Find out how LBC Tank Terminals is at the forefront of the energy transition and decarbonisation with its sustainability initiatives
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CBAM
We get the expert view on how this EU policy is going to impact your imports and exports
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS
Get a sneak peek into StocExpo’s very special 20th edition, and find out how we’re spotlighting pioneers in the terminal industry
UP FRONT
GLOBAL NEWS UPDATE
Europe
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS
31 Liquin: A Fresh Start Tank Storage Magazine speaks exclusively to Liquin about the Botlek terminal, and what visitors to StocExpo can expect to see on the tour
36 Longevity In The Mediterranean
As VTTI celebrates 10 years of operations at its terminal in Cyprus, managing director Thanos Patrikis looks back at some of the highlights from the last decade
38 It Runs In The Family LBC Tank Terminals’ sales manager Anne Been shares how her father’s maritime career influenced her story in the tank storage and chemical industry
42 Fuelling Success
Carin van Straten-Lagerberg, senior sales manager at Vopak Netherlands, shares her passion for supporting a sustainable future in tank storage
MARKET ANALYSIS
44 What You Need To Know About CBAM Redshaw Advisors explains the resources needed to navigate the CBAM framework effectively 46 Sustainability & Challenges
Port Tarragona’s Genoveva Climent shares stories from three bulk liquid storage companies operating at the hub
48 Buncefield: 20 Years On Ulf Hinterscheid looks at what has changed in the tank storage industry since the Buncefield disaster
50 FuelEU Maritime: Charting The Course
As new regulations come into force this year, Lara Naqushbandi, CEO of ETFuels, looks at what the tank storage industry needs to know, and how best to prepare
TECHNICAL FEATURES
108 You Can’t Manage What You Don’t Understand Resilium explains how to combat tank overfilling scenarios through gamification
111 Preventing Explosions Of Vapour-Air-Mixtures
Discover the importance of leak monitoring; especially when storing methanol
STOCEXPO PREVIEW
57 Energy For The Future
UPEI and FETSA present a joint position paper on the upcoming proposal for an omnibus simplification proposal
57 The Future’s Focus
S&P Global looks at what’s in store for the European liquid bulk storage industry in a shifting energy landscape
60 Future-Proofing Terminals For The Changing Environment
Ahead of his talk at StocExpo, Etasca’s Andrew Inglis identifies and comments on the primary market developments impacting demand for bulk liquid storage
64 Debunking The Myth About Radar & Liquefied Gases
The belief that all radar level gauges are unsuitable for providing accurate and reliable measurements in liquefied gas tanks is untrue, say the experts at Emerson
66 Factory Calibration For Long-Term Accuracy
Dependable factory calibration saves time and provides better accuracy assurance, says Endress+Hauser
69 Reducing Emissions From Storage & Loading
Peter Kerkhof, director at EEMUA, explains how to reduce emissions when storing and handling volatile products
71 Enhancing Sustainability, Improve Safety
David Wendel, managing director at ETS Degassing, looks at how mobile emission reduction enhances sustainability and improves safety in operations
74 Under Pressure
Protego’s Thorsten Schaper explains how optimising the set pressure of tank breather valves can help reduce emissions and nitrogen consumption
77 Clearing The Air
Find out how NevadaNano’s automated emission detection solution is providing real-time data and boosting operational efficiency
80 4 Ways To Boost Terminal Efficiency
UAB-Online addresses the key pain points in maritime operations
82 Introducing: Shared Reality
Ahead of speaking at StocExpo, Samp’s COO Thomas Grand explains how a datadriven approach can improve terminal operation
84 The Future of Tank Storage Is Data-Driven
Ahead of sharing their insights on a panel at StocExpo, QADworks explains how it uses data integration and advanced analytics to benefit terminals
85 Smarter & Safer Storage
Gizil explains how its Virtual Plant is revolutionising safety procedures at terminals
86 Can Digital Twins Solve Workforce Challenges?
Ahead of StocExpo, Bas Janssen from Voovio looks at the benefits and limitations of digital twin technology solutions in the storage terminal industry
87 A Fireproof Future
Ronald Verkroost, founder and CEO of Desu Systems, explains how the company’s advanced safety technologies are improving tank terminals
91 Increasing Efficiency & Reducing Emissions
Cellular glass insulation is an easy and cost-effective way to lower your carbon footprint, according to Owens Corning
93 Getting Ahead of Leaks & Pipes
Stefan Balatchev, Naftosense’s R&D coordinator, explains how its polymer absorption sensors are helping solve environmental and operational challenges
97 Safety’s New Heights
Alec Keeler, managing director at Carbis Loadtec explains how to successfully prevent of falls from tanker tops
98 Continuous Supply
Learn how Kanon is supporting the delivery of CNG in Egypt to help ensure a secure, continous supply
99 Decarbonisation in Tank Terminals
Ahead of his talk at StocExpo, Tecam’s José Miguel González looks into the cleaner technologies terminal operators must adopt to remain competitive
100 Advancing AST Protection
Find out what advancements in protective equipment and engineering methodologies are playing a crucial role in ensuring operational integrity
103 Raising The Roof
The experts at Paresa explain how its holistic approach is advancing roof air raising through technical precision
106 Streamlining Tank Cleaning
Celebrating 50 years in industry, Gerotto looks at how its pioneering robotic innovations have impacted terminals
TANK STORAGE AWARDS
34 AGEO’s Prize-Winning Project
Engineering project manager at AGEO Terminals, Gian Cevales, explains how the company took home Project of the Year at the 2024 Global Tank Storage Awards
114 Global Tank Storage Awards
Find out who’s on the shortlist for this year’s ceremony
118 Financing Change
Thomas Seifert, CFO at Advario, North America, talks about winning gold at the 2024 Global Tank Storage Awards
AT THE BACK
READY FOR THE FUTURE
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MEET THE TEAM
EDITORIAL
ANAMIKA TALWARIA
Anamika is the editor of Tank Storage Magazine and coordinates all your favourite content. Read her interview with Liquin on page 31 for a sneak peek into what’s in store on the StocExpo tour.
KATE RAINFORD
Kate is Tank Storage Magazine’s junior writer and newest recruit. This edition, she’s interviewed 2024 Project of the Year gold winner AGEO Terminals (page 34) ahead of 2025’s ceremony.
T +44 (0)20 3196 9339 anamika@tankstoragemag.com www.tankstorage.com SUSBCRIPTION
PORTFOLIO
Margaret Dunn
+44 (0)20 3551 5721 margaret@tankstoragemag.com
SALES
David Kelly
+44 (0)20 3196 4401 david@tankstoragemag.com
Kyle Gullyes
+44 (0)20 3196 4396 kyle.gullyes@easyfairs.com
Easyfairs
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ISSN 1750-841X
EDITOR’S NOTE
WHETHER YOU’RE reading this online or picking it up hot off the press, boy do we have a fantastic bumper-edition of Tank Storage Magazine for you.
The central theme across this edition is 20 years – as Tank Storage Magazine and StocExpo both hit the big leagues. But something else happened 20 years ago. The Buncefield disaster rocked the tank storage industry in the UK, and its ripple effects are still felt across the world today – mainly through higher safety standards. Our resident expert looks into the impact of Buncefield on page 48, and we’re covering an array of firefighting technologies – including how digitalisation is impacting safety – across the technical section of the magazine.
Two decades of serving the global tank storage industry has positioned us well, and I’m so excited to share an exclusive look at the speakers and exhibitors joining us at StocExpo on 11 & 12 March at the Rotterdam Ahoy.
You can dive into our in-depth StocExpo preview on pages 52 all the way up to page 106 (and yes, we did proof-read all that!) but before you get there, don’t forget to catch our exclusive interviews with leading terminal operators around the globe, including Liquin, who are giving lucky StocExpo attendees a tour of the Botlek facility in Rotterdam. At the time of writing, the tour is full and there is an extensive waitlist – but anyone who misses out can get a taste on page 31
But before we get there, we’re crowning the winners of the Global Tank Storage Awards on 10 March at the Schiecentrale, Rotterdam – and tickets are almost sold out! So get in touch if you want to snag a seat at the table as we celebrate excellence and innovation in safety and sustainability across the sector. Check out the full shortlist on page 114 and we’ve interviewed 2024’s winners for Project of the Year, AGEO Terminals (page 34), and Rising Star at Advario, Thomas Seifert (page 118)
As the CFO, Seifert know the importance of making the right investment decisions. And that’s why we’ve also enlisted Etasca’s Andrew Inglis to deliver a talk at StocExpo about energy transition
investments. Get the inside scoop on page 60 and make sure you’re prepared for the financial implications of upcoming EU regulations like CBAM with our indepth look on page 44
But all of this and more will be covered across three conference streams at StocExpo 2025 – so there’s really no excuse to miss out! Plus, the Tank Storage Magazine team will be on site to meet with the industry, connect with new colleagues and treat you all, yet again, to a fabulous networking party – hosted on our stand L34 on 11 March at 15:30 Join us again at the networking lounge at 17:30 for drinks on StocExpo’s show floor, and party like it’s 2005 at our 20th birthday party at the Hudson cocktail bar & kitchen, Rotterdam, at 19:30
And if you miss us at StocExpo, well no stress – the next edition will have a comprehensive review of everything you missed out on! And our team will be out at various events across the rest of the year, including NISTM Orlando, ChemUK, ILTA and Gastech to name a few.
We can’t wait to see you all on site at StocExpo this March though. Make sure to come and say hello at stand L34 and grab a drink on us!
Best wishes,
Anamika LINKEDIN LEARNINGS
Get the inside scoop on what the Tank Storage community is talking about – and follow us on LinkedIn for your chance to feature!
I am happy to be a judge for the 2025 Global Tank Storage Awards! This year we decided to do it slightly different and I invited a cross-section of management and colleagues from different departments from my terminals to assess the nominations. We went through all nominations to identify which technologies or innovations we could potentially use at Chane to make our company safer or more (cost) efficient. Great nominations, and excited that we identified four companies that we would like to invite over for a presentation and discussion to see if we can make a successful business case out of these innovations.
Michiel
Flier, business
unit director, Chane
Racing is an interesting discussion…I know some people like the speed and acceleration of the Formula E but it lacks the sound and smell of the old Formula 1. I think that electric is the ‘easiest’ option to pursue in regards to technology and ability for that to then transfer into the mainstream. Hydrogen is an opportunity but the issue is the production cost and availability.
Competitive racing is still all about winning races but what is now interesting is how do you develop a car which can win a race but also be environmentally friendly?
Guy Bessant, president, Stolthaven Terminals
3,574 attendees
80% of exhibitors would recommend StocExpo
100+ countries
64% of visitors were at a managerial level or above
92% of visitors will return in 2025
160+ exhibitors
Gelens, Safety Advisor, Vopak
Together. Smarter. Strong in Storage Together. Smarter.
nor thseaport.com northseaport.com
NEWS UPDATE
A summary of global tank storage news
SEFE & ACWA POWER TO DELIVER GREEN HYDROGEN
Securing Energy for Europe (SEFE) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with ACWA Power, a Saudi-listed company and the world’s largest private water desalination company. The collaboration aims to produce and supply green hydrogen to Europe, marking a pivotal step in strengthening energy cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Germany.
Under the MoU, SEFE and ACWA Power will establish a hydrogen bridge between Saudi Arabia and Germany, with an initial target of supplying 200,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030. ACWA Power will act as the lead developer, investor, and operator of green hydrogen and green ammonia production assets. SEFE will serve as a co-investor and the primary off-taker, leveraging its position as one of Europe’s largest energy trading
VTTI AWARDED FUNDING FOR PROJECT AMPLIFHY
VTTI has been awarded €8 million in co-funding from the European Union’s Connecting Europe facility (CEF) programme for Project Amplifhy at its Antwerp terminal, located in the Port of AntwerpBruges, Belgium.
With this funding, VTTI will conduct pre-FEED and FEED studies to develop ammonia import and cracking infrastructure in Antwerp, strengthening its role in the future hydrogen economy. With ammonia import terminal and cracker projects in both Rotterdam and Antwerp, VTTI is now positioned as the only developer advancing such projects in both key industrial hubs. Both locations have been designated as Projects of Common Interest by the European Commission, highlighting their strategic importance. Meanwhile, VTTI is also actively developing additional locations.
POWER2X CONTRACTS WORLEY FOR EFUELS ROTTERDAM
Power2X, a leading green molecules company, has contracted Worley, a global professional services company of energy, chemicals and resources experts, to provide engineering and project management services for its eFuels Rotterdam project – a world-scale production facility for sustainable aviation fuel (e-SAF) and ultra-low carbon fuels.
Worley will provide early engineering services, including a Class III estimate, supporting the preliminary design phase of the project. Worley will also work together with Power2X to define the best execution approach for the FEED and Execute phases of the project.
‘Our relationship with Power2X is based on trust and the common belief that Power-to-X projects are only technically and economically viable when all stakeholders work together towards the same goal: an efficient project development and execution that mitigates risks and provides the capex and lcox certainty to achieve a positive financial investment decision,’ adds Jelle Nederstigt, president Europe and Central Asia at Worley. ‘We are committed to continue to support Power2X to make this eSAF project a reality, contributing to the decarbonisation of the aviation industry in Europe and beyond.’
to make EEMUA work best for you and your team ask@eemua.org +44 (0) 20 7488 0801 www.eemua.org
VIDA BIOENERGY BREAKS GROUND ON UK FACILITY
VIDA bioenergy has broken ground on its second UK facility in Wormslade, marking another step in the company’s mission to deliver sustainable energy in the countries where their plants are located.
The groundbreaking ceremony was led by VIDA bioenergy CEO Lars Boetje, joined by Mark Newton, representing the Landowners, along with project developer Biowatt and members of VIDA’s business development and construction teams. Boetje comments: ‘The Wormslade facility demonstrates our commitment to building a sustainable future. By converting agricultural by-products into clean biomethane, we’re not only supporting the UK’s renewable energy goals but also strengthening local communities and advancing the circular economy.’
Project Anker is strategically located near Wilhelmshaven, an important energy and industrial hub, and near the future German hydrogen core network. It is projected to produce 80,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually which will benefit key German industries, including steel and chemicals, as well as the transport sector. By substituting fossil fuels with green hydrogen, the project can reduce CO 2 emissions by up to 2.4 million tonnes annually, equivalent to the emissions of approximately 340,000 households.
‘We look very much forward to bring the project to realisation together with our new partners at Friesen Elektra and to a constructive collaboration with the German authorities,’ says Felix Pahl, partner at CIP.
P2X SOLUTIONS OY STARTS GREEN HYDROGEN PRODUCTION
P2X Solutions Oy has started commercial operations of green hydrogen production at the Harjavalta facility in Finland.
TSA LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN FOR CAREER & APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES
The Tank Storage Association has launched a ‘Careers Week’ campaign aimed at showcasing the vast career and apprenticeship opportunities available in the bulk storage and energy infrastructure sector.
The bulk storage and energy infrastructure industry offers a wide range of career paths across various fields, including business, operations, engineering, safety, marketing, IT, supply and trading, and more. The campaign will run from 17 to 21 February 2025 and will seek to inspire everyone to explore, discover, and get excited about a career in the bulk storage and energy infrastructure sector.
The company said on LinkedIn: ‘But this is where the exciting part begins! The development of Finland’s hydrogen economy is accelerating. With clean hydrogen and its derivatives, we can create growth, well-being and enable significant emission reductions in industry and transport. Companies: One should start deploying green hydrogen and electric fuels before the mandatory legislation enters into force. Gain a competitive advantage and secure your emission-free energy supply for the 2030s today!’
Peter Davidson, CEO of the Tank Storage Association, says: ‘The bulk storage and energy infrastructure industry offers a wide range of rewarding career pathways. I am delighted to launch the Tank Storage Association’s Careers Week. It represents an important opportunity to celebrate and champion our industry’s talent as well as encourage everyone to consider the possibility of a career in the sector for themselves.’
United Kingdom
EET HYDROGEN & ENKA PARTNER FOR HYDROGEN PRODUCTION PLANT
Essar Energy Transition (ETT) has an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract with ENKA, for its flagship low carbon hydrogen production plant (HPP1) at the Stanlow Manufacturing Complex in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, UK. In October 2024, the UK Government announced funding had been agreed to support HPP1 as the UK’s first large-scale low carbon hydrogen project at the heart of the HyNet Cluster. HPP1 will have a production capacity of 350MW and will capture around 600,000 tonnes of CO 2 a year – the equivalent to taking around 250,000 cars off the road.
This represents a major milestone for the HPP1 project, for the UK hydrogen industry, the HyNet Cluster and for EET Hydrogen’s progress towards its goal of developing 4GW of low carbon hydrogen production for industrial businesses across the North West of England to decarbonise their operations, protecting jobs and driving economic growth.
Joe Seifert, CEO of EET Hydrogen, says: ‘Following a highly competitive tender process, we are excited to announce this critical contract with ENKA. Having been awarded over 580 contracts in 57 countries, ENKA has an excellent track record in delivering complex projects like HPP1.’
Hakan Kozan, member of the executive committee at ENKA, adds: ‘We are thrilled to partner with EET Hydrogen on the HPP1 project, a transformative initiative that will play a key role in advancing the UK’s low carbon hydrogen industry and contributing to global decarbonisation efforts.’
FUELIFWD SECURES SEED INVESTMENT
FuelFWD has completed a seed investment round. The round was led by Value Factory Ventures, with renewed support from Docklab Ventures and the Port of Rotterdam, who are investing in FuelFWD for the second time.
FuelFWD’s role is to streamline the renewable fuels market by eliminating the burden of compliance and providing traceability. FuelFWD offers a software solution for companies in the renewable fuels sector, where compliance administration is often time-consuming and costly. The software provides an alternative to the often manual, Excel-based workflows for compliance administration and reporting. Using AI, manual error-prone processes are digitised, and potential compliance issues are automatically flagged. This enables biofuel and e-fuel producers and traders to work far more efficiently, reduce costs, and drastically mitigate risks of noncompliance.
Menno van der Zalm, managing director of FuelFWD says: ‘Renewable fuels are the future. Our mission is to help companies operate more efficiently and compliantly in a complex and rapidly changing market. With the support of Docklab Ventures and Value Factory Ventures, we can further develop our solution and maximise its potential. We are proud of the collaboration and look to the future with confidence.’
Johan van Heusden, CFO of Value Factory Ventures adds: ‘This startup accelerates the energy transition by enhancing efficiency and transparency in the renewable fuels supply chain. It perfectly aligns with our investment focus on startups that play an active role in combating climate change through groundbreaking solutions.’
ORLEN SOLIDIFIES LNG SUPPLY LOGISTICS IN EUROPE
ORLEN has entered into a five-year exclusive agreement with Lithuania’s KN Energies, granting it sole access to a small-scale LNG reloading wharf station in Klaipeda, which will bolster gas supply to north-eastern Poland and the broader Baltic region.
Since the initiation of an earlier contract, ORLEN has received nearly 60,000 tonnes of liquefied natural gas via the Klaipeda terminal.
Effective until the end of March 2030, the agreement with KN Energies ensures that LNG received by ORLEN at the Lithuanian reloading station will be transported by road tankers to customers, predominantly in north-eastern Poland. This route is significantly more efficient than relying solely on shipments from the Swinoujscie terminal, which remains Poland’s primary LNG import hub.
Ireneusz Fafara, CEO and president of the management board of ORLEN says: ‘The extension of our partnership with KN Energies is a significant milestone in reinforcing our position in the Baltic region’s LNG market. While the Swinoujscie terminal remains a crucial hub for our LNG operations, the Klaipeda reloading station plays a vital complementary role, allowing us to optimise the cost of logistics.
Beyond serving the Polish market, the LNG sourced there is also supplied to Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, where we are witnessing growing interest in cooperation with ORLEN.’
United Kingdom
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EEMSENERGY TERMINAL LAUNCHES LNG OPEN SEASON
Vopak’s EemsEnergyTerminal has launched an open season for the storage and regasification of LNG after 2027 in the Eemshaven in the Netherlands. EemsEnergyTerminal is a subsidiary of Gasunie and Royal Vopak. The LNG terminal was developed in 2022 to increase energy security in the Netherlands and North West Europe.
EemsEnergyTerminal is inviting market parties to formulate a non-binding expression of interest (EOI).
The partners are also making plans for further hydrogen development at the Eemshaven port and exploring options for CO 2 -infrastructure in line with the transition to a more sustainable energy system.
VOPAK VLAARDINGEN INSTALLS E-BOILER
Vopak Vlaardingen, located in the port of Rotterdam, Netherlands, has commissioned an e-boiler, saving approximately 3,500 tonnes of CO 2 (equivalent to the gas consumption and CO 2 emissions of approximately 2,000 households).
‘Vopak’s infrastructure plays an important role in the Netherlands, both in terms of energy security and in the energy transition. With this e-boiler, we can fulfil our role in a more sustainable way. We would like to thank everyone involved, both inside and outside Vopak, who helped make this happen,’ says Walter Moone, president Vopak Netherlands.
The terminal specialises in the storage of vegetable oils and fats, in the form of food products and (feedstocks for) biofuels. The terminal has been running on green electricity since 2021, which means the e-boiler will be operating at CO 2 neutral. In addition, the e-boiler will reduce the pressure on the national electricity grid by using the e-boiler at full capacity as soon as an abundance of wind and/or solar energy is available on the grid and storing the heat for use at a later time.
Koen Kegel, alderman at the Municipality of Vlaardingen, says: ‘The municipality of Vlaardingen is proud of companies like Vopak that take responsibility for reducing their own CO 2 emissions.’
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INEOS RECEIVES MODULE FOR PROJECT ONE
INEOS has received the module containing the first two furnaces destined for Project ONE’s new ethane cracker at the quay of the construction site in Lillo, Antwerp, Belgium. The arrival of this module is an important milestone in the realisation of INEOS’ investment in a new chemical plant in Antwerp.
Weighing 6,000 tonnes, more than 32 metres wide and 60 metres high, this is one of the largest and most spectacular industrial ship transports ever in the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. The monetary value of the module with two furnaces is also considerable: it amounts to as much as €150 million.
John McNally, CEO of INEOS Project ONE says: ‘The arrival of the first furnaces at the Antwerp site after a long overseas journey is a spectacular and joyous moment for everyone involved in the making of our project.’
Project ONE is also generating a lot of activity outside Antwerp, mobilising as many as 10,000 workers worldwide were for the construction.
AIR LIQUIDE AWARDED €110 MILLION GRANT FOR HYDROGEN
Air Liquide has been awarded a grant of €110 million from the European Innovation Fund for its Enhance project in the Port of AntwerpBruges, Belgium, that aims to produce and distribute low-carbon and renewable hydrogen derived from ammonia.
Air Liquide intends to retrofit one of its hydrogen production units located in the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, using renewable ammonia as a feedstock instead of natural gas, and would also build a hydrogen liquefier. This new facility supports the development of a low-carbon and renewable hydrogen supply chain in Europe.
Armelle Levieux, member of the executive committee of Air Liquide, says: ‘The combination of ammonia cracking and hydrogen liquefaction technologies offers an additional solution to support the growth of the global hydrogen market.’
MOL GROUP TESTS HVO & SAF PRODUCTION
MOL Group has produced a diesel fuel containing hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at the refinery of Slovnaft in Bratislava, Slovakia.
The quality of the products has been verified by radioisotope analysis by the independent specialist laboratory of Isotoptech Zrt. The successful production test confirms that MOL Group is technologically ready for the production of alternative synthetic fuels, which is part of the company’s long-term SHAPE TOMORROW strategy.
Csaba Zsótér, senior vice president, Fuels at MOL Group says: ‘We are technologically ready to produce biodiesel of vegetable origin as well as sustainable aviation fuel. This could open a new chapter in the sustainable efforts of MOL Group: we offer our customers an increasing variety and quantity of fuels, thus contributing to the smart energy transition as well.’
CENTRICA & EUROPEAN ENERGY TO PRODUCE HYDROGEN
Centrica and European Energy have signed a balancing and optimisation agreement for the Måde green hydrogen facility located at Port Esbjerg, Denmark.
Under the agreement, Centrica Energy will manage power production from colocated wind turbines, designating excess power production to green hydrogen production. Powering the 12MW green hydrogen facility are two wind turbines, part of the Måde Wind Turbine Test Center. The facility is expected to produce approximately 1,500 tonnes of green hydrogen every year.
Kristian Gjerløv-Juel, vice president of renewable energy trading and optimisation at Centrica Energy says: ‘Succeeding with the green transition requires using all the tools at our disposal, that of course includes electrification, but also the need to develop the solutions needed to decarbonise energy consumption in sectors where electrification falls short.’
Belgium
Belgium
Denmark
SEASPAN ENERGY COMPLETES SHIP-TOSHIP LNG BUNKERING
Seaspan Energy (Seaspan) has successfully completed the first ship-to-ship LNG bunkering in Canada, which took place in the Port of Vancouver in the Upper Harbour.
The ship-to-ship LNG bunkering to a tanker at anchor was performed by the Seaspan Lions, named after the twin peaks of the North Shore, or known as Ch’ich’iyúy Elxwíkn (‘Twin Sisters’ or ‘Two Sister’) to the Squamish Nation.
Harly Penner, president of Seaspan Energy says: ‘Completing our first successful bunkering in local waters is a major milestone for Seaspan Energy and marks the introduction of a lowcarbon fuel alternative from the Port of Vancouver and beyond. With two of our LNG bunkering vessels now operational and our first bunkering in the books, our message to ship owners globally is that we now offer an accredited LNG bunkering option here in Vancouver.’
KINDER MORGAN ACQUIRES GAS GATHERING & PROCESSING SYSTEM
Kinder Morgan has announced that its subsidiary, Hiland Partners, has agreed to purchase a natural gas gathering and processing system in North Dakota, USA, from Outrigger Energy II LLC for $640 million (€623 million).
The acquisition includes a 270 million m 3 processing facility and a 104-mile, large-diameter, high-pressure rich gas gathering header pipeline with 350 MMcf/d of capacity connecting supplies from the Williston Basin area to highdemand markets.
KMI Natural Gas Midstream president, Tom Dender says: ‘This strategic acquisition allows us to efficiently expand our footprint and provide incremental transportation and processing services to meet the growing needs of our customers.’
ONEOK & MPLX TO BUILD LPG EXPORT TERMINAL
ONEOK and MPLX LP have agreed to form joint ventures to construct a new large-scale 400,000-barrel per day (bpd) liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) export terminal in Texas City, Texas, USA, and a new 24-inch pipeline from ONEOK’s Mont Belvieu, Texas, storage facility to the new terminal.
Texas City Logistics LLC, the export terminal joint venture, is owned 50% by ONEOK and 50% by MPLX, with MPLX constructing and operating the facility, and is expected to be completed in early 2028. ONEOK’s and MPLX’s share of the total investment in the export terminal is expected to be approximately $700 million (€672 million) each for a total of $1.4 billion (€1.3 billion). The export terminal will leverage Marathon’s existing location and infrastructure providing construction timing and cost benefits.
BAKER HUGHES TO SUPPLY GAS TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT TO WOODSIDE
Baker Hughes has announced an order from Bechtel Energy, to supply gas technology equipment for two liquefaction plants with a total capacity of approximately 11 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) for Phase 1 of Woodside Energy’s Louisiana LNG development opportunity, in the US.
The order marks a significant milestone as Woodside targets final investment decision (FID) readiness from the first quarter of 2025. The award, which includes eight main refrigeration compressors driven by LM6000PF+ gas turbines and eight expandercompressors, leverages Baker Hughes’ proven, best-in-class LNG technologies to support Bechtel and Woodside.
Paul Marsden, president of Bechtel Energy says: ‘Louisiana LNG will play a vital role in meeting the world’s increasing LNG demand.’
ENGINE NO. 1, CHEVRON & GE VERNOVA TO POWER US DATA CENTRES
Engine No. 1 and Chevron have announced the formation of a partnership to build a new company to develop scalable, reliable power solutions for US-based data centres running on US natural gas.
The first projects, which the companies refer to as ‘power foundries’, are expected to leverage seven US-made GE Vernova 7HA natural gas turbines, secured under a slot reservation agreement, on an accelerated timeline.
The projects are expected to serve colocated data centres in the US Southeast, Midwest and West regions. Power generation is not designed to flow initially through the existing transmission grid, reducing the risk of increasing electricity prices for consumers.
US ENERGY EXPANDS INTO WISCONSIN PROPANE MARKET
US Energy has entered into a definitive agreement to purchase NGL Supply Terminal Company’s propane-storage and terminal assets which are located adjacent to US Energy’s existing terminal in Wisconsin at Green Bay Quincy North.
Through this agreement, US Energy will be able to store, distribute, and market propane across Northeast Wisconsin where it currently owns and operates seven fuel terminals. Its focus will be on serving distributors who handle last-mile propane delivery to end users.
Mike Koel, president of US Energy says: ‘Owning these assets better positions us to meet all their fuel needs, streamline purchases, and become their terminal of choice. We’ve built our strategy around finding a better way to serve our customers, and through continued investments in new product offerings like this, we’re able to expand upon our core capabilities.’
DO ONE THING. DO IT RIGHT.
Jensen Mixers started designing, engineering and building sideentry mixers over 70 years ago and we’ve never lost our focus. No wonder we’re considered the most respected side-entry mixer company in the world.
SHELL-CNOOC JV INVESTS IN CHINA PETROCHEMICAL COMPLEX
CNOOC and Shell Petrochemicals Company Limited (CSPC), a joint venture between Shell Nanhai and CNOOC Petrochemicals Investment, has taken a final investment decision to expand its petrochemical complex in Daya Bay, Huizhou, south China.
The expansion will include a third ethylene cracker with a planned capacity of 1.6 million tonnes per year of ethylene, a key building block to make plastics, and associated downstream derivatives units producing chemicals including linear alpha olefins.
This investment also includes a new facility which will produce 320,000 tonnes per year of high-performance specialty chemicals, such as polycarbonates and carbonate solvents.
Linear alpha olefins are used to produce detergent alcohol and synthetic lubricants base oil. Polycarbonates make impact-resistant plastics that can replace carbon-intensive steel, whilst carbonate solvents are used in lithium-ion batteries and are essential for the electric vehicles sector as well as energy storage.
ADVARIO SINGAPORE SUPPORTS AIR CANADA SAF
Advario Singapore is to support Neste in delivering sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to Air Canada with blending and loading operations at Advario’s terminal in Singapore, the company announced on LinkedIn. This key development, achieved in partnership with Neste, represents a notable step toward greener aviation. The post says: ‘At Advario, we’re proud to support such initiatives and collaborate with our partners for progress who share our vision for a sustainable future. Together, we’re making strides towards a cleaner, greener world.’
DIGITAL FUTURE FIT FOR THE
Singapore
ADVARIO OMAN ON GREEN LIST
Advario Oman has been officially recognised by the Environment Authority of Oman and included in the Green List.
Oman’s Green List is a recognition for companies that not only meet Oman’s environmental standards but also demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation.
The Green List is a key initiative recognising organisations that actively protect the environment, promote sustainable practices, and contribute to Oman’s broader sustainability objectives.
A spokesperson for Advario comments: ‘Looking ahead, we will continue to support the development of a greener, more sustainable future for Oman, our terminals, and all our customers, partners, and stakeholders.’
Expansion: Tepsa Netherlands is set to complete its latest terminal expansion, adding nine new storage tanks and increasing its capacity by 28,000 m³.
Neste will store LPW in two of the tanks. Three additional tanks will store SAF, to support the growing demand driven by EU regulations. The other tanks will be used for a variety of petrochemical products.
The expansion also includes a new truck loading station, connections to a deep-sea jetty, a dedicated barge jetty, and encompasses the existing rail loading bays, enhancing logistics and operational flexibility.
VOPAK & TPL
Product: LNG
Construction: Vopak and TPL’s joint venture, Zululand Energy Terminal, has officially signed the Terminal Operator Agreement (TOA) with Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) to design, develop, construct, finance, operate and maintain the LNG terminal at the Port of Richards Bay, South Africa, for a period of 25 years.
This agreement marks the conclusion of detailed negotiations between TNPA, as the port authority, and Zululand Energy Terminal, as the terminal operator. The agreement grants Zululand Energy Terminal full rights to the land designated for the construction of an LNG import terminal in Richards Bay.
Comment: Oliver Naidu, president of Vopak South Africa says: ‘Vopak’s global expertise in LNG infrastructure, combined with our strong partnership with Reatile Group and Transnet Pipelines, positions us to deliver a world-class terminal in Richards Bay. This project aligns with Vopak’s vision to expand in industrial and gas terminals, providing reliable and sustainable energy solutions for South Africa.’
STOLTHAVEN TERMINALS
Products: Chemicals & vegetable oils
Capacity: 2,400 m³
Expansion: Stolthaven Terminals has achieved a milestone with the expansion of its Mount Maunganui terminal in New Zealand, with the safe arrival and installation of three new pre-constructed storage tanks, two already complete with insulation and cladding and with heating coils fitted. Two tanks have a capacity of 650 m³ and one is 1,100 m³ tank.
Comment: ‘The whole process was no mean feat and precision was required every step of the way. Lots of planning went into the lift and the whole process went smoothly – even the weather was kind. Well done to the New Zealand team for this successful operation!’
MABANAFT
Product: Methanol
Capacity: 20,000 m³
Cost: Multi-million-euro investment
Construction: Energy company Mabanaft plans to convert four of its tanks at the Blumensand tank terminal in the Port of Hamburg over the next two years. The company’s aim is to enable the storage of methanol at Blumensand and facilitate the import of low-carbon methanol to northern Germany. By investing in methanol storage capabilities, Mabanaft wants to support its customers’ transition towards greener alternatives. Mabanaft expects demand to grow in the future, both in shipping and other transport sectors, as well as in the chemical industry.
Comment: In the shipping industry, there is no single solution for sustainable fuels,’ explains Oleksandr Siromakha, head of sustainable fuels at Mabanaft. ‘Our goal is to simplify the transition for our customers by making methanol and other alternative fuels more accessible.’
NAVIGATOR HOLDINGS
Product: Ethylene
Capacity: 3.2 million tonnes/year
Cost: $83.9 million (€81.5 million)
Expansion: Navigator Holdings has completed the expansion of its existing ethylene export terminal joint venture owned 50/50 by Navigator and Enterprise Products Partners at Morgan’s Point, Houston, USA. Navigator Gas has further acquired three handysize ethylene carriers for a total purchase price of $83.9 million (€81.5 million), complementing the increased export capacity from the Export Terminal Joint Venture.
The expanded capacity will utilise the Export Terminal Joint Venture’s existing 30,000 tonne refrigerated tank which will continue to facilitate loading vessels at Morgan’s Point at 1,000 tonnes per hour.
Comment: Mads Peter Zacho, CEO of Navigator Gas comments: ‘Future demand for competitively priced US ethane and ethylene is likely to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years. The ethylene export terminal expansion, and the addition of three handysize ethylene carriers to our fleet, provides us with key capabilities and infrastructure to meet that growing demand.’
ENILIVE
Product: SAF
Capacity: 400,000 tonnes/year
Enilive has announced the commissioning of its first plant to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at the Gela biorefinery, in Sicily.
Enilive aims to increase its biorefining capacity to over 5 million tonnes per year by 2030 and enhance its optionality for SAF production to 1 million tonnes per year by 2026, with further potential to double production by 2030.
Comment: ‘The plants and technologies that we are developing position Enilive as a leader in the production of HVO biofuels and confirms the company’s strategy, distinguished by a strong growth in offering increasingly sustainable products,’ says Stefano Ballista, Enilive’s CEO.
LBC TANK TERMINALS
Product: Future fuels
Capacity: 400,000 m³
Cost: Multi-million-euro investment
Acquisition: LBC Tank Terminals has acquired 100% of the shares of Evolution Terminals, from Vision Energy Holdings.
The project will be developed on prime land at the entrance of the port with access to deep water capable of handling the new generation of very large ammonia carriers. Vlissingen, located at the entrance of the Westerschelde waterway towards Antwerp, Belgium, is well positioned to serve markets for, among others, ammonia, hydrogen, CO2, methanol and biofuels. With ammonia cracking facilities, connections to main hydrogen pipeline corridors and significant infrastructure developments, Vlissingen will strengthen its position as key hub for renewable energy imports, connecting Mid and Southern Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
Comment: Frank Erkelens, CEO of LBC Tank Terminals says: ‘This acquisition is more than just a milestone; it’s a clear statement of our intent to lead the way in the energy transition. With this project and with the support of North Sea Port, we are investing in a cleaner, greener future for the Netherlands, Northwest Europe, and beyond.’
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Belgium
BAKER HUGHES LAUNCHES TECHNOLOGY FOR ONSHORE & OFFSHORE OPERATIONS
Baker Hughes has announced three new electrification technologies that will provide enhanced reliability, increased efficiency and reduced emissions for onshore and offshore operations.
The Hummingbird all-electric land cementing unit is an industry-first, 100% electric solution that replaces diesel engines with grid-connected or batterypowered motors. The Hummingbird’s dual-power functionality performs onshore cementing operations with lower emissions and noise levels compared to traditional solutions.
SureCONTROL Plus interval control valves (ICV) enable electrical remote operations for more efficient zonal control of both subsea and dry tree wells.
SureCONTROL Plus can control a higher number of zones than traditional hydraulic ICVs for enhanced production. The digital telemetry system provides continuous data, which enables improved asset performance management and proactive maintenance of downhole tools.
DNV APPROVES CRYOVAC TANKS
Norwegian firm CryoVac has received an Approval in Principle (AiP) from DNV for its vacuum insulation technology to store liquid hydrogen. Storing and transporting hydrogen typically involves cooling the substance to around -253°C so that it is in liquid form.
This extreme cold can cause steel to become brittle, potentially compromising the safety and durability of the tanks used to carry it. CryoVac has developed a liquid hydrogen containment system that uses a new type of vacuum insulation panel, called CryoPan, to create an efficient, lightweight system. The design incorporates hexagonal panels welded into continuous surfaces, offering strong insulation and reducing the evaporation of hydrogen.‘This is an important milestone for CryoVac,’ says the company’s CEO, Aage Bjørn Andersen. ‘It allows us to bring our vacuum insulation system to market and start working with shipowners and designers who want to lead the way in liquid hydrogen shipping.’
VAREL ENERGY SOLUTIONS
ACQUIRES ACE WELL TECHNOLOGY
Varel Energy Solutions has acquired Ace Well Technology (ACE), an international leader in the supply of oilfield casing, cementing and completion products.
This transaction strengthens VES’s portfolio of primary cementing equipment, many of which are uniquely patented technology, while expanding smart completions offerings supporting the offshore and premium market sectors.
Derek Nixon, president and CEO of VES says: ‘Varel Energy Solutions is extremely honoured to add the extraordinary people and impressive high-performance culture of Ace Well Technology to our organisation. We exist to become the Industry’s Maker of consumable downhole products across the oil and gas and renewable energy sector. We are excited to service our customers more broadly in the offshore and smart completions markets through the proven and credible offerings within the ACE portfolio.’
BILFINGER EXPANDS IN CZECH REPUBLIC
Bilfinger has expanded its regional engineering capabilities by integrating approximately 200 employees from McDermott’s Brno, Czech Republic, office into Bilfinger Engineering & Maintenance Central Eastern Europe (Bilfinger E&M CEE).
This strategic move will enhance Bilfinger’s expertise in plant engineering, carbon capture, green hydrogen, and sustainable aviation fuel facilities. With this integration, the company’s engineering team in the Czech Republic will grow to nearly 400 engineers, making it the largest company in this sector within the region.
Jaromir Kriz, president of Bilfinger E&M CEE, shares: ‘The Brno office has long been recognized for its high-quality plant engineering and expertise in carbon capture and hydrogen. This integration is a perfect match with Bilfinger’s strategy and expansion plans in Central Eastern Europe, strengthening our service offerings in the process industry. We look forward to welcoming the new colleagues to our team.’
TECHNIP ENERGIES & LANZATECH AWARDED FUNDING FOR CO2 TO ETHYLENE TECHNOLOGY
The US Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) has committed up to $200 million (€192 million) in federal funding and authorised the initiation of Phase 1 of Technip Energies and LanzaTech’s Project SECURE.
Arnaud Pieton, CEO at Technip Energies says: ‘We are pleased to receive the Phase 1 award from the OCED and begin the engineering design work to progress the development of this innovative technology. The global population is expected to continue to rise by 2050, bringing with it a greater demand for consumer goods that rely on ethylene.’
Jennifer Holmgren, chair and CEO of LanzaTech adds: ‘We are thrilled to reach this milestone and commence work on this important project. Ethylene is a key building block for thousands of chemicals and materials, and is often referred to as the world’s most important chemical.’
CryoVac
Varel Energy Solutions
Bilfinger
Technip Energies & LanzaTech
Baker Hughes
SQUARE ROBOT ACQUIRES C1D2 & C1D1 CERTIFICATION
Square Robot, a global leader in robotic tank inspections, has knocked down two more barriers for its onstream, robotic tank inspections.
The SR-3 submersible robot has formally received the NEC/CEC Class I Division 2 (C1D2) certification and Square Robot’s Side Launcher has received the NEC/CEC Class I Division 1 (C1D1) certification.
As part of the operating methodology for launching into floating roof tanks, often containing low flashpoint products, the Side Launcher’s C1D1 certification confirms the safe deployment and retrieval of the SR-3 robot in these environments.
‘With the C1D2 and C1D1 stamps now in hand, it opens up a new group of tank candidates available for robotic tank inspections. We’re proud to be pioneers in this industry, and continue to develop new technology based on our clients’ needs,’ says John Hazel, VP operations & chief inspector.
MFE INSPECTION SOLUTIONS LAUNCHES THE DETECT LW
MFE Inspection Solutions has launched the Detect LW, the first ever long-wave, uncooled OGI camera that meets the EPA’s 40 CFR part 60 Appendix K requirements as part of OOOOa, b and c.
‘The Detect LW marks a big step forward for OGI imaging,’ says Dylan Duke, CEO of MFE Inspection Solutions. ‘We made this camera to support Oil and Gas operations working to follow the EPA’s strict standards, so they can have a reliable, compliant, cost-effective solution they can use in the field for detecting methane.’
The Detect LW is a compact, lightweight camera made for methane detection that comes with onboard electronics and software architecture similar to the proven Ventus OGI system. It has an ‘instant-on’ capability for quick deployment and an uncooled, high responsivity focal plane array detector that offers high-resolution 640 x 480 VGA imagery.
Customised tank mixing solutions
Essential advantages with Körting tank mixing systems:
• low energy input
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