TotalEnergies expands its partnership with SONATRACH in Timimoun region and in the marketing of LNG

TotalEnergies and SONATRACH have formalised their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at concluding a hydrocarbon contract in the north-east Timimoun region, in accordance with Law n°19-13 governing hydrocarbon activities.

The MoU delineates a comprehensive work programme for the appraisal and development of gas resources in the North-East Timimoun region. This programme is designed to synergize with existing processing facilities for production in the Timimoun field, with the overarching goals of cost reduction and emissions mitigation.

Julien Pouget, senior vice president of Middle East and North Africa Exploration and Production at TotalEnergies, commented on the significance of the MoU, stating, “This Memorandum of Understanding reflects our shared commitment to expanding our strategic partnership with Sonatrach.”

Earlier this year, TotalEnergies and SONATRACH extended their cooperation into the liquefied natural gas sector, prolonging their contractual relationship until 2025. As part of this extension, SONATRACH will deliver two million metric tonnes of LNG to TotalEnergies at the port of Fos-Cavaou, near Marseille, in 2025. This collaboration contributes directly to the security of energy supply in France and Europe.

For more information visit www.totalenergies.com

Phase 4 expansion begins at Rubis Terminal Rotterdam a symbolic start to a promising project

Under the watchful gaze of employees, contractors, and other stakeholders, the commencement of Phase 4 expansion at Rubis Terminal Rotterdam has officially begun. Following tradition, a coin was ceremoniously thrown in with the first piling, symbolising the start of another successful project.

Phase 4 is scheduled to be operational by April 2025 and will feature nine tanks with a combined capacity of 28,000 m3. These tanks are strategically configured to handle a diverse range of chemicals, biofuels, and circular products, including pyrolysis oils.

In anticipation of the project’s success, Rubis Terminal Rotterdam extends gratitude to all involved parties, acknowledging their indispensable contributions as the true driving force behind this endeavour. Updates on the progress of Phase 4 will be provided to keep stakeholders informed and engaged throughout the expansion process.

For more information visit www.rubis-terminal.nl

UAB-Online welcomes px Group

As of April 4th, px Group has announced the integration of UAB-Online’s innovative liquid bulk handling software into their sea shipping operations at Saltend Chemicals Park in Hull, UK. This collaboration brings together px Group and leading global companies such as Ineos Acetyls, Mitsubishi Chemical, Vivergo Fuels, and Yara on the collaborative platform provided by UAB-Online. The integration of this advanced software marks a significant milestone in px Group’s optimisation journey.

UAB-Online is excited to join forces with px Group in working towards a future that prioritises safety, efficiency, and sustainability in both inland and sea shipping worldwide. With their smart and affordable application, UAB-Online aims to deliver a solution that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of users, offering direct benefits in terms of efficiency and safety. By adhering to the ISGOTT6 process, UAB-Online ensures a streamlined and standardised approach to liquid bulk handling.

The application provided by UAB-Online not only improves the lives of those involved in shipping but also indirectly benefits the entire supply chain. By implementing their software, px Group and its partners can expect enhanced operational efficiency, reduced risks, and improved sustainability practices. This collaboration signifies a shared commitment to driving positive change in the shipping industry.

With this integration, px Group and UAB-Online are poised for a successful collaboration that will pave the way for safer, more efficient, and sustainable shipping practices. Together, they are dedicated to revolutionising the industry and shaping a future where liquid bulk handling is optimised for the benefit of all stakeholders.

For more information visit www.uab-online.com/news

Mabanaft announces successful acquisition of WESTFA Energy GmbH

Mabanaft GmbH & Co. KG, a leading independent and integrated energy company headquartered in Hamburg, announced today that it has successfully completed the strategic acquisition of WESTFA Energy GmbH, including all its subsidiaries and shareholdings, following the earlier announcement of signing an agreement in December 2023 to purchase the business from Adeleon Familienholding GmbH, formerly WESTFA Holding GmbH.

Mabanaft is a trusted partner to its customers, providing efficient and reliable energy solutions that support their everyday lives, both now and in the future. This strategic acquisition further strengthens Mabanaft’s position in the energy market, allowing the company to expand its product portfolio and enhance its ability to meet the evolving demands of its customers.

By expanding the product range to include LPG, this strategic step aims to make the Mabanaft Group even more resilient and adaptable to the energy market dynamics, making its energy solutions even more diversified, more reliable and increasingly more sustainable, by being able to offer lower carbon pathways to more customers. Mabanaft sees continued opportunities in the heating and mobility markets, and this acquisition helps the company complete and further improve the current offer.

WESTFA is a liquid gas distribution company with close to 300 employees based in Hagen, Germany, active in purchasing, logistics and distribution of LPG for heating and mobility purposes, serving around 50,000 customers, both in the commercial and private sectors. WESTFA’s strong position in the downstream LPG market across Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Luxembourg is a great complement to Mabanaft’s existing business and aligns seamlessly into the long-term growth strategy. The acquisition opens new opportunities for both companies, as WESTFA’s services fit perfectly with Mabanaft’s customer portfolio in the heating and mobility sectors.

“We are happy to welcome all WESTFA colleagues to the Mabanaft Group. WESTFA is a well-positioned business with great access to end customers. The combination of Mabanaft and WESTFA allows us to strengthen our market position and expand our footprint in Northwest Europe”, says Jon Perkins, CEO of Mabanaft. “Our focus, together with the WESTFA team, is to continue serving the loyal customers and building on the existing relationships that WESTFA has developed over the years. The energy transition offers great opportunities for all of us, especially when leveraging and combining our forces and experience. Together we can develop a path to more sustainable energy solutions for all our customers”, he continues.

Mabanaft looks forward to maximising the synergies generated by this acquisition and remains steadfast in its commitment to driving innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction across all its operations.

For more information visit www.mabanaft.com 

AMPP unveils new guide to enhance pipeline safety through corrosion control aligning with latest PHMSA regulations

The Association for Materials Protection and Performance, the global authority in materials protection and performance, recently published “Guide 21569-2024, Guidance on Implementing Corrosion Control Methodologies to Align with New PHMSA Regulatory Procedures,” a comprehensive document developed by Standards Committee SC 15 – Pipelines and Tanks, aimed at bolstering the safety and integrity of onshore gas transmission pipelines.

In response to the United States’ Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s revised Federal Pipeline Safety Regulations, AMPP’s Guide 21569-2024 offers a detailed roadmap for pipeline operators to implement corrosion control requirements for onshore gas transmission as required in Part 2 of the PHMSA Gas Mega Rule. The PHMSA revisions encompass an array of enhanced safety measures, including improved repair criteria, integrity management, cathodic protection, and management of change, all intended to mitigate risks associated with pipeline corrosion and ensure compliance with the most current safety standards.

“I’m very proud to have served as document project manager for this development team comprised of an incredible group of industry pipeline subject matter experts across the country,” said Kimberly-Joy Harris, a retiree from Enbridge Pipelines with more than 30 years leading pipeline integrity and corrosion programmes and vice chair of the AMPP board of directors. “Our main goal was to assist US natural gas pipeline companies with a guidance document that aligns with the new PHMSA Regulatory Mega Rule requirements related to integrity management, repair criteria, cathodic protection, and management of change, all to prevent and reduce failures.  In addition, this document will be very useful globally to assist pipeline companies with improving their integrity programmes and reducing failures.”

Guide 21569-2024 caters to US gas transmission pipeline operators while providing critical insights for international counterparts aiming to improve their corrosion control measures. This guide emerged from the industry’s need for a cohesive approach to comply with the new corrosion control, operations, maintenance, and integrity management PHMSA regulations that went into effect for transmission pipelines placed into service after February 24, 2024. It presents practical strategies for incorporating these requirements and leverages established practices to protect pipeline assets.

Harris added, “Our project committee members and AMPP staff members did an amazing job working with the team through this process, and we were pleased to complete this project in record time, less than one year from initiation to publication.”

For more information visit www.ampp.org

UM Terminals wins global health and safety award

UM Terminals has been honoured with a prestigious award, showcasing its unwavering dedication to health and safety excellence.

The company clinched a SILVER Award in the achievement category at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) annual awards.

The renowned RoSPA Awards programme, now in its 68th year, stands as the UK’s largest and most impactful health and safety initiative. Drawing nearly 2,000 entries annually from over 50 countries and impacting over seven million employees, these awards shine a spotlight on a steadfast commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in health and safety practices.

Rebecca Lee, environmental, health, and safety manager at UM Group, expressed, “The team at UM Terminals have worked extremely hard over the past 12 months to elevate our safety standards. Everyone has embraced the introduced changes and increased their participation in the initiatives to drive progress forward.”

Julia Small, RoSPA’s achievements director, stated, “Workplace accidents don’t just pose financial risks and operational disruptions; they significantly impact the quality of life for individuals. This is why acknowledging and rewarding excellent safety performance is vital. We congratulate UM Terminals for winning a prestigious RoSPA Award and showing an unwavering commitment to keeping employees, clients, and customers safe from accidental harm and injury.”

Sponsored by Croner-i, the RoSPA Awards scheme stands as the longest-running of its kind in the UK, receiving entries from organisations across the globe. This makes it one of the most coveted achievement awards within the health and safety industry.

Ben Chaplain, managing director at Croner-i, commented, “We are proud to sponsor the RoSPA Awards for a second year, which emphasises our dedication to prioritising health and safety—an essential foundation for lasting success and wellbeing at work.”

For more information visit www.umterminals.co.uk

Mabanaft welcomes Caroline Watkins as managing director

Mabanaft’s UK operations have announced the appointment of Caroline Watkins as their new managing director and head of UK. Based in Hamburg, Germany, Mabanaft is a prominent independent energy company that offers innovative energy solutions for transportation, heating, industrial, and agricultural needs.

Caroline brings over three decades of experience in the oil and shipping markets to her new role. Prior to joining Mabanaft, she served as the Director of International Crude Trading at Suncor, where she led the supply and trading business in the UK and collaborated with teams across North America and beyond. Her extensive background also includes roles at Chevron and Shell, primarily focusing on crude oil trading.

In her capacity as managing director of the UK branch, Caroline will work closely with colleagues, suppliers, and customers on a global scale. She will play a key role in advancing Mabanaft’s sustainable and renewable energy initiatives in the UK, contributing to the company’s commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.

Caroline expressed her enthusiasm for joining the Mabanaft UK team, highlighting her eagerness to engage with customers, industry partners, and suppliers. She aims to drive Mabanaft UK towards achieving its sustainability objectives and promoting renewables as the future of energy, with a focus on fostering a greener future in the UK.

For more information visit www.mabanaft.co.uk

PROTEGO® expands reach with Setpoint Integrated Solutions as new sales representative Texas Gulf Coast, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi markets

PROTEGO®, a global leader in providing comprehensive safety solutions for industrial process applications, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Setpoint Integrated Solutions, a renowned sales, service, and manufacturing company. Effective April 1st, 2024, Setpoint Integrated Solutions will officially represent the PROTEGO® brand across the Texas Gulf Coast, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi markets.

The collaboration with Setpoint Integrated Solutions marks a significant milestone in PROTEGO®’s commitment to providing unparalleled service and support to clients in key regions. Setpoint Integrated Solutions’ extensive expertise, along with its 11 locations, will enhance PROTEGO®’s ability to deliver cutting-edge safety solutions to customers in the designated territories. Additionally, ten of Setpoint’s locations will be qualified Protego Authorised Repair Centres, covering Texas Gulf Coast, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Louisiana.

“We are thrilled to welcome Setpoint Integrated Solutions to the PROTEGO® family,” said Chris Mason, chief executive officer at PROTEGO®. “Their proven track record and dedication to excellence align perfectly with our mission to safeguard industrial processes and protect lives. Together, we look forward to delivering exceptional value and innovation to customers throughout Eastern Texas Gulf Coast, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi.”

Setpoint Integrated Solutions will offer the full range of PROTEGO® products, including pressure and vacuum relief valves, flame arresters, and tank accessories. With Setpoint Integrated Solutions’ local presence and industry knowledge, customers can expect tailored solutions and responsive support to meet their specific safety requirements.

For more information about visit www.protego.com

ACME Group and Hydrogenious LOHC Technologies to jointly explore hydrogen value chains from Oman to Europe

ACME Group, one of the world’s leading sustainable and renewable energy companies, and German pioneer in liquid organic hydrogen carriers, Hydrogenious LOHC Technologies, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on a feasibility study to explore the joint development of large-scale hydrogen supply chains from ACME’s projects in Oman to supply hubs in Europe using the innovative LOHC technology. Both parties intend to extend the partnership to evaluate the hydrogen value chain from USA to Europe.

Oman benefits from abundant renewable energy resources such as solar and onshore wind while US Inflation Reduction Act offers production incentives leading to competitive hydrogen production cost. The green hydrogen produced by ACME in these projects can be stored in LOHC and transported by tanker to Europe to supply and decarbonize industrial offtakers, energy and mobility.

Hydrogenious’ LOHC technology is perfectly suited for large-scale hydrogen imports via maritime supply chains, enabling viable and cost-effective import vectors to Europe. By safely binding hydrogen to the thermal oil benzyltoluene in a chemical process, the volatile green molecules can be efficiently stored and transported at ambient pressure and temperature using the existing liquid fuel infrastructure.

For more information visit www.acme.in

Angel CCS joint venture and Yara collaborate on carbon capture and storage

The Angel CCS Joint Venture has announced a collaborative effort with Yara Pilbara Fertilisers Pty Ltd to explore the feasibility of utilising carbon capture and storage to decarbonise Yara Pilbara’s existing operations near Karratha in Western Australia. Spearheaded by Woodside Energy, the Angel CCS Joint Venture aims to establish a large-scale, multi-user CCS hub with the potential to facilitate decarbonisation efforts for Australian and international industries.

Yara Pilbara has entered into a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with the Angel CCS Joint Venture to assess the viability of employing CCS technology to decarbonise their operations in the Burrup Strategic Industrial Area. Woodside vice president carbon solutions, Jayne Baird, highlighted the significance of the MOU in showcasing the role of CCS in decarbonising both existing and emerging industries in the Pilbara region.

“A multi-user CCS hub near Karratha would be strategically positioned to aggregate emissions from various industrial sources across the Pilbara, offering users access to a local, cost-effective, and scalable emissions reduction solution,” remarked Baird. “Furthermore, apart from decarbonising existing industries, a CCS hub could catalyse the growth of new, lower-carbon sectors such as hydrogen production, ammonia, and green steel, thereby fostering economic diversification in Western Australia.”

The proposed size of the CCS facility is contingent upon further technical, regulatory, and commercial assessments, but it could potentially have a processing capacity of up to 5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, positioning it as one of the largest CCS hubs in the Asia-Pacific region. In addition to serving domestic markets, the Angel CCS Joint Venture is exploring opportunities to extend its services to international customers, offering emissions reduction solutions to Australia’s trading partners while creating a new export avenue for the country.

For more information visit www.woodside.com

AMPP 2024 triumph, innovation, and solidarity define the annual conference + Expo in New Orleans

The 2024 AMPP Annual Conference + Expo not only marked a year of significant achievements and milestones for the Association for Materials Protection and Performance but also showcased the unyielding spirit and solidarity of its community in the face of unexpected challenges, as nearly 6,000 attendees from the corrosion and coatings industries descended on New Orleans, Louisiana, from around the world from March 3-7, 2024.

Amid the celebration of its 100th chapter announcement and the unveiling of a new, inclusive membership model, the conference encountered a significant weather-related obstacle: a substantial roof leak at the venue. However, the incident did little to dampen the spirits of attendees; instead, it highlighted the resilience and cooperative spirit of the AMPP community.

“I am genuinely impressed and inspired by the spirit of our exhibitors and the unity of our community,” said Greg Muha, AMPP’s director of conferences, exhibits, and sponsorships. “The way everyone rallied together in the face of adversity was remarkable. Our members and attendees have expressed how this year’s conference felt even more member-focused, which is a testament to the positive energy and collaborative effort of everyone involved. It’s clear that challenges do not define us; rather, it’s our response to those challenges that truly matters.”

Despite the leak, the conference flourished, underscoring the industry’s resilience and its members’ dedication to progress. This success highlighted the AMPP community’s ability to transform challenges into opportunities for solidarity and focus.

In an enlightening keynote address, renowned physicist and author Dr. Michio Kaku captivated a packed house with his insights into the future of artificial intelligence and its applications within the industry. Dr. Kaku’s vision of AI-enhanced materials that self-report corrosion and wear and tear challenges propelled the conversation on integrating technology in materials protection and performance.

The 2024 AMPP Annual Conference and Expo not only celebrated a significant increase in attendance compared to the previous year but also featured a comprehensive agenda that included 45 research technical symposia, over 400 technical papers, and numerous workshops and presentations. This robust programme highlighted the technical insight, innovation, and camaraderie within the AMPP community.

“The 2024 conference reflected the connectedness, passion, and strength of AMPP’s members and constituents,” Muha said. “We demonstrated how we truly are stronger together, as one AMPP.”

The event provided a platform for showcasing the latest corrosion control and protective coatings technology, with 383 companies participating in the expo. Highlights included a hands-on cathodic protection test field and the EMERG Student Camp, engaging the next generation of industry professionals.

The conference also featured several awards programmes celebrating technical excellence, innovation, and leadership within the industry. Among these were AMPP’s Scholarship Awards and EMERGing Leaders Bash (sponsored by BP and Sherwin-Williams), the CoatingsPro Contractor Awards, spotlighting individuals and projects that exemplify the best in materials protection and performance, and AMPP’s Honoree Night, celebrating annual technical, service and project award winners.

AMPP is excited about the next Annual Conference and Expo, scheduled for April 6-10, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee.

For more information visit www.ampp.org

Chevron invests in carbon capture and removal technology company, ION clean energy

Chevron New Energies, a division of Chevron U.S.A. Inc., has announced a significant lead investment in ION Clean Energy, a Boulder-based technology company renowned for its post-combustion point-source capture technology, specifically its third-generation ICE-31 liquid amine system. ION has successfully raised $45 million in Series A financing, with CNE spearheading the investment. The capital infusion will bolster ION’s organisational expansion and support the commercial deployment of its ICE-31 liquid amine carbon capture technology, primarily aimed at addressing hard-to-abate emissions.

CNE’s strategic investment in ION underscores its objective to utilise ICE-31 technology to cater to customers grappling with high volume and low concentration CO2 emissions. Additionally, this partnership provides CNE with the opportunity to collaborate with ION customers on projects aimed at scaling the technology at a faster pace.

Chris Powers, vice president of CCUS & Emerging at CNE, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, “We continue to make progress on our goal to deliver the full value chain of carbon capture, utilisation, and storage as a business, and we believe ION is a part of this solution.”

ION’s founder and executive chairman, Buz Brown, lauded Chevron’s investment as a significant endorsement of their technology’s potential. “We have truly special solvent technology,” Brown noted. “This investment from Chevron is a huge testament to the hard work of our team and the potential of our technology.”

In conjunction with the investment, ION announced the appointment of Timothy Vail as chief executive officer. Vail brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as CEO of Arbor Renewable Gas, LLC, and as founder and CEO of G2X Energy, Inc.

“With this investment, we are well positioned to grow ION into a worldwide provider of high-performance point source capture solutions,” Vail remarked.

This investment expands Chevron’s technology portfolio to include conventional amine-based capture technology, complementing its existing portfolio of CCUS technologies. CIBC Capital Markets acted as the exclusive financial advisor to ION for the raise.

For more information visit www.chevron.com

Panoro Energy – heads of terms agreed for block EG-23 offshore Equatorial Guinea

Panoro Energy ASA  has announced that it has reached an agreement with the Government of Equatorial Guinea on the key terms and conditions for the award of offshore Block EG-23.

The Heads of Terms agreement, signed by Panoro, GEPetrol, and the Ministry of Mines and Hydrocarbons, sets the stage for a period of exclusive negotiations to finalize a Production Sharing Contract for Block EG-23 and the development of a work program and budget. Panoro anticipates that its participating interest in Block EG-23 upon the award of a PSC will be up to 80 percent initially.

 

Situated offshore Equatorial Guinea north of Bioko Island and adjacent to the producing Alba gas and condensate field, Block EG-23 covers a surface area of approximately 600 km2 in water depths ranging from 50 metres to 100 metres. To date, 19 wells have been drilled on Block EG-23, resulting in seven hydrocarbon discoveries, including four oil, two gas, and one gas/condensate. Some of these discoveries have been tested. Previously held by Marathon, Panoro’s technical evaluation suggests the existence of a range of plays on the block, with several prospects and leads identified in addition to the existing discoveries.

Panoro’s initial work programme for Block EG-23 is expected to focus on reprocessing existing seismic data to advance prospects and leads to a drill-ready state, with the option to proceed to a second stage involving drilling.

John Hamilton, CEO of Panoro, expressed gratitude to the Government of Equatorial Guinea for the opportunity to enter into a PSC for the highly prospective Block EG-23. He emphasised that the award of a PSC for Block EG-23, once finalised, would complement Panoro’s existing acreage portfolio in Equatorial Guinea. Hamilton also looked forward to collaborating with GEPetrol to leverage their collective core subsurface skill sets and increase exposure to various play types, prospects, and leads in the vicinity of existing infrastructure.

For more information visit www.panoroenergy.com

SLB announces agreement to acquire majority ownership in Aker Carbon Capture

In an endeavour to accelerate industrial decarbonisation at scale, SLB has announced an agreement to merge its carbon capture business with Aker Carbon Capture.

The combination aims to leverage ACC’s commercial carbon capture product offering and SLB’s new technology developments and industrialization capability. By bringing together complementary technology portfolios and leading process design expertise, the collaboration seeks to create a platform for introducing disruptive early-stage technology into the global market on a commercial, proven platform. Following the transaction, SLB will hold an 80 percent stake in the combined business, with ACC owning the remaining 20 percent.

According to the International Energy Agency, carbon capture, utilisation, and sequestration are expected to play a crucial role in the net-zero transition. The IEA estimates that over one gigaton of CO2 per year will need to be captured by 2030, scaling up to over six gigatons by 2050.

Olivier Le Peuch, chief executive officer of SLB, highlighted the significance of scaling up CCUS technologies to meet global net-zero ambitions. He emphasised the importance of lowering capture costs, which often account for a significant portion of the total expenditure of a CCUS project. Le Peuch expressed excitement about partnering with ACC to accelerate the deployment of carbon capture technologies across high-emitting industrial sectors.

As part of the agreement, SLB will pay NOK 4.12 billion to acquire 80 percent of Aker Carbon Capture Holding AS, which holds the business of ACC. Additionally, SLB may make further payments of up to NOK 1.36 billion over the next three years based on the performance of the business.

The transaction is contingent upon regulatory approvals and is anticipated to close by the end of the second quarter of 2024.

For more information visit www.slb.com

Stolthaven Singapore wins prestigious Dow SEA S4TAR best terminal award for fourth consecutive year

Stolthaven Terminals is thrilled to announce that its Singapore terminal has once again been honoured with the prestigious Dow SEA S4TAR Best Terminal award, marking the fourth consecutive year of recognition.

Established by Dow Chemicals, the S4TAR SEA (South East Asia) programme aims to acknowledge logistics services partners in the region who exhibit exceptional performance in safety, service, sustainability, and social responsibility.

Image Stolthaven Terminals

Singapore’s remarkable feat of clinching the award for four consecutive years underscores its unwavering dedication to excellence across these key areas.

Chek Chai Foo, general manager of Stolthaven Singapore, expressed gratitude, saying, “Many thanks to all Stolthaven Singapore employees for their contributions to this achievement and for the tremendous support we receive from across the global Stolthaven Terminals network.”

For more information visit www.stolthaventerminals.com

Equinor announces Sleipner Field Centre electrifies operations, reducing CO2 emissions by 160,000 tonnes annually

The Sleipner field centre, in conjunction with the Gudrun platform and other associated fields, has commenced partial operations powered from shore, marking a significant step towards reducing annual emissions from the Norwegian continental shelf by 160,000 tonnes of CO2.

All installations on the Utsira High are now benefitting from power supplied from shore, resulting in emissions savings equivalent to approximately 1.2 million tonnes of CO₂ per year. This electrification initiative aligns with the plan for development and operation for Johan Sverdrup phase 2, which received approval from the Norwegian parliament in 2019.

The Sleipner field in the North Sea Photo: Øyvind Gravås and Bo B. Randulff / Equinor

Geir Tungesvik, executive vice president for projects, drilling, & procurement, underscores the importance of electrification, stating, “Electrification is the most effective tool in our toolbox in our quest to achieve the national target of halving greenhouse gas emissions from Norwegian oil and gas production by 2030.”

At the Sleipner A platform, one of two operative gas turbines will gradually be decommissioned as systems transition to utilising power from shore. The remaining gas turbine will serve as a backup power source during an initial transition period, with plans for full operation on power from shore in the longer term.

Since March 24, 2024, the Sleipner field centre has been supplied with onshore power via a cable from the Gina Krog platform, while the Gudrun platform has been connected to electricity through the existing cable to Sleipner.

Kjetil Hove, executive vice president for Exploration & Production Norway, highlights the significance of this milestone, stating, “With power from shore, we can develop new discoveries and resources from low-emission production, and gas exports from the area can be maintained for a long time to come.”

As among the largest gas producers in the North Sea, the Sleipner fields serve as a crucial hub for gas transport to Europe, contributing to the EU’s energy transition goals. The electrification of these fields not only facilitates more efficient utilisation of gas resources but also creates employment opportunities and positive ripple effects for the Norwegian supply industry.

Investments in the electrification project total NOK 1.08 billion, with key contracts awarded to Aibel and NKT for engineering, procurement, construction, installation, and commissioning work. The project has generated 250 full-time equivalents at Aibel’s Stavanger office, offshore, and at the shipyard in Haugesund, further underscoring its positive impact on local employment and economic growth.

For more information visit www.equinor.com

Baker Hughes to supply Snam with hydrogen-ready technology to support decarbonisation and resilience of the Italian gas network

Baker Hughes, a prominent energy technology company, revealed on Wednesday its acquisition of a contract, set to be recorded in the first quarter of 2024, from Snam, Europe’s leading operator in natural gas transportation, storage, and regasification. The contract entails providing three NovaLTTM12 gas turbine-driven compressor trains for a new gas compressor station in Sulmona, Italy.

The station forms a vital component of the Adriatic Line, a Snam pipeline initiative included in Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan as part of the REpowerEU Plan. The Adriatic Line aims to construct a 425-kilometre-long, hydrogen-ready pipeline, facilitating the transportation of additional energy supplies from Azerbaijan, Africa, and the Eastern Mediterranean region to northern Europe.

The selection of Baker Hughes’ NovaLTTM12 turbines, capable of running on 100 percent natural gas or hydrogen blends up to 10 percent, signifies a significant step in decarbonising the Italian gas network infrastructure. It also aligns with Snam’s strategy to achieve carbon neutrality on direct emissions by 2040.

Ganesh Ramaswamy, executive vice president of Industrial & Energy Technology at Baker Hughes, remarked, “This milestone in our long-standing collaboration with Snam demonstrates that the energy transition requires continuous partnership. Together, we are innovating and delivering critical world-firsts for the decarbonisation of gas networks.”

In addition to the Sulmona project, Baker Hughes highlighted progress on several significant hydrogen initiatives, including a new hydrogen testing facility in Florence, Italy, the manufacturing and testing of NovaLT™16 hydrogen turbines for the Air Products Net-Zero Hydrogen Energy Complex in Edmonton, Canada, and the delivery of advanced hydrogen compression solutions for the NEOM project in Saudi Arabia.

Baker Hughes boasts extensive experience and a comprehensive portfolio serving the entire hydrogen value chain, from production to transportation and utilisation. With roots dating back to the 1910s, the company offers advanced compressors, gas turbines, valves, centrifugal pumps, non-metallic pipes, hydrogen sensors, and monitoring and diagnostics solutions, along with clean power solutions for producing power with hydrogen and hydrogen blends.

For more information visit www.investors.bakerhughes.com

Shell and Verdagy to collaborate on renewable hydrogen projects

Following a successful and thorough year-long evaluation process, Verdagy, a leading renewable hydrogen electrolysis company, has announced Shell’s technical endorsement of its eDynamic® electrolyzers. With over a decade of technology development expertise, Verdagy has gained recognition as a qualified supplier for Shell’s upcoming green hydrogen initiatives.

Shell’s endorsement comes after a comprehensive assessment, including a hazard and operability study focusing on safety, as well as detailed design and technology development reviews of Verdagy’s electrolyzers. These evaluations are crucial steps towards commercial adoption within Shell’s projects.

Andrew Beard, vice president of hydrogen at Shell, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Verdagy has developed dynamic and cost-competitive electrolyzers suitable for infrastructure-scale projects. We are pleased with the results of our evaluations and look forward to further collaboration with Verdagy.”

Shell’s technical assessments covered Verdagy’s 20-megawatt eDynamic Electrolysis system, evaluating aspects such as performance, stability, and safety. Verdagy’s scalable electrolyzer technology serves as a foundation for larger renewable hydrogen installations, reaching capacities of 100 MW and beyond.

Marty Neese, CEO of Verdagy, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration’s outcome, stating, “The successful completion of this year-long collaboration marks an important milestone for both Verdagy and Shell. We anticipate widespread adoption of Verdagy’s advanced electrolyzers in the industry following Shell’s endorsement.”

Verdagy’s electrolyzers boast the lowest levelized cost of hydrogen by leveraging high current densities, broad operating ranges, and rapid response capabilities, enabling seamless integration with renewable power sources. Committed to advancing renewable hydrogen production, Verdagy aims to achieve the US Department of Energy’s cost target of $2/kg by 2026. The company has recently been awarded a $39.6 million grant (pending negotiations) by the Department of Energy to expedite the high-volume manufacturing of Advanced Alkaline Water Electrolysis eDynamic Electrolyzers.

For more information visit www.verdagy.com

Baker Hughes backs European clean energy technology manufacturer Elcogen

Elcogen, a European manufacturer pioneering efficient green hydrogen and electricity delivery technology, has announced a strategic investment from Baker Hughes, a global energy technology company. With backing from Baker Hughes, alongside investments from Hydrogen One Capital Growth plc, HD Hyundai, Mirae, and support from the European Commission, Elcogen has secured over €140m for the advancement of its solid oxide technology.

Baker Hughes, renowned for its diverse energy and industrial solutions, joins Elcogen’s mission to accelerate the energy transition towards net-zero emissions. The investment sets the stage for collaboration on green hydrogen production solutions based on Elcogen’s solid oxide electrolyser cell technology.

Funds from this investment will fuel Elcogen’s expansion, including the development of a new manufacturing facility in Tallinn, Estonia, capable of producing up to 360MW. Chris Nash, Elcogen’s chairman, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting Baker Hughes’ confidence in their technology. Enn Õunpuu, CEO of Elcogen, emphasised the critical role their technology plays in heavy industries’ decarbonisation efforts.

Alessandro Bresciani, senior vice president of climate technology solutions at Baker Hughes, underscored their commitment to advancing the hydrogen economy. He sees the investment as a strategic move towards collaborative solutions that facilitate the decarbonisation of the energy sector, marking a significant milestone in their journey towards a sustainable energy ecosystem.

For more information visit www.elcogen.com

Yara Clean Ammonia appoints new CEO to spearhead ‘rapidly growing’ business

Hans Olav Raen is appointed CEO of Yara Clean Ammonia, effective 1st May 2024. Mr. Raen, formerly business director overseeing OCI’s fertiliser business in Europe, brings over 25 years of expertise in the fertiliser industry to his new role. His extensive experience includes twelve years at Norsk Hydro and Yara International, where he held various commercial and managerial positions across Europe and Africa from 1997 to 2009.

Hans Olav Raen holds a master’s degree from the College of Europe and a degree in digital leadership fromYara Clean Ammonia ESSEC Business School in Paris.

Magnus Krogh Ankarstrand, EVP corporate development at Yara International, expressed confidence in Mr. Raen’s appointment as the head of Yara Clean Ammonia. Ankarstrand believes that Mr. Raen, alongside the dedicated YCA team, will propel the company forward, leading it to new heights in the rapidly expanding clean ammonia sector. Ankarstrand will continue to serve as chairman of the Yara Clean Ammonia Board.

For more information visit www.yara.com

Setpoint Integrated Solutions strengthens distribution network with PROTEGO® partnership

Setpoint Integrated Solutions is delighted to announce a strategic partnership with PROTEGO®, a renowned leader in tank equipment and safety solutions for industrial process applications. Effective April 1, 2024, Setpoint Integrated Solutions will become the official representative of the PROTEGO® brand across the Texas Gulf Coast, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi markets.

Under this alliance, Setpoint Integrated Solutions will offer the complete range of PROTEGO® products, encompassing pressure and vacuum relief valves, flame arresters, and tank accessories. Ten of Setpoint’s locations will be designated PROTEGO® Authorised Repair Centres, serving Texas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Louisiana. These centres will play a crucial role in product assembly, ensuring industry-leading lead times and exceptional levels of customer service.

Benjamin Davis, vice president of sales at Setpoint Integrated Solutions, expressed enthusiasm about the addition of PROTEGO® to their portfolio of distinguished OEMs. He highlighted Setpoint’s commitment to delivering premium products and services, resonating with PROTEGO®’s reputation for quality and excellence in tank equipment and pressure safety solutions. Recognised globally as the standard in its field, PROTEGO® aligns seamlessly with Setpoint’s values, promising unparalleled quality and lead times for customers.

The partnership between Setpoint Integrated Solutions and PROTEGO® capitalises on their combined expertise to offer unmatched service and solutions in safety devices and systems, vital in an industry prioritising safety and efficiency. This collaboration represents a significant milestone for both entities and is poised to deliver substantial benefits to customers in the region, ensuring enhanced safety and operational efficiency.

For more information visit www.setpointis.com

Aramco awards $7.7 billion contracts to add 1.5 bscfd of raw gas to Fadhili Gas Plant

Aramco, a prominent global player in the integrated energy and chemicals sector, has announced the awarding of engineering, procurement, and construction contracts totaling $7.7 billion for a significant expansion of its Fadhili Gas Plant situated in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. This expansion initiative aims to enhance the plant’s processing capacity from 2.5 to up to 4 billion standard cubic feet per day.

The anticipated increase of 1.5 bscfd in processing capacity aligns with Aramco’s strategic objective to elevate gas production by over 60 percent by 2030, in comparison to 2021 levels. Scheduled for completion by November 2027, the Fadhili Gas Plant expansion is projected to augment sulphur production by an additional 2,300 metric tonnes per day.

Signing ceremony for engineering, procurement and construction contracts for the Fadhili Gas Plant expansion in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, on April 2.

Wail Al Jaafari, Aramco’s executive vice president of technical services, underscored the significance of these contract awards in advancing the company’s objectives to bolster natural gas supplies, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and optimise crude oil utilisation for value-added refining and export purposes. He emphasised collaboration with leading international entities to propel gas production goals forward and highlighted the expansion’s support for Aramco’s aspirations to cultivate a lower-carbon hydrogen business, alongside the critical role of associated gas liquids as feedstock for the petrochemical sector.

EPC contracts for the Fadhili Gas Plant increment project were granted to distinguished companies including SAMSUNG Engineering Company, GS Engineering & Construction Corporation, and Nesma & Partners, signifying a concerted effort to leverage expertise and resources for the successful execution of this strategic initiative.

For more information visit www.aramco.com

McDermott reaches mechanical completion on pioneering biosurfactants project

McDermott has proudly announced the mechanical completion of a groundbreaking industrial-scale biosurfactant plant for Evonik. Within less than two years from the contract award, Evonik has successfully initiated the production of Rhamnolipids, a bacterial surfactant poised to revolutionise cleaning products and greatly reduce their environmental footprint.

The project solidifies Evonik’s position as a trailblazer in the production of high-quality, sustainable biosurfactants on a commercial scale.

The comprehensive contract encompassed engineering, procurement, and construction management services for the new biosurfactant plant. Engineering and procurement services were conducted from McDermott’s office in Brno, Czech Republic, while construction management operations took place at Evonik’s site in Slovakia.

Rob Shaul, McDermott’s senior vice president of low carbon solutions, expressed admiration for the remarkable achievement, emphasising the dedication of the team and their seamless collaboration with Evonik. He highlighted the significance of Rhamnolipids in advancing the burgeoning biosurfactant market, heralding a new era of sustainable cleaning and personal care products.

McDermott was chosen as Evonik’s partner for the pioneering biosurfactants project in 2021, reflecting the company’s expertise and commitment to driving sustainable solutions in the chemicals industry.

For more information visit www.mcdermott-investors.com

Kinder Morgan announces Amy W. Chronis as nominee for election to board of directors

Kinder Morgan, Inc. has announced the nomination of Amy W. Chronis to stand for election as a director at its upcoming annual meeting of stockholders on May 8, 2024.

Ms. Chronis, currently a senior partner at Deloitte, is slated to retire from the firm effective June 1, 2024. Her tenure at Deloitte includes serving as vice chair and US energy & chemicals industry leader from January 2021 to January 2024, and as managing partner of Deloitte’s Houston practice from February 2018 to January 2024. She joined Deloitte as a partner in June 2002. In addition to her professional achievements, Ms. Chronis holds board positions at the Greater Houston Partnership, the United Way of Greater Houston, Texas 2036 (a nonpartisan data-driven public policy think tank), and the non-profit Central Houston, Inc. She earned a BSBA degree in accounting and international studies from Ohio State University in 1983, and has completed an executive education programme at Columbia Business School. Additionally, she is a CPA licenced in the State of Texas.

Richard D. Kinder, KMI’s executive chairman, expressed confidence in Chronis’ nomination, highlighting her extensive expertise in financial management, executive leadership, strategic planning, technology, sustainability, and risk management. He stated, “Amy will be a valuable addition to our talented board.” Ms. Chronis will stand for election alongside KMI’s current directors at the May 8, 2024, annual meeting.

For more information, visit www.kindermorgan.com

Joint study agreement with PETRONAS to explore feasibility of the entire carbon capture and storage value chain between Japan and Malaysia

JERA Co., Inc has entered into a Joint Study Agreement with Petroliam Nasional Berhad, facilitated by its subsidiary – PETRONAS CCS Solutions Sdn. Bhd., to assess the feasibility of capturing and storing CO2 emissions produced by JERA in Japan, followed by transportation to Malaysia for storage.

Carbon capture and storage plays a vital role in mitigating CO2 emissions, particularly for industries facing challenges in emission reduction. Governments globally are actively supporting CCS initiatives, with significant momentum observed in the Asia-Pacific region.

Malaysia, rich in potential sites for underground CO2 storage, is actively pursuing CCS projects. Leveraging PETRONAS’ expertise in CCS, the collaboration with JERA holds promise for establishing a global network for cross-border CO2 transport and storage.

The JSA entails a comprehensive examination of the CCS value chain, encompassing CO2 separation and capture in Japan, transportation modalities for cross-border CO2 transport, and storage in Malaysian gas fields.

As part of its “JERA Zero CO2 Emissions 2050” initiative, JERA is committed to achieving net-zero CO2 emissions from its domestic and international operations by 2050. To further CCS projects, JERA is intensifying its evaluation of CO2 capture and storage technologies, alongside assessing associated economic considerations.

For more information visit www.jera.co.jp

New ELESA vacuum suction cups for automation

ELESA vacuum components (vacuum suction cups, vacuum cup holders, and related accessories) represent the ideal solution for automatically and safely handling parts with different shapes, sizes, and surfaces (e.g. metal, glass, plastic, ceramic).
The function of these components is based on the presence of a vacuum generator that, by creating a depression inside the vacuum suction cup, allows it to adhere to the surface of the part to be moved. The load grip is maintained as long as there is vacuum in the system.

Thanks to their versatility, Elesa vacuum suction cups with dimensions ranging from 4 mm to 125 mm, in the classic cup, flat, elliptical, bellows, or multi-bellows shapes, can be used for multiple applications and sectors such as food packaging, in particular in flow pack packaging using plastic films, the electronics sector, the paper converting sector for labels and sheets of paper or cardboard, the automotive sector for handling metal parts or glass windshields, the medical/pharmaceutical sector or for different objects such as ceramic or clay tiles, marble or glass slabs, items made from concrete, wood, and plastic components.

ELESA Vacuum Cup Holders( left) ELESA Vacuum Suction Cups (right)

The vacuum suction cups, available in different compounds (oil-proof rubber, silicone, natural or para-natural rubber) are compatible with all products, even those with irregular, rough surfaces or in the presence of oil or liquids.
The presence of grooves and the contoured shape of the vacuum suction cup support surface ensures a strong grip with the load surface, in particular on oiled sheets, glass or marble sheets, facilitating the drainage of any liquids.

The vacuum cup holders allow the vacuum suction cups to be fixed to the automation device gripper and are made up of:

  • a brass or stainless steel threaded stem,
  • a spring (external or built-in) to cushion the impact of the vacuum suction cup and at the same time maintain a constant pressure with the load to be lifted,
  • a quick fitting for connection to the suction hose.

They are available in different configurations, sizes (also mini and micro) and different materials, allowing them to be used in all industrial sectors.

For more information visit www.elesa.com

EIG’s MidOcean Energy completes acquisition of Tokyo Gas’ interests in portfolio of Australian integrated LNG projects

MidOcean Energy, under the stewardship of EIG, has completed the acquisition of Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd’s interests in several Australian integrated LNG projects, marking a significant milestone in the company’s expansion endeavours. This strategic move bolsters MidOcean’s presence in the LNG market, positioning it strategically across various stages of the LNG value chain, from upstream operations to liquefaction and sales. Notably, the acquired portfolio encompasses stakes in prominent projects like Gorgon LNG, Pluto LNG, and Queensland Curtis LNG, which are key players in the Australian LNG landscape.

The decision to establish an office in Perth, Australia, underscores MidOcean’s commitment to efficiently support and oversee these projects. This move not only facilitates operational oversight but also signifies MidOcean’s dedication to fostering strong partnerships and collaborations within the Australian LNG sector.

R. Blair Thomas, EIG’s chairman and CEO, emphasised the pivotal role of LNG in driving the global energy transition. He reiterated MidOcean’s commitment to offering unique exposure to the LNG asset class, highlighting the company’s strategic vision and long-term objectives in the evolving energy landscape. The acquisition of Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd’s interests aligns seamlessly with MidOcean’s overarching strategy of diversification and expansion in the LNG sector.

De la Rey Venter, CEO of MidOcean, echoed these sentiments, recognising the acquisition as a significant step towards realising the company’s ambition of becoming a leading global player in the LNG industry. He underscored the importance of the acquired assets in strengthening MidOcean’s position in key LNG markets and enhancing its capabilities to meet the evolving needs of customers worldwide.

The transaction was facilitated by leading financial advisors Barrenjoey, Barclays, and JP Morgan, further validating MidOcean’s strategic growth trajectory and commitment to excellence. With a clear focus on facilitating the world’s transition to a low-carbon future, MidOcean remains dedicated to driving innovation, sustainability, and value creation in the LNG sector and beyond.

For more information visit www.eigpartners.com

WSG Energy Services earns small contractor of the year honour at Phillips 66 Humber Refinery Contractor Awards

WSG Energy Services is pleased to announce its recent recognition as Small Contractor of the Year at the Phillips 66 Humber Refinery Contractor Awards.

Representatives from WSG, including Steve Jones, Sam Snaith, Rob Taylor, and Tom Carter, attended the awards ceremony to accept the honour. The award commended WSG’s outstanding performance in various aspects, including safety performance and quality of work, investment in new equipment for safer working, and exemplary performance during the 2023 shutdown across industrial services, processes,  pipeline services, and valves.

In addition to the accolade, the recipient of the award also receives £2,500 to donate to a charity of their choice. WSG has pledged to match this amount, resulting in a total donation of £5,000.

Steve Jones, European regional director of WSG, expressed his gratitude, stating, “It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of the teams in Immingham and Normanton, under sometimes very challenging circumstances, that we have been recognized by P66 and presented with this award.”

For more information visit www.wsgenergyservices.com

EDP selects nine startups with renewable and green hydrogen projects for Energy Starter in Singapore

Energy Starter, an open innovation program spearheaded by EDP to propel the global energy transition, has handpicked nine innovative startups to advance to the Bootcamp phase of the initiative. Scheduled from April 16th to 18th in Singapore, this Bootcamp represents a critical juncture for these startups as they delve into disruptive ideas poised to revolutionise renewable energy and green hydrogen – strategic domains pivotal for both the energy sector and EDP’s trajectory.

Following an initial module dedicated to solutions for the electrical grids of the future, this second phase underscores the quest for startups wielding disruptive innovations applicable to renewable energy and green hydrogen. These areas hold strategic importance for EDP’s growth trajectory as it aims to achieve expansion targets for renewables and expedite their deployment, particularly in sectors where decarbonisation poses significant challenges. With EDP boasting over 23.8 GW of installed capacity and aspiring to double this figure by 2030, the company stands as a global leader in this arena. Notably, green hydrogen emerges as a rapidly burgeoning technology and remains a focal point for EDP, which maintains a strategic objective of investing in projects guaranteeing an additional 1.5 GW capacity by 2030.

Tomás Moreno, head of innovation ecosystem at EDP, affirms the indispensable role of innovation in driving the energy transition, stating, “At EDP, innovation is not just a strategic advantage, it is essential to the energy transition.” He further elaborates on the global outlook of the Energy Starter initiative, highlighting its inaugural Bootcamp in Asia as a pivotal step towards deeper engagement with vibrant ecosystems such as Japan, South Korea, and India.

The selection process for the startups entailed an online pitching event followed by extensive consultations, gathering feedback from various business units and innovation teams across different geographies within the EDP Group. During the upcoming Bootcamp, scheduled for April 16th and 17th, the chosen startups will collaborate closely with EDP experts to expedite the development of pilot projects and businesses. Furthermore, they will gain access to potential financial support and leverage the expertise and network of EDP Ventures, the venture capital arm of EDP.

The culmination of the Bootcamp will witness an Open Day event on April 18th, providing a platform for the global energy and innovation ecosystem to witness the outcomes and impact of EDP’s innovation initiatives. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore disruptive technologies and projects driving a more accelerated and efficient energy transition. Featuring esteemed speakers such as Sophia Ng, executive director at Enterprise Singapore, and Lawrence Wu, chief financial officer at EDP Renewables APAC, the Open Day promises to be a forum for networking and interaction with industry luminaries committed to a greener and more sustainable future.

Over the course of seven editions, Energy Starter has curated a cohort of 192 startups from 27 countries, collectively embarking on 75 pilot projects, 28 commercial rollouts, and 15 venture capital investments. These ventures, amounting to €24 million in deals, have already commenced reshaping the energy landscape, heralding a future marked by innovation and sustainability.

For more information visit www.edp.com

TotalEnergies pioneers for a Hundred Years

Today marks a significant milestone as TotalEnergies celebrates its 100th anniversary on March 28th, 2024. Over the past century, the company has exemplified pioneering spirit, perseverance, and innovation in the energy sector, evolving from the Compagnie Française des Pétroles into a multi-energy powerhouse that holds a prominent position in the global energy landscape.

The journey of TotalEnergies has been made possible by generations of dedicated individuals who have contributed their boldness, passion, and commitment to the company’s success. Operating in nearly 130 countries worldwide, TotalEnergies expresses gratitude to every employee, partner, and stakeholder, both past and present, who has played a role in this remarkable journey.

Throughout its history, TotalEnergies has continually adapted to technological advancements and societal changes, merging with teams from renowned entities such as Hutchinson, Petrofina, Elf Aquitaine, Saft, Maersk Oil, Eren, and Direct Energie. Initially established to secure France’s oil supply, TotalEnergies now embraces the challenge of addressing global energy demand while striving for carbon neutrality.

Maintaining its pioneering spirit, TotalEnergies is committed to leading the energy transition by developing innovative technologies and reinventing itself to meet the evolving needs of society. With a focus on affordability, sustainability, reliability, and accessibility, TotalEnergies aims to provide energy solutions that benefit communities worldwide.

As TotalEnergies embarks on its next century, it remains dedicated to pioneering progress and shaping the future of energy for generations to come.

For more information visit www.totalenergies.com

Neste supplying sustainable aviation fuel to Emirates for flights from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

Neste has commenced the provision of sustainable aviation fuel to Emirates at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, marking an expansion of the partnership announced between the two companies in October last year. The collaboration entails the supply of over 6,000 tonnes (2 million gallons) of blended SAF into the fueling system at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol throughout 2024.

Emirates’ engagement with Neste represents one of the airline’s largest SAF procurements to date. Upon full integration into Schiphol Airport’s fueling system, more than 2,000 tonnes (700,000 gallons) of neat SAF will have been supplied as part of the blended SAF initiative. Additionally, Neste is poised to collaborate with the airline to provide SAF to Singapore Changi Airport in the coming months.

Adel Al Redha, deputy president and chief operating officer at Emirates, remarked, “Collaborating with committed partners like Neste is one of the practical steps we are taking to reduce our emissions, and it’s an all-important milestone in our own sustainability journey as an airline. Strong partnerships like this, especially at major air transport hubs such as Amsterdam, lay the foundation for how we can work with partners and airports to increase access to and availability of SAF across our network.”

Alexander Kueper, vice president of renewable aviation at Neste, expressed pride in supporting Emirates on their sustainability journey. He stated, “SAF is an available solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from air travel, and it is exciting that Emirates have started using our Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. It is a great example of how we are working together with partners to accelerate SAF usage. We are looking forward to the next steps of our cooperation.”

Sustainable aviation fuel serves as a renewable aviation fuel, offering a more sustainable alternative to conventional, fossil-based jet fuel. Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel™, utilised in this partnership, reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80 percent* over the fuel’s life cycle, compared to conventional jet fuel. Crafted from sustainably sourced, 100 percent renewable waste and residue raw materials like used cooking oil and animal fat waste, SAF is seamlessly blended with conventional jet fuel and is compatible with existing aircraft engines and fueling infrastructure.

For more information visit www.neste.com

Vopak Terminal Terquimsa Barcelona marks six years without reportable incidents

Vopak Terminal Terquimsa Barcelona in Spain has reached a momentous milestone, celebrating an impressive six years without any reportable incidents. This achievement stands as a testament to the terminal’s unwavering dedication to safety, with not a single serious injury or spill occurring throughout this significant period. It reflects the concerted efforts and meticulous attention to detail exhibited by the entire team in fostering and maintaining a secure working environment.

At Vopak, safety reigns as the paramount priority, and this remarkable milestone underscores the company’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding the well-being of all employees. With a culture deeply rooted in safety consciousness, Vopak strives to ensure that every individual can return home safely at the end of each working day. This achievement is a tangible manifestation of the collective efforts and vigilance displayed by the team in upholding rigorous safety standards and protocols.

The six-year milestone not only highlights the terminal’s exceptional safety record but also serves as a source of pride for the entire Vopak community. It demonstrates the effectiveness of proactive safety measures, robust training programmes, and a culture that prioritises vigilance and accountability. Moreover, it reinforces Vopak’s reputation as a leader in the industry, setting a benchmark for safety excellence that others aspire to emulate.

As Vopak Terminal Terquimsa Barcelona celebrates this significant achievement, it serves as a moment of reflection and recognition for the team’s dedication and hard work. Moving forward, the terminal remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining and surpassing these high safety standards, continuously striving for improvement and excellence in all aspects of operations. With safety at the forefront of its priorities, Vopak Terminal Terquimsa Barcelona is poised to continue setting new benchmarks for safety performance and ensuring the well-being of its workforce for years to come.

For more information visit www.vopak.com

McDermott awarded offshore contract from PTTEP

McDermott International, Inc. has secured a significant offshore transportation, installation, and commissioning contract from PTTEP Sabah Oil Limited for the Kikeh subsea gas lift project, situated 75 miles (120 kilometres) northwest of the island of Labuan, offshore Sabah in East Malaysia.

Under the terms of the agreement, McDermott will undertake the removal of the existing flexible gas lift riser and execute the installation and commissioning of a new dynamic riser section and flowline, consisting of two thermoplastic composite pipe jumpers. This installation will facilitate gas delivery to a subsea production system linked to the Kikeh floating production, storage, and offloading vessel.

Mahesh Swaminathan, McDermott’s senior vice president, Subsea and Floating Facilities, commented, “McDermott is uniquely positioned to deliver this project, having performed the installation of subsea infrastructure in the Kikeh field between 2011 and 2012, and again in 2014, in the nearby Siakap North-Petai field. We pioneered reel-lay installation for pipe-in-pipe production and water injection flowlines in the region, underscoring our commitment to engineering innovation. Returning to the Kikeh field not only reaffirms our expertise but also presents another opportunity to deliver exceptional results through our unmatched experience in offshore transportation, subsea installations, and commissioning.”

The project management and engineering activities will be conducted from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with additional support from other McDermott offices.

The Kikeh field, operated by PTTEP in collaboration with partners Petronas Carigali and PT Pertamina Malaysia Exploration Production, has been in production since 2007 using the existing Kikeh FPSO. This FPSO is notably the first and largest deepwater FPSO in Malaysia.

*McDermott defines a sizeable contract as between USD $1 million and USD $50 million.

For more information visit www.mcdermott-investors.com

OPW announces launch of OPW Clean Energy Solutions website

OPW is excited to announce the launch of a new website for its OPW Clean Energy Solutions (CES) business unit. Found at www.opwces.com, the new website will be the digital home for the following OPW CES product brands:

• RegO® Products: Based in Elon, NC, RegO Products is the global leader in the design, engineering and manufacture of valves and flow controls for use in the safe and cost-effective production, storage and transport of industrial gases, cryogenic liquids and alternative fuels, such as LNG, LPG and hydrogen.
• Acme Cryogenics: Headquartered in Allentown, PA, Acme Cryogenics specialises in providing mission-critical cryogenic products and services formulated to facilitate the production, storage, and distribution of cryogenic liquids and gases.

The new convenient and efficient opwces.com gives operators in this market space a one-stop location to learn all about the standard-setting product offerings offered by the OPW CES brands. The ability to easily navigate the site is driven by an intuitive interface that enables faster access to a wider range of product and solution options. On the site, visitors will discover a vast selection of hydrogen, industrial gas and LNG solutions curated to meet specific end-user needs. Product offerings are categorised by 12 different markets, three distinct industries and an array of applications, with a fully optimised product-search feature that instantly takes visitors where they need to go.

In addition, the current regoproducts.com website will remain active and serve as the central hub for RegO propane energy products, including LPG and NH3. Scheduled for a remodel later this year, the site will continue to host comprehensive product information and resources, ensuring uninterrupted access for customers.

For more information visit www.opwces.com

A milestone moment Port Arthur LNG celebrates one year of achievement

The groundbreaking ceremony for the Port Arthur LNG Phase 1 project in Port Arthur, Texas, marked a significant milestone for Sempra Infrastructure’s contribution to the energy transition and global energy demand. While the project commenced shortly after Sempra Infrastructure’s positive final investment decision nearly one year ago, this event symbolised a notable advancement in the project’s progress.

Distinguished guests, including partners, customers, government officials, community leaders, and employees, gathered to commemorate the occasion, highlighting the collaborative efforts that have propelled the project forward. Safety, sustainability, and innovation in LNG technology were central themes of the celebration, reaffirming Sempra Infrastructure’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community investment.

Justin Bird, CEO of Sempra Infrastructure and executive vice president at Sempra, articulated the strategic significance of the Port Arthur LNG Phase 1 project in the global energy transition. He underscored its role in enhancing energy reliability and security, particularly for U.S. allies, while providing a cleaner alternative to traditional hydrocarbons.

Tania Ortiz Mena, president of Sempra Infrastructure, lauded the invaluable support of the local community in reaching the project’s construction milestone. She emphasised the project’s positive impact on the local economy through initiatives focused on local hiring, procurement, and social investment partnerships with community-based organisations.

Acknowledgement was also extended to key contributors, including Brendan Bechtel, chairman and CEO of Bechtel, the engineering, procurement, and construction company pivotal in ensuring the project remains on budget and schedule.

Together, Sempra Infrastructure and Bechtel have made significant strides in job creation and local economic stimulation, with over 1,000 construction and office staff hired, including more than 580 local hires from the greater Port Arthur area. Bechtel’s engagement with over 100 local vendors, totalling more than $160 million in local contracts, further underscores the project’s positive impact on the regional economy.

For more information visit www.semprainfrastructure.com

Tecam showcases its leading environmental technology solutions at StocExpo 2024

Tecam, a leading environmental technology company, proudly announces its successful participation at StocExpo 2024, the meeting point for tank terminals in Europe. Held on 12-13 March in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, StocExpo provided a key platform for Tecam to exhibit its cutting-edge environmental technology solutions tailored for the tank storage industry.

During the event, Tecam highlighted its innovative emissions treatment and hydrocarbon vapour recovery technologies, specifically designed to meet the rigorous environmental standards of the European tank storage sector. With a focus on sustainability and emissions reduction, Tecam’s solutions offer a proactive approach to addressing the industry’s evolving challenges.

Tecam’s presence at StocExpo 2024 underscored the company’s commitment to driving environmental excellence within the bulk liquid tank storage industry. By leveraging its extensive experience in the oil & gas, petrochemical, and chemical sectors, Tecam delivers customised solutions that align with the unique technical requirements of each customer.

“We are delighted by the success of our participation at StocExpo 2024,” said Bernat Sala, CEO at Tecam. “As a trusted leader in environmental technology, Tecam remains dedicated to providing tailored solutions that contribute to a zero-emissions future for tank terminals.”

With a focus on innovation and sustainability, Tecam continues to lead the way in delivering environmental solutions that drive operational and environmental efficiency in the tank storage sector.

For more information visit www.tecamgroup.com