating that he is looking forward to joining the highly experienced and motivated Evos team. The new CEO noted that the company has solid business fundamentals and the ambition to offer the best storage solutions that add value to its partners.

Vos outlined his strategic focus, indicating that the company will continue its targeted value proposition to customers with a strong focus on safety, operations and service delivery. He emphasised that the energy transition is at the heart of Evos, and the company will continue its strong commitment to sustainability, which is deeply embedded in its governance and decision-making.

The incoming CEO expressed confidence and excitement about facilitating the further growth of Evos and further building on the company’s strong relations with customers and other stakeholders.

For more information visit www.evos.eu

The newly released EEMUA 249 (Edition 1) brings together guidance for operators to consider when managing the risk posed by piping dead-legs in all types of process plants and storage facilities.

The new publication, ‘Factors to consider when managing the mechanical integrity of dead-legs on industrial facilities’,supplements existing guidance by challenging assumptions, highlighting specific learning points identified by members of EEMUA (Engineering Equipment and Materials Users Association) and providing examples of inspection needs.

EEMUA 249 has been developed by front-line engineers from major companies in EEMUA membership with extensive experience of managing the integrity of dead-legs across petrochemical, chemicals and gas facilities. The starting point was the learning from a catastrophic failure of a dead-leg that released boiling hydrocarbon from a full-bore discharge into an operating plant – the incident was the subject of a safety alert issued by the UK regulator, the Health and Safety Executive. The learning was addressed and sparked a wider review of the whole management process for the integrity of dead-legs.

The guidance in EEMUA 249 can be used by companies that are establishing their management process for dead-legs and equally by companies with existing policies and procedures, to challenge that they meet good practice in this area.

Availability: EEMUA 249 Edition 1 is available directly from EEMUA: https://www.eemua.org/products/publications/digital/eemua-publication-249-digital

For more information visit www.eemua.org

Of the many valuable shipments that leave Marathon Petroleum Corporation’s refinery in Salt Lake City, Utah, very rarely is one of them edible. Recently, however, 700 pounds of non-perishable food items left the site for Okinawa, Japan, after a collection drive by refinery employees for deployed US Marines.

Operations excellence manager Jeremy Holmes, an original member of the refinery’s chapter of HONOUR, MPC’s Veterans Employee Network that organised the drive, explained that the team’s motto was “a taste of home,” leading them to find items they thought would remind the Marines of home. Holmes emphasised that the initiative reflects the employees’ desire to give back to the men and women who serve the country.

Standing next to crates of non-perishable food items going to US Marines in Japan are Salt Lake City refinery employee volunteers, including warehouse manager Corey King, pipefitting & welding supervisor Travis Bettencourt, senior commercial sourcing advisor Eddy Bisharat, operations excellence manager Jeremy Holmes and corporate social responsibility & community relations representative Dean Adam. 

The site’s workforce purchased and donated all the items, which included everything from cookies, hard candy and protein bars to nuts, snack cakes, noodles and seasonings. The recipients in Japan are members of Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment.

The wooden crates sent to Japan included signatures from employee volunteers on stickers that thanked the deployed Marines for their service. Holmes noted that the team collected donations for three weeks and packed everything up in wooden crates in just a couple of hours.

The collection drive builds on other outreach efforts by the refinery’s 32-member Veterans Employee Network. HONOUR also makes charitable funding recommendations and provides volunteer hours in support of several nonprofit organisations in Utah, including Utah Veterans Alliance, the Major Brent Taylor Foundation, Courage Reins and Utah Honour Flight.

For Holmes, who served in the Marine Corps for four years, the motivation behind his involvement in these efforts is straightforward. He explained that the team simply wants to give back to the men and women who serve the country. Holmes noted that this marks the third time they have completed this food drive for deployed units, and each year they receive more participation. He added that the team really enjoys the satisfaction of being able to give back in this small way.

For more information visit www.marathonpetroleum.com

ADNOC has become the first energy company to pilot Oxford Flow’s stemless valve technology for control applications at ADNOC Offshore, with an initial five valves now deployed across the operation.

Traditional valves are responsible for a substantial amount of fugitive methane emissions in oil and gas facilities globally, posing environmental and operational challenges. ADNOC’s pilot of this technology takes valve emissions to zero, showing significant potential in sustainable operational performance and reduction in fugitive emissions.

The initiative represents innovation with impact, where a small change in valve design creates an impactful step toward achieving near zero methane emissions by 2030.

The patented stemless valve design was developed by Oxford Flow, a finalist in the ADNOC Decarbonisation Technology Challenge at COP28. The technology addresses one of the industry’s persistent environmental challenges by eliminating traditional valve stem designs that contribute to methane leakage.

The pilot programme at ADNOC Offshore demonstrates the company’s commitment to implementing innovative solutions that can deliver measurable environmental benefits while maintaining operational efficiency. The success of this initial deployment could pave the way for broader adoption of stemless valve technology across the energy sector.

For more information visit www.adnoc.ae

Infinium, recognised as the world’s leading producer of commercially available eFuels, has announced that its affiliate, Roadrunner One, LLC, has entered into a project-based credit arrangement with HSBC, one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organisations. The financing supports the Roadrunner project, located in Reeves County, Texas, near the city of Pecos, with project investors including affiliates of Brookfield Asset Management, Breakthrough Energy Catalyst, and Infinium.

The Roadrunner facility represents a significant advancement in sustainable fuel production, designed to produce approximately 23,000 tonnes per year (7.6 million gallons) of synthetic sustainable aviation fuel and other low-carbon eFuel products. The production process utilises renewable electricity and captured carbon dioxide, demonstrating the commercial viability of advanced sustainable fuel technologies. The project has secured long-term offtake agreements with major aviation industry partners, including American Airlines and International Airlines Group, the parent company of British Airways, Aer Lingus, and other global carriers, providing commercial certainty for the project’s output and demonstrating strong market demand for sustainable aviation fuels.

Robert Schuetzle, CEO of Infinium, characterised the financing arrangement as more than a project milestone, describing it as validation of the commercial maturity of the eFuels sector. The transaction demonstrates how eFuel projects can be structured as viable, financeable assets within the evolving energy economy, potentially serving as a model for future developments in the sector. The successful financing arrangement represents a significant step forward for the Roadrunner Project and the broader eFuels industry, providing evidence that institutional investors and lenders are prepared to support large-scale sustainable fuel production facilities.

HSBC served as the comprehensive financial partner for the transaction, fulfilling multiple roles including Sole Lead Arranger, LC Issuing Bank, Collateral Agent, and Sole Lender. The banking organisation provided tailored financing solutions for the project, reflecting its continued focus on supporting clients in high-growth sectors and emerging clean energy technologies. Danny Alexander, CEO Infrastructure Finance and Sustainability, CIB at HSBC, emphasised the significance of the Roadrunner facility as a first-of-a-kind development that represents a major achievement for both Infinium and the broader fuel industry. The transaction demonstrates HSBC’s commitment to supporting emerging decarbonisation technology crucial to accelerating the energy transition.

Construction activities for the Roadrunner Project are already underway, marking substantial progress toward operational status. The facility represents one of the first large-scale synthetic fuel facilities in the United States to secure institutional financing, establishing an important precedent for how clean energy ventures can be delivered with private sector financial backing. The project’s successful financing structure may serve as a template for future eFuels and sustainable aviation fuel projects, potentially accelerating industry development by demonstrating proven financing models for institutional investors and project developers.

The Roadrunner Project’s financing success occurs within a growing market for sustainable aviation fuels, driven by aviation industry commitments to reduce carbon emissions and increasing regulatory requirements for sustainable fuel adoption. The facility’s location in Texas positions it strategically within the US energy infrastructure, leveraging existing industrial capabilities while contributing to the development of next-generation sustainable fuel production. The successful completion of this financing arrangement signals growing institutional confidence in the eFuels sector and may encourage additional investment in similar projects, potentially accelerating the development of sustainable fuel production capacity needed to meet aviation industry decarbonisation goals.

For more information visit www.infiniumco.com

IHI Corporation and Royal Vopak have signed a joint development agreement under which the two companies plan to establish a new joint venture. Taking into account the ongoing progress of domestic infrastructure development within Japan, IHI and Vopak plan to participate in projects for the development and operation of an ammonia terminal in Japan, aiming to start operations in the Japanese fiscal year 2030, focusing on the development of safe and efficient ammonia storage and handling infrastructure.

The ammonia terminal development aims to facilitate the receiving and storing of imported ammonia within Japan and to establish a system for stable supply of such ammonia in the country. Ammonia is anticipated to contribute to Japan’s decarbonisation goals through its increased use as fuel and raw material in power generation and various industrial applications.

In this partnership, Vopak, a global tank storage and infrastructure partner, will leverage its extensive experience in ammonia terminal engineering and operations. IHI Group, as Japan’s leading ammonia storage tank manufacturer, will advance its efforts to develop an ammonia value chain focusing on clean ammonia. The collaboration focuses on developing a broader ammonia supply chain in Japan, with the goal of promoting the various uses of ammonia.

Furthermore, IHI and Vopak aim to establish an efficient ammonia distribution system by utilising an ammonia terminal with a hub function for marine transportation.

Kensuke Yamamoto, executive officer, vice president of the business development division, and general manager of Ammonia Value Chain Project Department at IHI Corporation, expressed satisfaction with the continued progress of the collaboration with Vopak toward the development and operation of an ammonia terminal in Japan. Yamamoto stated that by fully leveraging the combined expertise and advanced technologies of both companies, they aim to contribute to Japan’s energy transition and the realisation of a sustainable society through the establishment of safe and efficient ammonia infrastructure.

Lars Schaumann, MD of Vopak Japan, indicated that the company is looking forward to contributing, together with IHI, to the ammonia terminal development in Japan. Schaumann noted that Vopak’s global growth strategy includes industrial and gas infrastructure and infrastructure needed for the energy transition. He added that currently, Vopak has six ammonia storage locations within its global network.

The current agreement builds on the foundation established in November 2023, when IHI and Vopak signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly explore the development and operation of efficient, high value-added ammonia terminals in Japan.

For more information visit www.vopak.com

BWC Terminals has been awarded the 2025 International Liquid Terminals Association Safety Excellence Award, marking the company’s second consecutive year of recognition by the prestigious industry organisation. The award acknowledges BWC’s outstanding commitment to safety performance and operational excellence within the liquid terminals sector.

Industry Recognition and ILTA Background

The International Liquid Terminals Association, founded in 1974, represents more than 85 companies operating liquid terminals across all 50 states and in over 40 countries worldwide. ILTA member facilities serve as critical infrastructure links between various transportation modes for liquid commodities, including petroleum products, chemicals, renewable fuels, crude oil, fertiliser, vegetable oils, and other food-grade materials essential to the US economy.

The Safety Excellence Award represents one of the industry’s most significant recognitions for safety performance, highlighting companies that demonstrate exceptional commitment to protecting workers and maintaining operational safety standards.

Comprehensive Safety Framework

BWC’s Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality policy serves as the foundation for the sustainability of the company’s operations. The organisation has established comprehensive systems, policies, and procedures designed to manage both routine operations and emergency situations effectively, addressing various risks, threats, and incidents that may arise in terminal operations.

Safety has become a fundamental component of BWC’s corporate culture, reinforced through continuous employee training programmes that promote principles aimed at achieving industry-leading safety results. This systematic approach to safety management demonstrates the company’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence.

Leadership Commitment to Safety Excellence

Adam Smith, president and CEO of BWC Terminals, emphasised that safety represents more than a operational priority for the organisation. The executive noted that safety constitutes a fundamental value at BWC Terminals, with the recent achievement reflecting the commitment and effort of the entire team across all levels of the organisation.

Smith expressed the company’s commitment to continuing the promotion of a safety culture in all operational endeavours. The recognition underscores BWC’s steadfast dedication to ensuring a safe workplace environment for all employees and key stakeholders involved in the company’s operations.

Award Criteria and Assessment Process

To qualify for the 2025 ILTA Safety Excellence Award, participating companies were required to demonstrate superior performance across multiple safety metrics. The evaluation process included scoring in the top two quartiles for both leading and lagging safety indicators.

The assessment comprised a comprehensive 23-question self-assessment survey focused on leading indicators, which measure proactive safety management practices and preventive measures. Additionally, companies were evaluated based on lagging indicator surveys derived from OSHA Form 300A data, which tracks actual safety incidents and outcomes.

This dual-metric approach ensures that award recipients demonstrate both proactive safety management and superior actual safety performance, providing a comprehensive evaluation of overall safety excellence.

The consecutive recognition by ILTA positions BWC Terminals as a leader in safety performance within the liquid terminals industry. This achievement reflects the company’s systematic approach to safety management and its ability to maintain consistently high safety standards across its operations.

The award recognition validates BWC’s investment in safety infrastructure, training programmes, and operational procedures that contribute to creating and maintaining a safe working environment. The company’s continued focus on safety excellence supports its broader operational objectives while contributing to industry-wide safety improvements.

BWC Terminals’ recognition demonstrates how sustained commitment to safety management systems and employee training can result in measurable improvements in safety performance and industry recognition for operational excellence.

For more information visit www.bwcterminals.com

Arabian Chemical Terminals Abu Dhabi has announced a new partnership with Chem Innovations Industries LLC, marking significant developments in the regional petrochemical storage sector. The collaboration reinforces both companies’ shared commitment to quality, reliability, and operational excellence.

As the UAE’s only state-of-the-art liquid bulk storage terminal dedicated to petrochemical products, ACT Terminals AD—part of the ACT Terminals KSA Group—provides specialised infrastructure, dedicated systems, and handling expertise that meet the highest standards of quality and precision required by Chem Innovations Industries.

Chem Innovations Industries, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, focuses on the trading, storage, and logistics of refrigerant gases and industrial chemicals, supporting key sectors including HVAC, manufacturing, and clean-tech industries.

The milestone partnership is expected to strengthen collaboration between the two companies, secure robust supply chains, and drive mutual growth and success across the region and beyond. The agreement leverages ACTAD’s specialised terminal capabilities with Chem Innovations Industries’ expertise in chemical trading and logistics operations.

The partnership demonstrates the growing importance of specialised storage infrastructure in the UAE’s expanding petrochemical sector, as companies seek reliable partners to support their operations in the region’s dynamic industrial landscape.

For more information visit www.act-uae.com

JERA Co., Inc. has entered into a non-binding Heads of Agreement with Woodside Energy Trading Singapore Pte. Ltd. for the procurement of liquefied natural gas from Woodside’s LNG portfolio. The agreement includes supply from Australia’s Scarborough gas field, a project supported by financing from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation, and aims to secure stable LNG supply during Japan’s critical winter peak demand period.

The agreement addresses growing challenges in Japan’s energy sector, where gas-fired power generation plays an increasingly critical role in meeting peak energy demand and balancing seasonal fluctuations. These challenges have intensified with the expanding adoption of renewable energy sources, which require reliable backup power during periods of variable generation.

As LNG remains a fundamental fuel for thermal power generation in Japan, securing reliable and flexible supply arrangements has become increasingly important, particularly during winter peak periods when energy demand reaches its highest levels. The agreement represents a strategic approach to addressing these supply security concerns through long-term procurement arrangements.

Under the terms of the agreement, JERA and Woodside will continue negotiations toward finalising the annual purchase of three LNG cargoes, representing approximately 0.2 million tonnes per annum. The supply deliveries are structured to cover the December-through-February period, corresponding to Japan’s winter peak demand season.

The arrangement is designed as a five-year term beginning in fiscal year 2027, providing both parties with long-term supply certainty and operational planning flexibility. This timeframe allows for adequate preparation and infrastructure coordination to ensure smooth delivery and integration into Japan’s energy supply chain.

The partnership reflects JERA’s broader commitment to enhancing stable energy supply across Japan through strategic LNG procurement and resilient operations. The company continues to work in close partnership with both public and private sector entities to build a comprehensive energy security framework.

These collaborative efforts aim to establish a flexible and responsive energy supply system capable of adapting swiftly to supply and demand fluctuations, particularly during periods of tight demand. The agreement with Woodside represents one component of this broader strategy to ensure energy reliability during critical peak periods.

The agreement comes as Japan continues to rely heavily on LNG imports for its energy needs, particularly for power generation and industrial applications. The focus on winter peak demand reflects the seasonal nature of Japan’s energy consumption patterns, where heating demand significantly increases LNG requirements during the colder months.

The involvement of JBIC financing for the Scarborough gas field project demonstrates the strategic importance of securing reliable LNG supply sources for Japan’s energy security. This government backing underscores the critical nature of maintaining diverse and stable energy supply chains for the country’s economic stability.

The partnership between JERA and Woodside exemplifies the type of international energy cooperation necessary to address evolving energy market dynamics, particularly as countries balance the integration of renewable energy sources with the need for reliable baseload and peak power generation capabilities.

For more information visit www.jera.co.jp

Falcker has recognized that digital transformation encompasses technology, timing, trust, and the strength of partnerships. In Southeast Asia, the company observes that ambition meets action, with operators not merely interested in innovation but actively working on implementation. The technology firm is currently exploring collaboration with Petronas in Malaysia on a pilot initiative at one of the energy company’s terminals. This particular site has been identified as ideal for deploying and validating smart asset-integrity solutions before Petronas considers broader rollout.

Falcker’s journey began at the provider’s headquarters, but the substantive developments have unfolded in the field. The company visited a refinery in Melaka and two terminals in Pengerang, one of Malaysia’s largest integrated petrochemical hubs, known as the Rotterdam of the East, including operations run by partners Vopak and Dialog.

The technology firm received existing workflows, listened to local teams, and tailored its tools—Site Explorer and Condition Monitor—to address unique daily challenges. One of these terminals, already a Falcker customer, is showcasing tangible gains from integrated systems, including clearer data flows, remote work preparation, and improved risk visibility across operations.

An Innovation-Ready Region

Vopak, with over 40 terminals across Asia Pacific, demonstrates the infrastructure scale and ambition characteristic of the region. Investments by companies like Vopak reflect a commitment to operational resilience and future energy readiness.

Malaysia is simultaneously investing billions in its energy infrastructure. The government recently announced that MYR 43 billion (approximately $10 billion) is being committed to upgrading the national grid, improving resilience, and supporting new growth sectors like data centres and carbon capture. Local operators are not waiting for developments but are pushing ahead with digital adoption at scale, from pilot phases to full integration. This enthusiasm is amplified when companies already using solutions help demonstrate their value in real-world scenarios.

Building Confidence Through Pilot Sites

The Malaysian pilot serves as a proof of concept that, with tools from Falcker, will help the operator:

• Build clear audit trails to support compliance and inspections
• Align maintenance and CAPEX to risk-based insights
• Provide SMEs and Centers of Expertise access to clear and centralized data

Asia’s appetite for innovation makes it fertile ground for such pilots, particularly when local companies and partners are already experiencing positive results.

Digital, Global, but Locally Grounded

Falcker’s Asia strategy focuses on blending global expertise with regional relevance. The company is engaging local partners to ensure long-term support and operational customisation, starting with this pilot while maintaining focus on Southeast Asia and beyond. The company believes that the most effective transformations are partnership-driven, context-aware, and built for scale. Falcker maintains that solutions crafted with on-the-ground insight lead to meaningful change, from one pilot terminal.

For more information visit www.falcker.com

The Tank Storage Association today published its Annual Review of the bulk storage and energy infrastructure sector. Now in its tenth edition, the publication continues to provide a broad range of statistics and valuable insights on terminals, process safety, occupational health and safety, and the industry’s contribution to the UK economy. It also highlights the changes that are currently taking place in the sector in response to longer-term shifts as a result of the energy transition, marked by increasing inventories of low emissions fuels.

In partnership with Insights Global, the Annual Review has also evolved to include data on global tank storage assets including global expansions and construction projects, regional capacity and market share as well as regional throughput data.

Peter Davidson, chief executive of the Tank Storage Association, said: “I am pleased to launch the 2025 edition of TSA’s Annual Review. The bulk storage and energy infrastructure sector is a key component of global and regional supply chains and domestic industrial ecosystems that function reliably and cost-effectively. The food production, agricultural, chemical, health, steel, construction and transport sectors are only some of the constituents of the UK’s industrial base that is supported by this vital industry. The publication highlights current trends in our sector and underscores its critical role in economic growth, energy security, and in the journey to net zero.”

For an electronic copy of the 2025 Annual Review, click here.

For more information visit www.tankstorage.org.uk

ConocoPhillips has significantly enhanced its Zia Hills asset in New Mexico with the launch of Zia Hills Central Facility 2 (CF2), a state-of-the-art processing facility that optimises operational costs, expands capacity, reduces surface footprint, and curbs emissions.

CF2, operational since January 2024, integrates with the existing CF1 facility within the 13,000-acre Delaware Basin East unit. The new facility processes up to 30,000 barrels of oil per day and 75,000 barrels of water per day, compared to CF1’s capacity of 18,000 barrels of oil and 30,000 barrels of water daily. Both facilities can process 120 million standard cubic feet of natural gas per day.

Delaware Basin East asset manager Hal Mead noted the project was completed on time and under budget with zero recordable injuries, crediting success to comprehensive Operations team involvement throughout the project.

Economic and Operational Benefits

CF2’s centralised design delivers significant advantages by allowing multiple well pads to feed into one location rather than requiring individual pipeline connections. This creates steady oil and gas flows, increasing commercial flexibility and enabling ConocoPhillips to negotiate better rates with third-party buyers.

The facility reduces water off-take costs and operates more efficiently through a centralised bank of electric compressors that service multiple wells, replacing the need for dedicated compressors at each pad. Additionally, CF2 reduces the overall surface footprint by more than 200 acres through smaller well facility pads and reduced equipment requirements.

Despite COVID-19 challenges, including remote meetings and supply chain disruptions, more than 30 contractors completed the project safely, installing over 174 pieces of equipment without a single recordable incident.

Environmental Features and Future Outlook

CF2 incorporates environmental enhancements aligned with New Mexico regulations, including electric compressors instead of gas-powered alternatives, four vapour recovery units, and optimised heater treater systems to minimise emissions. Staff facilities engineer Juan Casanas described CF2 as “one of the best facilities we’ve ever built.”

The facility benefits from extensive operator feedback and design optimisation led by stabiliser specialist Elijah Lindsey, ensuring user-friendly operations. ConocoPhillips has identified 300 to 400 future wells that can integrate into CF2, with reservoir engineer Mark Woodward noting the enhanced economics more than justify the initial investment.

CF2 is expected to receive new production streams for approximately 15 years, supporting ConocoPhillips’ centralised development strategy in the Delaware Basin and representing a significant milestone for the company’s Lower 48 business unit.

For more information visit www.conocophillips.com

American liquefied natural gas producer Venture Global, Inc. and German state-owned energy company Securing Energy for Europe GmbH have announced the finalisation of an expanded agreement that significantly strengthens Germany’s long-term energy security. The deal positions Venture Global as a cornerstone supplier in Europe’s evolving energy landscape.

Under the amended agreement, SEFE’s subsidiary, SEFE Energy GmbH, will purchase an additional 0.75 million tonnes per annum of liquefied natural gas from CP2 LNG, Venture Global’s third major project, extending the supply commitment for 20 years. This expansion builds upon the existing Sales and Purchase Agreement signed by the companies in 2023, increasing the total volume of LNG purchased by SEFE from CP2 LNG to 3.0 MTPA.

The agreement amendment represents a substantial commitment to a long-term energy partnership between the United States and Germany, providing German consumers with reliable access to American LNG supplies through 2045. The deal also demonstrates the growing importance of flexible, long-term LNG contracts in ensuring energy security for European markets.

The expanded partnership establishes Venture Global as Germany’s largest LNG supplier, with a combined 5 MTPA of 20-year offtake agreements signed with SEFE and German utility EnBW. This dominant position underscores the company’s strategic importance in European energy markets and reflects Germany’s commitment to diversifying its energy supply sources.

Beyond contractual commitments, Venture Global has already demonstrated its reliability as a supplier to German markets. The company has supplied Germany with almost 80 cargoes of LNG from its existing Calcasieu Pass and Plaquemines LNG facilities, representing enough energy to power 8 million German homes for one year. This track record of delivery reinforces the strategic value of the expanded partnership.

Mike Sabel, CEO of Venture Global, emphasised the broader strategic implications of the partnership, stating that the company is “thrilled to expand our strategic partnership with Germany and SEFE and play a leading role in ensuring security of energy supply and affordability for not only Germany but the rest of the European gas market.” This statement highlights Venture Global’s ambition to serve as a regional energy security provider rather than simply a bilateral supplier.

The CEO’s comments reflect the company’s understanding of its role in European energy transition and security strategies. By positioning itself as a provider of both supply security and affordability, Venture Global addresses two critical concerns for European energy policymakers navigating the transition away from traditional supply sources.

SEFE joins a distinguished roster of world-class LNG customers for CP2 spanning Europe, Asia, and other global markets. The German state-owned company’s participation alongside other international buyers demonstrates the project’s strategic importance to global energy supply and security. This diversified customer base enhances the project’s commercial viability while supporting energy security objectives across multiple regions.

The international scope of CP2’s customer base reflects the project’s design as a globally significant LNG facility capable of serving diverse markets with varying demand patterns and supply requirements. This flexibility positions the project as a crucial component of global LNG supply infrastructure.

The expanded SEFE agreement contributes to significant commercial progress for CP2 Phase One, with approximately 11.5 MTPA now under contract. This achievement raises the total contracted capacity across all of Venture Global’s projects to 41.5 MTPA, representing substantial progress toward the company’s development goals.

The contracted capacity milestone demonstrates strong market confidence in Venture Global’s execution capabilities and the strategic value of American LNG supplies in global markets. The company’s ability to secure long-term commitments from high-quality counterparties like SEFE validates its business model and development strategy.

The expanded partnership between Venture Global and SEFE occurs within the broader context of European efforts to enhance energy security and diversify supply sources. Germany’s commitment to long-term LNG purchases from American suppliers reflects the country’s strategic energy policy objectives and its transition toward more resilient energy supply arrangements.

The 20-year contract duration provides both parties with long-term certainty while supporting Germany’s energy transition planning. For SEFE, the agreement ensures reliable access to LNG supplies during a critical period of energy system transformation. For Venture Global, the contract provides revenue visibility that supports continued investment in LNG infrastructure development.

The partnership also contributes to broader transatlantic energy cooperation, strengthening economic ties between the United States and Germany while supporting both countries’ energy security objectives. This cooperation model may serve as a template for similar partnerships between American LNG producers and European energy companies seeking reliable, long-term supply arrangements.

For more information visit www.ventureglobalLNG.com 

LT Corporation, a Cleveland, Mississippi-based parent company of industry-leading manufacturing and service providers, announced the acquisition of Tanco Engineering Inc., a premier builder and servicer of aboveground storage tanks.

Founded in 1979 and headquartered in Loveland, Colorado, Tanco Engineering has earned a national reputation for excellence in safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Over its 46-year history, Tanco has set the standard in storage tank construction, maintenance, and repair. Its services span the United States—including Hawaii and Alaska—and include in-house fabrication capabilities, patented floating roof seal systems, and the design, supply, and installation of aluminium geodesic dome roofs.

“We’re extremely excited to welcome Tanco and all its associates to our family of companies,” said Sean Wessel, president of LT Corporation. “This acquisition enhances our operating company portfolio and supports LT Corp.’s continued commitment to growth and expansion in the tank and pressure vessel markets. We are confident that with the Tanco team’s leadership, the company will continue to thrive and deliver the operational excellence it is known for.”

Chad Derringer, president and CEO of Tanco, commented, “Joining the LT Corporation family of companies is a perfect fit and has been well received by the entirety of the Tanco employee team. Our organisations share similar values, strong cultures, and strategic visions for growth within our sectors of the storage tank industry. Importantly, becoming part of an ESOP company like LT Corp. ensures that the men and women who have and continue to contribute to Tanco’s legacy will benefit as shareholders moving forward. We are especially pleased that Craig Greenslit and Tom Robinson will continue their employment with the company during the transition period.”

LT Corp. was advised by Bradley as legal counsel. Industria Partners served as the strategic advisor and Holland & Knight provided legal counsel to Tanco.

For more information visit www.ltcorp-inc.com

Vietnam’s national oil and gas corporation Petrovietnam has embarked on a strategic mission to strengthen energy cooperation with Spanish enterprises, participating in high-level diplomatic and business engagements aimed at expanding bilateral partnerships in renewable energy and technological innovation.

From June 29 to July 4, 2025, Petrovietnam joined a high-level Vietnamese government delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister Hồ Đức Phớc to attend the 4th Finance for Development Conference (FfD4) in Sevilla, Spain. The corporation’s participation underscores the strategic importance of energy cooperation in Vietnam’s broader economic diplomacy initiatives.

Mr. Dương Mạnh Sơn, vice president of Petrovietnam, represented the corporation throughout the delegation’s activities, participating in a series of working sessions across Barcelona and Sevilla designed to enhance bilateral trade, investment, and technological partnerships between Vietnam and Spain.

The delegation’s itinerary included meetings with major Spanish institutions that represent key sectors of the country’s advanced industrial and financial infrastructure. Petrovietnam accompanied the Vietnamese government in high-level discussions with Airbus Sevilla, demonstrating the corporation’s interest in aerospace and advanced manufacturing technologies. The group also engaged with the Barcelona Financial Centre, exploring opportunities for energy project financing and investment partnerships.

Particularly significant was the delegation’s visit to the Port of Barcelona, one of Europe’s leading maritime and logistics hubs. This engagement reflects Petrovietnam’s interest in strengthening energy supply chain relationships and exploring opportunities for LNG and petroleum product trading through European port infrastructure.

Petrovietnam actively participated in two major business forums during the visit. The Vietnam-Sevilla Business Roundtable provided a focused platform for discussing regional cooperation opportunities, while the broader Vietnam-Spain Business Forum enabled engagement with leading Spanish companies across multiple sectors.

During these forums, Petrovietnam representatives actively discussed cooperation opportunities spanning renewable energy development, energy transition technologies, oil and gas engineering services, and energy infrastructure development. These discussions align with Spain’s expertise in renewable energy technologies and Vietnam’s growing energy demands.

Throughout the forums, Petrovietnam emphasised its strategic transformation toward a national industry-energy identity, reflecting the corporation’s evolution from a traditional oil and gas company to a comprehensive energy solutions provider. The corporation reaffirmed its commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, aligning with Vietnam’s global climate commitments and international environmental standards.

This strategic positioning enables Petrovietnam to engage with Spanish and European partners on equal footing in discussions about green energy technologies, carbon reduction initiatives, and sustainable development practices. The corporation’s net zero commitment demonstrates its readiness to participate in global energy transition efforts while maintaining its core business operations.

Petrovietnam has expressed strong interest in collaborating with Spanish and European partners on green energy initiatives and technological innovation. The corporation views these partnerships as essential for achieving sustainable development goals while advancing technological capabilities in the energy sector.

The Spanish market offers particular advantages for Petrovietnam’s international expansion strategy. Spain’s leadership in renewable energy technologies, particularly in solar and wind power, provides opportunities for technology transfer and joint development projects. Additionally, Spain’s established relationships with Latin American markets could facilitate Petrovietnam’s expansion into new geographical regions.

For more information visit www.pvn.vn

German adhesive technologies giant Henkel has completed the acquisition of South Africa-based Nordbak (Pty) Ltd, a specialist provider of maintenance, repair and overhaul solutions with established operations across critical industrial sectors. The strategic acquisition significantly enhances Henkel’s capabilities in serving the petrochemical industry while expanding its growth platform for MRO solutions in emerging markets.

The acquisition positions Henkel to capitalise on the growing demand for high-performance repair and protection technologies in South Africa’s petrochemical sector, alongside mining and infrastructure industries. Nordbak’s comprehensive product portfolio and proven customer base provide immediate access to markets where petrochemical operations require specialised maintenance solutions to ensure operational continuity and safety.

The acquisition aligns with Henkel’s global growth strategy within its Adhesive Technologies business unit, marking a key milestone in the company’s expansion into emerging markets. South Africa represents a strategically important region with robust demand for advanced repair and protection technologies, particularly in petrochemical processing facilities where equipment reliability is paramount.

Henkel’s acquisition strategy focuses on leveraging Nordbak’s established market position, particularly within the mining and petrochemical sectors, by combining international application expertise with complementary technologies and a strong local presence. This approach enables the company to accelerate its footprint in a region where petrochemical infrastructure requires continuous maintenance and protection solutions.

Nordbak’s product portfolio directly addresses critical needs within the petrochemical industry, offering specialised solutions that extend asset life and ensure operational efficiency. The company’s innovative maintenance and repair products include abrasion- and acid-resistant linings essential for petrochemical processing equipment, epoxy-based compounds for structural repairs, metal repair solutions for pipeline and vessel maintenance, and advanced corrosion protection coatings that safeguard petrochemical infrastructure against harsh operating environments.

These solutions, marketed under the NORDBAK® brand, play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of petrochemical facilities, where equipment failure can result in significant operational disruptions and safety concerns. The specialised nature of these products positions Henkel to serve the demanding requirements of petrochemical operations across South Africa and the broader region.

Arash Radgoudarzi, country president of Henkel in South Africa, emphasised the strategic importance of the acquisition, stating that it “marks a new era of growth and innovation for both Henkel and Nordbak.” The executive highlighted how combining international sustainability standards and technological expertise with Nordbak’s customer proximity and industrial insight will deliver added value to customers while contributing to protecting and extending the life of critical infrastructure, including petrochemical facilities across South Africa.

The acquisition reflects Henkel’s long-term commitment to the South African market through investments in local manufacturing capabilities, development of regional technical expertise, and support for industrial resilience through innovation. This commitment extends particularly to the petrochemical sector, where local expertise and rapid response capabilities are essential for maintaining operational continuity.

Nordbak employs approximately 105 people and operates a localised production and service network across South Africa, including strategic sites in Wadeville, Kathu, and Phalaborwa. This geographic distribution provides optimal coverage for serving petrochemical installations and other industrial facilities throughout the region.

Mark Beyl, CEO/MD of Nordbak South Africa, expressed enthusiasm about joining the Henkel organisation, noting that the acquisition allows the company to continue serving customers with excellence while unlocking new innovation capabilities, global reach, and enhanced sustainability focus. This integration is expected to benefit petrochemical operators through access to Henkel’s broader technology portfolio and international best practices.

The acquisition also underscores Henkel’s commitment to aligning operations with international sustainability standards, promoting responsible growth and environmental stewardship across its value chain. This approach is particularly relevant for petrochemical applications, where environmental considerations and operational efficiency are increasingly interconnected.

Through this strategic acquisition, Henkel strengthens its position as a comprehensive solutions provider for the petrochemical industry while expanding its capabilities to serve the growing maintenance and repair needs of critical industrial infrastructure across South Africa and emerging markets.

For more information visit www.henkel.com

EnerMech has been awarded a significant contract by ExxonMobil to deliver a comprehensive flowline decommissioning package for the Hoover Diana development in the Gulf of Mexico. This milestone represents the company’s first major decommissioning campaign in the region and demonstrates its strategic methodology, integrated approach, and offshore operational expertise.

The Hoover and Diana fields, situated approximately 160 miles south of Galveston, Texas, have served as a landmark offshore development since their inception in 2000. The project utilised pioneering floating production deep draft caisson vessel technology and achieved world records for deepwater drilling and production depths at the time of its development.

Decommissioning deepwater structures demands meticulous planning and execution. EnerMech’s proactive early collaboration with ExxonMobil has enabled the development of a comprehensive approach optimised for safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

The project will deploy an expert team integrating multiple service lines from EnerMech’s Energy Solutions division, including coiled tubing, pressure pumping, chemical services, filtration, separation, and pipeline gauging. The scope encompasses flushing, pigging, and filling subsea pipelines to safely remove hydrocarbons and prepare the infrastructure for decommissioning.

Specific technical operations include umbilical flushing, pipeline flushing, and seawater fill operations for the subsea flowline loop, along with nitrogen flushing via subsea vessel, coiled tubing services, and final seawater filling for the Northern Diana flowline.

Industry Leadership Perspective

Charles ‘Chuck’ Davison Jr., EnerMech’s CEO, emphasised the significance of this contract for the company’s Gulf of Mexico operations. “The Hoover-Diana project marks our first large-scale decommissioning engagement in the Gulf of Mexico, building on the strong relationship we’ve developed with ExxonMobil in Guyana since 2018,” he stated. “Executing a multi-service end-of-lifecycle project of this scale requires a highly skilled and competent workforce.”

Davison highlighted that securing the contract through a competitive tender process demonstrates the company’s deep expertise and integrated capabilities. “Our early engagement has allowed us to develop a tailored methodology that maximises efficiencies, minimises risks, and ensures a safe, cost-effective execution,” he added.

The CEO also noted the broader market implications, stating that with many offshore assets reaching the end of their lifecycle, the decommissioning market in the Gulf of Mexico is expanding rapidly. “This project underscores the value we bring to our customers and positions us for future growth in this critical sector,” Davison concluded.

Jon Felton, EnerMech’s technical solutions director for the Western Hemisphere, detailed the company’s innovative approach to the project. The methodology includes nitrogen injection to mitigate gas-related risks and advanced pigging solutions to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

“Our ability to seamlessly coordinate multiple service line disciplines required simultaneously under one contract sets us apart,” Felton explained. “We’ve engineered a methodology that not only meets ExxonMobil’s expectations but also establishes a new benchmark for efficiency and safety in deepwater decommissioning.”

This contract award positions EnerMech as a key player in the growing Gulf of Mexico decommissioning sector. The company’s success in securing this major project reflects its ability to deliver integrated solutions for complex offshore operations and establishes a foundation for future growth in the region’s expanding decommissioning market.

For more information visit www.enermech.com

TGS, a global leader in energy data and intelligence, has partnered with Viridien, an advanced technology, digital and Earth data company, to announce the commencement of Laconia Phase III in the Gulf of America. The collaboration represents the latest expansion of the large-scale Laconia ocean bottom node survey programme.

Expanding Survey Coverage in Strategic Waters

The new phase spans approximately 150 Outer Continental Shelf blocks, building upon the foundation established by Laconia Phases I and II, which Viridien launched in July 2024. The programme has garnered significant industry attention, with the latest phase designed to further enhance subsurface imaging capabilities in the region.

TGS will acquire the program using its proprietary ZXPLR™ nodes in combination with the Sercel Tuned Pulse Source. The TPS technology represents a significant advancement in marine seismic acquisition, functioning as a low-frequency broadband source that enhances geophysical imaging clarity through improved low-frequency, deep penetrating sound energy.

Advanced Imaging Technologies Drive Data Quality

Viridien’s Subsurface Imaging experts will process the Laconia Phase III dataset, utilising the company’s advanced proprietary technologies, including Elastic Full-Waveform Inversion and Reverse Time Migration imaging capabilities. These technologies are designed to deliver enhanced subsurface clarity, potentially unlocking additional prospects in the central Keathley Canyon area.

The survey area is expected to attract considerable interest in future lease sales, particularly from companies targeting the Paleogene play. This geological formation has gained increased attractiveness following recent industry success in implementing 20,000 psi (20k) technologies, opening new possibilities for deepwater exploration and development.

Project Timeline and Industry Support

The Laconia Phase III OBN acquisition commenced in May 2025 and is scheduled to continue through the third quarter of 2025. Initial data products are expected to be delivered in the first quarter of 2026. The project benefits from industry funding, demonstrating strong market confidence in the survey’s potential value.

Leadership Perspectives on Strategic Collaboration

Kristian Johansen, CEO of TGS, emphasised the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality seismic solutions to the energy industry. He highlighted Laconia Phase III as a significant advancement in the company’s ability to provide cutting-edge data products in one of the world’s most important offshore regions. Johansen expressed confidence that the collaboration with Viridien and the combination of advanced OBN acquisition and imaging technologies would deliver substantial value to customers.

Sophie Zurquiyah, CEO of Viridien, characterised the Laconia OBN programme’s success as a compelling demonstration of technological innovation’s value in offshore exploration. She noted that the partnership with TGS leverages each company’s respective strengths to deliver high-impact datasets in one of the world’s most prospective offshore regions. Zurquiyah also highlighted that early results from Laconia Phase I have already generated considerable industry attention, validating the effectiveness of the company’s advanced imaging capabilities.

The collaboration between TGS and Viridien on Laconia Phase III represents a strategic alignment of complementary technologies and expertise, positioning both companies to capitalise on growing demand for high-quality seismic data in the Gulf of America’s evolving energy landscape.

For more information visit www.tgs.com

For more information visit www.tepsa.com

Vallourec has announced a significant agreement representing over $50 million in potential revenue, marking a substantial milestone in the company’s Middle Eastern operations. The contract encompasses the supply of carbon steel Oil Country Tubular Goods products featuring premium connections, scheduled for delivery in 2026.

Supporting Qatar’s Expanding Energy Infrastructure

The agreement positions Vallourec to support Qatar’s intensifying drilling activities across both onshore and offshore operations. This contract builds upon the company’s established presence in the Qatari market, where its VAM® connections have gained widespread adoption among all operators in the region.

The timing of this agreement aligns strategically with Qatar’s ambitious energy expansion plans. Recent announcements from Qatar-based companies have outlined targets to increase the country’s oil production by 19% and liquefied natural gas production by a substantial 85 percent by 2030. These production targets will drive overall LNG output to approximately 142 million tonnes per annum.

Market Expansion Drives Future Opportunities

The scale of Qatar’s planned production increases necessitates significant additional drilling operations and infrastructure development throughout the country. This expansion creates a favourable market environment for Vallourec, with the potential for additional opportunities emerging over the coming years.

The company’s established relationship with Qatari operators, demonstrated through the widespread use of VAM® connections, provides a strong foundation for capturing future business as the country’s energy sector continues its rapid growth trajectory.

The 2026 delivery timeline for the current contract positions Vallourec to support Qatar’s energy infrastructure development during a critical phase of the country’s expansion plans, reinforcing the company’s role as a key supplier in one of the world’s most dynamic energy markets.

For more information visit www.vallourec.com

ConocoPhillips announced that its board of directors elected Kathleen McGinty to serve as a board member. The appointment brought extensive sustainability expertise and government relations experience to the energy company’s leadership team.

McGinty currently served as vice president and chief sustainability and external relations officer for Johnson Controls. Prior to joining Johnson Controls, she served in various leadership positions across both public and private sectors, accumulating over 30 years of experience. Most recently, she served as senior vice president at the Environmental Defence Fund in Washington, D.C., where she led the global oceans programme.

“We were pleased to add Katie to the ConocoPhillips board of directors,” said Ryan Lance, chairman and chief executive officer. “Katie’s leadership on sustainability and experience in the private sector and in many key government positions brought a valuable perspective to our board. We looked forward to her contributions as we continued to deliver on our returns-focused value proposition.”

McGinty currently served on several boards, including the International Steering Committee of the World Sustainable Development Summit, American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy, the Carnegie Mellon Scott Institute for Energy Innovation, and MN8 Energy (formerly Goldman Sachs Renewable Power, LLC).

The appointment of McGinty increased the number of ConocoPhillips directors to 13, of which 11 were independent. McGinty will serve on the Public Policy and Sustainability Committee and the Audit and Finance Committee of the ConocoPhillips board.

The addition of McGinty to the board reflected ConocoPhillips’ focus on incorporating sustainability expertise into its corporate governance structure as the energy industry continued to navigate environmental challenges and regulatory developments.

For more information visit www.conocophillips.com

The ILTA 2025 Conference & Trade Show, held June 9–11 in Houston, Texas, welcomed thousands of liquid terminal professionals from all 50 states and several countries for a week of education, networking, and industry celebration. As the largest event focused exclusively on the business and technology of liquid terminals, ILTA 2025 marked a fresh chapter for the association and the sector it serves.

With 540 conference attendees, over 4,200 trade show attendees, and more than 50 new exhibitors, the event returned to the Marriott Marquis Houston and George R. Brown Convention Center, where ILTA’s new brand identity was on full display. The tone throughout the week was energetic, collaborative, and future-focused—many attendees remarked on the uniquely positive and uplifting atmosphere.

“We are deeply grateful to every attendee, speaker, sponsor, and exhibitor who helped make ILTA 2025 such a powerful gathering,” said Leakhena Swett, ILTA President. “The sense of optimism and momentum in Houston was unmistakable. From meaningful dialogue in sessions to electric networking moments, this event reminded us how vital it is to come together as a community and how much potential lies ahead.”

Conference sessions explored both technical and strategic issues critical to the industry, including cybersecurity for industrial systems and infrastructure, regulatory readiness, sustainability and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, leadership development, and terminal workforce evolution. Participants engaged deeply, asking big questions about how the industry must adapt and how to prepare the next generation to lead it.

Keynote speakers Carly Fiorina and Admiral James Stavridis brought bold ideas to the stage. Fiorina shared lessons in resilience and transformative leadership, while Stavridis spoke to the strategic value of U.S. energy and emphasized the essential role women will play in shaping the sector’s future.

That message carried through the week, especially during the Women in Terminals networking reception, where a dynamic panel explored how careers evolve with life changes, the global nuances of DEI, and ways to support the next generation of women in the industry. That same spirit of mentorship and inclusion was felt at the first-ever Industry Summit: Career Opportunities in Tank Terminals, where This One’s for the Gals —a nonprofit initiative introducing young women to career pathways in construction, energy, manufacturing, and maritime—brought fresh energy and heart to the event. Their presence was a strong reminder of the industry’s role in inspiring and empowering future talent.

The Industry Summit connected students and early-career professionals with terminal operators, HR leaders, and mentors, reinforcing ILTA’s long-term commitment to workforce development and industry access.

The Conference Reception, moved indoors due to Monday’s rain, kept the excitement going with a packed room, great conversations, and a sense of real camaraderie. Across every venue, networking was the most celebrated aspect of the event, with attendees reconnecting and building new relationships in line, during coffee breaks, and among hundreds of exhibit booths at the trade show.

The trade show floor was certainly a hub of activity, with attendees exploring new technologies, safety solutions, and service providers across two exhibit halls at the George R. Brown Convention Center. Storage Terminals Magazine, ILTA’s official media partner, added vibrance and visibility with live coverage and a strong presence on the show floor as well as at the Marriott Marquis.

ILTA 2025 confirmed what many already know: the industry is evolving… and this is where progress meets people.

Save the date: ILTA 2026 returns to Houston, June 15–17, 2026, at the Marriott Marquis and George R. Brown Convention Center.

For more information visit www.ilta.org

Metso entered into a distribution agreement with Greaves Pakistan Ltd, a leading engineering solutions provider in Pakistan. The partnership marked a significant step in strengthening Metso’s presence in South Asia and enhancing support for customers in the aggregates industry.

Under the agreement, Greaves Pakistan will represent Metso’s crushing and screening equipment, parts, and services across Pakistan. The collaboration aims to provide local access to technical support, spare and wear parts, and establish closer customer contact points throughout the country.

“We were very pleased to partner with Greaves Pakistan to bring Metso’s solutions closer to customers in a market where we’d had limited presence,” said Yoann Mercier, capital distributor manager at Metso. “The agreement enhanced our ability to serve the aggregates industry in Pakistan by providing local access to technical support, spare and wear parts, and having a point of contact as close as possible to their operations. With Greaves’ strong market presence and service capabilities, we could better support customers across the construction, quarrying, and recycling sectors with tailored solutions.”

The partnership allowed Greaves Pakistan to expand its product portfolio by offering best-in-class crushing and screening solutions to the aggregates industry. With a robust national footprint and established relationships in the infrastructure and mining sectors, Greaves was strategically positioned to scale Metso’s presence across Pakistan.

Hilal Faridi, general manager at Greaves Pakistan, emphasised the customer benefits of the collaboration. “Customers will benefit from localised support, availability of genuine spare and wear parts, expert field services, and reduced equipment downtime — all enabled through Greaves’ established service network and technical expertise,” Faridi stated. “This partnership marked a strategic step forward in delivering premium crushing and screening solutions to Pakistan’s industrial sector. It reinforced Greaves’ leadership as a trusted technology integrator and brought Metso’s world-class solutions closer to the customer.”

The agreement positioned both companies to capitalise on Pakistan’s growing infrastructure and mining sectors, with Greaves’ established service network providing the foundation for enhanced customer support and reduced equipment downtime.

Metso, headquartered in Espoo, Finland, is a frontrunner in sustainable technologies, end-to-end solutions and services for the aggregates, minerals processing and metals refining industries globally. The company had close to 17,000 employees in around 50 countries at the end of 2024, with sales of approximately EUR 4.9 billion. Metso is listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki.

For more information visit www.metso.com

Energy transition. Not in theory, but on the ground. This philosophy drove Advario’s recent engagement with Flemish Minister Annick De Ridder, who visited the company’s Gas Terminal in Antwerp earlier this week.

The visit, hosted by Nancy De Groof, vice president cluster Belgium and chair of BATO, alongside Bart Seliaerts and Philippe Geeraerts, showcased Advario’s commitment to translating energy transition aspirations into tangible infrastructure projects.

Beyond Conversation: Real Progress in Action

Advario has positioned itself as a company that moves beyond industry rhetoric to deliver concrete results in the energy transition space. The company’s Belgian operations, encompassing both the Advario Gas Terminal and Advario Stolthaven Antwerp, are actively developing infrastructure designed to support a decarbonised energy future.

The centrepiece of the ministerial visit was Advario’s planned ammonia import terminal, a collaborative project with Fluxys that exemplifies the company’s forward-thinking approach. Situated at the Advario Gas Terminal, this facility is scheduled to become operational by 2030 and will serve as a critical component in enabling the hydrogen economy while facilitating the transition to sustainable energy molecules.

Strategic Infrastructure for Energy Security

During the visit, De Groof emphasised the pivotal role that tank storage plays in the energy transition landscape. She highlighted how the storage sector provides essential flexibility, stability, and security of supply—qualities that become increasingly important as energy systems shift toward more sustainable sources.

The infrastructure development at Advario’s Belgian facilities represents a strategic investment in the country’s energy future, addressing both immediate operational needs and long-term decarbonisation goals.

Collaborative Approach to Industry Transformation

The engagement between Minister De Ridder and Advario’s leadership team demonstrated the importance of active collaboration between policymakers and industry stakeholders. The minister’s informed questions and engagement with the company’s teams reflected a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the energy transition.

This dialogue between government and industry represents a critical element in accelerating the energy transition, as it ensures that policy frameworks align with practical implementation strategies and infrastructure development timelines.

The visit concluded with mutual recognition of the need for continued cooperation between public and private sectors to achieve Belgium’s energy transition objectives, with Advario’s ammonia import terminal serving as a concrete example of how such collaboration can produce tangible results in the race toward a decarbonised energy future.

For more information visit www.advario.com

McDermott was awarded a sizeable offshore transportation and installation contract by BRAVA Energia, Brazil’s most diversified independent oil and gas company, for the Papa-Terra field in the Campos Basin and the Atlanta field in Block BS-4 within the Santos Basin, both offshore Brazil.

Under the contract scope, McDermott will execute the transportation and installation of flexible pipelines, umbilicals and associated subsea equipment for two new wells at the Papa-Terra field and two new wells for the Atlanta Phase 2 development. The scope also includes pre-commissioning and onshore base support services.

“This award highlighted the vital role of subsea infrastructure in enabling long-term production and asset value for deepwater developments,” said Mahesh Swaminathan, McDermott’s senior vice president, subsea and floating facilities. “We will leverage our proven integrated delivery model, marine capabilities and expertise in delivering brownfield deepwater solutions to support Brazil and the broader South American offshore market.”

The new wells at the Papa-Terra and Atlanta fields, operated by BRAVA Energia, will support production ramp-up as part of the company’s ongoing strategy to increase output and extend the life of deepwater infrastructure. McDermott previously delivered the Papa-Terra tension leg wellhead platform – the first dry-tree floating production system offshore Brazil and the first tension leg platform installed in South America at the time.

The contract value falls within McDermott’s definition of a sizeable contract, ranging between $1 million and $50 million.

For more information visit www.mcdermott.com

In a clear signal that renewable energy is on a sustained upward trajectory in South Africa, renewable energy solutions provider SOLA Group has announced that it has optimised the debt facilities in its corporate and industrial solar PV fund, Orionis, in a landmark and innovative collaboration with Nedbank CIB, advised by Pepper Tree Capital, Fasken, CDH and 3E.

The deal showcases an innovative portfolio-based financing approach that SOLA project finance manager James Dry says sets a new standard in renewable energy investment, with a long-term lens on the continued and sustained enhancement of renewable energy infrastructure.

The Orionis portfolio, which supports 37MW of operating rooftop solar projects, was optimised with a first-of-its-kind debt refinancing in the South African renewable energy sector, says Dry. “The flexible debt facility allows for dynamic operational cashflow management and reduced interest costs through an optimised capital structure, all of which benefits shareholders and which holds immense potential for future portfolio scaling,”

The deal sees a total debt facility of R250-million with a further R150-million made available, and is the result of SOLA’s ongoing, successful finance and development partnership with Nedbank CIB. “Streamlining the capital structure of the fund is a clear signal to the market that SOLA is maturing in its capability to optimise assets and project portfolios,” says Dry.

SOLA Group explains that the fund has the direct knock-on effect of supplying clean and sustainable energy to a host of sectors, including breweries, pharmaceuticals, mining, data and software, food, retail and wine production, among others. “In line with our mission, the optimisation ensures that off-takers enjoy a continued clean energy supply through enhanced renewable energy infrastructure reliability. The innovations in how the finance has been structured will see improved returns to Orionis’s shareholders.”

Dry goes on to explain that the financing model is scalable with the potential for replication across SOLA Group’s renewable energy portfolios, including utility-scale projects.

Orionis, established in 2019 by SOLA Group in partnership with African Infrastructure Investment Managers and Nedbank, was designed to finance and operate commercial and industrial solar PV projects across South Africa.

The optimisation plan, which was supported by grant funding from the Clean Captive Installations for Industrial Clients in Sub-Saharan Africa (CICSA) project, included simplifying the corporate and funding structures, consolidating equity instruments, and restructuring debt facilities.

“We are grateful for our ongoing and deepening partnership with Nedbank, and the other stakeholders that have supported this process, and we are excited about the expanding possibilities that are created when our business grows and matures alongside key partners” said Katherine Persson, managing director of SOLA’s IPP business, SOLA Assets.

For more information visit www.solagroup.co.za