Ondas Holdings Inc., a leading provider of private industrial wireless networks and commercial drone and automated data solutions, announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary Airobotics Ltd. has partnered with Aero A2Z Services Pvt. Ltd. and will be presenting its UAS and C-UAS solutions at the International Drone Expo in New Delhi India. By partnering with Aero A2Z, Airobotics has expanded into the growing Indian markets, offering advanced drone infrastructures for Indian cities as well as industrial and critical infrastructure facilities.

Airobotics and Aero A2Z will offer the Optimus System, a fully automated drone system and Iron Drone on July 26 – 27, 2023, a fully automated drone interceptor. Optimus Systems are deployed in Safe & Smart Cities, Defense, Homeland Security, and industrial projects & facilities, performing various automated aerial missions 24/7 without human intervention. Iron-Drone C-UAS is an advanced, patented counter-drone solution designed to defend assets against hostile drones in complex environments with minimal collateral damage. The Iron Drone platform is agnostic to any detection solutions and is designed to physically capture hostile drones when identified.

“India has emerged as a promising market for drones, with a growing demand for UAS,” said Eric Brock, chairman and CEO of Ondas. “We see potential across various sectors such as critical infrastructure surveillance including defense establishments, ports, refineries, manufacturing facilities, all of which are a good fit for our UAS and Counter Drone solutions.”

The Smart City mission, launched by the Government of India, has played a significant role in fostering growth in the drone industry. As part of the mission, selected cities are undergoing comprehensive development, incorporating advanced technologies and infrastructure to enhance urban living. Drones have become an integral part of this transformation, offering solutions for efficient city planning, infrastructure monitoring, traffic management, surveillance, and disaster management. With the aim of creating sustainable and technologically advanced urban centres, the Smart City mission has created a favorable environment for the adoption and utilisation of drones, making India an attractive market for UAS manufacturers, service providers, and technology innovators. We believe the integration of drones into the Smart City ecosystem has the potential to revolutionise urban development, enabling more efficient resource allocation, improved citizen services, and enhanced overall quality of life.

Meir Kliner, CEO of Airobotics, said, “We are looking forward to commencing our business expansion into India, offering Airobotics’ trusted autonomous drones to local entities. We have partnered with Aero A2Z, a well-experienced and established local vendor, to achieve this objective, and we believe we will be able to capture many business opportunities in this remarkable country.”

For more information visit www.ondas.com

Climate Investment, a specialist investor focused on enabling capital-efficient decarbonisation of heavy-emitting sectors, has led the $12 million Series B fundraising round for SensorUp, a market-defining, geospatial platform for methane leak detection and repair. Evok Innovations also participated in this funding round.

Methane emissions reduction is essential to oil and gas companies’ journey to net-zero operations. Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, second only to carbon dioxide in its overall contribution to climate change. It is responsible for about a third of current climate warming, according to the International Energy Agency.

SensorUp has developed the SensorUp Gas Emissions Management Solution, a data integration platform for methane leak detection and repair, measurement reconciliation, reporting, and verification of methane emissions. SensorUp GEMS enables swift detection and mitigation of methane emissions by providing contextualised, actionable, and auditable insight to its customers.

Furthermore, SensorUp GEMS will enable oil & gas companies to be compliant with international standards, such as the United Nations’ OGMP 2.0 Gold Standard, GTI Veritas Protocols, ISO/OGC sensor web data standards, and more, resulting in transparent, accurate and factual emissions data for those companies’ customers

Richard Jackson, president of operations for US Onshore Resources and Carbon Management at Occidental, said, “We are committed to reducing methane emissions in our operations, and our decision to use SensorUp Gas Emissions Management Solution aligns with Oxy’s net zero targets and helps advance our low carbon business objectives. Our teams will use SensorUp GEMS to help accelerate leak detection and repair while moving toward more measurement-based emissions inventories.”

With its industry-leading portfolio of methane detection companies, CI recognises the platform’s value. Mike Bishop, CI investment director, will join SensorUp’s board, with Daniel Palmer, CI commercialisation director, joining as an observer.

“Many oil & gas operators have found it difficult to reduce emissions because they do not have a way to map emissions data to their operations,” commented CI’s Mike Bishop. “SensorUp GEMS completes the picture by integrating emission data from all methane detection providers, including our portfolio of methane detection technologies, allowing operators to correlate emissions to operations, leading to better maintenance and predictive capability.”

SensorUp founder, Prof. Steve Liang, Ph.D., echoed this, “SensorUp GEMS streamlines legacy processes and unifies disparate systems into a coherent sensor web, enabling accurate emissions reporting and optimized emissions reduction operations. With companies like Oxy adopting SensorUp GEMS, and the CI investment, our team is excited to use a software approach mitigating climate change and making a global positive impact.

For more information visit www.sensorup.com

Koole Terminals, a major player in the energy transition process, is strengthening its role in Liverpool with the expansion of renewable storage tanks. The company recognises the importance of making a significant contribution to the energy transition and is committed to seizing sustainable opportunities.

In June, Koole successfully converted and prepared four storage tanks for a leading international client in a record time. These tanks are specifically designed to store sustainable renewable feedstock, marking Koole’s first foray into this area. The decision to convert the tanks was driven by market demand and the need to be flexible in response to fluctuations in supply and demand.

Working closely with the customer, Koole made specific modifications to tailor the project. This involved adding ship pumps, unloading points, and insulation to ensure optimal performance. The team, including sales manager Virgil Veira and operations manager Ronald Thonissen, is proud of the result and the customer has already expressed interest in more tanks like these.

The Liverpool project is a supply chain solution that provides partners with the infrastructure to create and store renewable feedstock streams. By facilitating and securing supply for the production of renewable fuels, Koole becomes an integral part of the chain and supports the energy transition. The solution also offers the customer the ability to collect and safely store used cooking oil in bulk, with the added benefit of filtering the collected oil for easier processing in their factories.

The success of the project is attributed to the expertise and experience of the team involved. The commitment and availability of the team have impressed the client, who commended their dedication. The team, which includes manager HSEQ Klaas Verburgt, project manager Edwin van Noord, and terminal manager Tankstorage Liverpool Shaun Davin, met all deadlines and stayed within budget. Their focus on maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety is paramount.

Looking back on the project, Ronald Thonissen is proud of how it was executed. The alignment with Koole Tankstorage Liverpool’s vision and strategy is promising for the future. With their commitment to sustainability and ability to seize opportunities, Koole Terminals is well-positioned to continue leading the way in the renewable energy sector.

For more information visit www.koole.com

Floating storage and slow sailing had already become hallmarks of the LNG market, before global gas’ paradigm shift that started in 2021, having been frequently seen in Europe and Asia as traders looked to push supply along late-year pricing contangos. And despite 2022’s unprecedented events, the queueing of laden carriers offshore key demand markets and the lowering of sailing speeds still returned as summer tipped into winter.

The floating storage incentives have returned for later this year, and traders have been well aware of them for more than a few months. But the LNG market can differ considerably each year from the last, as has shown to be true. Forward LNG and gas prices for Europe and Asia are much lower than they were during the 2022 summer, while Europe’s race for LNG last year will have lasting effects on the region’s import infrastructure. Both factors are set to impact how floating storage in Europe could look this time round.

NW Europe inter-month des price spreads

Kicking the bucket down the road

Underpinning floating LNG storage in previous late summer-early winter periods is one of the LNG market’s key price drivers – the difference between the seasonality of global demand and the far more tempered fluctuations in LNG production, which can lead to surplus supply in late summer and early winter that has to be pushed further into the year when the northern hemisphere’s heating demand fully rears its head.

The same forces are at play this time as well. Europe’s gas storage sites are largely heading for near-maximum inventories by the start of winter, aided by a storage overhang heading into summer that mirrored 2020’s stocks in size, which would severely curb the ability of Europe to absorb surplus molecules at the turn of seasons.

The LNG supply outlook for early winter looks stronger than last time too, with global loadings set to be mainly buoyed by the return of the US’ 15mn t/yr Freeport LNG export terminal as well as other, smaller liquefaction capacity additions and optimisation.

Forward spot charter rates and European delivered LNG prices assessed in recent weeks suggest an incentive for firms to delay October deliveries to the region well into November and potentially as far as early December, when accounting for additional vessel hire and boil-off losses incurred.

Flat price terra firma

LNG and gas prices in Europe and Asia have fallen back to more familiar levels after breaking into the stratosphere in 2022. But these lower prices leave much less space for temporal price spreads to grow and keep pace with any gains in floating storage costs that stem from higher rates as charterers jostle for finite available LNG shipping capacity. In turn, this suggests that there is scope for a tightening of LNG shipping capacity that could close the floating storage arbitrage.

Prompt spot LNG charter rates over the fourth quarter of last year also far surpassed previous records, driven by demand for carriers to float the cargoes. But this huge jump in freight costs was not enough to slam the floating storage arbitrage shut. Instead, prompt LNG and gas hub prices in Europe crumbled under the weight of excess gas to increase their discounts to the much higher prices for delivery slightly further into winter, countering the higher freight costs and leaving an incentive to keep floating cargoes and hold off regasifying LNG in onshore tanks. At its greatest, the Dutch TTF gas hub’s front-month contract held a $26.57/mn Btu premium over its day-ahead price, while the northwest Europe third half-month des price was as much as $15/mn Btu above the corresponding first half-month price. In turn, this has driven vessel availability down to near-zero and almost halted prompt Atlantic chartering activity entirely.

The lack of potential downward movement available to gas and LNG prices, without turning negative, may keep a lid on how many molecules can be kicked down the road.

Europe’s onshore LNG storage hurdle

Europe has made several LNG import capacity additions over the past year, largely in markets previously dependent on Russian gas supply. But while the region’s aggregate regasification capacity has jumped, its growth is fragmented over a greater number of terminals and has been quicker than the increase in total LNG storage capacity.

Almost all new import infrastructure has come in the form of floating storage and regasification units or similar infrastructure – a selection necessitated by the much shorter timeframes needed to bring such import projects on line than with onshore terminals which count their construction times in years.

A key downfall of using these offshore units is that they have limited LNG storage capacity, with each FSRU typically capable of holding roughly just one standard cargo of LNG at any time. This leaves capacity holders at FSRU-based import terminals with little ability to store LNG at the facility and regasify later in the winter, which had been widespread during previous occasions of European floating storage, albeit less so in 2022 – with the exception of Spain – when high terminal stocks throughout summer limited available space for firms to take advantage of temporal price spreads for the fourth quarter.

Additionally, most of these offshore terminals have multiple users, meaning that stocks must be drawn down to allow space for the next import slot’s owner to bring in its own cargo. This could either push firms to instead float their cargoes to their next import slot, or bolster excess gas supply downstream from the facilities.

The buildout of Europe’s regasification capacity, particularly the additions in Germany, the Netherlands, France and Italy, could also aid the drawdown of floating storage later in the winter, contrasting with last year when high sendout capacity utilisation kept laden carriers on the water well into the heating season.

The flexibility afforded by this new capacity goes further too, allowing more LNG to be imported should heating demand rise substantially in the event of any early winter cold snap, thereby limiting the need for Europe to dip early into its underground gas stocks and aiding the preservation of these inventories for the latter part of the season.

For more information visit www.argusmedia.com

The Brazos Island Harbor Channel Improvement Project in Brownsville, Texas, has received a boost as Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation has been given the Notice to Proceed. The project aims to improve the Brownsville ship channel for NextDecade Corporation’s Rio Grande LNG project at the Port of Brownsville.

Great Lakes will begin Phase 1 of the project later this year. The main objective of the BIH project is to deepen the 17-mile-long Brownsville ship channel from its current depth of 42 feet to 52 feet. This will result in significant improvements in navigational safety for commercial shipping in South Texas.

The Port Director and CEO, Eduardo A. Campirano, emphasised the importance of the BIH Channel Improvement Project for the regional economy. He stated that it will strengthen the port’s position as a critical player in the global supply chain. As cargo volumes continue to increase, the project will enhance the port’s capabilities and support sustainable growth for the industries it serves.

The BIH project consists of two phases and is funded through a Public-Private Partnership (P3) between the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Port of Brownsville, and NextDecade. NextDecade has agreed to cover 100 percent of the costs for Phase 1, including the deepening of the channel and the development of ship berths and a turning basin for the Rio Grande LNG facility. Phase 2, which involves deepening the channel from the turning basin area to the Rio Grande LNG site, will be executed by the Port of Brownsville and the USACE.

The federal government has also allocated $68 million for Phase 2 of the project under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Appropriations Law, which was announced in March 2022.

Lasse Petterson, president and CEO of Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation, expressed excitement about the project, calling it the largest undertaken in the company’s 133-year history. He looks forward to collaborating with NextDecade, the USACE, and the Port of Brownsville to complete this important improvement project, which will benefit navigation interests and facilitate future development at the Port of Brownsville.

For more information visit www.portofbrownsville.com

The Hydrogen Utility and Vopak Terminals Australia have announced a collaboration for the H2-Hub Gladstone project in Queensland, Australia. The project aims to establish a renewable energy complex for green hydrogen and green ammonia production. With 3 GW of planned electrolyser capacity and over 1.7 million tonnes per year of planned green ammonia production, H2-Hub Gladstone is set to be one of the largest green hydrogen and green ammonia developments in Queensland and a leading export project globally. The collaboration between H2U and Vopak will focus on the development of the Export Terminal of H2-Hub Gladstone.

H2U has already formed strategic partnerships and green ammonia offtake agreements with Orica Australia, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and Korea East-West Power. Vopak Terminals Australia, a subsidiary of Royal Vopak, is a global leader in independent tank storage and has over 20 years of experience in storing ammonia. Vopak aims to contribute to the development of new supply chains for green ammonia and hydrogen and has plans for green ammonia projects in the Netherlands, Singapore, and the US.

The collaboration between H2U and Vopak is seen as a valuable addition to the H2-Hub Gladstone consortium, bringing Vopak’s expertise and industry-leading track record as a storage terminal operator. The project has been declared a Coordinated Project by the Queensland Coordinator-General and is progressing with the environmental impact assessment. The collaboration is expected to support the project’s development and future green ammonia offtake partnerships.

The project has received support from the Queensland Government, with Minister Glenn Butcher stating that it aligns with the government’s vision for a clean energy future and will create local job opportunities. Vopak’s managing director, Paul Kanters, sees the collaboration as an opportunity to shape a sustainable future and accelerate towards new energies.

Overall, the collaboration between H2U and Vopak for the H2-Hub Gladstone project signifies a significant step towards the development of a green hydrogen and green ammonia export hub in Queensland, contributing to the global energy transition.

For more information visit www.vopak.com

TC Energy Corporation has announced that it has entered into an agreement to monetise a 40 percent interest in its Columbia Gas Transmission, LLC and Columbia Gulf Transmission, LLC systems. Columbia Gas and Columbia Gulf will be held in a new joint venture partnership with Global Infrastructure Partners. Total proceeds for the transaction are expected to be $5.2 billion (US$3.9 billion) in cash, to be paid at closing, subject to certain customary adjustments. The value of the 40 percent equity interest implies an enterprise value to a comparable EBITDA1 multiple of approximately 10.5 times TC Energy’s base 2023 outlook and expected run-rate capital structure for the partnership entity.

TC Energy will continue to operate the systems, focusing on maximising value through safe operations, reliability of service and operational excellence. TC Energy and GIP will jointly invest in annual maintenance, modernisation and sanctioned growth capital to further enhance system capacity and reliability. GIP will fund its 40 percent share of gross capital expenditures, which are expected to average more than $1.3 billion (US$1 billion) annually over the next three years.

“Today’s announcement represents a major milestone in achieving our 2023 strategic priorities. To date, we have advanced our deleveraging goals by delivering on our $5+ billion asset divestiture programme ahead of our year-end target, while maximising the value of our assets and safely executing major projects, such as Coastal GasLink and Southeast Gateway,” said François Poirier, TC Energy’s president and chief executive officer. “As part of our ongoing capital rotation program, we continue to evaluate opportunities to further our deleveraging objectives and optimally fund our secured capital programme. Our commitment to strong balance sheet fundamentals and disciplined sanctioned net capital spending of $6 to $7 billion annually post 2024 will continue to provide the foundation for a long-term sustainable annual dividend growth rate of three to five percent.”

Supporting the energy transition through critical natural gas infrastructure

The Columbia Gas and Columbia Gulf pipelines span more than 15,000 miles across a highly integrated North American natural gas network and are underpinned by strong long-term natural gas fundamentals and a rate-regulated commercial framework. These assets deliver a substantial portion of daily US natural gas demand, including approximately 20 percent of US liquefied natural gas export supply. The resiliency of these systems combined with their ability to connect the largest and lowest-cost natural gas basin to key demand centres and global export markets, uniquely positions them to remain a central player in further supporting the transition to lower-emitting energy sources.

“Long-term fundamentals continue to underscore the role of natural gas in a sustainable energy future. Our partnership with GIP will provide additional investment capacity to originate and execute Columbia Gas and Columbia Gulf projects to meet that need,” continued Poirier. “This, and future partnerships, across our portfolio will strengthen our ability to enable the energy transition while enhancing balance sheet strength. We look forward to combining the collective strengths of TC Energy’s strategic asset base and strong operating expertise, as well as GIP’s proven investment track record and extensive relationships in the global LNG market.”

“We are pleased to partner with TC Energy on energy infrastructure assets that are critical to the North American and global natural gas markets,” said Bayo Ogunlesi, Global Infrastructure Partners’ chairman and chief executive officer. “We welcome the opportunity for this joint venture to leverage the combined assets and capabilities of TC Energy and GIP to serve growing market needs for cleaner fuels, energy security and energy affordability.”

Transaction details

The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2023, subject to customary closing conditions.

In connection with the transaction, Columbia Pipeline Group, Inc. will contribute all of its equity interests in its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Columbia Gas and Columbia Gulf, to a newly formed wholly-owned entity, Columbia Pipelines Operating Company, LLC, which will be directly held by a newly formed wholly-owned entity, Columbia Pipelines Holding Company, LLC. CPHC represents the entity through which TC Energy and GIP will each hold their equity interest. At closing of the transaction, TC Energy and GIP will enter into a Limited Liability Company Agreement and Operation and Maintenance Services Agreement that provide GIP with certain customary rights commensurate with its 40 percent equity ownership interest while preserving TC Energy’s flexibility to efficiently and effectively operate the assets.

As CPG’s equity interests in Columbia Gas and Columbia Gulf constitute substantially all of the assets of CPG, in accordance with the indenture governing CPG’s outstanding 4.50 percent Senior Notes due 2025 and 5.80 percent Senior Notes due in 2045 with a total outstanding principal amount of US$1.5 billion (collectively, the “Existing Notes” and such indenture, the “Existing Notes Indenture”), CPOC and CPG will enter into a supplemental indenture to the Existing Notes Indenture pursuant to which CPOC will assume all of CPG’s obligations under the Existing Notes and the Existing Notes Indenture and CPG will be concurrently released from its obligations thereunder.

As part of the transaction TC Energy expects to undertake a recapitalisation and debt restructuring of CPHC and CPOC. TD Securities Inc. and Citi acted as financial advisers to TC Energy on the transaction and have provided capital commitments with respect to expected bank financing. Mayer Brown is acting as legal adviser to TC Energy.

For more information visit www.tcenergy.com

Elmac Envisafe Technologies, a subsidiary of The Protectoseal Company, announced the opening of its new manufacturing facility in Thane, Mumbai. The facility spans approximately 25,000 square feet and features the latest in CNC and material handling technology.

The opening of the new facility is a significant milestone for Elmac Envisafe Technologies. The investment in the state-of-the-art facility and equipment has allowed the company to streamline its production process and reduce lead times on orders. With the ability to produce high-quality products more efficiently, Elmac Envisafe Technologies is better equipped to meet the growing demand for its services in India and beyond.

The facility is strategically located near Thane, Mumbai, which is a hub for manufacturing and distribution in India. This location allows the company to easily transport its products to customers throughout the country. The new facility and upgrades have also allowed Elmac Envisafe Technologies to reduce production time, improving efficiency and customer satisfaction.

“As a company, we are constantly striving to enhance our capabilities and better serve our customers, and this expansion is a testament to that. With our investment in innovative technologies, we are equipped to offer even higher quality products and services to our growing customer base,” said Swapnil Patil, managing director of Elmac Envisafe Technologies. This new facility not only strengthens our position as a leading provider of flame arresters and pressure protection equipment but also enables us to meet the increasing demands of the market. I am truly proud to be a part of this exciting milestone in our company’s journey and look forward to the continued growth and success.”

“We are excited to open our new manufacturing facility in Thane, Mumbai,” said Chuck Hall, president of The Protectoseal Company. “This investment in our manufacturing capabilities will allow us to better serve our customers with high-quality flame arresters and pressure protection equipment. We look forward to continuing to grow and expand our business in India and beyond.”

Elmac Envisafe Technologies is a subsidiary of The Protectoseal Company, a global leader in vapour and flame control technologies. With over 90 years of experience in the industry, The Protectoseal Company is committed to providing innovative solutions that meet the unique needs of its customers.

For more information visit www.elmactechnologies.com

This use case illustrates the digitalisation of inspection processes at KLM Equipment Services, resulting from the collaboration between Aboma and Smartflow with the implementation of the digital inspection system called AMTeK.

After the implementation of the AMTeK application, KLM Equipment Services managed to create a transparent data-transfer process between the field inspectors, office workers, and their customers.

KLM Equipment Services aimed at increasing efficiency, ensuring workers’ safety, creating a standardised workflow followed by each inspector, and ensuring equipment compliance.

KLM EQUIPMENT SERVICES

GOALS

• Future proof and flexible inspection solution
• Automated workflow for preparing, sharing, and completing inspections
• Structural data collection

CHALLENGES

• Improving and updating inspection methodology
• Preparing inspections for multiple inspectors and different assets & equipment
• Reporting and analysing inspection results

SOLUTION

• Standardised inspection workflow
• Connected environment with colleagues and external stakeholders
• Automated workflows and reporting

RESULTS

• Complete standardised inspections and error reduction
• Increased collaboration and knowledge transfer
• Increased insight about inspector, asset, and equipment performance
• Additional steps towards increasing preventive maintenance

WORKING AT ONE OF THE BUSIEST AIRPORTS IN THE WORLD

KLM Equipment Services operates as an independent subsidiary of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.

KLM is the world’s oldest airline still operating under its original name and the biggest operating airline in the Netherlands, carrying 34.1 million passengers and 621,000 tonnes of cargo, forming the heart of the KLM Group.

Since 1952, KLM Equipment Services has been the maintenance company for Ground Support Equipment at Schiphol Amsterdam Airport, the world’s fifth busiest international airport in terms of traffic, serving 319 destinations.

KES provides the aviation industry with solutions for Ground Support Equipment, ensuring that customers can work carefree. Due to the utmost importance of safety and predictability of airplanes, equipment, people, and procedures, KES has a very high standard that it needs to maintain at the airport.

PAPER, PAPER EVERYWHERE!

KES was dealing with a couple of repetitive challenges that created a boomerang effect. Paper-based inspections can obviously be a time-consuming and error-prone process, which makes it difficult to prepare inspections effectively.

MAINTENANCE AND PREPARATION OF INSPECTIONS

Sometimes the inspection methodology needs to be updated because of new guidelines for a specific asset or machine or simply based on feedback from the inspectors.

This was often proven a difficult and time consuming project that KES had to do fully themselves without any assistance.

Trainings needed to be changed, all corresponding documents needed to be updated, and a dilemma occurred on how to deal with the new methodology compared to past inspections.

Secondly, the preparation of inspections was very time & resource intensive. All of the inspections needed to be prepared and filed, often with corresponding documents that were necessary for the inspector.

Everything was documented on paper, making it difficult for other team members to access vital information, which resulted in collaboration and preparation for inspections being ineffective

EXECUTING THE INSPECTIONS

A paper-based inspection process can be overwhelming due to the amount of collected data, the exact steps that need to be followed, and the precise location of an asset.

Most importantly, with paper inspections, it is difficult to give the proper (follow-up) instructions for specific situations or based on the findings of the inspector.

Often, therefore, the final inspection report turns out to be incomplete due to missing and wrong information caused by human error. This in its turn, can result in data loss and inefficiency.

REPORTING AND ANALYSIS OF INSPECTIONS

When keeping piles of hard-copy paper-based reports, there is always a risk of misplacing, losing, or even storing data in a non-compliant manner.

On top of that, traditional inspection methods are not designed to keep everyone involved in the process. In other words, companies gain no insights into the inspectors’ & asset performance. With this in mind, KES had the need to create a new preventive maintenance culture.

OTHER RECURRING CHALLENGES

Inspectors are not fully enabled unless their work is directly visible to others (and vice versa). Many times they hand the paper to someone else who will store it somewhere.

Often, this situation leads to a chain of double work being carried out that could have been prevented if inspectors’ checks had become immediately available and visible digitally.

Risks increase when data is not visible right after it has been captured, especially when there are no automated alerts to validate certain findings.

CENTERING THE INSPECTOR

The combination of Aboma’s expertise in equipment inspections and Smartflow’s knowledge in digitalising inspections resulted in the digital AMTeK inspection application we know today.

With all the challenges that KES was facing, AMTeK was already proven. The usage of the inspection app helped KES equip their inspectors with a tool that eases and simplifies the inspection process by replacing paper-based inspections and checks with fully digital and standardised ones.

The AMTeK app helps KES workers become the center of a connected ecosystem by equipping inspectors with the proper tools that allow them to deliver and receive information online and offline, anytime and anywhere, improving their own productivity while feeding into the productivity of their colleagues.

Simultaneously, giving better insights for all stakeholders involved by storing all the data in one place.

AMTeK provides a standardised inspection model for different kinds of equipment that requires the inspector to follow a certain workflow in order to complete and submit a checklist.

The workflow guarantees that the inspector follows a certain procedure which ensures that the right instructions and relevant follow-up questions are shown at the right time.

This process ensures quality by standardising the collection of data. The flexibility and scalability of Smartflow have enabled KES to start using other checklists thanks to an easy and standardised process. Most importantly, the look & feel of these checklists is similar, minimising the onboarding and training efforts of users.

HOW DOES THE AMTEK APPLICATION SUPPORT KLM?

• All inspections flows are standardised.
• Easy data exchange with other tools to leverage data management and compliance.
• Based on the inspection rules, only relevant checks need to be answered, and the users are guided through the process in an intuitive manner.
• The inspector has the information and guidance at the right place, at the right time.
• Inspection reports and certificates are automatically generated and shared with stakeholders that need to be informed.
• Access to the inspection history of a specific asset. Data can be used for repetitive inspections, such as yearly inspections.
• Questions are presented in the correct order, and provided with the right contextual information.
• The UI is specifically designed for field workers, with focus on readability and the ability to easily insert data.
• Data is collected in a structural and clear view.
• Customisable reports with insights on all aspects of the inspected asset/equipment, complete with a comment, action, or photo.

THE INSPECTORS OF THE FUTURE

After using the AMTeK app, KLM Equipment Services has nurtured a standardised work environment that simplifies communication, data, and knowledge transfer. By uniting technology with field workers, they managed to shape a new generation of inspectors and lead the way to smart ways of working.

SMARTFLOW & ABOMA: A STRONG DUO

The AMTeK application has been proving itself successful thanks to the close collaboration between Aboma and Smartflow.

Due to their shared efforts, the AMTeK app has been constantly adding new improvements targeting the needs of inspectors. Aboma’s strong knowledge in machinery, health & safety, and regulation supplies feedback directly from their customers, adding value to the complete AMTeK application.

Because of the flexibility of the Smartflow platform, it is then also possible to quickly implement this feedback into the solution.

ZERO INCOMPLETE INSPECTIONS

Along with the introduction of the AMTeK app, there have been zero incomplete or faulty inspection reports leading to increased efficiency and safety.

A benefit of utilising previous inspection records is being aware of what issues the machinery faced last year, which expedites the current inspection process. Instead of spending time on finding out the latest status of the equipment, the time saved is now focused on the thing that matters the most; the actual inspection.

ALL DATA IN ONE PLACE

Inspectors and office workers can access information digitally all in one place. This way they can ensure a comprehensive and transparent knowledge transfer that prevents delays.

If an inspection is done on the same asset, they simply use the previous inspection (and its findings) as a basis for the new inspection. If there was a point of interest last year, then a direct follow-up is possible with the current inspection.

DIGITAL REPORTS

KES can now automatically send reports to all important stakeholders. The inspectors have to perform little to no extra administrative work in addition to their inspection. This benefit encourages them to embrace digital technology, allowing them openness to new developments.

INSIGHTS & PERFORMANCE

With the inspection results being collected in a centralised database, it gives KES the opportunity to identify trends and patterns in inspector performance, asset condition, and equipment reliability.

By examining this data, KES can gain valuable insights into areas where improvements can be made and identify potential risks or issues before they become major problems.

Which, in its turn, can lead to reduced downtime and increased operational efficiency.

Further, by tracking equipment performance over time, KES can identify patterns and trends that may indicate the need for maintenance or replacement.

This can help the airline proactively manage its equipment, reducing the risk of unexpected downtime or failures. In the case of AMTeK, the inspections also help to track inspector performance and identify areas where additional training may be needed.

This can ensure that inspectors are consistently performing inspections to the highest standards, leading to increased safety and reliability.

NEW GENERATION OF INSPECTORS

This digital transformation has benefitted not only talent retention but a new generation of inspectors who are attracted to the simplified processes and a smarter, more agile way of working. The new generation of workers is much more tech-savvy, making the inspection job at KLM Equipment Services much more attractive as well.

EMPOWERED WORKERS

Digitalisation empowers inspectors to take more responsibility and look for new and better ways of performing their daily tasks. Tools that keep processes, systems, and reports up to date further encourage a culture of flexibility.

AMTEK TODAY

• 1700+ inspectors
• 600+ companies
• 120+ supported types of equipment
• 45-50K completed inspections per year

FINAL THOUGHTS

KLM Equipment Services has trusted Aboma and Smartflow to help with eliminating the risks endangering the workers’ safety and the quality of their machines.

The solution that Smartflow developed together with Aboma allows companies like KLM Equipment Services to digitalise their entire inspection process easily.

Field workers play a key role in driving better-informed operational and business decisions. They create a preventive maintenance mindset with the generation of a large amount of data that is necessary for these decisions to be accurate.

Still, similar companies continue to struggle with data-related issues. Some of the most frequently encountered challenges mentioned in this use case are collaboration, compliance, reporting, and data insights. And, of course, the ability to fully enable inspectors by providing them with the proper tools and insights.

Smartflow, together with Aboma, aims at helping customers like KES remain a market leader in the industry and have accurate and swift responses to their clients.

Data plays a big role in that as well as delivering more intelligent analysis. Hence Smartflow and Aboma will continue to improve the way inspections are done in the field.

For more information visit www.smartflowapps.com

Applus UK Ltd has recently become an Associate member of EEMUA. Specifically, their Tank Inspection Team is now included in the Associate status. With extensive experience in storage tank testing and inspection, Applus UK’s team is well-equipped to assist tank owners in optimizing their inspection intervals through detailed inspection data and the application of remaining-life and RBI principles. Additionally, they have a team of tank engineers who provide specialized advice on storage tank inspection, repair, modification, and maintenance.

EEMUA’s primary focus is to support its members and the wider industry in all aspects of storage tank design, inspection, maintenance, and repair in order to ensure safe and efficient operation. By joining EEMUA, Applus UK will have the opportunity to share and learn good practices from other industry experts, which will further enhance the capabilities of their Tank Inspection Team. Ultimately, this will enable them to better serve their clients and contribute to the continued safe operation of these critical assets.

For more information visit www.eemua.org/home.aspx

LBC Tank Terminals, a leading storage company, has announced its plans to expand its terminal in Antwerp, Belgium. The decision comes as a response to the growing demand for base oils and chemicals in the region and the need to strengthen its position as a base oil hub.

The expansion project will involve the construction of 28 tanks, providing an additional storage capacity of 80,000 cubic metres. This significant increase in capacity will enable LBC Tank Terminals to meet the growing demand for storage in the area. In addition to the new tanks, a state-of-the-art loading station for trucks and rail cars will be built as part of the project, ensuring safe and efficient transportation of goods.

Erik Kleine, general manager Europe, explained that the expansion is necessary due to the increasing competitive pressure faced by chemicals production in Northwestern Europe. Producers in the Middle East and the US have an advantage with access to lower priced feedstock, making it crucial for LBC Tank Terminals to enhance its capabilities and cater to the rising import of base oils and chemicals into Europe.

Moreover, the project aligns with LBC Tank Terminals’ commitment to sustainability in the storage industry. The company aims to provide integrated storage solutions that prioritise resource efficiency, minimise environmental impact, and contribute to a meaningful future. Specific measures and technologies will be implemented in the new infrastructure to achieve these goals.

The expanded terminal is expected to be fully operational by the fourth quarter of 2025. This expansion not only demonstrates LBC Tank Terminals’ dedication to meeting customer needs but also positions the company for continued growth and competitiveness in the storage industry. With its enhanced storage capacity and modern infrastructure, LBC Tank Terminals is poised to maintain its prominent position as a base oil hub in the region.

For more information visit www.lbctt.com

Costain has successfully completed a key milestone in the journey towards the UK’s first fully decarbonised industrial cluster. When finished, the CO2 emitted from a variety of industries on Teesside will be captured, transported and securely stored under the North Sea.

The Costain project team, which included Mott MacDonald and px Group, has now completed the first phase of the engineering design for the onshore CO2 gathering pipelines for the Northern Endurance Partnership, the CO2 transportation and storage company that will serve the ECC carbon capture and storage project. The pipeline networks will take the CO2 from a variety of carbon capture projects, including Net Zero Teesside Power’s CCGT generating station, which will be the world’s first commercial scale gas-fired power station with carbon capture. Alongside the pipeline, the project team also need to consider broader challenges including routing of the high voltage electrical connection, rail, road and rivers crossings.

The team, based in Redcar at the Wilton Centre, used laser scanning and modelling techniques to design the route for the new CO2 gathering network, which includes the crossing of the river Tees, natural gas pipeline and high voltage infrastructure.

The front end engineering design was carried out for the Northern Endurance Partnership and Net Zero Teesside Power, which are key elements of the ECC, which was selected by the UK Government as a track 1 cluster as part of the cluster sequencing process for carbon capture, usage and storage in 2021. The ECC is on course for first commercial operations by 2027.

Sam White, Costain’s natural resources managing director, commented:

“The East Coast Cluster has the potential to capture and store up to 23m tonnes of CO2 a year and make a huge contribution to the UK’s net zero goals. Innovative schemes like this one are vital to ensure we grow regional economies in a sustainable way.”

Ben Ken, Northern Endurance Partnership deputy director said:

“The successful design of the Northern Endurance Partnership’s onshore CO2 pipeline network on Teesside is a key milestone for the wider East Coast Cluster, which has a crucial role to play in decarbonising the industrial powerhouse regions of Teesside and the Humber”.

For more information visit www.costain.com

Mabanaft GmbH & Co. KG, an independent energy company, has announced its continued investment in the end-customer business by acquiring the remaining shares in five Petronord Group companies. The acquired companies are Hempelmann Wittemöller, Keck Energieservice, Lipps Energie, Staack Pooltankstellen, and Uhlenbruck Energie.

This acquisition is part of Mabanaft’s strategy to reorganise its end-consumer business, which now consists of three units: Bulk, Energy Distribution, and Retail. The Petronord Group, which previously formed a significant part of Mabanaft’s end-customer business, will now be split into two areas: Commercial Road Transport and ED.

The CRT business will include the automated truck service stations within the tankpool24 network in Germany and will become part of the Retail unit. The remaining end-customer businesses in Germany, Austria, and Sweden will be part of the ED unit.

The integration of the five Petronord Group companies is a significant step for Mabanaft as it aims to develop and strengthen its end-customer business in both the CRT and ED areas. By integrating these businesses, Mabanaft will be able to leverage group synergies and expand its offerings to customers in these segments.

Mabanaft is committed to actively participating in the energy transition and provides its customers with a wide range of energy products, including both conventional and innovative low-carbon fuel solutions. The company expects a stable and high demand for liquid fuels throughout the energy transition, as alternative fuels will remain essential in the medium and long term.

The acquisition of the remaining shares in the Petronord Group companies aligns with Mabanaft’s strategy of creating a fully owned platform to strengthen its market position and support customers in decarbonising their operations. The company aims to offer high-quality liquid fuels to customers, whether conventional or low-carbon, to meet their evolving needs.

The structure of the integrated businesses will be further defined in the coming months, with plans for the go-live of the new structure in early 2024. The transaction involving Hempelmann Wittemöller is subject to necessary authority approvals. The financial terms of the agreements were not disclosed.

Mabanaft GmbH & Co. KG is a leading independent and integrated energy company that provides innovative energy solutions for transportation, heating, industrial, and agricultural needs. The company is involved in the import, distribution, and marketing of petroleum products, natural gas liquids, chemicals, and biofuels. Mabanaft supports its customers’ transition to cleaner fuels by offering alternative long-term solutions.

Petronord GmbH & Co. KG is a subsidiary of the Mabanaft Group and operates retail companies in Germany, Austria, and Sweden. The company is involved in the heating oil and diesel end-consumer business, lubricants distribution, operation of service stations for commercial trucking fleets, and trading of bitumen, wood pellets, natural gas, and electricity.

For more information visit www.mabanaft.com/en/

ENDEGS Group, an expert in industrial emissions reduction, has recently been involved in the recovery of a damaged ship in the Port of Amsterdam. As a result of a strong storm, two vessels had collided on the Dutch coast. One of the two ships was loaded with LNG and was severely damaged following the collision. To enable the maintenance work in the shipyard, ENDEGS provided two mobile vapour combustion units to empty the tanker of LNG.

In the beginning of July, storm “Poly” caused squalls, heavy rain and severe thunderstorms in the Netherlands and parts of Northern Germany. The storm was particularly severe in the Netherlands, where the highest warning level was issued in large parts of the country, with squalls reaching speeds of up to 140 kilometres per hour. On the Dutch coast, “Poly” caused – among other things – the collision of two ships. A tanker loaded with LNG was severely damaged.

“At no time was there any danger to the tanks”, says Kai Sievers, founder and CEO of ENDEGS Group. “Additionally, no LNG leaked at all during the entire emergency situation. However, the intervention of our team was necessary as the tanks had to be completely emptied before the necessary welding work on the hull of the ship could be carried out in the shipyard.”

Two mobile incinerators in operation for the degassing

“As a result of the collision between the two vessels, the outer hull of the LNG tanker had ripped open”, says David Wendel, managing director of ENDEGS Operations Group. “As collision protection, the outer hull of tankers of any kind is an important component for the safety of the vessels. Since this protection was no longer guaranteed, the tanker had to go to the shipyard immediately to repair the damage. However, if a ship is not gas-free and not completely emptied, work on the vessel is not allowed due to safety reasons. Therefore, we were contracted to degas the LNG tanks in order to empty them and thus make the wrecked vessel ready for repair.”

ENDEGS provided two of its mobile incinerators for the project. The units can destroy gases, gas-like substances and vapours in an environmentally-friendly manner – with an efficiency of more than 99.99 percent and without open flame. The two mobile vapour combustion units used for the project in the Port of Amsterdam have a combustion capacity of 5 MW each. Their rapid readiness and deployment make ENDEGS units particularly suitable for short-term projects such as emergency operations.

“As soon as we received the special permit from the Port of Amsterdam and the national environmental protection agency ODNZKG (Omgevingsdienst Noordzeekanaalgebied), we were able to start degassing immediately”, says David Wendel. “The degassing of the LNG tanks lasted from Saturday night until Monday afternoon.”

“We would like to thank the crew of the damaged vessel, the Port of Amsterdam and the national environmental protection agency for their great cooperation”, says Kai Sievers. “Together, we were able to end the emergency situation quickly and effectively. Of course, we shouldn’t forget to mention the great ENDEGS team that always stands by our customers – not only in Germany, but throughout Europe.”

For more information visit www.endegs.com/en/

New Zealand company Fabrum, a world leader in zero-emission transition technologies to enable a lower-carbon economy, and Chart Industries, a leading global engineering design and manufacturer of highly engineered equipment servicing multiple applications in the clean energy and industrial gas markets, have formed a strategic partnership to collaborate on the manufacture and sale of Micro-Scale Liquefiers for hydrogen and other gases.

The collaboration targets the rapidly increasing demand for liquefaction systems as industries work to decarbonise and transition to new energy sources. The Micro-Scale Liquefier enables small-scale liquid hydrogen production under 5 tonnes per day, offering a new future for sustainable transport, industry, and energy self-sufficiency. The Micro-Scale Liquefiers can also be used in liquid natural gas and other cryogenic markets.

According to the MoU, Fabrum, a leader in industrialised small to medium-scale liquefaction systems and composite vessels for liquid hydrogen, liquefied natural gas, and other gases, will incorporate Chart products into manufacturing their Micro-Scale Liquefiers. Chart, a leading provider of technology, equipment and services related to LNG, hydrogen, biogas and CO2 Capture, amongst other applications, will add the Micro-Scale Liquefiers to its already expansive technology and equipment portfolio to market and sell through its global network.

Dr Ojas Mahapatra, CEO of Fabrum, says: “We’re delighted to enter this strategic collaboration with Chart as it brings together Fabrum, a leading hydrogen player worldwide, with one of the most prominent players globally for technologies and equipment across the entire molecule value chain. Our collective capability and talent will enable us to deliver game-changing technology to the market to allow micro-scale liquid hydrogen and liquid natural gas production.

“The timing of this collaboration is also important, as we’re seeing significant interest in end-to-end liquid hydrogen production and refuelling systems since various governments have introduced various investments in climate and energy to help tackle climate change. These types of public sector programs have ignited a new phase of decarbonisation and jump-started R&D, commercialisation, and investment in leading-edge technologies such as clean hydrogen.”

Jill Evanko, Chart’s CEO, says, “Partnering with Fabrum on technology and sales allows us to extend our offering in micro-scale liquid hydrogen and liquid natural gas for refuelling and energy applications. We’re excited to bring this combination to our customers in heavy transport, mining, and industry as we continue to support their transition to new and cleaner technologies with our extensive product and technology portfolio.”

Christopher Boyle, Fabrum’s executive chair, says, “Partnering with Chart, a world-leading technology innovator and supplier in clean energy and natural gas markets, represents an important milestone for Fabrum as we work to accelerate the uptake of our zero-emission transition technologies to enable a lower-carbon economy. We’ve already proven our hydrogen fuel solutions for small and medium-scale liquid hydrogen production, a paradigm shift from liquid hydrogen produced at large-scale plants and transported to the site of use. Chart is the ideal strategic partner to leverage Fabrum’s world-leading technology as it has a large and growing customer base and an established reputation as a technology innovator.”

For more information visit www.fabrum.nz

JERA Co., Inc. has concluded a Strategic Collaboration Agreement with ADNOC, related to cooperation in the clean hydrogen and ammonia fields.

UAE has set out a Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative and aims to become one of the leading producers of clean hydrogen by 2031. ADNOC is expected to play an important role in achieving this target.

JERA and ADNOC have built a good relationship through years of LNG sale and purchase, and have jointly conducted feasibility assessments in the hydrogen and ammonia fields. We have discussed ways to further deepen cooperation in the hydrogen and ammonia field and concluded this SCA.

The SCA, signed on 17th July, is a continuation of the good collaboration and relationship established between ADNOC and JERA and will reinforce the collaboration toward a value chain in clean hydrogen and ammonia fields, contributing to the expansion of business opportunities for both companies.

In order to achieve its “JERA Zero CO2 Emissions 2050” objective, JERA will continue to work with leading companies in Japan and overseas to establish and expand supply chains for hydrogen and ammonia, thereby contributing to global decarbonisation and energy solutions.

For more information visit www.jera.co.jp/en/

Buckeye Partners has announced that it has acquired Elysian Carbon Management from EnCap Flatrock Midstream. Elysian provides integrated end-to-end carbon capture and storage solutions to industrial, power and similar facilities seeking to transition to lower carbon products to advance emissions reductions goals.

“This acquisition reflects Buckeye’s commitment to continue to provide essential infrastructure and logistics solutions to meet our customers’ evolving needs in the energy transition,” said Buckeye CEO Todd Russo. “Rapidly developing CCS-related technologies and solutions offer abundant synergies across Buckeye’s project development capabilities and existing pipeline network and are essential to enabling the energy transition’s success. We’re excited for the Elysian team to join the Buckeye platform and to integrate their expertise to better serve our customers’ growing lower-carbon needs.”

This acquisition is another meaningful step in Buckeye’s ongoing commitment to building a business that is responsive to the needs of the future while continuing to serve the energy needs of communities today. Through advancing strategies to further reduce carbon emissions, Buckeye is committed to becoming a net zero energy business by 2040, across scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions. These commitments and others can be found in Buckeye’s newly released 2022 Sustainability Report.

“Buckeye continues to demonstrate resiliency and emissions-reduction results across its increasingly diversified energy solutions portfolio,” said Elysian CEO Bret Logue. “We’re fully aligned with their decarbonisation mission and look forward to adding immediate value to Buckeye’s customer base and their momentum in the energy transition by integrating CCS technologies across the energy value chain.”

For more information visit www.buckeye.com

International-Matex Tank Terminals, an industry leader in the handling and storage of bulk liquid products, especially energy transition fuels, feedstocks and petrochemicals, announced that ITT Holdings LLC has successfully amended its existing revolving credit facility to include incentive pricing terms related to achieving various Sustainability Performance Targets.

The Facility represents the Company’s inaugural Sustainability-Linked Loan and is issued under IMTT’s recently developed Sustainability Linked Issuance Framework. The Framework outlines key performance indicators related to environmental and social factors. The outlined key performance indicators include: i) the percentage of new capital expenditures related to increasing IMTT’s ability to store and handle renewable and low-carbon products including but not limited to renewable diesel, biodiesel, hydrogen, blue and green ammonia, sustainable aviation fuels, and the feedstocks used to produce these products; and ii) supplier diversity. These key performance indicators further reinforce the Company’s commitment to sustainability in line with its Greener and Cleaner strategy.

“We are reshaping our portfolio so that over half of IMTT’s revenue in 2023 will be generated from the handling of non-petroleum products, such as renewable diesel feedstocks, renewable diesel, vegetable and tropical oils, and chemicals. Our Greener and Cleaner strategy is working, and we anticipate continuing to grow our non-petroleum share of revenue over the next several years through deployment of capital for new projects supporting the energy transition. The continued support from our lenders will allow us to continue to develop and execute the projects that support these ambitions,” said Carlin Conner, chairman and CEO of IMTT. “Additionally, we are committed to creating opportunities for vendors and suppliers that are capable, experienced and share our ESG goals.”

Sustainable Fitch has provided a Second Party Opinion which verifies that the Framework is aligned with the Loan Syndications and Trading Association Sustainability-Linked Loan Principles (2023).

CIBC Capital Markets acted as sole Sustainability Structuring Agent for the Framework.

For more information visit www.imtt.com

CST Industries, Inc. the global leader in storage tanks and aluminium domes and specialty covers, proudly announces its anniversary celebration, marking 130 years of delivering innovative solutions and exceptional value to its customers worldwide. Since its inception in 1893, the Columbian Steel Tank Company™, known today as CST Industries, Inc., has been a driving catalyst, propelling progress and spearheading advancements. CST has strived to provide longevity to all aspects of its storage tanks and covers market, including designing and manufacturing storage and cover solutions to meet any challenges, creating a reputation of class and skill.

Over its history, CST has seized market opportunities for growth and pioneered transformation with its strong foundation in integrity, adaptability and reliability. For decades, CST has remained at the vanguard of technological breakthroughs, and one of its most notable milestones include the introduction of a groundbreaking innovative clear span aluminium geodesic dome roof structures for municipal water and waste storage solution. Another exemplary showcase of its innovation is the awe-inspiring ‘Spaceship Earth’ at Epcot, a testament to CST’s visionary approach to creating immersive and iconic architectural marvels.

Throughout its journey, CST Industries has nurtured a special culture that focuses on excellence, teamwork, and trust. With its unwavering focus on delivering premium products and services to customers paired with its transformative mindset, CST Industries has become an international powerhouse manufacturer of bolted glass-fused-to-steel and epoxy coated tanks, aluminum domes and specialty covers.

Jeff Mueller, president and CEO of CST Industries, Inc. states, “At CST, we have dedicated ourselves to 130 years of product innovation and manufacturing efficiencies to provide our customers with the highest quality of products. We are immensely proud to celebrate our 130th anniversary as an organisation. We could not have achieved our outstanding success without our talented team’s hard work, zeal and persistent devotion. I feel incredibly privileged to lead this team of passionate employees driving success each day. I feel honoured to stand in the place of the great leaders that came before me who created a culture of quality and accountability.”

Furthermore, CST reaffirms its commitment towards continuous improvement and consumer satisfaction. The company remains steadfast in its drive to deliver distinctive products, contribute positively to the global community, and set new industry benchmarks. CST looks forward to continuing its legacy of success and making a lasting impact for years to come.

The entire organisation is proud of this momentous achievement.

For more information visit www.cstindustries.com

Honeywell has announced it has agreed to acquire SCADAfence, a leading provider of operational technology and Internet of Things cybersecurity solutions for monitoring large-scale networks. SCADAfence brings proven capabilities in asset discovery, threat detection and security governance which are key to industrial and buildings management cybersecurity programmes.

The OT cybersecurity industry is expected to grow to greater than $10 billion in the next several years. Particularly in the industrial sector, cyberattacks focused on OT systems can be a significant source of unplanned downtime, with estimates that unplanned downtime represents over a trillion dollars in lost revenue for the industrial and critical infrastructure sectors.

“It is essential to protect and maintain the integrity of operational systems like process control equipment in manufacturing facilities. A simple breach in the OT environment has the potential to create safety and business continuity risk for organisations of all sizes. OT assets are inherently different than those in the IT environment as they are domain specific. Honeywell has been delivering and installing these systems for decades, which is why we launched our cybersecurity business more than twenty years ago. Adding SCADAfence’s product portfolio will strengthen our capabilities and help our customers defend themselves against cyber security risks which are progressively increasing,” said Kevin Dehoff, president and chief executive officer, Honeywell Connected Enterprise.

The SCADAfence product portfolio will integrate into the Honeywell Forge Cybersecurity+ suite within Honeywell Connected Enterprise, Honeywell’s fast-growing software arm with strategic focus on digitalisation, sustainability and OT cybersecurity SaaS offerings and solutions. This integration will enable Honeywell to provide an end-to-end enterprise OT cybersecurity solution to site managers, operations management and CISOs seeking enterprise security management and situational awareness. The acquisition strengthens existing capabilities in cybersecurity and bolsters Honeywell’s high-growth OT cybersecurity portfolio, helping customers operate more securely, reliably and efficiently.

“SCADAfence is an ideal complement to Honeywell’s OT cybersecurity portfolio and, when combined with the Honeywell Forge Cybersecurity+ suite, it enables us to provide an end-to-end solution with applicability to asset, site and enterprise across key Honeywell sectors,” said Dehoff. “By enhancing our cybersecurity portfolio, we are accessing a growth engine and enabling our customers to operate their OT environments more securely and help to avoid disruption and possible catastrophic events.”

“We are thrilled to join Honeywell as we work towards fulfilling our mission of empowering industrial organisations to operate securely, reliably and efficiently. This combination creates significant opportunity for growth, allowing us to combine our top-tier OT cybersecurity products with one of the world’s leading companies in industrial software,” said Elad Ben Meir, chief executive officer, SCADAfence. “With this acquisition, we are poised to deliver some of the most advanced OT security technology to Honeywell’s broad customer base, bolstering the comprehensive Honeywell Forge Cybersecurity+ offering. We remain committed to proactively serving and supporting our customers across all verticals and geographies where we currently operate.”

SCADAfence is headquartered in Tel Aviv, Israel and will expand Honeywell’s Cybersecurity Center of Excellence in Tel Aviv. Honeywell has been implementing OT cybersecurity solutions for more than twenty years, delivering thousands of projects in over 130 countries with more than 500 employees worldwide focused specifically on OT cybersecurity.

The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2023, subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of certain regulatory approvals.

For more information visit www.honeywell.com/us/en

Getech, a world-leading locator of subsurface resources, is pleased to announce the signing of three contracts for Globe, worth together over £0.8 million over the next three years, of which £381k relates to the current financial year. These contracts represent significant additions to the Group’s existing orderbook, which now stands at £4.2 million.

Globe is Getech’s proprietary digital platform of earth science data that facilitates the exploration and location of subsurface resources that are vital for the energy transition, including carbon storage, geothermal, natural hydrogen and critical mineral assets. Globe is an innovative product that collects geoscience and earth observation data, and through proprietary computational modelling and AI led machine learning techniques, identifies favourable exploration opportunities for our customers.

Two of these contracts represent a one-year extension of Globe subscriptions for our existing clients: a leading European oil and gas supermajor and a respected global energy company. The third contract marks the introduction of a new client into our portfolio, securing a three-year Globe subscription for an Asian oil and gas company.

Richard Bennett, Getech executive chairman, commented:

“The Company continues to service and expand its long-standing oil and gas client base as these contracts show, enabling our clients to search for new resources far more efficiently and by doing so, significantly reduce their exploration costs.

“Alongside this, we are also continuing to develop new income streams from outside of the oil and gas sector. Both countries and companies alike are investing significantly to locate and secure high demand subsurface assets critical for the energy transition. Globe has the data to support these new searches and we are working with prospective clients to re-purpose our data, software and analytics to identify critical minerals (such as copper and lithium) and ideal locations for geothermal, hydrogen and carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects.”

For more information visit www.getech.com

ENDEGS Group, a leading expert in industrial emissions reduction based in Pförring, Germany, has once again been honoured as one of the most innovative medium-sized companies in Germany. The company was recently awarded the prestigious TOP 100 Innovator seal for the third consecutive year. This recognition highlights ENDEGS’ ongoing commitment to innovation and its remarkable success in implementing cutting-edge processes and technologies.

The TOP 100 Innovator seal is awarded through a rigorous scientific selection process overseen by Prof. Dr. Nikolaus Franke, a renowned researcher. A jury evaluates participating companies based on various criteria, including their innovation-promoting top management, their innovation climate, and their ability to implement innovative processes. The seal has been awarded since 1993 to companies that demonstrate exceptional innovation strength and above-average success in driving innovation.

Emmanuel Sievers, Ranga Yogeshwar and Kai Sievers at the Top 100 Innovator award ceremony 2023

At the award ceremony held in Augsburg, Ranga Yogeshwar, a well-known science journalist and mentor of the TOP 100 innovation competition, personally congratulated ENDEGS on its outstanding achievement. The company was recognised among other top innovators in Germany at the German SME Summit 2023. Ranga Yogeshwar presented the TOP 100 trophy to ENDEGS, further highlighting the company’s commitment to innovation.

Kai Sievers, the founder and CEO of ENDEGS GmbH, expressed his pride in the company’s consistent recognition as one of the most innovative medium-sized companies in Germany. He emphasised that innovation is a core focus for ENDEGS, and the team dedicates their full attention to driving innovation in their daily work.

Kai Sievers, founder and CEO ENDEGS Group

With over 16 years of experience in emissions reduction, ENDEGS has successfully completed more than 1,500 projects. The company’s dedication to innovation is exemplified by its numerous patents, including its pioneering legal option for the environmentally friendly degassing of tankers on the Rhine in Duisport, the port of Duisburg.

ENDEGS serves customers from a wide range of industries, including oil and gas, chemicals and petrochemicals, ports, and the food industry. Their innovative technologies are tailored to meet the diverse needs of these industries, as substances used and regulations change regularly. Ongoing innovation is therefore critical to ensure their technologies remain suitable for different substances and expand their application areas.

In addition to its success in Germany, ENDEGS has also made a mark on the international stage. The company recently participated in an innovation competition for emissions reduction in Malaysia and achieved an impressive top 20 ranking among more than 500 companies and organisations that submitted over 3,000 ideas.

Looking towards the future, ENDEGS is planning to expand its business in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. Earlier this year, the company’s representatives traveled to these countries with a delegation from the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs. This expansion will enable ENDEGS to offer its innovative services on the Arabian Peninsula, further solidifying its position as a global leader in sustainable emissions reduction.

Overall, ENDEGS’ consistent recognition as a top innovator reinforces its commitment to driving innovation in industrial emissions reduction and its dedication to providing sustainable solutions for a cleaner and greener future.

For more information visit www.endegs.com/en/

Costain has been appointed by United Utilities to work as its managed service provider for a further two years, from May 2024 to May 2026. This contract extension has an option to be extended for a further three years and builds on the original five-year MSP contract awarded in 2019. The award extends into the next regulatory cycle (AMP8 2025-2030).

United Utilities is the UK’s largest listed water company and is working to ensure the resilience of its network to the effects of climate change, including improving the quality of its wastewater effluent and providing a reliable drinking water supply to its customers.

Since 2019, Costain has provided management and asset maintenance activities throughout the north-west at 96 water treatment sites, 575 wastewater treatment sites, pumping stations and service reservoirs which serve over seven million people.

The MSP Framework consists of two types of work:

Core contract: This includes maintenance services of very high-volume, short-duration activities to over 900 sites covering repair, replacement and refurbishment of equipment such as pumps. It also covers core projects which are of a greater scale and complexity, delivered as projects. Since the start of 2022 the MSP has developed solutions to 132 Core Projects including installation of a new mixer system within Wayoh Impounding Reservoir, Lancashire and an upgrade to existing gas holders at Manchester Bio-resource Centre at Davyhulme Wastewater Treatment Works in Greater Manchester.

Non-core contract: This includes the delivery of larger capital projects such as the design and construction of remedial improvements to the Clough Bottom Impounding Reservoir in Lancashire and upgrades to the Audlem Wastewater Treatment Works in Cheshire.
Within the MSP Framework, Costain has delivered a wide range of activities and projects to date and made a significant contribution to United Utilities meeting key regulatory requirements.

Sam White, managing director of the natural resources division at Costain said:

“This is a strategically important contract for Costain. We’ve already delivered big improvements working together with United Utilities on the MSP Framework, leveraging increased automation of data processing and insights to enhance our service delivery. I’m delighted that we’ll be continuing this relationship to help United Utilities ensure a sustainable, resilient and efficient service for its customers.”

For more information visit www.costain.com

Invenergy Services, a subsidiary of Invenergy, the largest privately held global developer, owner, and operator of sustainable energy solutions, has announced their portfolio has surpassed 20 gigawatts of clean energy generation projects under management in less than 20 years.

“This milestone is a reflection of what can be achieved when you combine deep technical expertise, an owner’s mindset, strong partnerships, and a dedicated team with a clear vision to operate these plants like they’re our own,” said Jim Murphy, president, and corporate business leader at Invenergy. “We are incredibly proud of the sustained growth of Invenergy Services’ managed portfolio and look forward to expanding our services to optimise sustainable energy operations around the world.”

With over 840 employees operating and maintaining clean energy projects in 13 countries and 30 states in the US, Invenergy Services’ portfolio of 159 projects is comprised of:

• Wind: 11,500+ megawatts (MW); 109 projects
• Solar: 2,300+ MW; 23 projects
• Thermal: 5,700+ MW; 12 projects
• Energy Storage: 460+ MW; 19 projects

The growth of Invenergy Services’ managed portfolio allows Invenergy to continue creating positive change in the communities where they operate. To date, Invenergy developed and managed projects have offset over 182 million tonnes of carbon dioxide and created more than 50,000 clean energy jobs. In 2022, Invenergy invested over $400 million in its home communities.

For more information visit www.invenergy.com

Sapphire Gas Solutions and Capstone Green Energy partnered to reduce the emissions from the power generation needed for Andretti Autosport’s hospitality tent at Texas Motor Speedway.

Sapphire provided a mobile CNG trailer and Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) credits to power the hospitality tent. RNG is a clean-burning fuel made from organic waste, and it is a great way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality.

In addition, Sapphire supplied offsets for the ethanol consumed by the four-car race team. Ethanol is a renewable fuel, but it does produce some emissions. By offsetting these emissions, they helped to minimise the overall environmental impact of race activities.

The partnership was a success, and Sapphire and Capstone plan to continue and expand the use of RNG for power generation and is a great example of how businesses can use clean energy to reduce their environmental impact.

For more information visit www.sapphiregassolutions.com

The Executive Board of OMV has just decided to pursue negotiations with ADNOC on a potential cooperation with respect to their polyolefins businesses. Such cooperation would include a potential combination of the Borealis and Borouge businesses as equal partners under a jointly controlled, listed platform for potential growth acquisitions to create a global polyolefin company with a material presence in key markets.

Borealis is one of the world’s leading providers of advanced and sustainable polyolefins solutions and a European front-runner in polyolefins recycling. Borealis is owned 75 per cent by OMV and 25 percent by ADNOC. Borouge is a leading petrochemical company that provides innovative and differentiated polyolefin solutions. Borouge is owned 54 percent by ADNOC, 36 percent by Borealis with the remainder listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange.

“This potential transaction would have a strong and compelling industrial logic,” said Alfred Stern, chairman of the Board and CEO of OMV AG. “Combining the two complementary businesses would bring together Borealis’ technological expertise, and specialty and sustainable polyolefins solutions, with Borouge’s advantageous cost position and access to attractive markets, would create a new global polyolefin powerhouse with significant organic and inorganic growth potential.”

“This would build on more than 25 years of successful partnership with ADNOC and be one of the possible catalysts to achieve OMV’s Strategy 2030. At the same time, there are a number of transaction parameters that are subject to mutual agreement during the negotiation,” he added.

Any potential transaction would be in line with OMV’s stated acquisition criteria and capital allocation framework. Further announcement will be made as and when appropriate.

For more information visit www.omv.com/en

At Alkion Terminal Santander, sustainability is at the core of their business values. They understand that their long-term success is dependent on the choices they make today for the well-being of the planet and its future generations. By adopting lower-carbon heating alternatives, they not only contribute to climate action but also improve the efficiency of their terminals.

One significant step they have taken towards sustainability is the installation of a new, more efficient boiler at Alkion Terminal Santander. This boiler uses less energy to heat the products stored in the facility, resulting in reduced CO2 emissions and a smaller carbon footprint. Moreover, the new boiler utilises propane fuel instead of diesel, making it more economical to run. This, in turn, allows them to offer their customers more competitive heating fees.

The project to install the new boiler was completed in the summer of 2022 after careful planning and preparation. Since its installation, ATS has already witnessed the benefits of this sustainable innovation. The new boiler has reduced the terminal’s CO2 emissions by 50 percent for the same amount of energy produced. Not only that, but it has also resulted in a cost reduction of 35 percent per unit of energy produced in euros. Terminal manager Agustín Moreno Roldan describes it as a win-win situation in terms of sustainability, efficiency, and customer service.

However, the installation of a sustainable boiler is not the only step ATS is taking towards environmental responsibility. They are actively exploring the possibility of installing solar panels and replacing traditional lights with energy-efficient LEDs. These additional sustainability efforts showcase their commitment to making a positive impact on the environment.

For Moreno Roldan, terminal manager at Alkion Santander, sustainability is not just a personal vision but a collective responsibility. He believes that these sustainability efforts benefit not only the environment but also society, the local community, customers, and the overall company. By prioritising sustainability, ATS is setting an example for other businesses and demonstrating how sustainable innovation can benefit both the environment and business operations.

For more information visit www.alkion.com

Exxon Mobil Corporation have announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Denbury Inc., an experienced developer of carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCS) solutions and enhanced oil recovery. The acquisition is an all-stock transaction valued at $4.9 billion, or $89.45 per share based on ExxonMobil’s closing price on July 12, 2023. Under the terms of the agreement, Denbury shareholders will receive 0.84 shares of ExxonMobil for each Denbury share.

• Combined assets and capabilities further accelerate ExxonMobil’s Low Carbon Solutions business and create an even more compelling customer decarbonisation proposition
• Leading CCS network underpins ExxonMobil’s commitment to low carbon value chains including CCS, hydrogen, ammonia, biofuels, and direct air capture
• Transaction synergies expected to enable more than 100 MTA of emissions reductions over time, driving strong growth and returns

“Acquiring Denbury reflects our determination to profitably grow our Low Carbon Solutions business by serving a range of hard-to-decarbonise industries with a comprehensive carbon capture and sequestration offering,” said Darren Woods, chairman and CEO. “The breadth of Denbury’s network, when added to ExxonMobil’s decades of experience and capabilities in CCS, gives us the opportunity to play an even greater role in a thoughtful energy transition, as we continue to deliver on our commitment to provide the world with the vital energy and products it needs.”

The transaction synergies are expected to drive strong growth and returns for ExxonMobil. The acquisition of Denbury provides ExxonMobil with the largest owned and operated CO2 pipeline network in the U.S. at 1,300 miles, including nearly 925 miles of CO2 pipelines in Louisiana, Texas, and Mississippi – located within one of the largest US markets for CO2 emissions, as well as 10 strategically located onshore sequestration sites. A cost-efficient transportation and storage system accelerates CCS deployment for ExxonMobil and third-party customers over the next decade and underpins multiple low carbon value chains including CCS, hydrogen, ammonia, biofuels, and direct air capture.

Chris Kendall, Denbury’s president and chief executive officer commented, “This transaction is a compelling opportunity for Denbury to join an admired global energy leader with a low-carbon focus, a robust balance sheet and a leading shareholder return programme. Over the last few years, Denbury has made significant progress executing our strategic plan, strengthening our enhanced oil recovery operations and capitalising on our unrivaled infrastructure to accelerate the growth of our CO2 transportation and storage business. To build even further on this positive momentum, the Denbury Board of Directors and management team undertook a thorough review process and considered a number of alternatives to maximise long-term value. Through this process, it became clear that the transaction with ExxonMobil is in the best interests of our company, our shareholders, and all Denbury stakeholders. Importantly, given the significant capital and years of work required to fully develop our CO2 business, ExxonMobil is the ideal partner with extensive resources and capabilities. The all-equity consideration will allow Denbury shareholders to participate in the upside of ExxonMobil’s stock while benefitting from its strong capital return strategy. We look forward to bringing together our highly complementary cultures and teams to realise the long-term value and benefits of this combination.”

“Denbury’s advantaged CO2 infrastructure provides significant opportunities to expand and accelerate ExxonMobil’s low-carbon leadership across our Gulf Coast value chains,” said Dan Ammann, president, ExxonMobil Low Carbon Solutions. “Once fully developed and optimised, this combination of assets and capabilities has the potential to profitably reduce emissions by more than 100 million metric tonnes per year in one of the highest-emitting regions of the US”

In addition to Denbury’s carbon capture and storage assets, the acquisition includes Gulf Coast and Rocky Mountain oil and natural gas operations. These operations consist of proved reserves totaling over 200 million barrels of oil equivalent, with 47,000 oil-equivalent barrels per day of current production, providing immediate operating cash flow and near-term optionality for CO2 offtake and execution of the CCS business.

The boards of directors of both companies have unanimously approved the transaction, which is subject to customary regulatory reviews and approvals. It is also subject to approval by Denbury shareholders. The transaction is expected to close in the 4th quarter of 2023.

For more information visit corporate.exxonmobil.com

LyondellBasell have announced that PetroChina Guangxi Petrochemical Company will license the LyondellBasell polyethylene technology at their facility located in Qinzhou City, Guangxi, P.R. of China. The newly licensed technology will comprise of the LyondellBasell leading high-pressure Lupotech process technology which will be used for both a 100 kiloton per year Autoclave and a 300 KTA Tubular line. Both production trains will produce mainly low-density polyethylene with ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers. Furthermore, an additional 300 KTA Hostalen “Advanced Cascade Process” line for the production of high density polyethylene will be built at the same site.

“This latest award from PetroChina Guangxi Petrochemical Company continues the long tradition of collaboration with LyondellBasell, as with this award almost 6,000 KTA of capacity has been licensed to the PetroChina group. With the selected polyolefin technologies, PetroChina Guangxi will be able to compete in the market and be able to produce benchmark resins to support people’s everyday lives ”, said Neil Nadalin, director global licensing and services at LyondellBasell. Nadalin added: “The newly added lines will include our latest generation high-pressure Lupotech technology as well as our multi-modal advanced cascade HDPE technology enabling PetroChina to produce state-of-the art polyethylene products.”

Decades of experience in high-pressure application design makes the LyondellBasell Lupotech process the preferred technology for EVA/LDPE plant operators. High reliability, unmatched conversion rates and effective process heat integration are key attributes of the Lupotech process, designed to ensure this technology’s on-going energy efficiency. More than 15,000 KTA of LyondellBasell high pressure LDPE technology has been licensed by LyondellBasell in over 80 lines around the world.

The Hostalen ACP process technology manufactures high performance, multi-modal HDPE resins with an industry-leading stiffness/toughness balance, impact resistance, high stress cracking resistance and process advantages are used in pressure pipe, film and blow molding applications. The PetroChina HDPE plants will commence operations using Avant Z 501 and Avant Z509-1 catalysts to produce a full range of multi-modal HDPE products.

New licensees take advantage of LyondellBasell’s in-house expertise of continuous production improvement, product development according to the latest environmental regulations, and our know-how in high pressure design, by optionally joining our Technical Service programme.

In addition to the Hostalen ACP, Lupotech T and Lupotech A process technology, the LyondellBasell licensing portfolio of polyolefin processes and catalysts includes:

Spherizone – The breakthrough multi-zone circulating reactor provides a unique and innovative platform to manufacture polypropylene products with novel architecture and enhanced properties.

Spheripol – The leading polypropylene (PP) process technology with more than 33 million tons of licensed capacity. With globally recognized quality grades featuring leading monomer yield and investment costs to make it the technology of choice.

Avant – Advanced Ziegler-Natta, including non-phthalate, chromium and metallocene catalysts for entire range of polyolefin production.

For more information visit www.lyondellbasell.com

GTT announces that it has received, in the second quarter of 2023, an order from its partner Dalian Shipbuilding Industry & Co for the tank design of two Liquefied Natural Gas Carriers on behalf of CMES LNG Carrier Investment INC.

GTT will design the tanks of these two vessels, which will each offer a capacity of 175,000 m3. The tanks will be fitted with the Mark III Flex membrane containment system, developed by GTT.

The delivery of the vessels is scheduled between the fourth quarter of 2026 and the first quarter of 2027.

For more information visit www.gtt.fr

Nel Hydrogen Electrolyser AS, a subsidiary of Nel ASA, has signed a contract for 20 MW of alkaline electrolyser equipment for about EUR 9 million with Hyd’Occ for its project in Port-La-Nouvelle, France. Nel has already performed and delivered the front-end engineering and design study on the project.The 20 MW electrolyser will supply renewable hydrogen to local industry and transportation in southern France. Port-La-Nouvelle, where the electrolyser will be located, is expected to be a significant hub for hydrogen flows in the Mediterranean.

Hyd’Occ is backed by Qair, a leading French renewable energy and hydrogen producer, as the primary shareholder and developer, and AREC Occitanie the regional agency for energy transition (held by the Occitanie administrative region), as minority shareholder.

“We are thrilled to announce our collaboration with Hyd’Occ on this pivotal project in France, where our business footprint has been relatively modest so far. The project holds great potential for Nel being in one of the Mediterranean’s future hydrogen hubs”, says Hans Hide, chief project officer at Nel.

“We are pleased to count on Nel’s support in the development of the first high-capacity hydrogen production unit in France. This collaboration takes us a step further in making concrete the hydrogen ecosystem of the future” says Guirec Dufour, chief executive officer at Qair France.

This is a firm purchase order for alkaline stacks and balance of stacks. The stacks are planned to be delivered to the client around year-end 2023. Nel will assist the client in the project’s installation, commissioning, and start-up.

For more information visit www.nelhydrogen.com

Kinder Morgan Tejas Pipeline LLC, a subsidiary of Kinder Morgan, Inc., and Howard Energy Partners have announced plans to expand their respective Eagle Ford natural gas transportation systems. The projects aim to deliver nearly 2 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) of Eagle Ford production to Gulf Coast markets.

Tejas will construct a 67-mile, 42-inch pipeline that will connect the existing Kinder Morgan Texas Pipeline compressor station near Freer, Texas to the Tejas pipeline system near Sinton, Texas. Dos Caminos, a joint venture between HEP and an affiliate of Eagle Ford Midstream LP, will construct a 62-mile, 36-inch pipeline, along with compression, treating, and dehydration facilities. This pipeline will connect HEP’s existing midstream pipelines and facilities in Webb County, Texas to the KMTP compressor station in Freer, Texas.

The projects are expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2023. Once completed, the expanded systems will have the capacity to deliver up to 2 Bcf/d of natural gas to U.S. Gulf Coast markets.

The expansion projects, with an estimated cost of $251 million, are expected to provide critical supply links for the growing demand from power generators, industrial customers, and LNG exporters along the Texas intrastate pipeline network.

Mike Howard, CEO of HEP, expressed excitement about the expansion, stating that it will be an important next chapter in helping producers in Webb County and surrounding areas gain access to premier natural gas markets.

Interested shippers can contact Larry Bell, chief commercial officer for Intrastate Pipelines in KMI’s Midstream group, or Tres Peacock, commercial director for HEP, for more information about the projects.

For more information visit www.kindermorgan.com

Hempel has completed the sale of its Russian subsidiary after obtaining necessary approvals from relevant authorities.

Key messages

• Hempel has completed the sale of its wholly owned subsidiary in Russia, selling to Russian industrial company, Atomstroykomplex.
• Necessary approvals from the relevant Danish and Russian authorities have been obtained.
• Hempel closed its operations on 1 March 2022 and announced its intentions to exit Russia on 6 April 2022.
• The new owner has taken over the assets and employees with immediate effect. No active business is included in the sale.

Hempel has completed a divestment of its assets in Russia, after having obtained the relevant approvals from the Danish and Russian authorities. Atomstroykomplex has acquired Hempel’s legal entity in Russia, including its assets and employees. No active business is included in the sale.

“Since announcing our intentions to exit Russia in April 2022, we have worked to find a suitable buyer for our Russian assets,” says Michael Hansen, Group President and CEO of Hempel. “I want to extend my thanks to the dedicated team of Hempel colleagues that has worked diligently to reach this milestone. We are satisfied that the sale is now completed, with relevant approvals from the Danish and Russian authorities.”

The terms of the transaction will not be disclosed.

For more information visit www.hempel.com

For more information visit www.investors.next-decade.com

The partnership between VTTI and Wastefront will involve two main components. Firstly, VTTI will invest up to USD 43 million in Wastefront, which will be used for the construction of the first phase of Wastefront’s plant in the Northeast of England, at the Port of Sunderland. This initial phase is expected to be fully operational by 2026.

Secondly, the partnership will involve the selection and development of eight jointly owned VTTI-Wastefront plants. These plants will be located at VTTI sites around the world and will be operated by VTTI. The aim is to implement Wastefront’s tyre recycling solution at these plants, with the support of VTTI’s expertise and global footprint.

Wastefront’s tyre recycling process involves the use of pyrolytic reactors, which utilize pyrolysis to break down the materials in end-of-life tyres at high temperatures. This process generates carbon black, combustible gas, liquid hydrocarbon (pyrolysis oil), and heat. The carbon black is then washed and milled to enhance its chemical properties, and it can be used as a reinforcement for natural rubber in tyre production, mechanical rubber goods, or as a filler for plastics.

The recycling of end-of-life tyres is a significant contribution to the EU Green Deal and the transition towards a circular economy. Currently, around 31 million metric tonnes of end-of-life tyres are generated each year, posing a global environmental problem due to their durable and non-biodegradable nature. Most of these tyres end up in landfills or are incinerated. The development of recycling plants by VTTI and Wastefront aims to address this issue by converting end-of-life tyres into valuable products such as pyrolysis oil and recovered carbon black, which can be used in alternative fuel manufacturing and ground rubber production.

Guy Moeyens, CEO of VTTI, expresses enthusiasm about the partnership and the potential to contribute to the circular economy. Vianney Vales, CEO of Wastefront, highlights the importance of partnerships with major industrial companies like VTTI to solve the end-of-life tyre problem. This partnership allows Wastefront to scale its work and expand its market reach globally.

Overall, the collaboration between VTTI and Wastefront aims to tackle the environmental challenges posed by end-of-life tyres by developing innovative recycling plants that can transform these tyres into valuable resources, supporting the global transition to a more sustainable future.

For more information visit www.vtti.com