Colonial Oil Industries proudly announces that its Marine division has been awarded ISCC certification by SCS Global Services, marking a significant milestone in the company’s sustainability efforts. This certification underscores Colonial’s dedication to producing and trading sustainable biofuels, ensuring that its marine fuels meet the highest environmental standards.

The ISCC Plus and ISCC EU certifications guarantee that Colonial’s marine fuels adhere to stringent sustainability criteria, including traceability, mass balance, and environmental protection. By obtaining ISCC certification, Colonial demonstrates its ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable biofuels to its customers.

The use of ISCC-certified marine fuels provides shipping companies with an opportunity to showcase their commitment to sustainability and respond to the increasing demand for low-carbon shipping solutions. This, in turn, can boost their environmental reputation, enhance brand image, and open doors to new markets.

“We are thrilled to receive ISCC certification,” said Bob Kenyon, president of Colonial Oil Industries. “This recognition validates our commitment to improving our sustainability stewardship and impact across our footprint.”

The benefits of ISCC Plus and ISCC EU certification for Colonial’s customers include:

• Reduced carbon footprint: Sustainable biofuels contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
• Enhanced sustainability: ISCC certification ensures that biofuels meet strict sustainability standards.
• Increased market access: Certification expands market opportunities for Colonial’s marine fuels.

This achievement is a significant step forward for Colonial Oil Industries as the company continues to uphold its commitment to sustainability while delivering exceptional value to its customers.

For more information visit www.colonialoilindustries.com

Baker Hughes, an energy technology leader, and Repsol, a global multi-energy company, have announced a new collaboration to develop and deploy next-generation artificial intelligence capabilities through the Leucipa™ automated field production solution. The agreement aims to enhance operational efficiency, reduce emissions, and optimise production across Repsol’s global assets.

This strategic partnership leverages AI-powered automation workflows to unlock new operational capabilities, combining the shared expertise and best practices of both companies. The collaboration will help improve efficiency and sustainability in energy production by streamlining operations and reducing emissions.

“Artificial intelligence is revolutionising energy production, and Leucipa enables companies to operate more efficiently to recover more from their assets,” said Amerino Gatti, executive vice president of Oilfield Services & Equipment at Baker Hughes. “Repsol has long been a trusted collaborator, and their support has helped Leucipa develop into the industry’s most innovative and effective digital production software. We are excited to work together to accelerate the energy industry’s digital evolution.”

Repsol has already integrated Leucipa into their operations, optimising digital infrastructure and operational capabilities. The memorandum of understanding, signed on October 11, 2024, further strengthens their collaboration, positioning Repsol as a leader in the industry while creating new commercial opportunities for Leucipa.

Leucipa is designed to help oil and gas operators manage field production more proactively, reducing inefficiencies and carbon emissions. By focusing on specific outcomes and utilising data-driven insights, the solution enables more environmentally sound operations and increases the recovery of oil and gas resources that would otherwise remain untapped.

This partnership marks a significant step in the energy sector’s ongoing digital transformation, as Baker Hughes and Repsol continue to push the boundaries of AI and automation to drive sustainable innovation.

For more information visit www.bakerhughes.com

TotalEnergies Lubrifiants, a leading global manufacturer of lubricants, has entered into a partnership with TecAlliance, the expert in data management and processes for the automotive aftermarket. Under this agreement, TotalEnergies Lubrifiants will make its full range of high-performance automotive products, including Quartz and ELF engine oils, available on TecDoc, the world’s foremost vehicle and replacement parts catalogue for the automotive aftermarket.

For over 30 years, TecDoc has provided comprehensive information on more than 10 million spare parts for over 220,000 vehicle types, featuring 1,000 brands across 50 countries. Through this collaboration, TotalEnergies Lubrifiants will reach a wider audience of automotive professionals, such as spare parts distributors, workshops, and garages worldwide, with its products now easily accessible through TecDoc’s state-of-the-art digital platform. This platform provides high-quality data and detailed product information, enabling customers to make informed choices and accurately identify the parts and solutions they require.

The partnership aligns with TotalEnergies Lubrifiants’ strategic objectives, including boosting its visibility and sales through digital channels, and unlocking new business opportunities in key markets. Jean Parizot, vice president Automotive at TotalEnergies Lubrifiants, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating: “TotalEnergies Lubrifiants remains committed to developing high-quality lubricants that meet the evolving needs of the automotive industry. By cooperating with TecAlliance, we are providing our customers with even greater access to our extensive product line. This partnership marks a significant milestone for us. It will strengthen our position as a trusted provider of innovative lubricant solutions that can now easily be identified through the TecDoc Catalogue.”

Peter van der Galiën, CEO of TecAlliance, welcomed the partnership, saying: “We are thrilled to welcome TotalEnergies as a TecDoc Data Supplier. Associating with them improves TecAlliance’s access to international markets, supply chains, and distribution networks, making them a perfect fit for our growing database. We are very pleased and confident this will be a mutually beneficial partnership.”

For more information visit www.totalenergies.com

ExxonMobil Corporation has executed the largest offshore carbon dioxide storage lease in the US, securing over 271,000 acres with the Texas General Land Office. This significant acquisition complements ExxonMobil’s existing onshore CO2 storage portfolio and further cements the US Gulf Coast as a leader in carbon capture and storage technology.

Dan Ammann, president of ExxonMobil Low Carbon Solutions, emphasised the importance of the agreement, stating, “This is yet another sign of our commitment to CCS and the strides we’ve been able to make. With our growing roster of customers ready to deploy CCS, we’ll be driving substantial emissions reductions along the Gulf Coast through a comprehensive solution that includes capture, transportation, and storage—capabilities that make us a clear leader.”

The lease agreement will also directly benefit the Texas Permanent School Fund, supporting education initiatives for children in Texas while contributing to emissions reduction and promoting community development in nearby areas.

Commissioner Buckingham of the Texas General Land Office highlighted the dual benefits of the deal, saying, “As the steward of 13 million acres of energy-rich state land, I am proud to partner with ExxonMobil in utilising state land for innovative solutions that can help ensure future energy production. Energy independence is vital to ensuring our state and country remain economic leaders around the globe. As a mom, I have long said that educating our children is the most important thing we do, and I am thrilled that the revenue from this lease will go toward benefiting our great state along with our Texas school children.”

The offshore site in the Gulf of Mexico offers vast potential for CO2 storage, playing a crucial role in helping society meet its net-zero goals. ExxonMobil, which operates the largest CO2 pipeline network in the US, is well-positioned to leverage this infrastructure to deliver a comprehensive carbon capture solution.

For more information visit www.exxonmobil.com

TGE Gas Engineering is pleased to announce the successful completion of the first phase of commissioning activities for its Ammonia project in Turkey. The commissioning of the Boil-Off Gas package, tank cool-down, and liquid build-up in the cryogenic storage tank have all been successfully executed, marking a significant achievement for the project.

The project, awarded in 2021, involves the engineering, procurement, and construction of an Ammonia terminal, which includes a 15,000-metric-tonne cryogenic storage tank. This terminal will enable the safe storage of cold Ammonia and provide a reliable supply to Eti Bakir A.S.’s downstream fertiliser plants.

TGE Gas Engineering extends its gratitude to Eti Bakir A.S. for their trust and collaboration throughout this process. The company now looks forward to reaching the next commissioning milestone, scheduled for November.

This project highlights TGE Gas Engineering’s commitment to delivering innovative and reliable engineering solutions, contributing to the safe and efficient operation of critical infrastructure.

For more information visit www.tge-gas.com

Paul Frankland, operations director at NEPIC, delivered an outstanding presentation during a morning session held at the Wilton Centre, North East England’s premier science park adjacent to Wilton International. The centre is a vital part of the North East of England Process Industry Cluster, the UK’s largest concentration of chemical, pharmaceutical, and process industries, and the second largest in Europe.

Alongside NEPIC CEO Joanne Fryett, Paul Frankland hosted Thorne & Derrick International and an international delegation from 3M Electrical to discuss the latest developments and opportunities in energy transition, particularly within the Net Zero space. The meeting reinforced NEPIC’s support for Thorne & Derrick’s business growth strategy in clean energy, low carbon, and hydrogen sectors, further positioning the Cluster as a critical player in the global transition to a sustainable future.

The presentation highlighted the extensive energy project pipeline on Teesside, with major companies such as BP, Equinor, Huntsman Corporation, SABIC, PD Ports, MGT Teesside, and px Group leading the way. Michael Kendall, Business Solutions Manager at the Tees Valley Combined Authority, emphasised the central role of Teesside in driving UK economic growth, aligning with the country’s Net Zero Strategy. TVCA is actively securing investments and creating jobs in the region, home to companies such as ReNew ELP, Alpek, ConocoPhillips, EDF Energy, Mitsubishi Chemical, and JDR Cable Systems.

Gillian Baker, head of commercial new business at Sembcorp, provided critical insights into the region’s electrical power infrastructure. Sembcorp operates the high-voltage power systems at Wilton International, supplying power via their on-site power station, substations, and private wire electricity grid, supporting industrial clients across the region.

The visit concluded with a guided tour of Wilton by Paul Frankland, which demonstrated the scale of business opportunities and the region’s national leadership in the future of decarbonised power. Teesside’s status as a centre of excellence for clean energy and Net Zero technologies was further underscored by the recent government approval of the £4 billion Net Zero Teesside project. This initiative aims to establish the world’s first industrial-scale Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage facility, placing Teesside at the forefront of the UK’s decarbonisation efforts.

Thorne & Derrick International, based in the North East of England, are leading UK specialist distributors, providing solutions that enhance personal safety, site efficiency, and plant reliability in harsh, high voltage, and hazardous areas. Their expertise ranges from managing legacy electrical infrastructure to delivering high voltage cable connection products for networks ranging from 600V to 66kV.

As a key member of the Cluster supply chain, Thorne & Derrick offers world-class customer support, including design services for trace heating and lighting systems in hazardous areas. Their extensive product range includes LV HV cables, accessories, jointing, substation, and electrical equipment, with a focus on safety and efficiency.

Thorne & Derrick are also a trusted 3M Electrical Distributor for the UK, offering products that utilise Scotchcast Resin and Cold Shrink Technologies for cable installation, jointing, and termination across low to high voltage systems.

Teesside is at the heart of the UK’s green revolution. The recent government approval of the Net Zero Teesside project further cements the region’s role as a hub for clean energy innovation. The £4 billion project will deliver a first-of-its-kind industrial-scale CCUS facility, which will contribute significantly to decarbonising the UK’s industrial heartlands.

Teesworks, the UK’s largest Freeport Tax Zone, continues to attract major investments, with SeAH Wind committing £650 million to a monopile manufacturing facility that will support offshore wind projects. This investment will further strengthen Teesside’s position as a leader in renewable energy development.

With key projects like Net Zero Teesside and the ongoing support of companies like Thorne & Derrick and the NEPIC Cluster, Teesside is poised to remain a driving force in the UK’s transition to a low-carbon economy, paving the way for sustainable industrial growth.

For more information visit www.thorneandderrick.com

Stolt Tankers is proud to announce that the Stolt Tankers Joint Service Pool, in collaboration with its partners NYK Line, CMB Tech, Tufton, and Farvatn, will donate $110,000 to support three environmental projects focused on carbon sequestration, biodiversity promotion, and the development of marine ecosystems. These initiatives align with Stolt Tankers’ sustainability goals and contribute to broader efforts to protect and restore vital natural habitats.

One of the beneficiaries of this donation is Project UGAT (Upsurging Greenery Amidst Tide), a mangrove reforestation initiative established by Stolt-Nielsen in 2021 in partnership with the Junior Chamber International Regatta. Located in Iloilo and Guimaras in the Philippines, this project aims to increase mangrove cover and improve habitat quality in key coastal areas.

Additionally, funds will be directed to the Kelp Forest Foundation, a Netherlands-based organisation dedicated to improving ocean health through research and education. The donation will support the foundation’s current projects in Namibia and New Zealand, which focus on kelp conservation and the role of these underwater forests in carbon capture and marine biodiversity enhancement.

The third recipient is the MSS Research Foundation’s Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) project in India. This initiative aims to promote seaweed cultivation along the Indian coastline, supporting sustainable aquaculture practices and fostering ecological balance. The foundation focuses on using modern science and technology to support environmentally friendly rural development, improving both environmental health and the livelihoods of local communities.

“We are delighted to join with our partners to support these three organisations, which are all doing incredible work to enhance the ecological health and biodiversity of our planet and support local communities,” said Stolt Tankers’ president, Maren Schroeder.

This contribution is part of Stolt Tankers’ ongoing commitment to sustainability. The company has pledged to reduce its carbon intensity by 50% by 2030 (compared to 2008 levels) and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Supporting initiatives like these also aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal 14 – Life Below Water, which aims to conserve and sustainably use the world’s oceans, seas, and marine resources.

In 2022 and 2023, STJS and its partners donated a combined total of $200,000 to Coastruction and One Tree Planted, organisations focused on coral reef regeneration and global reforestation efforts. These donations reflect a broader effort by Stolt Tankers and its partners to contribute to global environmental restoration and the preservation of critical ecosystems.

For more information visit www.stolt-nielsen.com

The Port of Newcastle’s Clean Energy Precinct has achieved a significant milestone, with the signing of agreements for Front End Engineering Designs and Environmental Impact Statements. These agreements cover essential infrastructure such as electrical systems, water services, storage, berth infrastructure, pipelines, and general site layout.

The projects are funded by a $100 million grant from the Commonwealth Government aimed at preparing the precinct for hydrogen readiness. Port of Newcastle CEO, Craig Carmody, was joined by federal member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon MP, to mark the occasion on-site.

Carmody highlighted the importance of this phase in the CEP’s development, stating, “The Clean Energy Precinct is central to the Port of Newcastle’s diversification strategy to create the port our community, region, and state need for the future. This phase will identify the infrastructure and services critical to moving the project towards hydrogen readiness.”

When fully developed, the CEP is expected to contribute $4.2 billion to the Hunter Region’s economy and generate 5,800 new jobs by 2040. It will also play a pivotal role in supporting the New South Wales Government’s decarbonisation goals, particularly through the Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, which promotes renewable energy generation, storage, and investment.

Carmody expressed gratitude to the Commonwealth and NSW Governments for their support, crediting industry partnerships for positioning Newcastle as a leader in clean energy production.

The successful tenderers for the FEED and EIS studies include Lumea, CoNEXA, and GHD (general infrastructure). These studies will help define the site layout and enable the environmental planning approvals necessary for the project.

The CEP aims to facilitate the production, storage, distribution, and export of clean energy, particularly green hydrogen and green ammonia. Once completed, the precinct will serve as a hub for clean energy transmission, domestic distribution, and international exports.

Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon, praised the CEP, describing it as a “major economic boost” for the region. She emphasised Newcastle’s historic role in powering Australia and highlighted the importance of this project in ensuring the region continues to lead the energy transition towards net zero.

NSW Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley, echoed these sentiments, pointing out that the project would create nearly 6,000 local jobs and inject billions into the regional economy, ensuring the Hunter’s energy sector remains at the forefront of the state’s transformation.

State Member for Newcastle, Tim Crakanthorp, underscored the importance of the precinct in the city’s shift away from coal. He expressed confidence in Newcastle’s existing infrastructure and skilled workforce to support this transition.

Lumea’s executive general manager, Craig Stallan, expressed excitement about the collaboration with the Port of Newcastle, calling it a “hugely progressive approach to electrification” that sets a benchmark for other industrial projects across Australia.

Kurt Dahl, CEO of CoNEXA, highlighted the alignment of sustainable water services with the vision of the CEP. CoNEXA’s role will focus on minimising overall water consumption and maximising recycling as the project moves forward.

GHD’s Executive general manager, Dean McIntyre, noted the company’s pride in partnering with the Port of Newcastle. He emphasised the importance of the Hunter region in Australia’s clean energy transition and expressed enthusiasm for the collaborative efforts that will shape the CEP’s development.

The Clean Energy Precinct marks a critical step in the Port of Newcastle’s ambition to lead the charge in renewable energy, bringing lasting economic and environmental benefits to the region

For more information visit www.portofnewcastle.com.au

Tidewater Transportation and Terminals marked a significant milestone on 11 October 2024 with the ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new Biofuel & Renewable Diesel Distribution Facility at the Snake River Termina in Pasco, Washington. This major development is set to boost clean energy access across the Pacific Northwest, enabled by a $3.1 million grant from the USDA’s Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Programme. The grant supports Tidewater’s mission to bring biodiesel to central and eastern Washington, Oregon, and northern Idaho.

The event was graced by notable leaders, including US Representative Dan Newhouse, USDA Rural business-cooperative service administrator Betsy Dirksen Londrigan, and representatives from the offices of senator Maria Cantwell and senator Ron Wyden. Their presence highlighted the importance of this project for the community and region.

With the expanded facility, Tidewater can now blend over 2 million gallons of biodiesel each month, providing a reliable source of renewable energy that will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with regional clean fuel initiatives. The Snake River Terminal’s multi-modal access to truck, rail, barge, and pipeline enhances its role as a critical hub for distributing clean energy solutions throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Tidewater expressed gratitude to the USDA, the Pacific Northwest congressional delegation, and its dedicated team members for making the project possible. This facility represents a significant step towards fueling a sustainable future and building a resilient energy infrastructure for tomorrow.

For more information visit www.tidewater.com

Santos has announced that the Darwin LNG joint venture, in which it holds a 43.43 percent interest, has successfully achieved financial close on new syndicated bank loan facilities totalling US$800 million. The joint venture, operated by Santos, secured strong support from both existing and new banking partners, demonstrating significant confidence in LNG’s role within the energy transition.

The new financing includes a US$350 million, 7-year partially amortising loan maturing in 2031, and a US$450 million, 12-year partially amortising loan maturing in 2036. Both loans are senior-secured by Darwin LNG Pty Ltd, with shareholders, including Santos, granting security over their shares in the company. The funds will be used to finance the life extension works for the Darwin LNG plant, which are scheduled for completion by mid-2025.

Kevin Gallagher, chief executive officer of Santos, commented on the positive outcome, stating, “This is an excellent result for Darwin LNG, showcasing the strong support from our bank lenders. It also highlights their recognition of LNG as a critical component of the energy transition and their willingness to support the LNG industry.”

Gallagher further noted that the debt raised aligns with Santos’ strategy of securing flexible, long-term, and competitively priced funding. He added that the new facilities position Darwin LNG well to consider future infrastructure expansion, including the potential for offering third-party carbon capture services in Darwin.

Since its commissioning in 2006, Darwin LNG has been processing LNG for export markets. After the cessation of LNG production from the Bayu-Undan field in late 2023, Darwin LNG has undertaken life extension works to prolong the plant’s design life. Once completed, the facility will provide gas processing and marine loading services under a long-term contract to the Barossa Joint Venture, which will supply gas from an offshore project located approximately 300 kilometres north of Darwin.

For more information visit www.santos.com

Woodside has announced the successful completion of the Scarborough Energy Project trunkline installation, a key milestone for the ambitious project. The 433-kilometre trunkline, which will transport gas from the offshore Scarborough field to the onshore Pluto LNG processing facility in Karratha, was installed over 12 months with contributions from numerous teams and contractors.

Liz Westcott, Woodside’s executive vice president and chief operating officer Australia, highlighted the trunkline’s critical role in the project. “The completion of installation is a significant accomplishment, reflecting the dedication of all involved in achieving this project milestone. With the last components of the trunkline in place, the focus will be maintained on safely executing the remaining project scopes to support the targeted first Scarborough LNG cargo in 2026.”

The installation required specialised vessels and expert teams, with collaboration between Woodside, Saipem, and sub-contractors praised for their outstanding delivery of this vital infrastructure.

The Scarborough Energy Project, now more than two-thirds complete, is poised to meet the growing demand for lower-carbon and reliable energy. It will supply up to 225 terajoules per day of domestic gas to the Western Australian market. The project is expected to inject over A$50 billion into Australia’s economy through direct and indirect taxes, create over 3,000 jobs during construction, and sustain nearly 600 jobs on average during its operational phase.

The Scarborough Energy Project remains on track to deliver its first LNG cargo in 2026.

For more information visit www.woodside.com

CB&I, a wholly owned unrestricted subsidiary of McDermott, has secured a sizeable lump-sum contract from the Saipem Clough joint venture for the engineering, procurement, and construction of ammonia storage and process tanks at the Perdaman Chemicals and Fertilisers Urea Plant on the Burrup Peninsula, Western Australia.

The project includes a 10,000 MT full containment ammonia storage tank, associated piping, and ten API 650 storage tanks. CB&I’s Perth office will lead project delivery, supported by the company’s offices in Plainfield, Illinois, and Thailand, for engineering, fabrication, and tank building services.

Mark Butts, senior vice president of CB&I, commented, “Selection of CB&I reflects our strong position as the premier tank builder in the ammonia storage market. We will leverage decades of experience in Australia to strengthen our portfolio in the region.”

Construction is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2025, with project completion expected in 2028. The Perdaman development will become the world’s largest gas stream ammonia-urea plant, located on the northwest coastline of Western Australia.

CB&I defines a sizeable contract as one valued between USD $10 million and $50 million.

For more information visit www.mcdermott-investors.com

ExxonMobil Low Carbon Solutions has announced a significant milestone in its carbon capture and storage efforts, securing a lease for over 271,000 acres of offshore CO2 storage in Texas state waters. This lease, executed with the Texas General Land Office, represents the largest of its kind in the US, marking a major addition to ExxonMobil’s CCS portfolio.

The agreement enhances ExxonMobil’s already robust pipeline and storage capabilities throughout the Gulf Coast region. By leveraging its expertise in subsurface operations, the company is well-positioned to provide comprehensive CCS solutions, including CO2 capture, transportation, and long-term storage for customers in hard-to-abate sectors.

In addition to advancing decarbonisation efforts, the lease will also contribute to the Texas Permanent School Fund, supporting educational initiatives for children across the state. This agreement is yet another step in ExxonMobil’s commitment to real-world progress in the transition to a lower-carbon future.

For more information visit www.exxonmobil.com

Creaform, a division of AMETEK, Inc. and a global leader in automated and portable 3D measurement solutions, has announced the release of VXintegrity 3.0. This latest version of its NDT software introduces several key features aimed at improving fitness-for-service evaluations for oil and gas infrastructure. With VXintegrity 3.0, asset owners can now seamlessly access finite element analysis simulations for Level III assessments and utilise American Petroleum Institute 579 standard tools for Level I and II evaluations.

By integrating Creaform’s handheld 3D laser scanning technology, VXintegrity simplifies the process of generating a ready-to-simulate model of corroded pipelines via its FEA model export feature. This model is then sent to Creaform Engineering’s simulation team for detailed analysis and accurate results. This streamlined process offers asset owners new metrics on burst pressure and enables faster, more efficient evaluations.

Level III assessments, which previously took weeks, can now be completed much more quickly, significantly reducing downtime and lowering costs. When used with Creaform’s 3D scanning solutions, the accuracy of burst pressure simulations is greatly improved over traditional methods, helping asset owners optimise inspection programmes and avoid unnecessary repairs.

Additionally, the API 579 standard incorporated into VXintegrity 3.0 simplifies Level I and II assessments for surface corrosion, ensuring compliance with structural integrity standards for pressurised components in refineries, chemical plants, and other industrial facilities. This new functionality provides asset owners with reliable, on-site information about operating conditions, aiding in timely and informed maintenance decisions for complex equipment such as piping systems, pressure vessels, and storage tanks.

François Lachance, product manager at Creaform, stated, “The enhancements to VXintegrity were highly anticipated by asset owners. With the added FEA capabilities and API 579 compliance, this platform will simplify all levels of assessment, reducing downtime, costs, and uncertainty. It’s truly a disruptive solution in the NDT industry.”

VXintegrity 3.0 will be showcased at the ASNT 2024 event in Las Vegas. Visit Creaform at booth 821 from October 21st to 24th for live demonstrations and insights into these groundbreaking updates.

For more information visit www.creaform3d.com

AEKS is a Croatian service company active throughout Europe with extensive experience in cleaning storage tanks used for storing crude oil, oil derivatives, process water and similar substances. Over the years, it has developed expertise and chosen technologies that have enabled it to remove, in total, more than 80,000 m³ of material.

Always attentive to the most advanced technologies, AEKS has recently chosen Gerotto’s no-man-entry solutions to ensure even more safety for operators and optimise site times. The company, in fact, has included Gerotto’s tank cleaning system in its fleet, equipped with the two 10-foot containers solution. Thanks to this set-up, one container is dedicated to the power unit that powers the entire system, while the second container houses the Atex Zone 1-certified control room with the workstation to manoeuvre the robot thanks to explosion-proof screens and actuators. The remotely controlled – and fully hydronic – robot is Gerotto’s ATEX Zone 0 certified Lombrico S model. This ROV is a compact machine capable of entering a 600 [mm] manhole and removing material thanks to a non-sparking metal auger, high-pressure nozzles to break up the material and a suction hose connected to an external vacuum truck.

«At AEKS – comments the Company – we believe that safety, efficiency, and productivity should go hand in hand. Our no-man entry robotic cleaning system developed by Gerotto is transforming industrial cleaning by eliminating the need for personnel to enter confined spaces, significantly reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, the system requires less manpower to clean tanks and other confined space areas, while still delivering enhanced precision and consistency. This means companies can minimise downtime, improve operational safety, and cut labour costs—all without sacrificing quality».

 AEKS was commissioned in 2024 to clean a tank – with a fixed roof – owned by INA, a company that was founded in 1964 and is now a major player in the European oil and gas industry. The tank contained crude oil, deposited over about ten years, which left about 1.5 metres of material on the bottom to be removed. A large amount of mercury was detected inside. Before the robot could enter, the sediment level had to be lowered by a dilution process using water and suction that lasted about four weeks.

In approximately one week, 40/50 tonnes of material was removed daily.  This was achieved by allowing the entire staff to work in complete safety, without having to enter the tanker and managing all operations from the Control Room. Compared to the use of manpower, apart from the obvious inherent risk of working within an explosive gas saturated environment, it would have taken at least 2 weeks to remove all the sediment. Once the suction operations with the robot were completed, Aeks subsequently cleaned the tank with chemical solvents to prepare it to receive more material.

Highlights:

• – 40/50 tonnes per day
• – 1 week of work for a team of only 5 people.
• – Safety for the operators.
• – Possibility of having video documentation of cleaning operations with the robot.
• – Halving the duration of cleaning operations.

For more information visit www.gerotto.it

Standic, a long-established Dutch tank storage company and part of the Hametha group, has expanded its operations with a cutting-edge terminal in Antwerp’s chemical hub. This new facility was meticulously designed to serve the company’s chemical customers more efficiently while maintaining high standards of energy efficiency.

Energy conservation was a priority during the terminal’s design phase, with innovative systems such as heat recovery from vapours to warm the tanks. Another key feature contributing to this efficiency was the use of FOAMGLAS® cellular glass insulation, which was placed between the concrete foundation and the base of the tanks. This insulation system minimises heat loss through the tank bottoms, reducing the energy required for heating and lowering operational costs.

The new terminal’s construction has been rolled out in phases. Phase I saw the addition of 95,000 m³ of storage capacity across 79 tanks, each standing 24 metres high. Phase II brought an additional 85,000 m³ and 46 more tanks. By the end of 2025, with the completion of Phase III, the terminal will provide a total of 249,000 m³ of storage capacity.

FOAMGLAS® insulation is not new to Standic, as the company had previously installed it at its Dordrecht terminal over a decade ago. The flexibility provided by FOAMGLAS® allows Standic to store a wide range of products in both heated and cooled conditions, making their operations more adaptable.

For this project, Owens Corning supplied FOAMGLAS® HLB 1200 high load-bearing insulation blocks, with a thickness of 50 mm, for installation under 51 tanks during Phase I. Phase II involved insulating an additional 46 tanks, further enhancing the terminal’s energy efficiency. The application of this insulation system contributes to reduced energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, and long-term sustainability of the terminal’s operations.

Standic’s Antwerp terminal is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation and efficiency in chemical storage, setting a benchmark for energy-conscious industrial facilities.

For more information visit www.foamglas.com

ELAFLEX Group, a leading international specialist in refuelling and handling technology, will present its latest products and solutions for the safe and economical management of LPG, DME, and their mixtures at LPG Week 2024. The event will take place from 18 to 22 November at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, with ELAFLEX displaying on stand A8/A9.

In Africa, Liquid Petroleum Gas plays a significant role in domestic heating and cooking, while its high energy density makes it an ideal fuel for motor vehicle conversion. With any fuel, whether conventional or alternative, safety, environmental sustainability, and ease of use are critical. ELAFLEX, with its long-standing expertise, offers durable, cost-effective solutions tailored to the unique requirements of handling LPG, DME (including derived mixtures), CNG, and hydrogen.

At LPG Week 2024, trade visitors will have the opportunity to explore ELAFLEX’s cutting-edge solutions, including:

• Safe and user-friendly refuelling solutions for LPG/Autogas, compatible with all global connection variants.
• Reliable industrial equipment designed for the efficient handling of LPG, DME, and derived mixtures.
• MannTek’s dry and safety couplings, which prevent environmental damage, personal injury, and product loss when working with sensitive media.
• Future-proof transfer solutions for cryogenic, liquefied, or highly compressed alternative fuels, such as CNG or hydrogen.

ELAFLEX has established itself as a key player in the global market, providing advanced refuelling and handling technology for land, sea, rail, and air applications. The company’s presence at LPG Week 2024 will showcase its commitment to delivering sustainable and reliable technologies that meet the evolving demands of the energy sector.

For more information visit www.elaflex.de

JERA has announced a €1 million investment in Granular Energy through JERA Ventures, reinforcing its commitment to helping clients achieve green transformation and boost transparency in their decarbonisation efforts.

As part of its ongoing initiative to implement 24/7 carbon-free energy solutions, JERA Cross, the green transformation arm of JERA, will pilot Granular Energy’s innovative renewable energy data management system. This technology enables hour-by-hour matching of power generation and consumption, while aligning with existing certification systems to enhance transparency.

JERA’s leadership in promoting the market for 24/7 carbon-free energy in Japan will enable clients to access sustainable energy around the clock, playing a pivotal role in advancing a truly carbon-free society.

For more information visit www.jera.co.jp

Petrofac has announced further growth in Africa with the award of a new Master Service Agreement to support Marathon Oil’s operations in Equatorial Guinea. Under this agreement, Petrofac will provide technical authority and discipline engineering support to ensure operational excellence, integrity, and safety across key onshore and offshore assets. These assets include five offshore steel jacket facilities in the Alba Field and the Alba Gas Plant onshore.

This MSA builds on Petrofac’s established relationship with Marathon Oil, having previously delivered engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance services to Marathon’s Brae assets in the North Sea.

Alex Macdonald, managing director for Asset Solutions in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, commented: “This award is a testament to our growing reputation in the region as a safe and efficient service provider, delivering value for our clients. Africa is a key focus area for our business, and we look forward to building our relationship with Marathon Oil, supporting its assets in Equatorial Guinea.”

Africa remains central to Petrofac’s Asset Solutions business strategy. With ongoing operations in Ivory Coast, Ghana, Senegal, and Mauritania, this latest expansion into Equatorial Guinea follows a Technical Services Contract awarded by GEPetrol, the National Oil Company of Equatorial Guinea. Petrofac’s continued growth across the continent underscores its commitment to supporting Africa’s energy sector.

For more information visit www.petrofac.com

Exolum is excited to announce its new membership with the Greater Houston Partnership, the largest chamber of commerce in the Houston area. This milestone follows Exolum’s recent expansion into Houston through the acquisition of 50% of a leading ammonia and LNG storage facility.

Joining the Greater Houston Partnership is a strategic move that aligns with Exolum’s goals of increasing its presence and impact in the United States. Through this collaboration, Exolum aims to contribute to the region’s growth, focusing on innovation and sustainability initiatives.

The company extends special thanks to Nichelle A. Poindexter and Andres Suarez for their efforts in facilitating this partnership, marking an important step in Exolum’s ongoing expansion journey.

For more information visit www.exolum.com

QatarEnergy has announced a landmark 20-year naphtha supply agreement with Shell International Eastern Trading Company, a Singapore-based subsidiary of Shell. Under the terms of the agreement, QatarEnergy will supply up to 18 million tonnes of naphtha to Shell, with deliveries set to begin in April 2025.

His Excellency Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, Qatar’s minister of state for Energy Affairs and president and CEO of QatarEnergy, expressed his enthusiasm for the deal, stating, “We are delighted to sign QatarEnergy’s first 20-year naphtha sales agreement, the largest and longest to date. This is our second such agreement with Shell since 2019 and builds on our strategy of stronger relations with established end-users and partners.”

Al-Kaabi emphasised the importance of Shell as a reliable naphtha off-taker and strategic partner, adding that this agreement further solidifies the relationship between the two companies. He noted that QatarEnergy looks forward to continued collaboration and mutual successes with Shell in the future.

Wael Sawan, CEO of Shell, expressed his appreciation for the partnership, stating, “We are honoured to enter into this long-term agreement with our esteemed partner, QatarEnergy. This deal will support Shell as we deliver more value for our customers worldwide and marks another significant milestone in our long-established partnership.”

The agreement strengthens the existing strategic partnership between QatarEnergy and Shell, which includes joint investments in various energy projects in Qatar and beyond. These include QatarEnergy’s LNG projects, the Pearl GTL Plant, and other significant ventures globally.

For more information visit www.qatarenergy.qa

Kinley Construction, a prominent leader in industrial fueling construction, has announced the expansion of its operations by opening new regional offices in Houston, Kansas City, Denver, and Seattle. This strategic move aims to strengthen Kinley’s proximity to top talent and enhance customer service across the United States.

Proximity to Local Talent: Acknowledging that top professionals may not always relocate to the Texas headquarters, Kinley’s new offices will attract skilled professionals from these regions. This initiative ensures access to highly qualified talent within each community.

Closer Customer Connections: The new locations will deepen Kinley’s relationships with key clients, including those in Houston’s Energy Corridor, engineering partners, and railroads in Kansas City, and a variety of West Coast customers. This will improve service delivery and client interactions.

Enhanced Employee Flexibility: By decentralising operations, Kinley aims to improve work-life balance, job satisfaction, and employee retention through flexible work arrangements.

Specialised Expertise: Each office will offer tailored services to meet local demands while integrating Kinley’s full range of product offerings:

• Houston: Specialises in electrical and energy projects.
• Kansas City: Focuses on railroad-related work.
• Denver: Centres on aviation projects.
• Seattle: Expands commercial building services.

Josh Crisafulli, chief commercial officer of Kinley Construction, stated, “For decades, we managed projects nationwide from Texas. With advancements in technology, we realised we could replicate this structure in multiple regions. Our new offices, alongside a dozen remote managers working from South Texas, New York, Florida, and beyond, will allow us to offer better support and flexibility.”

Already creating over 35 new jobs, the offices are designed to accommodate further staff, positioning Kinley for long-term development and employee growth.

This expansion showcases Kinley Construction’s forward-thinking approach, building on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic. The company is dedicated to evolving work environments, and enhancing customer and employee experiences while cementing its role as an industry leader.

With these strategic expansions, Kinley Construction is set for continued growth and innovation across the US.

For more information visit www.kinleyconstruction.com

Woodside has successfully completed its acquisition of Tellurian Inc. and its Driftwood LNG development project located on the US Gulf Coast. The transaction, valued at approximately $900 million in cash, saw Woodside acquire all issued and outstanding Tellurian common stock at $1.00 per share. The total implied enterprise value of the acquisition is around $1.2 billion.

As part of this acquisition, Woodside has rebranded the Driftwood LNG development to “Woodside Louisiana LNG.” This under-construction, pre-final investment decision project is located in Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana. It boasts a permitted production and export capacity of 27.6 million tonnes per annum, making it a significant asset in the global LNG market.

Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill described the acquisition as a transformative step for the company, noting that it expands Woodside’s footprint in the US LNG sector and strengthens its ability to serve global markets. “This is a major growth opportunity that significantly expands our US LNG position, enabling us to better serve global customers and capture further marketing optimisation opportunities across both the Atlantic and Pacific Basins,” O’Neill said.

She emphasised that Woodside’s expertise in project execution, operations, and marketing positions the company well to advance and unlock the full potential of Woodside Louisiana LNG. With its competitive advantages, including full permitting, completed front-end engineering design, and advanced site civil works, the project is on track for further development.

Woodside is targeting FID readiness by the first quarter of 2025. The company will benefit from the expertise of the experienced Tellurian team and its engineering, procurement, and construction contractor Bechtel, who have already made significant progress in bringing the project to its current stage.

This acquisition marks a new chapter in Woodside’s strategic direction, bolstering its global LNG portfolio and reinforcing its presence in the US energy market.

For more information visit www.woodside.com

Gregory Ebel, president and CEO, along with Colin Gruending, executive vice president and president of Liquids Pipelines, recently led a tour of the Sarnia Terminal, one of the key facilities in the company’s liquids pipeline network. During the visit, the leaders also hosted a roundtable luncheon to discuss the strategic importance of Line 5, which runs from Superior, Wisconsin, through Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, and concludes in Sarnia, Ontario.

Line 5 is a critical piece of energy infrastructure, providing the energy products that millions of people rely on daily in both the US Midwest and Ontario. The pipeline has the capacity to transport up to 540,000 barrels per day of light crude oil and natural gas liquids. These products are refined into essential fuels, including gasoline and propane, which support local communities and industries across the region.

The roundtable highlighted the significance of Line 5 in ensuring a steady energy supply and its role in driving economic stability and energy security for the surrounding areas.

For more information visit www.enbridge.com

Cando Rail & Terminals, one of North America’s largest owners and operators of first and last mile rail infrastructure, is pleased to announce the appointment of Eric Buettner as the company’s first Chief Legal Officer.

Buettner has more than 10 years’ experience practising in the areas of corporate and commercial law with a focus on mergers and acquisitions at MLT Aikins. He is experienced in providing advice to private corporations and shareholders in the negotiation and completion of purchases and sales of businesses, commercial transaction structuring, mergers, corporate finance, corporate planning, organisation and governance, and shareholder and partnership agreements. Buettner has acted as external counsel for Cando since 2018, primarily on transactional, commercial, and real estate matters.

Brian Cornick, president & CEO of Cando Rail & Terminals, highlights the strategic importance of the company’s second executive hire in six months as Cando remains focused on investing in rail infrastructure to support shipper-customers and Class I partners.

“Eric has built an exceptional track record, overseeing robust merger and acquisition transactions, implementing structures for new investments, and helping to shape important commercial agreements,” says Cornick. “Cando has quickly become one of North America’s largest owners and operators of first and last mile rail infrastructure. Bringing in a CLO of Eric’s caliber will be invaluable to Cando as we enter our most ambitious chapter yet.”

Buettner was born and raised in Winnipeg and is working out of Cando’s Winnipeg corporate office. He holds a BA and JD from the University of Manitoba and is a member of the Manitoba Bar.

For more information visit www.candorail.com

HES Botlek Tank Terminal recently hosted its first-ever company-wide Health, Safety & Environment Day, and it was a resounding success. The event aimed to reinforce safety awareness and enhance readiness across the terminal through a series of interactive and practical activities.

One of the highlights was an emergency response drill, marking the first time the terminal conducted a simulated drowning rescue at one of its jetties. The team also engaged in a treasure hunt, where groups scoured the terminal to identify potential abnormalities, reinforcing vigilance and safety practices. Essential safety skills were sharpened through resuscitation training and hands-on fire extinguisher usage, ensuring that everyone was well-prepared for potential incidents.

After an eventful day, participants were treated to fresh pizzas from an on-site food truck, providing a well-deserved reward for their hard work.

“At HES, the safety of employees, contractors, and visitors remains a top priority. The success of this inaugural event has inspired the company to make HSE Day an annual tradition, further solidifying its commitment to creating a safer workplace.”

“A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who took part in making the day both educational and enjoyable.”

For more information visit www.hesinternational.eu

The Engineering Equipment and Materials Users Association has launched EEMUA Publication 248 (Edition 1), ‘UK Pressure Equipment – A guide to the information to be supplied to the PSSR Competent Person for drawing-up a Written Scheme of Examination’.

EEMUA 248 has been written to aid stakeholders in the process of transfer of knowledge from those responsible for the manufacture of equipment, assemblies, and systems to the user/owner and competent person who are responsible under the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 for a written scheme of examination.

To draw up an effective WSE and enable effective examinations, inspections, repairs, and modifications to the equipment once it enters service, the transfer of such information and knowledge is imperative. In the UK, it is illegal to operate pressure systems which fall under the PSSR without establishing safe operating limits and having a suitable WSE in place.

The new guidance has been developed through a collaboration of engineers and representatives from EEMUA, the Pressure Equipment Consultation Forum and the Safety Assessment Federation in consultation with other stakeholders within the pressure equipment industry. It incorporates technical advice from the Health and Safety Executive in the UK.

EEMUA 248 Edition 1 is free to download from the EEMUA website.

The publication is issued jointly by EEMUA and SAFed (as PEDG03).

For more information visit www.eemua.org

VTTI, a global leader in energy infrastructure, has partnered with Connex, a prominent renewable feedstock trader, to develop a cutting-edge pretreatment facility for renewable feedstocks, or “greenstocks,” at VTTI’s terminal in Amsterdam. The new Greenstock Pretreatment Facility is set to process over 400,000 tonnes of renewable feedstocks annually and is scheduled to become operational by 2027.

The GPF will offer services for the storage, blending, and pretreatment of renewable feedstocks like used cooking oil, animal fats, and other advanced waste residues. These feedstocks will be processed into essential components for the production of renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel , providing customers with enhanced options for sustainable fuel production in Northern Europe.

This collaboration merges Connex’s expertise in renewable feedstocks trading with VTTI’s proficiency in energy infrastructure, storage, and logistics. Connex, based in Rotterdam, specialises in trading sustainable materials such as used cooking oil, animal fats, and other advanced waste products that are vital in biofuel production. Meanwhile, VTTI operates large-scale energy infrastructure globally, including storage terminals and regasification facilities, and plays a key role in liquid bulk energy storage.

At its Amsterdam terminal, VTTI will provide 70,000 m³ of dedicated tank storage for the project, offering operational flexibility with advanced infrastructure for loading, discharging, and ensuring top-tier quality control. The collaboration will give customers access to a comprehensive range of services, from feedstock aggregation and blending to full pretreatment, preparing these sustainable materials for biofuel production.

Bram van Santen, corporate director of Connex, emphasised the importance of the project in addressing the growing demand for sustainable fuel production:
“The demand for feedstocks to produce SAF and HVO is expected to triple in the coming years. The Greenstock Pretreatment Facility’s strategic location near refineries and major transportation hubs positions it perfectly to meet this demand. Effective pretreatment is crucial to producing cleaner fuels for the future.”

Jaap Koomen, senior vice president and head of country for VTTI in the Netherlands, highlighted VTTI’s commitment to transitioning towards sustainable energy: “At VTTI, we aim for 50 percent of our earnings to come from sustainable and transitional energy sources by 2028. The Greenstock Pretreatment Facility will be a vital step in achieving this. In Amsterdam, it will complement our ongoing efforts to ensure that at least 50 percent of our terminal’s energy comes from renewable sources by 2025, contributing to the Port of Amsterdam’s goal to be one of Europe’s most sustainable ports by 2030.”

The new facility will operate using the latest energy-efficient technologies, supporting both sustainability and operational efficiency. Currently, the site is undergoing preparations for permitting and construction, with the facility poised to play a key role in supporting the energy transition in Europe.

This collaboration between VTTI and Connex underscores their shared commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and driving the global shift towards cleaner fuel production.

For more information visit www.vtti.com

Hawk Measurement Systems, a global leader in innovative measurement and monitoring solutions, has been honoured with the Resources and Energy Award at the 2024 Governor of Victoria Export Awards. This prestigious recognition highlights HAWK’s excellence in providing world-class technology to the resources and energy sectors and its strong commitment to innovation and sustainability.

With this significant win, Hawk Measurement Systems is now a national finalist in the 62nd Australian Export Awards. The company is in the running to receive further recognition on the national stage, with the possibility of being crowned the 2024 Australian Exporter of the Year.

“We are incredibly proud to have received this award, which is a testament to our team’s hard work, dedication, and innovative approach,” said Les Richards, CEO of Hawk Measurement Systems. “Our technology empowers industries worldwide to operate more efficiently and sustainably, and this recognition further motivates us to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in measurement solutions.”

As a finalist in the Australian Export Awards, Hawk Measurement Systems will join a select group of the country’s top exporters, competing for national recognition in one of the most respected export award programmes. Winning the national title would not only highlight the company’s export success but also solidify its role as a leading innovator in the global marketplace.

The national winners will be announced later this year, and Hawk Measurement Systems remains optimistic about the opportunity to showcase its achievements on a larger scale.

For more information visit www.hawkmeasurement.com

Avenir LNG Limited announces it has signed a Time Charter Party with LNG Shipping S.p.A., a 100 percent subsidiary of Eni S.p.A. for one of the Company’s 7,500cbm LNG Bunker Vessels, the Avenir Aspiration. The multi-year time charter to Eni will commence from delivery in Europe in 2025.

This agreement further establishes Avenir as the leading provider for modern LNG bunker vessels, both as an owner and operator. With this announcement, the Company continues to deliver on its chartering strategy which has successfully concluded four new term charter agreements over the past 12 months across its fleet of 5 vessels on the water and 2 under construction.

This charter increases the Company’s third-party charter revenue backlog, including options, to over $285 million, securing additional long term sustainable cashflow for the Group and shareholders over the next decade.

The Avenir Aspiration currently trades alongside the Avenir Ascension in the Northwest Europe performing small-scale supply services and ship-to-ship bunkering operations as part of Avenir’s physical LNG trading division, Avenir Supply and Trading.

Mr. Jonathan Quinn, managing director of Avenir LNG, commented: “We are excited to be working with Eni to support their expansion into the LNG Bunkering market. This transaction further solidifies Avenir as the trusted partner for modern and efficient small-scale LNG vessels as well as delivering on our strategy to facilitate the growth of LNG as a marine fuel globally. We look forward to embarking on this long-term relationship with Eni whom we will serve with the highest safety and operational standards which Avenir has come to be known for.”

For more information visit www.qatarenergy.qa

Chevron Canada Limited, an indirect subsidiary of Chevron Corporation, has announced the sale of its 20 percent non-operated interest in the Athabasca Oil Sands Project, its 70 percent operated interest in the Duvernay shale, and related assets in Alberta, Canada. The buyer, Canadian Natural Resources Limited, will acquire the assets in an all-cash transaction valued at US$6.5 billion.

The deal, which has an effective date of September 1, 2024, is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2024, pending regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. The assets involved in the agreement contributed 84 thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day of production to Chevron in 2023, net of royalties.

This transaction is part of Chevron’s broader strategy to divest $10–15 billion in assets by 2028, aligning with its goal to optimise its global energy portfolio.

For more information visit www.chevron.com

OMV Petrom, the largest integrated energy producer in Southeastern Europe, has expanded its natural gas supply activities into Bulgaria, offering industrial consumers access to its services starting in October. This expansion builds on the company’s growing presence in the region, having consolidated its operations in Romania over the last two years.

Franck Neel, executive board member responsible for Gas and Power at OMV Petrom, commented on the strategic move: “Bulgaria is a natural step considering its proximity and our existing presence in the country through the OMV stations network and exploration operations in the Black Sea.”

Already established as a leader in supplying natural gas to non-domestic customers in Romania, OMV Petrom will leverage its experience to serve the Bulgarian market. The company has existing wholesale gas operations in Bulgaria and aims to provide tailored and flexible offers for industrial clients.

“We aim to become a reliable partner for natural gas customers in Bulgaria, aligning our services with their expectations,” added Angel Yankov, OMV Petrom’s Gas & Power representative in Bulgaria.

OMV Petrom is involved across the entire natural gas value chain, from production to supply. In 2023, it produced 3.3 billion cubic metres of natural gas and covered around 40 percent of Romania’s gas consumption. The company also holds a 50 percent share in the Neptun Deep project, the largest natural gas resource in the European Union, with first production expected in 2027.

In Bulgaria, OMV Petrom operates a network of branded filling stations and holds the exploration licence for the Han Asparuh perimeter in the Black Sea, where it also serves as the operator.

For more information visit www.omvpetrom.com

Equinor ASA has acquired 41,197,344 shares in Ørsted A/S, representing 9.8 percent of the company’s shares and voting rights. This move positions Equinor as Ørsted’s second-largest shareholder, following the Danish State, which retains a controlling stake in the renewable energy giant.

“This is a counter-cyclical investment in a leading developer with a premium portfolio of offshore wind assets,” said Anders Opedal, CEO of Equinor. He emphasised that Equinor’s investment in Ørsted aligns with the company’s long-term strategy of value-driven growth in renewables and complements its own offshore wind projects under development.

While Equinor supports Ørsted’s strategy and management, it is not seeking board representation. Opedal reiterated confidence in the long-term outlook for offshore wind, despite current challenges facing the industry, and highlighted the crucial role it will play in the global energy transition.

Ørsted has a net renewable generation capacity of approximately 10.4 GW and a gross portfolio of 7 GW in offshore wind projects under execution. The company aims to reach a gross installed renewable capacity of 35-38 GW by 2030.

Equinor’s USD 2.5 billion stake in Ørsted was acquired through a combination of market purchases and a block trade, with the company planning to increase its ownership to 10 percent, subject to regulatory approvals. There are no further plans to increase the stake beyond that.

For more information visit www.equinor.com

TotalEnergies has entered into an agreement with RWE to acquire a 50 percent stake in two offshore wind projects, N-9.1 and N-9.2, located 110 km off the coast of Germany. Each project has a capacity of 2 GW, and the awarded licences, granted to RWE in August 2024, span 25 years with the possibility of extension to 35 years.

This acquisition enhances TotalEnergies’ existing offshore wind portfolio in Germany, which includes the N-12.1, N-11.2, and O-2.2 concessions. The combined 6.5 GW capacity from these projects will allow the company to optimise construction and operational efficiencies, creating synergies across its German offshore wind hub.

Olivier Jouny, senior vice president of renewables at TotalEnergies, emphasised the significance of this partnership with RWE, noting, “This new collaboration strengthens our presence in the German electricity market, Europe’s largest, and enables us to contribute to the country’s decarbonisation efforts by supplying green energy.”

RWE’s CEO of Offshore Wind, Sven Utermöhlen, welcomed the partnership with TotalEnergies, highlighting their shared ambition to accelerate offshore wind growth. He praised TotalEnergies as a trusted partner in their OranjeWind project in the Netherlands and emphasised RWE’s expertise in the offshore wind sector.

The projects are slated for completion in 2031 and 2032, with preliminary environmental and oceanographic studies already conducted by the German Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency. This data will be instrumental in planning the construction of the wind farms.

For more information visit www.totalenergies.com

McDermott International, Ltd has entered into an agreement to sell its CB&I storage business to a consortium of financial investors led by Mason Capital Management. The transaction, valued at $475 million before taxes and expenses, is expected to close in the fourth quarter of this year.

The sale follows a comprehensive marketing process that attracted multiple bids from prospective buyers. Proceeds from the transaction will be used to repay CB&I’s term loan, cash collateralise McDermott’s letters of credit, and reduce an existing McDermott term loan.

“The significant interest in our storage business reflects its long history of delivering world-class storage solutions and its promising future,” said Michael McKelvy, president and CEO of McDermott. “This is the best outcome for McDermott, CB&I, its customers, and its employees.”

CB&I, a global leader in designing and constructing storage facilities, tanks, and terminals, became part of McDermott in 2018. McDermott strengthened CB&I’s operations in 2023 by providing a dedicated capital structure to support the business.

“We are excited for the next chapter in our 130-year history,” stated Mark Butts, senior vice president of CB&I. “The consortium is composed of shareholders who understand and support our strategy.”

Mike Martino, managing member and principal of Mason Capital, expressed optimism about the acquisition. “We believe CB&I has significant potential as a standalone company, and we look forward to leveraging our experience to enhance its operations and drive long-term growth.”

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC served as the exclusive financial advisor to McDermott, with legal counsel provided by Kirkland & Ellis LLP. Citi acted as exclusive financial advisor to Mason, with legal counsel from Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP.

For more information visit www.mcdermott-investors.com

Shell Pipeline Company LP has announced the Final Investment Decision for the Rome Pipeline, a major offshore pipeline construction project designed to enhance connectivity between Shell’s Green Canyon Block 19 (GC-19) pipeline hub platform and the Fourchon Junction facility on the Louisiana Gulf Coast. This project will increase capacity within Shell’s extensive Gulf of Mexico network, supporting domestic oil production in the western and central regions of the GoM.

“This investment will reinforce Shell’s strategic position in the US Gulf of Mexico through enhanced oil transport capacity, flexibility, and efficiency,” stated Andrew Smith, Shell’s executive vice president of Trading and Supply.

Shell has also entered into an agreement with BP America Production Company to export 100 percent of the oil produced from bp’s recently sanctioned Kaskida project in the Keathley Canyon area through the Rome Pipeline.

The 100-mile-long Rome Pipeline will run parallel to existing corridor pipelines and originate from Shell’s GC-19 pipeline hub platform, which is connected to major crude oil markets in Texas and Louisiana. Building on its long history of safe pipeline operations, Shell will leverage its experience managing nearly 3,000 miles of pipeline in Louisiana and the surrounding waters of the Gulf.

Pending regulatory approvals, the Rome Pipeline is expected to commence operations in 2028.

For more information visit www.shell.us