Tank Storage Magazine | Winter 2024/25

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STORAGE OUTLOOK

Terminal experts from around the world share their thoughts on the ever-changing market

DRILL, BABY, DRILL

What will a second Trump presidency mean for the energy storage sector? The ILTA explores what terminals will be looking out for

INNOVATION ROUND-UP

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MARKET ANALYSIS

43 Ammonia: Industrial Feedstock to Hydrogen Carrier

In preparation for The Clean Ammonia Storage Conference at StocExpo’s 20th edition, Association NH3 Event’s director Hans Vrijenhoef examines ammonia’s journey in the energy transition

44 Keeping Climate Promises

FETSA and UPEI share a joint statement on 2050 climate goals in the wake of COP29

53 Moving Forward into 2025

The International Liquid Terminals Association (ILTA) outlines what the terminals industry is watching for following the 2024 elections

55 Building a Hydrogen Future Tank Storage Magazine asks Marcel van de Kar, senior vice president hydrogen & CO2 at Vopak for his thoughts on the emerging hydrogen market

56 SAF: Ready for Take Off

The experts at Argus Media explain the current trends in sustainable aviation fuel, and their predictions for what the market’s future holds

58 HVO: Reducing Emissions With Minimal Disruption

The team at Suttons Tankers share their insights of using hydrotreated vegetable oil from recent fuel replacement trials

60 Energising The Future of Tank Terminals

WorldEmp’s business partner Peter van Wessel explains how the company is delivering high-quality talent to tank terminal companies as they address their staffing challenges

TECHNICAL FEATURES

62 Innovation Round-Up: Smarter Storage

With the rise of AI and digitalisation, the fast-pace growth of robotics, and the growing demand for drones on site, Kate Rainford looks at the latest innovative designs entering the industry

67 Evolving Bitumen Storage Solutions

Find out how to optimise bitumen storage operations with TEC’s Bitutainer Storage Facility

68 Updating Your Monitors

How OPW’s new technology could help terminals meet evolving requirements

70 Supplying the Skies

The experts at AC Valve Alliance explain the challenges of jet fuel storage and maintenance

72 Removing VOC From API650 Storage Tanks

Ensure compliance with environmental guidelines for hydrocarbon tanks using NAT Oil & Energy’s VOC abatement systems

74 Conservation Vents For Emission Goals

Protectoseal’s Anand Palanivelu outlines how conservation vents can help storage terminals achieve net zero targets and reduce hazardous gases

76 Navigating 40 CFR 60 Subpart Kc

Mesa ETP’s Adam Vance explains what tank owners need to know to prepare for EPA regulations

EVENTS

45 StocExpo 20th Edition Preview

As StocExpo and Tank Storage Magazine celebrate 20 years, here’s a look back on how the show and publication have grown together – and what’s in store for 2025

66 Global Tank Storage Awards: Reducing Risks with Robots

CEO of Square Robot, David Lamont, explains the unique nature of the company’s tank inspection robots

77 Event Preview: NISTM The Woodlands

Ahead of speaking at NISTM Woodlands on 10-12 December, Becht’s Rafael Rengifo explores the company’s proactive approach to manage storage tanks

78 Event Review: Tank Storage Association Conference & Exhibition

Kate Rainford shares some key moments that you may have missed from 2024’s annual TSA gathering

80 Global Tank Storage Awards: Revolutionising Safety CEO of ColdPad, Julien Bec, explains how the company’s game-changing bonded fastener is keeping workers out of dangerous situations

AT THE BACK

81 Global Events 2024/25

Comprehensive Asset Management

MEET THE TEAM

EDITORIAL

ANAMIKA TALWARIA

Anamika is the editor of Tank Storage Magazine and coordinates all your favourite content. This edition she’s collected insights from terminal experts across the globe in the Storage Outlook, starting on page 30.

KATE RAINFORD

Kate is Tank Storage Magazine’s junior writer and newest recruit. She’s scooped an interview with Advario about its new e-SAF hub on page 38.

T +44 (0)20 3196 9339 anamika@tankstoragemag.com www.tankstorage.com

&

€250. A Digital Only

SALES & MARKETING

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

Grant Elrick grant.elrick@easyfairs.com MARKETING

Eleanor Gravette eleanor.gravette@easyfairs.com

EDITOR’S NOTE

THE BIGGEST news this month (probably true no matter what month you read this in!) is the result of the latest US election. We know that many of our colleagues in the oil and gas sector will see a second Trump presidency as a fairly positive move, while others might mourn the greener future that was signalled under Harris. In this edition, the ILTA is exploring the key things that terminal companies will be looking for as we head into this new Trump administration (page 53). The key themes are around policy certainty and safety – we wait with bated breath to see what happens over the next four years. And Tank Storage Magazine will be here to report on the full tenure – just as we did back in 2016.

Operating under the mantra ‘drill, baby, drill’, from what we can tell, Trump’s energy policies are likely to be more friendly to the oil and gas sector, supporting new wells and imposing less stringent green regulations. Meanwhile, our colleagues in Europe may see increased financial pressure as they commit to EU energy transition targets – and get hit with potential tariffs from the USA.

On page 44, FETSA and UPEI reaffirm their full alignment with the 2050 climate neutrality goal of the Paris Agreement – which may not be the line taken by a Trump-led USA. But the USA has still come a long way with regards to the energy transition, cleaner fuels and stricter emissions targets – and will storage companies want to be seen compromising their own progress on the global stage? Time will tell, but I predict it will be difficult to roll back changes that have already been implemented.

The momentum keeps swinging towards a sustainable future – so what better way to get all the latest tips to make your terminal greener, safer and more efficient than by joining us at StocExpo on 11 and 12 March at the Rotterdam Ahoy, Netherlands? Our sneak preview on page 45 is the industry’s first look at what’s happening at the 20th edition of the show – and some of the

most exciting conference sessions will feature terminals from across the world, including South Africa, the USA, Brazil as well as our local European neighbours.

To get a full snapshot of what’s happening in the market over the next 12 months or so, our Storage Outlook (starting on page 30) features comment from global terminals, including Stolthaven, LBC, Fujairah Oil Terminal, Exolum and more.

Unfortunately, my crystal ball is all out of juice – but hopefully the predictions and analysis of these well-seasoned experts will help equip you for at least the next quarter – if not into the next 6-12 months. And for regular updates into what’s happening in the market, you can subscribe to Tank Storage Magazine so that you never miss an issue.

See you at StocExpo on 11 & 12 March, Rotterdam!

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!

Earlier this month we attended the EPCA in Berlin. Although it was good to see all our relations in the chemical industry, the mood wasn’t very good at all. People, especially employed at chemical producers, were in crisis mode…There is a lot at stake. Either we accept European deindustrialization and the fact that our wealth and influence is waning, or we try to limit damage and turn this around. And, just to make it clear, I am addressing myself to European policy-makers. You hold the key here.

Patrick Kulsen, Insights Global

As global efforts ramp up to achieve net-zero targets, the supply chain for critical materials (steel, rare earth elements, and other essential minerals) must be prioritized to meet the growing demand sustainably. It’s essential to address these material needs to ensure the renewable energy sector can scale responsibly and sustainably.

Caner Can, T.C. Enerji ve Tabii Kaynaklar Bakanlığı

Impression and keys learnings from the UAE as part of the Delegation by Senator Jens Kerstan: UAE and Saudi Arabia are initiating large scale Projects for Green Hydrogen (derivates) as I witnessed at a visit at the largest single PV and Solar site in the World at Dubai Electricity & Water AuthorityDEWA Innovation Centre. So, we can also hope for a push effect to the hydrogen economy in Europe from these projects in the medium term. Expect further large scale announcement from that region in the next year.

Jannes Elfgen, Port of Hamburg Authority

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GLOBAL NEWS UPDATE

A summary

of tank storage news you can’t afford to miss

TOTALENERGIES TO SUPPLY SINOPEC LNG

As part of its strategy to grow its liquefied natural gas (LNG) business, TotalEnergies has signed a sales agreement (HoA) with Sinopec for the delivery of 2 million tons (1.8 million tonnes) of LNG per year for 15 years, starting in 2028.

Thanks to this major agreement with one of the leading LNG players in the country, TotalEnergies strengthens its long-term position in the LNG market in China, the largest market in the world. This agreement comes within the strategic cooperation agreement signed earlier this year between TotalEnergies and Sinopec, during president Xi Jinping’s state visit to France.

‘We are delighted to have been chosen by Sinopec to supply 2 million tons of LNG to China, the largest LNG importing country in the world. This new agreement demonstrates the competitiveness of TotalEnergies’ LNG business and allows us to continue growing our long-term sales in Asia,’ says Stéphane Michel, president gas, renewables & power at TotalEnergies.

Niu Shuanwen, senior vice president of Sinopec Corporation, says: ‘Sinopec and TotalEnergies are strategic partners. This HoA further strengthens the cooperation between the two companies in natural gas. Natural gas is an important enabler for realising energy transition and dual carbon goals. Sinopec is committed to building the world’s leading clean energy and chemical company and will continue to promote energy transition and the clean, diversified and secure supply of energy. Sinopec strives to make positive contributions to global energy governance and climate change.’

ARAMCO & RIYADH AIR SIGN MOU

Aramco and Riyadh Air have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) during the FII 8th Edition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for potential collaboration in areas such as lowcarbon fuel supply and sustainability.

Yasser Mufti, Aramco’s executive vice president of products and customers, says: ‘Aramco’s work to develop lower-carbon fuels, its strong focus on digitalisation, and its aviation experience, among other things, provide a strong platform for potential cooperation with Riyadh Air.’

Adam Boukadida, Riyadh Air CFO, adds: ‘By leveraging Aramco’s expertise, we aim to improve our operational capabilities and provide outstanding experiences for our guests. Together, we can play a significant role in advancing the Kingdom’s environmental and economic objectives.’

LINDE TO SUPPLY CARBON CAPTURE TECHNOLOGY TO ADNOC

Linde has signed with Nextchem to provide carbon capture technology to ADNOC’s Hail and Ghasha project in United Arab Emirates. The project is one of the world’s largest offshore sour gas developments, and aims to operate with net zero emissions.

Linde will provide its newest adsorptionbased carbon capture solution, HISORP CC, to capture and purify carbon dioxide (CO 2) for sequestration (CCS), reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the production process of natural gas and oil. The project aims to capture 1.5 million tonnes per year (mtpa) of carbon dioxide and store underground.

John van der Velden, senior vice president of global sales and technology at Linde says: ‘We are proud to be chosen as technology provider for this international lighthouse project. Our HISORP CC technology, implemented in this worldscale project, is contributing towards ADNOC’s goal of net zero emissions.’

IMI ACQUIRES TWTG

IMI has acquired TWTG, an Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) specialist based in the Netherlands. TWTG will become part of IMI’s Process Automation sector.

TWTG offers solutions that enhance operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability across industries including energy, utilities, and heavy manufacturing. With this acquisition, IMI aims to leverage TWTG’s expertise to accelerate its growth in the fast-evolving IIoT market, providing customers with digitalisation solutions.

Roby Buyung, president of process automation at IMI comments: ‘The acquisition of TWTG aligns with our strategy to deliver innovative solutions that help our customers to make smarter, more efficient, and sustainable decisions. TWTG’s unique technology and deep expertise in the Industrial IoT space will enhance our existing asset monitoring portfolio and help us deliver nextgeneration wireless automation solutions to our customers.’

VOPAK CONFIRMS PLANS FOR AVTL

Vopak is to proceed with an initial public offering (IPO) for its Indian joint venture, Aegis Vopak Terminals Ltd (AVTL).

The company explains that AVTL has reached an agreement for a primary equity issue to investors for an amount of €88 million. The proceeds are proposed to be utilised for repayment of all, or a portion, of the outstanding unsecured borrowings of AVTL and for the purpose of execution of various projects including growth projects and/or other corporate purposes relating to AVTL’s principal business activities.

The transaction represents a shareholding of 3.4% in AVTL. As a result of this transaction, Vopak’s shareholding in AVTL will be diluted from 49% to 47.3%.

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China
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Cryogenic Storage

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ADLER & ALLAN ACQUIRES MEL ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS

Adler & Allan has acquired pollution remediation specialist MEL Environmental Solutions, to enhance its contaminated land and groundwater remediation proposition. MEL has been at the forefront of developing and implementing sustainable soil and groundwater remediation solutions in the insurance-led contaminated land market. The company has a successful record in delivering market leading services across the UK and Ireland, providing environmental remediation services and claims handling from its network of strategically located offices and operational units.

Paul Theile, managing director of MEL, says: ‘The extent of Adler & Allan’s service range, combined with MEL’s access to the insurance market, presents an excellent opportunity to broaden our offer to the insurance sector, whilst further strengthening Adler & Allan’s leading position in the environmental remediation market.’

HES BOTLEK INSTALLS MARINE LOADING ARM

HES Botlek Tank Terminal, Netherlands, has installed a brand new marine loading arm at one of its seagoing jetties.

This additional marine loading arm enables HTT to handle a new customer’s product through fully dedicated and product-segregated infrastructure. The customer’s product will be delivered by seagoing vessel, transferred to HTT’s

The company said on LinkedIn: ‘We are looking forward to the commencement date of physical operation and working together with our new customer and nourish our long-term partnership.’

TOTALENERGIES, BP, EQUINOR AND SHELL JOIN FOR INCREASED ENERGY ACCESS

TotalEnergies, BP, Equinor and Shell have announced a commitment to invest in support of the UN Sustainable Development Goal 7 (UN SDG7), which aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.

The four energy majors have come together with a $500 million (€473 million) joint investment commitment, intended to create positive energy access impact for people in key regions over the coming years.

The joint investment seeks to support promising, high-impact projects, primarily in Sub-Saharan Africa, South and Southeast Asia, aiming to help millions of people in underserved communities gain access to electricity and improved cooking conditions. Their shared intent is for the committed capital to be invested in a broad range of solutions, including solar home systems, mini/metro grids, clean cooking solutions, and enabling technologies (such as e-mobility, energy storage and management solutions).

Anders Opedal, president and CEO of Equinor says: ‘This joint investment brings together four leading energy companies investing in emerging countries. We believe this effort will help close some of the energy access gaps, which is a key part in reaching the global ambition of a just and equitable energy transition.’

Over the coming years this has the potential to support UN SDG 7 while also generating co-benefits like job creation and improved health outcomes.

Wael Sawan, CEO of Shell adds: ‘We want to support accelerated progress towards universal energy access as we believe it has the power to transform lives. This joint investment will help to do that. By working collectively to overcome key energy access challenges we can achieve sustained impact and drive real change.’

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EU FUNDS LINDE & CEMEX CCS

Cemex and Linde are to receive €157 million in funding from the EU Innovation Fund for a CO 2 capture project at Cemex’s Rüdersdorf Cement Plant in Germany.

The project aims to capture 1.3 million tonnes of CO 2 per year from Rüdersdorf’s cement production, decarbonising the site by 2030.

Sergio Menéndez, president of Cemex Europe, Middle East, Africa & Asia says: ‘While we are working hard to decarbonise using existing technology, an important component of our future in action strategy is to develop decarbonisation solutions for our industry to reach net zero.’

At Rüdersdorf, Linde’s pioneering HISORP, CO 2 capture technology will be deployed for the first time in a state-ofthe-art cryogenic-adsorptive process, that captures CO 2 from the exhaust gas directly at the emission source. The raw CO 2 is then compressed and liquefied so that it meets the purity requirements for subsequent sequestration. Finally, the liquid CO 2 product will be transported

by rail to an intermediate CO 2 Hub and shipped to an offshore storage site in the North Sea for permanent storage.

BUNDESNETZAGENTUR APPROVES GERMANY’S HYDROGEN CORE NETWORK

The Bundesnetzagentur (Germany’s regulatory office for electricity, gas, telecommunications, post and railway markets) has approved the hydrogen core network proposed by gas transmission system operators.

The hydrogen core network is intended to reach hydrogen consumption and production regions in Germany, and then connect central locations, such as large industrial centres, storage facilities, power plants and import corridors. The core network will be put into operation by 2032.

Key highlights of the network include:

• 9,040 km of pipelines: 60% of the network will come from converting existing natural gas pipelines, while 40% will be newly built.

• €18.9 billion investment: A substantial financial commitment that underscores the strategic importance of hydrogen to Germany’s energy transition.

• Operational by 2032: The network will be implemented step-by-step, with completion anticipated over the next decade.

Once operational, the network will connect key hydrogen clusters across the country, ensuring smooth transportation of hydrogen and supporting the shift to a hydrogen-based economy. Additionally, the network will establish vital connections with neighbouring countries, including the Netherlands.

Norway

GASUM OPENS BIOGAS STATION

Gasum has opened a biogas filling station in Bærum, west of Oslo, expanding its biogas infrastructure in Norway.

The biogas filling station, built in cooperation with landowner Eiendomsspar, offers compressed and liquefied biogas in response to an increased demand for sustainable fuels in Norway.

Jogeir Munkeby, sales manager for Traffic Norway at Gasum says: ‘This is an important step in continuing to develop the infrastructure around Oslo and make it possible to drive on biogas all over southern Norway by the end of 2025. By expanding the Nordic gas filling station network, we can also provide new opportunities for local companies to substantially lower their emissions.’

Christian Ringnes, owner and chairman of Eiendomsspar adds: ‘It’s fantastic to be able to contribute to the green transition in such a concrete and positive way as a new biogas station in collaboration with Gasum.’

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HÖEGH EVI & SEMOP SIGN MOU FOR HYDROGEN INFRASTRUCTURE

Höegh Evi has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with SEMOP Port-La Nouvelle, France, to develop a floating terminal for hydrogen imports. The hydrogen will be imported from producers located in the Middle East, North Africa and the Americas.

The terminal will facilitate the import of up to 210,000 tonnes of hydrogen per year as early as 2030, according to the project timeline, and dependent on the readiness of France’s hydrogen pipeline.

Erik Nyheim, president and CEO of Höegh Evi says: ‘Höegh Evi is leveraging our expertise to enable Europe to import significant volumes of clean molecules within this decade. With its strategic location and well-established marine infrastructure, Port-La Nouvelle is ideally positioned to become a key entry point for hydrogen and low-carbon fuels. Together we are driving the energy transition forward by establishing a crucial hub for clean energy in Europe.’

INEOS & ROYAL WAGENBORG SIGN FOR CO2 CARRIER

In the presence of His Majesty King Willem Alexander of the Netherlands and His Majesty King Frederik of Denmark, INEOS and Royal Wagenborg have signed an agreement on the delivery of a new build CO 2 carrier.

The agreement marks the first construction and deployment of a CO 2 carrier for Wagenborg. This purpose-built CO 2 carrier, designed to meet the highest standards of safety and efficiency, will facilitate large-scale transport of CO 2 to the Greensand storage site in the Danish North Sea. The vessel will be built by shipyard Royal Niestern Sander and marks a significant step towards carbon capture and storage (CCS) within the European Union.

Egbert Vuursteen, CEO Royal Wagenborg says: ‘Through INEOS and Wagenborg’s agreement, we’re not just advancing an industry, we’re charting a course toward a future where Dutch maritime expertise leads the way.’

Edwin de Vries, director Wagenborg Offshore adds: ‘Wagenborg has been a leading service provider to the offshore industry demonstrating safe and efficient logistic solutions on the North Sea. The availability of in-house knowledge and experience of shipping, offshore and shipbuilding has resulted in a variety of game-changing dedicated vessels.’

CENTRICA & EUROPEAN ENERGY TO PRODUCE GREEN 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 turbines will provide renewable electricity, which is used to produce green hydrogen through electrolysis with demineralised water. 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.’

EXOLUM TESTS OIL INFRASTRUCTURE FOR GREEN HYDROGEN

Exolum has started the world’s first project to transport and store green hydrogen on a commercial scale in existing oil infrastructure using liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHC). The project is being carried out in Immingham, the UK’s largest freight port.

LOHCs are organic compounds that can absorb and release hydrogen through chemical reactions and can therefore be used as a safe means of storing and transporting hydrogen in liquid form.

Exolum sees the project as utilising its existing infrastructure to accelerate a speedier, more flexible and more efficient growth of the hydrogen market. This approach will allow a more targeted approach to the development of hydrogen infrastructure, ensuring that storage is located in areas closer to the points of expected demand, such as ports or industrial areas.

Ignacio Casajús, Exolum’s global strategy and growth lead comments: ‘The project we have launched proposes a realistic, safe and cheap formula for distributing green hydrogen that is in line with existing demand. In this way, we avoid developing new infrastructure by using our logistics network, one of the most efficient in the world.’

CHANE TO DEVELOPMENT CCS HUB

Chane is working with government and business partners to create a new hub for CO 2 transshipment with the purpose of carbon capture and storage (CCS) in Duisburg, Germany.

This hub will help German companies transport captured CO 2 to subsea storage facilities in the Netherlands, or further offshore in the North Sea.

Sander van Kersbergen, a member of Chane’s business development team says: ‘In Rotterdam, we are already developing the infrastructure for storage and transshipment of CO 2. Now we are also developing a collection point for CO 2 in Duisburg, a kind of extension of the chain from the German hinterland towards Rotterdam.’

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FUELLA TO DEVELOP GREEN AMMONIA IN BRAZIL

Fuella has signed an agreement with the Port of Pecém, to develop a large-scale green ammonia project in Pecém, in the state of Ceará, Brazil. Under the agreement, Fuella is to develop a facility that will produce 400,000 tonnes of green ammonia annually for global markets.

Thorsten Helms, managing director of business and corporate development at Fuella says: ‘We are very happy and proud to be able to secure this project in the Port of Pecém. This is one of the best locations in the world for the production of green hydrogen and ammonia. We thank the Port of Pecém and its shareholders, the State of Ceará and the Port of Rotterdam for their trust.’

NESTE TO SUPPLY AIR CANADA WITH SAF

Neste and Air Canada have signed an agreement for the supply of 60,000 tonnes of neat Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel.

Neste will deliver the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) blended with conventional jet fuel to the Vancouver marine terminal starting in December 2024, with further shipments throughout 2025. The Vancouver marine terminal has a direct pipeline connection to the fuel facilities at Vancouver International Airport enabling the use of the blended SAF at the airport.

‘Air Canada is actively pursuing efforts to mitigate its GHG emissions, and SAF is a critical component of our

multifaceted approach to reducing our impact on the environment and promoting environmental sustainability in our operations. This SAF purchase from Neste contributes to our target of procuring SAF for one percent of our estimated fuel use in 2025,’ says Michael Rousseau, president and chief executive of Air Canada.

COLONIAL OIL INDUSTRIES’ MARINE DIVISION ACHIEVES ISCC PLUS & EU CERTIFICATIONS

Colonial Oil Industries’ marine division has received ISCC certification from SCS Global Services.

This certification recognises Colonial’s commitment to sustainability and its ability to produce and trade sustainable biofuels. ISCC Plus and ISCC EU certification ensure that Colonial’s marine fuels meet rigorous sustainability standards, including requirements for traceability, mass balance, and environmental protection.

‘We are thrilled to receive ISCC certification,’ says Bob Kenyon, president at Colonial Oil Industries. ‘This recognition validates our commitment to improving our sustainability stewardship and impact across our footprint.’

TOPSOE TO SUPPLY ELECTROLYSERS TO FIRST AMMONIA

First Ammonia has signed the sales and service agreements with Topsoe for the fabrication of the first 100 MW (megawatts) of solid oxide electrolysers, at its green ammonia facility in Victoria, Texas, USA. The project will commence commercial operation in 2027.

The new Topsoe factory in Herning, Denmark, enters operation at the end of 2024, and will produce 500 MW of solid oxide electrolysers annually. This milestone follows the performance of Topsoe’s solid oxide electrolyser demonstration core that has been running in Topsoe’s Frederikssund facility since the end of 2023 under industrial conditions.

First Ammonia CEO Joel Moser says: ‘I am confident that Topsoe solid oxide

electrolysers will be part of the larger solution to the world’s decarbonisation goals by establishing a hydrogen economy, and the production of green ammonia together will help take us there.’

SWITCH MARITIME TO BUILD HYDROGENFUELED FERRY

US shipowner Switch Maritime is collaborating with LH2 Shipping and LMG Marin to begin construction of its own liquid hydrogen-fuelled RoPax vehicle ferry.

Following the launch of Sea Change (Switch’s first hydrogen-powered vessel – a catamaran ferry), Switch is ready to advance its next zero-emission vessel project that involves the USA construction of the existing DNVGLclassed 80-car, 300-passenger RoPax vehicle ferry design operating on liquid hydrogen fuel in Norway, MF Hydra.

‘Our first H2 vessel was the result of years of close collaboration with the US Coast Guard, demonstrating the viability and safety of hydrogen fuelling. While the LH2 RoPax ferry design is already DNVGLclassed, there is still some work to do to bring it into US Coast Guard compliance,’ says Pace Ralli, founder & CEO of Switch.

The RoPax vehicle ferry will have a service speed of 14 knots, and is expected to require fuelling only once per week in a typical operation, with no requirement for shoreside electric charging infrastructure.

LIGHT FOR CHEVRON TO BUY HESS

The US Federal Trade Commission is expected to greenlight Chevron’s purchase of Hess Corporation, according to a report from Reuters, leaving ExxonMobil’s challenge to the $53 billion (€48 billion) deal as its final hurdle.

The proposed merger was first announced last October, and the FTC sent a second information request to Chevron two months later. Exxon and CNOOC, Hess’s partners in a Guyana joint venture, are challenging the deal by claiming a right of first refusal to any sale of Hess’s Guyana assets. A three-judge arbitration panel is due to consider the case in May 2025.

ONE ANSWER USA DEBUSK

TOTALENERGIES

Product: Oil

Cost: €9.5 billion

Capacity: 750 million barrels

FID: TotalEnergies has announced final investment decision (FID) for the GranMorgu development on Block 58, a large offshore deepwater oil project in Suriname.

The GranMorgu project will develop the Sapakara and Krabdagu oil discoveries, on which a exploration and appraisal campaign was completed in 2023. TotalEnergies is the operator of Block 58 with a 50% interest, alongside APA Corporation (50%).

The project includes a 220,000 barrels of oil per day floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) unit. First oil is expected in 2028. The GranMorgu FPSO is designed to accommodate future tieback opportunities that would extend its production plateau.

Comment: Patrick Pouyanné, chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies says: ‘I am very pleased to launch the GranMorgu project alongside our partners Staatsolie and APA and I thank the State of Suriname for its support. Building on TotalEnergies’ spirit, this landmark project marks the first offshore development in the country and capitalises on our extensive expertise in deep offshore innovation.’

PHILIPPINES COASTAL

Product: Petroleum

Capacity: 42,770 m 3

Acquisition: I Squared is to acquire Philippines Coastal Storage & Pipeline, and its affiliate entities.

Acquisition: I Squared has acquired the remaining 55% stake in Tepsa from Rubis SCA, a French energy company. The latest

Comment: Harsh Agrawal, senior partner, I Squared says: ‘Philippines Coastal is an essential infrastructure asset playing a critical role in supporting the growing energy needs of the Philippines. With urbanisation and the growing consumption of the rising middle class in the Philippines, fuel demand continues to increase steadily.’ Philippines

TEPSA

Suriname

I Squared has been a shareholder in Tepsa, formerly known as Rubis Terminal, since 2020, when it acquired an initial 45% stake.

Comment: ‘Tepsa’s transition under the ownership of I Squared marks a pivotal moment in our evolution,’ says Bruno Hayem, CEO of Tepsa. ‘This renewed identity puts us in a great position to capitalise on future opportunities and continue developing through the energy transition while remaining at the forefront of the European liquid bulk storage sector. With the support of I Squared and our newly appointed board members, we are focused on fostering positive contributions to all our stakeholders and in the communities we serve.’

EXXONMOBIL

Product: LNG

Capacity: 18 million tonnes

FEED: Technip Energies and JGC Corporation have been awarded the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) contract by ExxonMobil – on behalf of Mozambique Rovuma Venture (MRV), a joint venture between ExxonMobil, Eni, and CNPC – for the Rovuma LNG project at Palma in the Afungi peninsula, Northeast of Mozambique.

Comment: Mario Tommaselli, SVP gas and low carbon energies of Technip Energies says: ‘We are honoured to have been selected by ExxonMobil and its partners to design the Rovuma LNG project. By leveraging our expertise in modularisation and electrified LNG, we are committed to support ExxonMobil and its partners towards final investment decision, as well as strengthening our presence in Mozambique to contribute to long-term economic growth and its ambition to become one of Africa’s leading LNG exporters.’

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Mozambique

ADVARIO HELIOS SINGAPORE

Product: Future fuels

Capacity: 503,000 m³

Acquisition: Advario has acquired the remaining stake in Advario Helios Singapore from Macquarie Helios Holdings, giving the company 100% ownership of Advario Helios Singapore. With ample waterfront access and room for expansion, the terminal is wellpositioned for the storage and logistics of future energy solutions, low carbon ammonia and methanol, biofuels, and eventually hydrogen.

Comment: Bas Verkooijen, CEO of Advario says: ‘We’re excited to deepen our investment in Singapore, reaffirming our long-standing position as a key player in Singapore’s energy sector. This acquisition builds on our ongoing commitment to support Singapore’s ambitious energy transition goals and the country’s long-term potential as a global new energy hub. In addition, it aligns with Advario’s strategy to evolve our assets and drive sustainable growth while contributing to a more sustainable future.’

TRAFIGURA

Product: Refined oil products

Capacity: 356,000 m³

Acquisition: Trafigura has acquired of 50% of the shares in Meroil Tank SL from the oil operator Meroil SA for an undisclosed sum. Meroil Tank will now operate as a 50/50 joint venture company. The company will continue to serve its current as well as future customers to store refined oil products including gasoil, gasoline and jet fuel, as well as biofuels.

Comment: Jamie Torrance, global head of distillates for Trafigura says: ‘The asset is integral for the import of refined products and biofuels in the region; offering advanced logistics and flexibility to our current and future customer base. We look forward to working with the Meroil team on the further development of the terminal’s logistics, while staying attentive to the market’s evolution towards low-carbon fuels.’

José Luís Porté, president of Meroil adds: ‘We appreciate the opportunity to work with a world-leading company in the oil trading sector; this collaboration will significantly enhance the development of our business in Spain.’

VIVA ENERGY

Product: Diesel

Cost: Estimated €12 million - €47 million

Capacity: 20,000 m³

EPC: CB&I has been awarded a lump sum contract by Viva Energy for engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) of two 10 million litre (10,000 m³) diesel tanks and associated civil, structural, mechanical and piping works for its diesel tank replacement project, located in Newport, Melbourne, Australia.

Comment: Mark Butts, senior vice president of CB&I says: ‘It is just one of several projects we have been selected to deliver for Viva Energy over the years. CB&I’s proven history of delivering projects in Australia with a focus on the highest quality and safety standards were differentiators between us and our competitors.’

ADVARIO

Product: Chemicals

Capacity: 520,000 m³

EPC: Rotary Engineering Abu Dhabi has been awarded an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract to develop the TA’ZIZ Chemicals Storage Terminal in Abu Dhabi. The terminal project will be overseen by an integrated project management team, including professionals from Advario. The terminal will serve as a hub for exporting bulk chemicals produced in the TA’ZIZ Industrial Chemicals Zone. Rotary Engineering Abu Dhabi will execute the construction of this essential infrastructure, which includes receipt and storage facilities for bulk chemicals

and gases, as well as jetty infrastructure to enable the export of finished products.

Comment: Following the announcement of the contract at ADIPEC 2024, CEO of Advario, Bas Verkooijen says: ‘Having worked with Rotary in the past, we have confidence that their experience and capabilities will support the successful delivery of this landmark project. We look forward to a productive collaboration.’

GTT

Product: Gas

Capacity: 204,000m³

FSRU: GTT has received an order from a Korean shipyard for the tank design of a new floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) on behalf of an Asian ship-owner. The tanks will be fitted with the NO96 GW containment system developed by GTT.

The delivery of the vessels is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2027.

Spain
Australia
UAE
South Korea
Singapore

INCIDENT REPORT

A summary of the recent explosions, fires and leaks in the tank storage industry

13

November

RUSSIA

Drones attack Penza oil storage facility

On the night of Wednesday, November 13, drones hit the oil storage facility of the Federal Agency for State Reserves in the Penza region of Russia, reports ASTRA Telegram channel.

Local residents wrote that one of the tanks was damaged. This is also evidenced by footage taken at the site. Published eyewitness videos show that at least one tank was damaged as a result of the drone attack.

Oleg Melnichenko, governor of the Penza region, confirmed the attack of three UAVs on the region. The official claimed that all the drones had allegedly crashed in a forest and that no one was injured.

12 November INDIA

Fire at Gujarat IOCL refinery

A fire broke out at the Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) refinery in Vadodara district’s Nandesari town, India, on 12 November, following a blast in a benzene storage tank, said local police. It was reported that two employees were killed, with others injured.

According to a statement from the IOCL, the fire broke out at around 3.30 pm in tank number 68, a 1,000L benzene storage tank.

‘A fire was reported in a benzene storage tank at Gujarat Refinery. The refinery’s emergency response team is actively tackled the situation, with firefighting operations currently underway. The adjacent water sprinkler system was activated to contain the fire. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained,’ says IOCL.

10 October

USA

Texas Pemex plant leaks hydrogen sulphide

26 October

UNITED KINGDOM

Serica Energy announces FPSO interruption

Serica Energy has announced that production at the Triton floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) in the North Sea, has been interrupted, due to a problem with the single gas compressor in operation.

A potential dry gas seal failure was identified in the ‘A’ gas compressor during operations on 26 October. This did not result in a leak of hydrocarbons. The FPSO operator, Dana Petroleum, is working to identify and execute the necessary repair.

Actions are being taken to reduce the operational vulnerability of the Triton FPSO by bringing the second compressor into service. The date for this is likely to be delayed by the corrective work on the ‘A’ compressor and is now expected to be in 2025.

15 October

VENEZUELA

Chemical plant fire injures three

A fire broke out at a crude storage tank in Venezuela’s La Salina oil terminal, operated by state company PDVSA, authorities said.

The fire started early in the day during a storm, and continued through the evening. The facility, which PDVSA uses mostly for moving crude and fuel between domestic ports, is located near the western city of Cabimas on the shore of Lake Maracaibo.

Chief of the Cabimas’ firefighters, Mufid Houmeidan, said: ‘Many people were exposed to high temperatures. We have counted 21 injured so far, all of them with minor lesions.’

The tank had about 75,000 barrels of oil when the fire broke out at the terminal’s storage patio, Houmeidan said, adding that nearby communities would not need to be evacuated.

Pemex’s Deer Park oil refinery near Houston discharged 19,731.268 kilograms of highly toxic hydrogen sulphide gas over more than seven hours in a deadly incident, according to the Mexican state-owned company’s disclosure to a Texas regulator. At least two people died, and 35 others were treated for injuries.

The prompted a shut down both sides of Highway 225, and put the City of Deer Park into a shelter-inplace mode. Residents of the city were told to shut their windows and doors and to turn off their air conditioning, to prevent a further spread.

Harris County Sheriff, Ed Gonzalez, said workers were working on a flange when there was a leak of the chemical.

Pemex said in a statement to NBC affiliate KPRC-TV of Houston added: ‘The incident is contained to our site and has been isolated. Some members of the community may see flaring as we safely contain the situation. We are closely monitoring air quality and are not detecting any offsite impacts.’

TECHNICAL NEWS

NESTE WITHDRAWS INVESTMENT IN ELECTROLYSER

Neste has withdrawn investment in a 120 MW electrolyser project, to produce renewable hydrogen at its Porvoo refinery in Finland. The decision follows the completion of the basic engineering phase, which commenced in May 2023.

The reasons behind the withdrawal are the company’s challenging market conditions and financial performance, requiring critical assessment of any new investments.

Markku Korvenranta, executive vice president for oil product business unit at Neste says: ‘While we are discontinuing the initial renewable hydrogen project, we are actively evaluating alternative pathways for securing renewable hydrogen in Porvoo. Our ambition remains to utilise renewable hydrogen at the Porvoo refinery, contributing also to fulfilment of the Finnish renewable fuels of non-biological origin distribution obligation.’

EXXONMOBIL SELECTS CHART INDUSTRIES’ IPSMR TECHNOLOGY

ExxonMobil, on behalf of Mozambique Rovuma Venture, operator of the Area 4 concession in northern Mozambique’s Rovuma Basin, has announced it has selected Chart Industries’ IPSMR liquefaction technology and proprietary equipment for the Rovuma LNG project at the Afungi peninsula, in Mozambique.

The Rovuma LNG Project will produce, liquefy and market natural gas from reservoirs of the Area 4 block of the offshore Rovuma Basin and includes the construction of 12 modules of 1.5 MTA each, with a total LNG capacity of 18 million tonnes annually, as well as associated onshore facilities. The selection of Chart IPSMR for the 12 liquefaction modules is expected to help enable increased project competitiveness, improved reliability and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Jill Evanko, CEO and president of Chart Industries says: ‘We are excited to partner with ExxonMobil for the utilisation of our IPSMR technology and associated equipment for their Rovuma LNG project in Mozambique.’

IDEC LAUNCHES NEW FT1J SERIES

IDIDEC has updated its SmartAXIS Touch family with the new FT1J Series Combined PLC+HMI. The device combines a built-in full function controller and a 4.3 inch (10.9 cm) touchscreen display, in a compact all-in-one form factor that is rightsized for visualising and automating a wide range of applications, including laboratory and industrial environments, such as oil and gas.

The unit’s thin bezel provides the greatest possible display area compared with its installation footprint, and the entire package requires only a shallow mounting depth clearance. The PLC and HMI are internally connected, share the same network connection, require only

one power supply (and consumes less power than individually separate PLC and HMI installations), for easy installation, and all connections use push-in wiring connectors. The FT1J is ready to use and communicate right out of the box. End users configure the PLC+HMI with an intuitive and easy-to-use integrated development environment for both PLC and HMI functions, providing significant configuration and programming efficiencies.

CLEANOVA INTRODUCES NEW CARBON FILTRATION SYSTEM

Cleanova has developed a new approach to filtration solutions for carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) applications. Cleanova.C-Clean is being exhibited for the first time at Carbon Capture Technology Expo 2024 in Germany. Chris Nixon, Cleanova’s engineering and products director says: ‘Filtration technology plays a pivotal role at every

IDEC
Neste
Cleanova
ExxonMobil & Chart

stage in the carbon capture process, from the arrival of the feed gas, through chemical absorption to final storage and transportation. Each filtration solution needs to be tailored to specific conditions such as CO 2 concentration, the nature of the emission source, the presence of other contaminants, temperature, and pressure. This means that CCUS operators and system designers need to work collaboratively with filtration experts from the outset to achieve optimal results. Cleanova.CClean enables co-development of customised carbon capture solutions using advanced filtration products that are appropriate for CCUS applications.’

CARBIS LOADTEC DEVELOPS CUSTOM METERING SKID

In partnership with a client in the Far East, Carbis Loadtec has developed a custom metering skid for liquid and anhydrous ammonia. Specifically, this system has been designed to provide a split between anhydrous and liquid ammonia over two loading

bays, but it can adapt to total liquid ammonia within minutes to match customer demand.

The custom metering skid features advanced flow measurement technology, and is constructed from high-quality materials to ensure durability and resilience in challenging environments. The design prioritises safety and compliance with international standards and incorporates multiple safety features such as emergency shut-off valves, pressure relief systems and variable vapour pressure control. This commitment to safety is crucial, given the inherent risks of handling ammonia.

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The skid is equipped with sophisticated instrumentation for real-time flow rate, pressure, and temperature monitoring. This level of monitoring ensures that operators can make informed decisions quickly, reducing the risk of overfilling and optimising the export of ammonia in their operations.

In addition to its technical specifications, the metering skid is designed for easy installation and maintenance, minimising downtime and enhancing productivity. The modular design allows for flexibility, enabling clients to adapt the skid to their evolving operational needs.

Carbis Loadtec

MAKING WAVES

Jon Ackerman, CEO of Meridian Infrastructure, talks about the new company’s goals, and what the experienced team of six will bring to the table

CO-FOUNDED BY Jon Ackerman (formerly of Moda Midstream), Meridian Infrastructure specialises in customer-focused development of terminaling and marine infrastructure solutions. Meridian is a name that aims to incorporate not only the company’s global shipping trade, but also represents the concept of helping customers navigate evolving market flows. The company strives to meet its specific customers’ liquids handling needs by finding innovative solutions that increase efficiency and protect the integrity of their customers’ supply chains. Meridian aims to provide operational excellence, as well as reliability, and a safe environment for all their stakeholders.

Located in Houston (USA), the company claims Texas as its home. ‘It is really the centre of the industry in North America,’ notes CEO Jon Ackerman. ‘We have previously developed two terminals here that have been incredibly important and strategic. For instance, we created the world’s largest LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) export facility in Houston. Another important element is the significant number of our customers that are based in Houston. We work and live in the same community.’

FOCUSING ON THE CUSTOMER

‘It is a unique skill to be able to listen to your customers, to understand what they want to do and to be able to work with them, coming up with a solution, instead of simply providing them with a tank, or a piece of existing infrastructure. That is really our skillset,’ says Ackerman.

‘In the next five years, we’d like to be involved in three to five highly strategic locations where we’re providing something to our customers that they can’t get in other markets,’ says Ackerman. ‘We have historically been at the forefront of the market transformation, and our communication with our customers is typically with someone who’s leading their business development or strategy. We’re helping them to solve their biggest problem or achieve an important objective. That is a much more focused approach than having 20 terminals. Our focus is on meeting the needs of large-volume, important energy markets.’

MEET THE TEAM

The company will be led by six individuals with previous executive experience in the oil and gas sector, including at companies such as Moda Midstream, Enbridge, Oil Tanking, Energy Transfer and Sunoco. Ackerman comments: ‘The team has worked together now through multiple companies, and multiple investment cycles. Our team has been in the marine storage terminaling and energy products handling business for more than a combined century.’

Members of the Meridian management team have been extensively involved in the successful execution of significant projects for midstream terminals and deepwater marine assets. Their previous project expertise includes over $10 billion (€9.5 billion) in operated terminal infrastructure, and experience developing and operating 30 million barrels of new storage capacity.

The team consists of:

Jon Ackerman, CEO: Ackerman has nine years’ experience at Moda Midstream, where he was a co-founder and CFO, then CEO. Prior to that he was in a similar role at Oiltanking North America.

Javier del Olmo, COO: Del Olmo was most recently at Enbridge and, before that, spent seven years with Moda Midstream as co-founder and COO. He has now taken on the COO role at Meridian. Prior to Moda, del Olmo was at Oiltanking in a number of roles and locations around the world.

Sean Riordan, CCO: Riordan has over 15 years’ experience in the midstream energy sector, and after being the CCO at Moda Midstream for three years, now sees the same position at Meridian.

Ian Levine, CFO: Levine held the CFO and strategy position at Moda Midstream for eight years, previously coming from an investment banking background.

Alan Beck, VP: Beck serves as Meridian’s vice president for strategic alliances and as general counsel, after working at law firm, Vinson & Elkins, for 24 years.

Paul Ramsey, director of engineering: Ramsey provides the company with years of experience as a project manager, and was previously a director at Moda Midstream, and before that at Oiltanking.

Although the six leading members come from a similar industry background,

Ackerman believes each person will be able to bring something unique and different to the company, and use their previous knowledge and experience to support Meridian.

‘The team is prepared to execute in a dynamic market, leveraging their respective skills and expertise to support Meridian’s strategic objectives,’ he says. ‘Some of the product types we are handling represent brand new markets, so we have had to learn and understand, upstream and downstream, what is happening today in these markets, what’s new and what trends are heading our way. For example, in 2023 we started developing a concept for a world-scale blue ammonia project at our Vopak Moda Houston asset on the Houston Ship Channel. To do that, we had to understand how and where the hydrogen was to be produced, what the supply was and who the off-takers were.’

‘Every time we have previously worked together, we have been incredibly proud of the result and believed that the assets that we designed and built were the best solution for our customers. We are proud of what we have done in the past and we are ready to go out and do it again with new products and customers.’

THE RIGHT TIME

Ackerman continues: ‘Our team is currently evaluating advantaged locations in North America that offer opportunities for the development of liquids products storage and loading and handling infrastructure to move traditional and low-carbon fuels from producers to customers in Aisa and Europe.’

Looking towards Meridian’s future, Ackerman adds that this was the right time for the team to make the transition from operations to acquisition. ‘We partner with some of the best investors, and if we have done our jobs successfully, the assets that we put into service become incredibly important to market participants and customers. to the point that they need or want to own them. It is part of a lifecycle to us.’

For more information: www.meridian-infra.com

THE STORAGE OUTLOOK

After a turbulent few years, could 2025 signal change for the storage terminals industry? Our experts share their thoughts

JORGE GUILLÉN

Aviation & Spain network lead

The global energy sector is undergoing a transformation, driving an energy transition aimed at decarbonising the economy. Exolum is playing an important role in this energy transition by developing the infrastructures that will be required in the future, as well as contributing to the decarbonisation of transport by developing new logistics solutions for the energy vectors of the future, such as advanced biofuels, hydrogen and their derivatives. Geopolitical tensions and changes in supply chains mean logistics systems have had to provide changing solutions, requiring an intensive use of assets and services. Once again, the resilience of the entire system has been tested and it has responded successfully, sparing the public from any negative impacts.

MOVING TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE FUELS

Other changes in the market include the growing use of sustainable fuels, with a greater variety of such products and of the raw materials used to manufacture them, and the emergence of new forms of marketing.

In particular, Exolum has been developing projects associated with new energy vectors and the aviation sector. Perhaps one of the most notable was our acquisition of a 50% stake in an ammonia and LNG storage terminal in Houston,

Texas, USA. This strategic addition positions Exolum in the low-carbon ammonia logistics infrastructure on the US Gulf Coast, and provides a unique opportunity to acquire expertise that can be transferred to similar projects in Spain in the future.

Exolum has also begun construction of a green hydrogen production plant and refuelling station in Tees Valley in the UK. This project, which is part of the Tees Valley Hydrogen Vehicle Ecosystem, includes a water electrolyser and refuelling station at our Riverside terminal in Stockton-on-Tees.

Also related to hydrogen, in 2024 Exolum launched a world-first project to transport and store liquid organic hydrogen (LOHC) in bulk using its infrastructure network. The trial, involving a 1.5 kilometre long pipeline between the Immingham East and Immingham West terminals, is the first commercial-scale demonstration of LOHC bulk storage and transport using existing, repurposed infrastructure. It will allow Exolum to gain valuable insights and knowledge of this new process, representing a major step forward in the development of and research into new storage and distribution technologies for new energy vectors. It is also a natural extension to the services we offer.

In the aviation sector, meanwhile, Exolum is constructing a new fuel supply system at Lima airport, Peru, which is progressing well. We have also been awarded the contract to manage the fuel supply system at Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris, where operations will begin in April 2025.

CHALLENGES IN THE ENERGY TRANSITION

The main challenge continues to be how Exolum contributes to the decarbonisation process. For several years now, our growth strategy has focused on diversifying operations and developing new businesses aligned with the energy transition. One of the main challenges remaining in this area is adapting existing infrastructures to the current needs of the sector.

For years now Exolum has been adapting our transport network and facilities to store and distribute new sustainable fuels. We have increased the number of tanks used for sustainable fuels in our plants in order to not only increase storage

capacity, but also to broaden our range of services and provide support for a wider variety of products and raw materials. For example, this year Exolum is adapting infrastructures and setting up the services needed to sell pure HVO (hydrogenated vegetable oil) for the automotive industry.

Many Exolum employees are also engaged in projects to build new infrastructures at Lima Airport and expand marine infrastructures in Huelva, which will support large sustainable fuel production projects there. Although it is not yet in the construction phase, the team is working on the engineering development of a new storage plant for biofuels and other bulk liquids in the Port of Bilbao, Spain. This will enable the reception, storage, blending and dispatch of biofuels and other alternative fuels and their raw materials, in line with one of Exolum’s core strategies; our commitment to investing in logistics in Spanish ports to support the energy transition, ensuring efficiency and security of supply.

WORKING TOGETHER

Exolum works as closely as possible with our clients to understand their plans and needs. We prioritise adapting our services and infrastructure to meet specific requirements, so our teams are constantly on the move.

The anticipation of technological, market and regulatory changes is key to Exolum’s operations. We are constantly developing new projects and services that can be offered on the open market, allowing our customers to find solutions without having to wait for the infrastructure to be developed. This is for both the more traditional business and for those technologies at earlier stages of development, such as some sustainable fuels, hydrogen and ammonia.

Exolum has also made great progress on improving the information systems we provide, including mobile workforce management systems. Emerging technologies, such as the internet of things (IoT) and artificial intelligence, are already having an impact on improving safety, quality of service and operational efficiency – core to our values.

www.exolum.com

Exolum

CAGDAS UZUN

Chief of terminal marketing & sales

In line with recent market trends, Torosport Ceyhan experienced a notable shift in handled cargo volumes over the first eight months of 2024. Despite a downturn in overall tonnage compared to the previous year, we remain on track to exceed our yearly handling targets. This outlook reflects our adaptive approach to market challenges and our commitment to growth, even in a fluctuating economic climate.

WELL-CONNECTED IN THE EAST

Since 1981, Torosport Ceyhan has served as a central terminal for the Eastern Mediterranean, offering substantial storage capacity tailored to both thirdparty clients and Toros Agriculture’s needs. Torosport Ceyhan is equipped with extensive tank infrastructure with a volume of 224,000 m3 for petroleum products, liquid chemicals, and bitumen, as well as berthing capabilities. These resources are complemented by the Yumurtalık Free Zone also operated by Toros, which links the terminal to nearly 400,000 m3 of additional storage, via a robust network of nine pipelines. This connection supports the efficient handling of a diverse range of liquid chemicals and vegetable oils, amounting to over 1.5 million tonnes of cargo annually.

In addition to our own investments, Torosport Ceyhan benefits from our proximity to major industrial clusters, such as the Ceyhan Energy Industrial Zone, Ceyhan and Erzin Organized Industrial Zones, Adana Specialized Chemistry Organized Industrial Zone and the Adana Yumurtalık Free Zone. When used at their full potential, these thriving industrial clusters strengthen our position as a liquid cargo hub as well as the main terminal for dry bulk and general cargoes for the Eastern Mediterranean.

INCREASING DEMANDS

Considering the new investment demands coming to the free zone, the handling tonnage via pipelines linked to Torosport Ceyhan will be increasing over the next 5-10 years.

The broader market landscape in Turkey, marked by periodic declines, presents both challenges and opportunities for the future planning and strategic development of port facilities.

Recognising the broader impact of global economic pressures and the resulting slowdown, we have strategically focused on preparations for an anticipated recovery in liquid bulk cargo. Our longterm investments are guided by the prospect of stronger demand and the need for expanded infrastructure.

Among Torosport Ceyhan’s most recent accomplishments is the completion of a liquid berth extension project, which expanded the West Berth platform by over a kilometre, to a depth capable of accommodating tankers up to 80k-100k DWT. This development has effectively doubled the berth’s potential for large-scale liquid cargo, including fuel, petroleum products, and vegetable oils. Additional investments in tank infrastructure are planned in phases, with an initial focus on vegetable oil storage tanks, targeted for completion in 2026. Torosport Ceyhan is planning to further extend the capabilities of the terminal for handling both chemical and petroleum products.

www.toros.com.tr

GUY BESSANT

President

Despite the volatility and uncertainty created by ongoing geo-political, macroeconomic and environmental challenges, the storage industry has generally grown over the past 12 months, albeit with some regional variances. While the chemical industry has not performed as well as previous years, there is still ongoing demand for storage, driven by both increasing demand linked to economic growth and infrastructure development in emerging markets, as well as the need in the case of countries like China to export volumes due to a slower domestic market.

Mid to long term, we still expect growth in chemicals although at a lower multiple to GDP than in the past, partly due to GDP in some countries now being driven more by service than manufacturing.

There has, at least temporarily, been a slowdown in volumes of some chemicals, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine is still impacting global flows of product including Russian oil and clean petroleum products. Meanwhile, biofuel feedstock and finishing products including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), biodiesel and HVO are still competing for storage capacity at terminals.

Due to ongoing energy and feedstock dynamics, especially in Europe, we expect to see more imports in the longer term. This benefits the terminal market, more so as biofuel and in future ‘new energy’ such as ammonia will be imported.

Stolthaven Terminals has experienced continued strong utilisation. We have added capacity at several terminals, most notably at our joint venture in Malaysia, increasing storage capacity by 68,200 m³. I expect this will continue across the terminals industry as highquality, safe, reliable storage space

Torosport Ceyhan
Stolthaven Terminals

remains in high demand. Stolthaven Terminals is preparing for that with expansion projects at terminals in the US and at our new JV terminal set to open in 2025 in Taiwan. The facility is perfectly positioned to meet growing customer demand for a high-quality bulk liquid storage and distribution hub in the region and to introduce more international trade to Taiwan. This exciting period of growth is testament to the strength and resilience of the business.

GROWING WITH FUTURE FUELS

Stolthaven is also increasing the capacity at both our US terminals and introducing additional services to meet customers’ growing needs for specialist storage and handling solutions. And Stolthaven is now evaluating additional greenfield and brownfield opportunities, including a project in Ceyhan (Turkey), as well as those linked to the overall energy transition, through which we can improve our energy footprint and support our customers to do the same. And together with our partner, GES, Stolthaven was selected as the exclusive operator of a potential new green ammonia export terminal in Pecem, Brazil.

The shift to cleaner energy alternatives and decarbonisation – and all the regulatory considerations that entails –is already a major focus for Stolthaven’s customers, and the industry, and will continue to gather momentum. We are committed to supporting our customers on this journey – as well as achieving our own sustainability ambitions – and are actively involved in providing solutions and evaluating potential projects linked

to the energy transition. For example, Stolthaven’s carbon mapping tool allows us to future-proof our pricing for customers and provides them with visibility on their emissions and environmental impact.

CHALLENGES IN A GLOBAL ECONOMY

As an industry, we have faced constant pressures due to ongoing geopolitical, macro-economic and environmental challenges, be it the ongoing situation in the Red Sea, the Panama Canal disruptions, or major weather events.

Stolthaven Terminals continues to focus on becoming ever more agile, modernising our processes and strengthening our customer-centric approach, to keep supply chains moving in times of uncertainty. And by working with our sister companies, Stolt Tankers and Stolt Tank Containers, Stolthaven can provide reliable, integrated end-toend solutions to not only enhance the operational and cost efficiency of our customers’ existing supply chains but also develop them for new business. But global supply chains will continue to be impacted by global events. The frequency and magnitude of these events shows no sign of abatement. If the logistics sector is to navigate these challenges, we must look at ways to adapt and respond quickly so we can continue to deliver services to customers and essential products to end-consumers in all kinds of situations. This requires us, as an industry, to work together towards better supply chain

integration and optimisation, collectively becoming more collaborative, flexible and agile. It will also involve a mix of different tools, from technology, innovation and new operating models to empowering our people and a more collaborative ‘ecosystem’ approach.

Stolthaven is also focusing on optimising its business, including via rate adjustments, to reflect the current and future supply demand balance. We operate in an asset-heavy industry which is facing considerable increases in operational cost. Without investment in sustaining capex and new investment in additional capacity, new technology and sustainability-linked initiatives, we will not be able to service the future demands of our customers.

FLEXIBILITY & INNOVATION

Integration, flexibility and reliability are critical for customers. Stolthaven’s terminal network covers the globe, with access to key international shipping and transportation hubs, which means it is strategically positioned to support customers around the world. The company is continuing to invest in optimising and expanding its terminal network, and in new projects such as Pecem, to ensure its can respond to the ever-changing and widely varied supply chain requirements, not only of its customers, but also the logistics industry as a whole.

Stolthaven is also part of Stolt-Nielsen’s liquid logistics offering, which integrates the services and expertise of its three logistics businesses to deliver highquality, bespoke and flexible end-to-end

COST-COMPETITIVE LNG FROM GUYANA & SURINAME?

Several gas developments are underway in Guyana and Suriname that could offer new competitive LNG supply sources early next decade, according to a new report from Wood Mackenzie. According the report ‘Can Guyana and Suriname LNG compete against new global supply?’ Guyana and Suriname could supply up to 12 million tonnes per annum (mmtpa) of LNG by the next decade. Guyana’s Haimara cluster and Suriname’s Block 52 (Sloanea) are estimated by Wood Mackenzie to hold 13 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of discovered non-associated gas. These sources could deliver this potential LNG supply at a breakeven, excluding shipping and regasification costs, of about US$6/mmbtu (FOB NPV10 breakeven). The positive economic results are supported by high well productivity and upstream partners experienced in LNG commercialisation.

This comes at a time when the global market still needs 105 mmtpa of pre-final investment decision (pre-FID) LNG to fill the supply/demand gap by 2035, according to the report. ‘Guyana and Suriname projects are firming up at an interesting time,’ says Amanda Bandeira, research analyst, Latin America Upstream Oil and Gas for Wood Mackenzie. ‘US and Qatar LNG dominance is rapidly growing, but there is a supply window in the mid-2030s coming in part from the US President Biden’s pause on approving new US LNG export projects. In this environment, Guyana and Suriname can offer a new cost-competitive LNG supply source and serve as regional suppliers, holding shipping costs advantage to address Caribbean and South American demand. They are also on par with US Gulf and West Africa projects to deliver to the main demand centres in Southeast Asia.’

However, these developments face uncertainty as commercial structure and fiscal terms remain unclear. ‘In Suriname, there is still no set terms for non-associated gas developments, but we expect this project to move forward swiftly – with first gas in 2031 – as the government and project partners have agreed to a 10-year tax break,’ says Luiz Hayum, principal analyst, Latin America Upstream. ‘In Guyana, the government and upstream partners alignment on fiscal terms and commercial structure are less advanced, and any disputes could delay the project first gas beyond 2031.’

For more information: www.woodmac.com

solutions to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our customers’ supply chains.

The strength of Stolthaven’s business and our ability to continually expand, innovate and adapt to the needs of our customers, changes within the industry and external pressures, is also down to the people. The team has been expertly handling customers’ bulk liquid storage and distribution needs for over 50 years and remains dedicated to creating solutions that make it easier for customers to effectively and efficiently manage their operations.

www.stolt-nielsen.com

IVY SABATOVICH

Terminal manager

Terminal de Líquidos Uruguay (TLU) was created to meet the growing demand for liquid fertilizers in Uruguay, a recent innovation in a country with a long-standing tradition of using solid fertilizers.

Uruguay’s agricultural and livestock tradition has been fundamental to its economic development. Of the national land dedicated to these activities, 40% is used for livestock farming, while just over 30% is dedicated to dryland crops. Over the past seven years, the area dedicated to forage production has steadily increased at a rate of almost 2% per year. Dryland crops such as wheat, soybeans, corn, and canola have maintained relatively stable acreage, with variations due to the climate and fluctuations in international prices for grains and inputs, particularly fertilizers. Global events such as the war between

Russia and Ukraine, both major exporters of fertilizers, along with the severe drought that affected Uruguay in 2023, heavily impacted the market. However, in 2024, favourable weather conditions and the ability to diversify import sources led to a much better performance in the liquid fertilizer market.

The adoption of liquid fertilizers required the creation of an entirely new logistical infrastructure, and in 2013, TLU began offering services for unloading ships with liquid fertilizers, storage in tanks, and distribution to fields across the country. TLU is unique in Uruguay, with the ability to formulate custom nutrient blends (N, P, K, S) and add specific micronutrients, distinguishing it as the first and only independent terminal with these capabilities in the country.

PRICING IMPACTS ON MARKET DEMANDS

Although Uruguay’s agricultural industry is mature, and no major increases in planted area are expected, the potential for growth in liquid fertilizer usage is significant. Currently, liquid fertilizers account for between 12% and 18% of the total fertilizers used over the past eight years, fluctuating based on the relative price of solids versus liquids.

The price relationship between solid and liquid fertilizers plays a significant role in driving the growth of liquid fertilizer demand. When liquid fertilizers become more competitively priced compared to their solid counterparts, farmers and agricultural enterprises often shift towards liquids due to their specific benefits, including ease of application, precision in nutrient delivery, and better compatibility with modern irrigation systems.

However when solid fertilizers are priced lower, the demand for liquid fertilizers can stagnate, as cost-conscious farmers may revert to the more affordable option, despite the operational advantages liquids offer. Additionally, solid fertilizers tend to dominate in regions with less advanced infrastructure or where the benefits of liquid applications are not fully recognised.

GROWTH OF THE SECTOR

At TLU, we believe that efficient and sustainable fertilizer use is key to environmental protection. Liquid fertilizers offer significant advantages, such as greater homogeneity, immediate availability for plants, and reduced losses through leaching and evaporation, ensuring more rational and efficient nutrient use. This world-class technology, along with our capacity to create custom blends, aligns with

global trends toward more sustainable agriculture.

For a significant growth of liquid fertilizer in Uruguay, it is essential that agricultural producers recognise the unique benefits these products offer beyond just cost. For example, ease, precision and uniformity of application, immediate availability of nutrients, customisable nutrient blends, and improved environmental stewardship. For these reasons, it is crucial that agricultural producers begin to evaluate not just the upfront cost, but the long-term agronomic and operational benefits of liquid fertilizers. When used strategically, these products can lead to increased efficiency, sustainability, and profitability.

TRANSITION TO NEW FUELS

Terminal de Líquidos del Uruguay is also looking to expand by targeting new markets. With our established expertise in handling bulk liquids and strategic location at the gateway to the ParanáParaguay Waterway, we see significant growth potential in sectors like green hydrogen derivatives, including methanol and ammonia. By diversifying into these emerging industries, TLU aims to leverage our existing infrastructure while tapping into the global demand for sustainable energy solutions.

We are progressing toward incorporating innovative products such as green ammonia and methanol. These products are part of the national agenda, which aims to position Uruguay as a key logistics hub in the region for green hydrogen derivatives.

With over 92% of the country’s energy coming from renewable sources, and a national policy aimed at making Uruguay a logistics hub for hydrogen projects, the country is an attractive destination for investment in clean fuels.

To support the growth of this nascent industry, liquid terminal infrastructure will be essential to handle, store, and export these valuable products.

The Uruguayan government has outlined an ambitious agenda to position the country as a leader in green hydrogen production and export. In 2023, the Ministry of Industry, Energy, and Mining (MIEM) published the final version of the Green Hydrogen Roadmap, which sets strategic goals for the sector. By 2040, Uruguay aims to produce 1 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually.

To facilitate these objectives, the government is focusing on:

• Infrastructure development: Enhancing port facilities and liquid terminals to accommodate the storage and export of hydrogen derivatives.

Terminal de Líquidos del Uruguay

• Regulatory frameworks:

Establishing clear regulations to ensure safe and efficient operations in the production, handling, and transportation of green hydrogen and its derivatives.

• International collaboration: Engaging in partnerships with countries and organisations to attract investment and share technological expertise. Notably, Uruguay signed a memorandum of understanding on Cooperation in Renewable Energies, Energy Efficiency, and Green Hydrogen with the European Union, underscoring its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

TLU is a key asset for Uruguay’s role in green hydrogen and its derivatives, located in Nueva Palmira at the starting point of the Paraná-Paraguay Waterway. This strategic location not only strengthens Uruguay’s position as a regional export hub but also offers significant opportunities for handling bulk liquids from green hydrogen projects in Bolivia and Paraguay.

The Paraná-Paraguay Waterway connects major production areas in Bolivia and Paraguay to the Atlantic, positioning TLU as a crucial point for the export of green hydrogen derivatives like methanol and ammonia.

As Bolivia and Paraguay advance their own green hydrogen initiatives, TLU’s capacity to handle bulk liquids will be critical to support the logistics chain, offering a competitive advantage in exporting these renewable energy products to international markets.

www.tlu.com.uy

VIC BRODRICK

Managing director

UM Terminals has seen consistently strong demand for bulk liquid storage solutions during 2024. The company continues to receive a steady flow of enquiries from both existing customers seeking additional capacity and new customers asking if UM can meet their requirements.

PEOPLE-CENTRICITY

According to Phil McEvoy, UM Group terminals director, one of the company’s biggest achievements during 2024 has been to further enhance the level of customer service provided. The company’s mantra is that they want to be easy to do business with. UM Terminals works hard from the moment a new customer enquiry comes into the business and look to turn around the right solution as quickly as possible.

The make-up and configuration of UM’s asset base, including a good number

PHIL MCEVOY

UM Group terminals director of smaller tanks of less than 5,000 m³, offers a sweet spot for many customers who may have constraints around working capital.

As well as a focus on customers. UM Terminals understands the need to embed a positive working culture. There needs to be good colleague engagement, strong leadership and an appreciation of the need to manage people’s workloads.

BIOFUELS-FOCUS

One of the biggest areas of growth for the business over the last year has been servicing the biofuels supply chain. The investment UM Terminals has made in its capabilities to meet demand mean that it is supporting customers at both ends of the supply chain, from biofuel feedstocks through to HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil).

Managing director, Vic Brodrick, is particularly proud of UM’s achievement in cementing its position in the biofuels sector, driven by the increasing demand for storage capability, particularly from blue chip customers.

Aligned with this is UM’s continued investment in its asset integrity and into its people, including an in-house maintenance team, all of which further enhances the customer experience, the team’s responsiveness and UM’s ability to pivot smartly to meet customer requirements. Challenges during 2024 and moving into 2025 will include continuing to meet the increasing demand for biofuels storage solutions, in the face of a testing economic environment and the cost of putting new asset infrastructure into the ground.

STRONG DEMAND FOR STORAGE

One of the trends that UM Terminals continues to see is the desire of

UM Terminals

customers to keep hold of their storage capacity. UM provides storage at its seven strategically placed terminals in the UK along with a network of thirdparty providers globally.

Brodrick notes that tank storage capacity is at a premium, so their customers are valuing their assets more than ever.

While demand for storage across UM Terminals’ various sites is strong, delivering for customers continues to be the watchword. Working in partnership with customers is part of the UM DNA. The team prides itself on its customercentric approach, having regular dialogue to maximise efficiencies on both sides.

They also recognise that part of their responsibility is to provide the right guidance and advice when an enquiry comes in. Whether that be around ship size, ports or the material construction for their tanks. It’s about adding value to every relationship and ensuring the solutions are tailor-made to a customer’s exact needs.

www.umterminals.co.uk

TONY QUINN

Operating partner (Prostar Capital)

Fujairah Oil Terminal, UAE, is turning 10 in 2025 – a relative newcomer in the tank storage world. It was the first independent third-party crude oil storage facility in the UAE, and is perfectly placed in the Middle Eastern market, which is an emerging and growing market for fuel oils.

There isn’t an awful lot of independent crude infrastructure in this region, as most facilities are owned by the oil companies. So when Sinopec joined FOT as a joint venture partner, it not only offered help for financing but also

provided business stability as a long-term anchor partner.

The market has had its ups and downs over the years, with a particular dip in 2016-18 stemming from the breakdown in relations between Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Some terminals struggled here and don’t all exist anymore. A huge reason for FOT’s success is due to our long-term partnership with Sinopec, which utilises around 50% of the terminal’s infrastructure. A further 25% is engaged by Vitol and FOT is currently (and has been for the last 10 years) contracted at 100%.

But this year, the region has enjoyed an influx of new customers, as well as a growing number of companies looking to purchase their own facilities. Earlier this year, the GTI terminal was sold to Mercantile & Marine for their own trading options in an offer too good to pass up. The Middle East is a young, active and growing market, so it’s attractive for companies looking to expand their operations and scale up fuels. In comparison, the European market is almost over-tanked, with limited land and space, and therefore limited growth.

On top of this, the market in Europe is being restricted in ways that the Middle East is not yet considering – for example with sanctions on ‘dirtier’ fuels and on Russian crude.

And Fujairah is not just a growing market, but a very active market. So there’s a lot of turnover and volume of product moving around, because the region is facilitating products into Africa and Asia, particularly Singapore. And when you think about the bunkering business, Fujairah is a safe bunker port situated in the Indian Ocean, rather than the Strait of Hormuz, so there’s stability there too.

THE RUSSIAN POSITION

The conflict in Ukraine meant that huge volumes of product stopped going into Europe and instead moved into the UAE, with Russian product being blended at terminals across the region and then into other geographies.

There’s been a big draw on product and a big increase in the business, generally, around the Ukraine conflict. Two years previously, the political struggle between Qatar and Saudi Arabia pretty much decimated the Qatari bunkering business – which then went over to Oman. That was about 30% of the business that had been going into Fujairah, and that’s what caused the dip back in 2016-18.

The Russian position in 2021 has really brought back the huge volumes again, and I’ve got a feeling they’re going to stay. Whatever you might think about the conflict, it doesn’t really bear relevance on

the supply. The Russians aren’t suffering too much because they have replaced their dealings with Europe with the likes of India and China. So, all their business is intact – they’re not really having much of a problem selling product because most of the world is still taking it.

POSITION IN THE PORT

In terms of the port structure itself, FOT is the only terminal with access to every berth and jetty – none of the terminals actually own the jetty infrastructure. But FOT has invested significantly so that instead of going through the different matrix manifolds, crude product from FOT can go directly to the different berths via an independent pipeline. So even though the port infrastructure is owned by the Port of Fujairah itself and not by the tank terminals, none of the other terminals can hit every berth. It’s quite an important achievement for FOT as its pipeline is multiple pipelines of 24, 30 and 40 inch lines that can handle clean and black products of all specifications so it’s capable of moving heavy crudes and other similar products.

Across the Port of Fujairah, there’s constant building and development going on. FOT is the region’s first crude infrastructure, and other companies such as ADNOC and Vopak have been developing terminals and new infrastructure – such as ADNOC’s rock caverns.

UAE & THE ENERGY TRANSITION

Growth is what it’s all about in Fujairah. There’s still about 300 years’ worth of oil in the ground across the UAE, so the market won’t want to lose or waste that. Globally, the market still has a good 20-30 years of fossil fuels usage in it – you can’t replace everything with ammonia and methanol. It will really take one of the big oil majors, like BP, to turn around and tell a storage terminal it wants to lease X capacity for hydrogen.

The big business in Fujairah is fuel oil, so for the energy transition, we’ll be looking at the replacement of fuel oils with a bio ingredient. It’s here that you again have to rely on the traders. My prediction is that the bio influx into Fujairah will be related to shipping requirements. So, if the shipping companies want to refuel on a bio-element fuel, we would have to work to make that happen.

But at the moment, those bio-element fuels are actually more expensive than traditional fuels, so the shipping company has to invest – but so does the terminal for its tanks and blending facilities. So the order has to come from the top, from the big companies like Trafigura and Vitol. Another question is around whether it’s

Fujairah Oil Terminal

even worth it to inject these bio-elements into the fuel. 5% or 10% will hardly make a difference – but when the market gets up to 50% blends or so, that’s when we might see a bigger shift.

www.fot.ae

ROBERT VAN DER HOEK

Commercial manager

We have observed a dynamic market environment over the past year, driven by regional energy shifts and an increasing demand for reliable, sustainable storage and handling solutions. Demand for storage capacity has remained strong, with customers locking in long-term capacity to navigate through these evolving market conditions.

This period has highlighted the strategic value of reliable and sustainable storage solutions as companies face the dual pressures of managing volatility and meeting their own energy transition goals. Increasingly, customers seek partners that not only offer storage capacity but also support decarbonisation and resilience within their supply chains. The sustained demand we’ve seen emphasises that tank storage infrastructure is becoming more than a logistical necessity; it’s a critical part of our customers’ long-term strategies.

This year, market conditions were marked by both volatility and adaptability. Geopolitical shifts and evolving energy policies have intensified the demand for LBC’s infrastructure and services, as customers look to navigate an increasingly complex environment. Across all segments, we’ve seen a strong and consistent need for storage solutions

that offer both stability and adaptability, allowing customers to respond effectively to rapid changes.

SUSTAINABLE GROWTH

For the Rotterdam terminal, 2024 was the year in which we began the third stage of our multi-phased expansion program. We broke ground on 36 new tanks and stateof-the-art rail infrastructure to enhance multimodal capabilities, with completion targeted for 2026.

Meanwhile, we’re advancing our Antwerp terminal expansion with 28 new tanks, adding 80,000 m3 of storage and a new loading station for trucks and rail cars. Both projects reflect our commitment to invest in future-ready infrastructure, supporting the shift toward sustainable products anticipated from the energy transition, ensuring we are wellpositioned to meet long-term growth and evolving customer needs.

We’re seeing a clear shift towards comprehensive digital logistics solutions, where customers value seamless integration across storage and transportation modes. There’s also an increasing emphasis on sustainability, with customers looking for low-carbon storage options and energy-efficient logistics. These trends align well with our strategic expansion projects in both Rotterdam and Antwerp and our commitment to sustainable and customer-centric storage solutions.

LBC was also recognised as GRESB Sector Leader and achieved the Platinum EcoVadis rating for the second consecutive year – both reflecting our commitment to sustainability leadership.

COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

With full occupancy, it has been crucial to balance the needs of both long-term

customers and those with shorter-term requirements. To meet this demand while maintaining our high service standards, we focused on maximising operational efficiency, optimising throughput, and prioritizing open communication to ensure clear expectations. This proactive, solutions-focused approach enabled us to consistently deliver the best-in-class service our customers rely on.

In 2025, one of our priorities will be ensuring the continued delivery of premium service to our customers. With new capacity not coming online until 2026, we’re focused on refining every aspect of our existing operations to maximize efficiency, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Across the industry, it’s vital to invest in digital technology and process enhancements that will ensure smooth operations and responsiveness. We’re committed to proactive planning and close customer collaboration to meet the demand effectively.

Customer centricity is central to LBC’s approach. In 2025, we’ll continue to focus on transparent communication and hands-on support. By staying closely aligned with our customers’ needs, providing excellent customer service, and enhancing operational efficiency, we’re committed to meeting service expectations and driving shared success. Our mission to make impact, drive change, and work as a team underpins everything we do, and we will continue to prioritize excellence in every aspect of our operations. With our exceptional team, we look forward to 2025 as another year of meaningful progress – defined by best-inclass service, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

www.lbctt.com

LBC Tank Terminals

On top of exclusive distribution on site at the Rotterdam Ahoy on 11 & 12 March 2025 your advert will be seen by:

A HUB OF CHANGE

Sjoerd Boer, vice president of new energies at Advario, explains the new e-SAF hub development, in partnership with Power2X

APPROACHING GLOBAL

climate targets calls for further development and infrastructure to support sustainable fuels. Advario and Power2X listened, and have partnered to develop a world-scale production and storage hub for synthetic sustainable aviation fuel (e-SAF) and other synthetic, ultra-low carbon fuels at the Port of Rotterdam, Netherlands.

The facility will have the capacity to produce over 250,000 tonnes per year of e-SAF, a non-fossil, synthetic fuel made from green hydrogen. It will be the largest e-SAF facility announced to-date, making sufficient ultra-low carbon fuel to fully power approximately 7,000 flights between Amsterdam and New York annually. ‘The hub alone will deliver approximately 40% of the EU SAF mandate for 2030, which states that a certain percentage of SAF needs to be blended into jet fuel,’ says Sjoerd Boer, vice president of new energies at Advario. In addition to bringing down CO 2 and greenhouse gas emissions, the hub will increase local employment. Boer says: ‘The hub will create around 200 new full time jobs, not to mention the hundreds of jobs it will create during the four years of construction.’ Aside from achieving climate goals, the hub also puts out the correct message. ‘There is room for a new industry to arise in greater Europe,’ adds Boer. The facility will use imported green methanol, produced from green hydrogen

and biogenic carbon as feedstock, as well as locally produced green hydrogen. Green methanol will be imported from locations where renewable energy is abundant. The facility will have a storage capacity of 230,000 m³, supported by marine, rail and pipeline facilities, to ensure a stable supply chain for the green molecules.

SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION

While the hub is still awaiting FID, Boer explains how Advario plans to choose its EPC contractor. ‘There will be a lot of attention to sustainability,’ he says. ‘And safety is our number one priority.’

Advario will be looking at a range of aspects in EPC contractors, including what materials they will be using, how those will be transported sustainably, and the contractors’ vision on safety.

MEETING SAF MANDATES

The EU has set targets for aviation fuels, within the ReFuelEU mandate. ‘Currently, approximately 2.5% of the global greenhouse gas emissions comes from the aviation industry,’ explains Boer. ‘And by setting these mandates, and enforcing fuel suppliers and airlines to blend sustainable aviation fuels, into traditional aviation fuel, they’re going to actively drive down emissions.’

In the same vein, Boudewijn Siemons, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority adds: ‘SAF production facilities in Rotterdam currently supply 24% of Europe’s aviation fuel need. According to the European Union’s target, 20% of all aviation fuel is to be produced from renewable sources. The production of e-SAF in Rotterdam is therefore important to meet future SAF demand.’ Boer muses that if these mandates were not in place, greenhouse gas emissions could actually triple by 2050 in the aviation industry.

WHY E-SAF FOR THE ENERGY TRANSITION?

SAF and e-SAF come with their differences. Boer explains: ‘Traditional SAF has a biological origin. For example, sugar cane or HEFA (hydroprocessed esters and fatty acids). However, e-SAF is produced by green hydrogen from electrolysis, together with captured CO 2 Although the solution is somewhat more expensive now, as soon as new renewable power becomes available more widely, it’ll be the better choice.’

SAF itself is a very cost-effective way to transition to greener fuels. SAF can be considered a drop-in fuel, as the composition is very similar to traditional jet fuel. This means you can use the same infrastructure and the same engines, allowing you to use a sustainable product, without having to change much else,

thereby driving down any extra and unnecessary investments. And e-SAF is even better for the environment.

Despite the initial expense, Boer sees e-SAF as a preferable way forward as there is no limit to how much e-SAF could be supplied when renewable energy sources further increase. ‘The feedstocks for bio-SAF, such as cooking oils or sugar canes, are not infinite; e-SAF is the best way to sustainably scale up,’ he says.

THE GATEWAY TO EUROPE

Advario acquired the 26-hectare former Aluchemie site in Rotterdam in April 2023. With its waterfront access and proximity to the key pipeline connections including the new hydrogen backbone and the Central Europe Pipeline System (CEPS), the site is positioned as a prime location for the e-SAF hub.

Considered the gateway to Europe, the Port of Rotterdam is a key strategic hub. ‘Rotterdam in itself has one of the best ecosystems in Europe,’ says Boer. ‘Even within Rotterdam, the piece of land that we have acquired is perfectly located. It is adjacent to all the relevant backbones which exist there. So in terms of logistics, it’s perfect. The port has water access, pipeline access and rail access, all on its doorstep.’ Occo Roelofsen, founder and CEO of Power2X, echoes Boer’s attitude towards the location of the hub:

‘This strategically positioned site and innovative business-model aims to make competitive production of e-SAF at global scale in the heart of Europe possible.’

A POWERFUL PARTNERSHIP

The e-SAF hub is a partnership, along with Power2X. ‘When we acquired the land, we spoke to many project developers. We chose Power2X for a few reasons,’ says Boer. ‘Firstly, those at the company are

people very familiar with the industry, and have a proven track record in building complex projects on time and on budget. Secondly, they are also backed by an investor who, like ourselves, really has sustainability at its core. Thirdly, it’s all about the people. We share the same vision and drive to make a positive impact. There is a good energy between the two companies.’

‘I can see the transformation from an old industry to a new one happening in real life; and it’s great!’

THE TIME IS NOW

The global trend towards using SAF has been on a steady rise for the last few years. Boer recognises that this is the right time to develop the hub. ‘There are so many announcements, and so many projects, but there are not that many concrete examples where you see the development happening in real life, and that’s what I really love about this one. I have been to the site many times, and I can see the transformation from an old industry to a new one happening in real life; it’s great! The market is coming to life now, driven by the SAF and e-SAF mandates from the EU.’

Looking towards the future of the hub, Boer says they are excited to see the plant starting up, and the first vessel with e-methanol arriving at the jetty. ‘That will be a good day!’

For more information:

www.advario.com www.power2x.com

01 3D render of the side profile of the e-SAF hub. The purple area will be operated by Advario and the blue is Power2X’s production site

02 3D render of the front profile of the e-SAF hub

03 Sjoerd Boer, vice president of new energies, Advario

REALISING POTENTIAL

From

the Philippines to the UK, Stanlow Terminals’ Alyssa Usman shares her tank storage journey

WITH A BACKGROUND in chemical engineering, Alyssa Usman has worked in oil and gas since 2014. ‘As soon as I graduated and passed my chemical engineer licensure exam, I was hired by the largest oil refinery in the Philippines,’ she says, now working as a quality and operations assurance specialist at Stanlow Terminals. ‘Since then, I’ve been in the oil and gas industry – specifically in the sector of crude refining and petroleum product manufacturing, including tank storage and terminalling.’

EARLY START

Usman recalls how she got started in her STEM career. ‘My career path began in high school, when my chemistry teacher saw potential in me. She encouraged me to pursue a degree in chemical engineering and I trusted her,’ she says. ‘Initially, my target industries were in fast-moving consumer goods, with brands such as Nestle and Unilever in mind. The oil and gas industry was not popular in our batch at that time.’

Still, never one to shy away from a challenge, Usman saw a chance to join the sector while she was still at university. ‘I saw an opportunity to

‘The long-term goal is to leave a legacy in this industry and to show to my younger relatives that a female Muslim Filipino from the Maranao tribe can thrive and be successful in this industry.’

get into the industry when a refining company came in to offer scholarships to the top engineering students at our university in 2012,’ she says. ‘The scholarship grant included an opportunity to join the refinery after completing your engineering degree with good grades. I was fortunate to be one of the recipients. And right after graduation, I was recruited to join the refinery. More than 10 years later, I’m still in the industry.’

Usman continued to further her education, and relocated from the Philippines to the UK in 2022 to pursue an MBA degree. ‘While studying, I worked at the National Physics

Laboratory in London as a quality auditor,’ she says. ‘And after completing my MBA, I kept looking at opportunities to return to the oil and gas industry. Fortunately, I found a vacancy and joined Stanlow Terminals in July 2023.’

Having spent over a decade in the oil and gas industry, Usman has now been in her current position with Stanlow for just over a year. ‘As a quality and operations assurance specialist, my day typically starts with a review of the day’s schedule, a cup of coffee in hand, and a quick catch-up with colleagues. The mornings are dedicated to conducting activities that serve as the second level of assurance and control. From document reviews to process audits, my focus is on identifying areas for improvement and recommending solutions for day-to-day operational challenges,’ she says.

‘A significant part of my role involves collaborating with all functions within the organisation. The seamless interaction with various departments ensures that our operations are streamlined, productive, and aligned with the company’s vision of becoming more efficient, sustainable and reliable,’ explains Usman.

ADJUSTING TO EUROPE

‘Relocating from the Philippines to the UK has been a big leap of faith for me,’ says Usman. ‘Beyond work, coming from a tropical country with warm days all year round to experiencing the UK weather for the first time was both a wonder and a dread. It was difficult to have no bright sunshine and no blue skies for more than two weeks.’ As the nights draw longer, Usman reflects on the winter months in the UK, too. ‘Sunset at 16:00 is also a wonder and a dread. In the Philippines, sunset had always been after 18:00 all year,’ she says. It’s not all cold and gloomy days, though! ‘I’d say the UK has a better work-life balance culture compared to the Philippines,’ says Usman. ‘I used to do tonnes of overtime in the Philippines because my previous roles required that from me. Overtime and stress were kind of the norm. But now in the UK, I am ecstatic that I don’t have to do any overtime on a regular basis. When I go home, I don’t think about work. Instead, I exercise, I cook, and I spend more time with family and friends.’

Usman leads a very active social and recreational life, too – something she credits to the UK’s better work-life balance. ‘Since I’ve moved here in the UK, I’ve hiked the three peaks of Ben Nevis, Snowdonia, and Scafell Pike. My love for travelling has brought me to beautiful places in England, Scotland, Wales, France, Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Italy, Iceland, Switzerland, Albania, Montenegro, and Morocco,’ she says.

CHALLENGES BEYOND GENDER

Usman notes that the industry is male-dominated regardless of whether she’s in the Philippines or the UK. ‘Even though education is highly encouraged in our families, engineering for women is not,’ she says. ‘Without my chemistry teacher influencing me into chemical engineering, I might not have pursued it. I was advised by my parents and older relatives to get into healthcare instead. I am truly thankful for my chemistry teacher for setting me on this path.’

‘But being the only female employee who wears a hijab has been both a disadvantage and an advantage,’ she says. ‘Because I easily stand out, I use this as an advantage to get the attention of my colleagues and speak my mind.’

‘Sometimes, it is a disadvantage because people have inherent prejudicesand stereotypes which can put you in a box. I’ve encountered colleagues who wouldn’t talk to me or have hesitations initially,’ she says. ‘But when I asked them why, they said that they didn’t know how to approach me

because I was their first Muslim female colleague. They’re good people, so after I’ve reached out to them and introduced myself, they’ve eventually learned to be at ease with me.’

Usman has overcome both gender challenges and cultural ones to reach a successful peak. ‘I am a part of a minority tribe in the Philippines, which is the only Catholic country in Southeast Asia. And I am the first in both my paternal and maternal families to have completed a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering and an MBA degree,’ she says.

Usman is keen for other young ladies to pursue chemical engineering and enter into the oil and gas industry, with her experience as an example. ‘The long-term goal is to leave a legacy in this

‘Because I easily stand out, I use this as an advantage to get the attention of my colleagues and speak my mind.’

industry and to show to my younger relatives that a female Muslim Filipino from the Maranao tribe can thrive and be successful in this industry.’

‘Oil and gas is a massive industry with multiple sectors of upstream, midstream and downstream processes worldwide,’ she says. ‘The skills and knowledge one gains in this industry are transferrable to so many different locations around the world. And the industry isn’t going anywhere, even with the move towards decarbonisation and future fuels, so it’s a great niche (and well-paid) to develop your skills and find the right role for you.’

For more information: www.stanlowterminals.com

01 Alyssa Usman on site at Stanlow Terminals

02 Alyssa Usman completes a marathon; one of her favourite extracurricular activities

FEEDSTOCK TO CARRIER

Hans Vrijenhoef, Association NH3 Event director and former president of the Ammonia Energy Association examines ammonia’s journey in the energy transition

AMMONIA HAS BEEN at the forefront of fuel and chemical storage for decades. Yet, as we enter a new era marked by an urgent energy transition, ammonia’s role is set to evolve from industrial feedstock to a clean hydrogen carrier, providing a bridge to sustainable energy. The Clean Ammonia Storage Conference at StocExpo’s 20th edition offers a timely platform to discuss these developments, focusing on safe storage practices, the infrastructure demands of ammonia, and its pivotal role in the clean energy landscape.

OVERCOMING PUBLIC MISCONCEPTIONS

Over the past two decades, ammonia storage technology has undergone significant advancements. From the single-walled tanks of yesteryear to today’s triple-walled systems, the industry has consistently improved the safety, reliability, and efficiency of ammonia storage facilities. This transformation has been essential in addressing public concerns about the risks associated with ammonia, where safety remains a priority. Today, standards such as the Netherlands’ PGS 12, incorporating the highest international benchmarks, have raised the bar on safety and influenced ammonia storage practices worldwide.

Despite ammonia’s decades-long track record, misconceptions about its safety persist. A well-maintained ammonia terminal, designed to today’s standards, offers some of the highest safety levels in the industry. The probability of a leak from a modern, triple-walled ammonia tank is estimated to be as low as one in a hundred million years. This is a testament to the engineering and the stringent regulatory frameworks we have developed. Collaboration with government agencies has been instrumental in refining these systems, making them robust enough to meet the global demand for ammonia storage safely and sustainably.

A FUEL FOR ALL SECTORS

Ammonia stands out among future fuels for its unique advantages in infrastructure and logistics. As a hydrogen carrier, it offers several benefits compared to liquid hydrogen or LNG. Liquid hydrogen, for instance, requires storage at an ultra-low temperature of -252°C, demanding highly specialised infrastructure and refrigeration.

By contrast, ammonia is easier to transport and store, using existing infrastructure with less stringent refrigeration requirements. This makes ammonia a cost-effective alternative in the hydrogen supply chain, often proving more economical than directly transporting H2.

Today, the role of ammonia in the energy transition is already materialising. Power plants in Japan are co-firing ammonia with coal, significantly reducing their carbon emissions. The shipping industry, too, is exploring ammonia as a viable alternative to conventional fuels, driven by regulatory pressure from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to lower greenhouse gas emissions in maritime transport. These applications underscore ammonia’s versatility and ability to decarbonise sectors traditionally relying on fossil fuels.

The sector’s evolution in the last two decades is striking. Older tanks built in the 1960s or 70s were not designed with today’s stringent safety standards in mind. Retrofitting these tanks has been challenging but has also driven innovation. Now, new storage facilities are designed to safely accommodate ammonia, meeting standards like the PGS 12 and other European regulations.

This year’s Clean Ammonia Storage Conference at StocExpo is particularly timely, given the unprecedented growth in planned ammonia infrastructure, including greenfield terminals and new storage tanks. In Europe alone, the ARA region is seeing a surge in projects, with many companies investing heavily in ammonia storage. This development signals an increase in storage capacity and broader commitment to a robust, sustainable hydrogen economy.

MEETING GROWING DEMAND WITH MODERN INFRASTRUCTURE

The shift towards ammonia as a hydrogen carrier is part of a larger narrative: the role of hydrogen in the energy transition. Hydrogen will undoubtedly be crucial in the future energy mix, and ammonia offers a pragmatic solution for its storage and transportation. By serving as a stable and energy-dense carrier, ammonia bridges the gap between hydrogen production sites and end-users, facilitating an efficient and scalable hydrogen economy. However, achieving this vision requires infrastructure capable of safely and efficiently handling ammonia on a large scale.

Building this infrastructure demands collaboration across the supply chain. The ammonia storage industry has made great strides in recent years, yet there remains room for improvement as demand grows. At the Clean Ammonia Storage Conference, we aim to foster these collaborations, creating partnerships that support sustainable growth.

Sustainable growth also hinges on regulatory support and market stability. The ammonia sector needs a balanced approach, where subsidies support initial developments but do not become a crutch. Flexible offtake agreements, like those in the oil sector, could provide the stability needed to attract investment without overreliance on subsidies.

Looking ahead, we must also consider the role of public perception and consumer education. Ammonia is often overshadowed by hydrogen in discussions of clean energy, but its value as a hydrogen carrier makes it an essential component of the energy transition. Events like StocExpo are vital in educating stakeholders, from policymakers to the public, about ammonia’s potential and ensuring that it is seen as a reliable and safe alternative to more familiar fuels.

A LOT OF CHANGE IN TWO DECADES

As we celebrate two decades of StocExpo, it is clear that the tank storage sector has come a long way. The event has grown from a niche gathering focused on oil and gas to a global platform exploring future fuels, digitalisation, and sustainability. Ammonia’s evolution from industrial feedstock to a clean hydrogen carrier highlights both our progress and the challenges ahead. By focusing on safe, scalable storage and fostering industry-wide collaboration, we can ensure that ammonia plays a central role in tomorrow’s energy landscape.

For more information:

Register now for StocExpo at the Rotterdam Ahoy on 11 & 12 March 2025

KEEPING CLIMATE PROMISES

FETSA and UPEI share a joint statement on 2050 climate goals in the wake of COP29

DURING COP29, taking place in Azerbaijan, FETSA, the Federation of European Tank Storage Associations and UPEI, the Association of Europe’s Independent Energy and Mobility Suppliers, reiterate their full alignment with the 2050 climate neutrality goal of the Paris Agreement.

Both associations strongly encourage an ambitious and balanced outcome of this year’s COP meeting, which must also align with actions already in place to facilitate the global move to new, cleaner energy carriers of the global economy.

ALIGNING WITH AGREEMENTS

In line with the recent EU Council conclusions ahead of COP29, FETSA and UPEI have read the ‘Road Map to Mission 1.5°C’ to be taken forward by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Azerbaijan and Brazil COP Presidencies (Troika), and call upon the Troika to continue demonstrating global leadership towards more ambitious national determined contributions (NDCs), aligned with the 1.5°C target of the Paris agreement.

Furthermore, UPEI and FETSA would like to call upon global leaders to enhance political momentum and adopt an ambitious approach across the different tracks of the Paris Agreement, based on the most recent and best available scientific evidence.

In an era of high inflation and cost of living challenges, UPEI and FETSA urge the EU and global negotiating parties at the COP29 to acknowledge the strategic role of clean liquid fuels such as renewable fuels of non-biological origin (RFNBOs), advanced biofuels, as well as carbon capture usage and storage (CCUS) technologies. Such technologies are

essential to facilitate the global move to cleaner energy carriers, and towards meeting the 2050 climate targets.

The principle of technology neutrality should be applied across policy actions, to ensure that no technology or fuel that has the potential to expedite the green transition in a cost-efficient way is excluded from the global market. This year’s COP will be key towards integrating those in the international discussions, especially as part of the climate financing and adaptation measures required to reach our climate targets.

RESILIENCE IN TRANSITION

The latest geopolitical tensions across the globe have demonstrated that fortifying countries against external shocks comes hand-in-hand with protecting and reinforcing critical sectors, including energy supply and storage. Storage and supply chain flows are instrumental towards ensuring the continuation of the functioning of national economies.

As such, UPEI and FETSA call upon the negotiating parties of COP29 to ensure that the principles of security of supply are enshrined in the NDCs, especially ahead of COP30. This will ensure that energy security and strategic autonomy remain the basis for a resilient global energy sector.

As was made clear in the latest IPCC report, the synthesis report from 2023, it is possible to limit global warming to 1.5°C by setting strategic goals and relying on feasible, effective, and low-cost mitigation and adaptation options that are already available across sectors and countries. This requires supporting and mobilising all technological and financial solutions available to reach the climate neutrality goals of the Paris agreement.

The success of such an energy transition requires realistic transitional regulations guided by the principle of technological neutrality in international forums, of which the COP29 is of utmost importance.

INVESTMENT & REGULATION

Supply and storage infrastructure will be essential to the deployment of future energy carriers, and therefore, towards climate neutrality. However, without obtaining the required investment and regulatory support for new technologies and solutions brought by cleaner energy carriers, the energy sector – the drivers of the green transition – cannot achieve the objective of carbon neutrality.

Regrettably, investment decisions that are critical to maintaining healthy energy flows and the transition to net-zero are being impeded by policy uncertainty and lack of a global harmonised approach.

In conclusion, FETSA and UPEI welcome the 2023 UAE Consensus, heralding the beginning of the end of the fossil fuel era by laying the foundations for a swift, just, and equitable global transition to a climate neutral global economy, underpinned by thorough, rapid, and sustained emission cuts in line with the goal to limiting global warming to 1.5°C.

Limiting global warming to 1.5°C requires collective effort and further actions from all countries: UPEI and FETSA strongly encourage all parties to undertake all necessary steps to deliver on the targets, ahead of COP30 in Brazil in 2025.

For more information: www.fetsa.eu www.upei.org

WHERE THE TANK STORAGE INDUSTRY DOES BUSINESS

As StocExpo and Tank Storage Magazine celebrate 20 years, here’s a look back on how the show and publication have grown together – and what’s in store for 2025

STOCEXPO’S 20 th edition is taking place on 11 & 12 March 2025 at the Rotterdam Ahoy. For nearly two decades, both StocExpo and Tank Storage Magazine have been committed to delivering exceptional service and value in the tank storage and energy infrastructure industry.

Drawing on a legacy of high visitor and exhibitor satisfaction, StocExpo is the key meeting place for bulk liquid storage professionals – and especially those moving into future fuels.

‘StocExpo prides itself on being the global meeting place for those involved in safe and sustainable energy storage and logistics,’ says Margaret Dunn, the event’s portfolio director. ‘We’re so excited to see what the next 20 years has in store for the sector.’

WHEN : 11-12 March 2025

WHERE: Rotterdam Ahoy, Netherlands

COST: Exhibition: Free to attend FETSA Tank Storage Conference: Free Clean Ammonia Storage Conference: €295 (day 2 only)

KEY SECTORS: Storage terminals, liquid bulk, future fuels

FIND OUT MORE & SECURE YOUR PLACE FOR FREE:

STOCEXPO THROUGH THE YEARS

2005 2020

It’s 2005. It’s snowing outside and the first ever StocExpo is taking place in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Key speakers from the first edition include Kaneb Terminals, FETSA, Baltic Storage and Odfjell Terminals – some no longer exist, but many have stood the test of time.

In 2017, Tank Storage Magazine launches the Global Tank Storage Awards, celebrating excellence and innovation across the industry. Attended by key FETSA members and suppliers, it’s a hit from day one.

Always a champion for women in the industry, in 2020 Tank Storage Magazine combines its Women in Tanks interview series with StocExpo, launching a regular panel and networking session at the show.

20TH BIRTHDAY AFTER PARTY

For the first time ever, StocExpo is inviting you to join us offsite for an evening celebrating the last 20 years of driving success and innovation.

Date: 11 March

Location: Hudson Rotterdam

Time: 19:30-22:30

Food & drinks provided

Cementing its position as the leading event in the industry, StocExpo partners with FETSA in 2022 to run the FETSA Tank Storage conference, highlighting the key topics the industry needs to know about.

To celebrate young talent in the industry, StocExpo launches the Forty Under 40 scheme recognising rising stars in the sector. Nominations are now open for the Class of 2025.

StocExpo partners with Association NH3 Event to run the Clean Ammonia Storage Conference and cement its position as the global meeting place for the energy infrastructure industry.

StocExpo is gearing up for its most international event yet, attracting speakers, exhibitors and visitors from all over the globe. Here’s a look at some of the brand-new features coming to Rotterdam on 11 & 12 March 2025

GLOBAL TANK STORAGE AWARDS

Hosted by Tank Storage Magazine, join the best and brightest in the industry on Day Zero of StocExpo (10 March) – to keep the party going on for longer! In the 8th edition of the awards, we’re celebrating with a series of special categories – so scan the QR code and nominate yourself now.

WHAT’S NEW FOR 2025?

LIQUIN TERMINAL TOUR

Learn how Liquin’s strategic Port of Rotterdam location and innovative logistics systems keep global industries moving safely and sustainably. The exclusive tour on 10 March will showcase its industry-leading terminal operations. As a pioneer in liquid chemical and biofuel storage for over 70 years, Liquin invites you to explore its 1.5 million m³ storage capacity and witness round-theclock, efficient operations.

CLEAN AMMONIA STORAGE CONFERENCE

In partnership with Association NH3 Event, StocExpo is launching the Clean Ammonia Storage Conference to champion sustainable fuels and help promote a greener future for tank storage and energy infrastructure.

NORTH AMERICA PAVILLION

With a keen focus on driving our international audience and cementing StocExpo as the ultimate industry event, we’ve launched the North American Pavilion for 2025 to showcase brand new partners from across the pond.

LEARN, NETWORK, SHARE

Join Europe’s leading conference on tank storage and future fuels, bringing together global participants, including terminal operators, ports, traders, policymakers, and industry leaders in chemicals, oil, and gas. With an overarching theme covering 20 years of progress, discover how far the industry has come, and what innovations lie in store for the next two decades. Interested in speaking?

Submit your abstract to anamika@tankstoragemag.com today!

ADVISORY BOARD

To ensure StocExpo is tackling the key issues that mean the most to our audience, we’ve put together an advisory board made up of key industry thought leaders, including representatives from ILTA, FETSA, LBC Tank Terminals, Stolthaven and more.

FETSA TANK STORAGE CONFERENCE

Jointly hosted by FETSA and Tank Storage Magazine, the FETSA Tank Storage conference is curated to cover themes surrounding strategy and innovation, such as:

• Security of supply

• Policy outlook

• The role of AI & digitalisation

• Women in Tanks

With key speakers from the European Commission, Vopak and Tepsa (to name a few), the FETSA Tank Storage stage is the key meeting place for terminal owners, operators and C-suite.

Plus, on day two, delve into sessions such as financing the energy transition, how robots are impacting the sector, and key changes in regulations and fire safety over the last 20 years.

FUTURE FUELS STAGE

On day one of StocExpo, expect to hear from leading terminals such as Exolum, LBC and Stolthaven about how their terminals are preparing for future fuels, what exactly it means to store liquids sustainably, and what opportunities lie in future fuels such as SAF and hydrogen.

Then, on 12 March, NH3 takes over, bringing you the Clean Ammonia Storage Conference. Explore the role ammonia has to play in a low-carbon future and how your facility can prepare.

A SNAPSHOT OF OUR INDUSTRY-LEADING SPEAKERS

Peter van Ees Sector Banker (New) Energies & Geo Dynamics, ABN AMRO Bank

Alejandra Martinez Strategy and Market Analysis Lead –Global Strategy and Growth, Exolum
Piran Patel Global Program Manager, Stolthaven Terminals
Willem van der Zon Environmental Director, Vopak
Irene Bonetti Terminal Director, Attilio Carmagnani
Wim van Herwijnen CIO, LBC Tank Terminals

WHO’S WHO AT STOCEXPO 2025?

With plenty of brand-new and returning exhibitors for 2025, here’s a sneak preview of some of the amazing new innovations that will be on display at StocExpo 2025

CREAFORM

Stand P21

Creaform assists asset owners and service providers in ensuring infrastructure fitness for service and expediting repair processes, resulting in safer assets and reduced shutdown times, with a solution compliant to ASME B31.G, ASME B31.8, API 579.

At StocExpo 2025 Creaform will be showcasing its HandySCAN BLACK and HandySCAN MAX Series together with the VXintegrity software. Unlike traditional methods, our 3D scanners, combined with our software, enable the digitization of surfaces and the accurate, user-independent analysis of damages. The digitised surface can be saved for future reference to measure damage development, such as corrosion rates.

HMT TANK SYSTEMS

Stand F12

HMT’s full range of services includes design, construction, maintenance, inspection and repairs of aboveground storage tanks. HMT’s products are engineered to provide significant benefits in the form of increased working capacity, reduced heel, improved tank safety, increased life span, reduced emissions and reduced maintenance.

At StocExpo 2025, visitors can find out how HMT’s Allentech HC Full Contact Aluminium IFR (internal floating roof) can be used to provide a high-quality tank covering with a honeycomb structure to provide stiffness. The modular style allows for easy maintenance and repair, and each module contains a resealable vapour detection port for pressure testing.

CONCRETE CANVAS

Stand G2

Concrete Canvas is a flexible cement impregnated fabric that hardens on hydration to form a thin, durable, water proof and fire proof concrete layer, allowing concrete to be used in a completely new way.

Concrete Canvas allows construction and remediation projects in the petrochemical sector to be completed with more efficiency and flexibility than traditional concrete solutions.

KANON

Stands C6 & C10

Kanon Loading Equipment specialises in the design and manufacture of highquality loading systems for marine, rail, and road liquid transfer applications. The company’s product range includes marine loading arms, top and bottom loading arms, and safety equipment, all engineered for optimal safety, efficiency, and durability. Kanon also offers comprehensive after-sales services, including 24/7 worldwide support and maintenance, ensuring its clients’ operations remain seamless and reliable.

StocExpo has consistently provided a platform for meaningful interactions, allowing the team to understand the needs of their customers better and showcase their solutions effectively.

At StocExpo 2025, Kanon will be showcasing its latest innovations in loading technology. Attendees can expect to see advancements in our marine loading arms and land equipment, designed to meet the evolving needs of the industry.

The team will also highlight their commitment to safety and efficiency, demonstrating how our solutions can enhance operational performance for storage and transfer facilities.

SPRINT ROBOTICS ZONE

SPRINT Robotics and StocExpo have renewed their partnership for another year, combining SPRINT Robotics’ industry expertise and global network with StocExpo, the largest and longest running international tank storage and energy infrastructure event. This will be a dedicated space for SPRINT Robotics’ technology suppliers and service providers to exhibit their solutions including a demonstration area to see the robotics in action.

Creaform
HMT Tank Systems
Kanon
Concrete Canvas

LABKOTEC

StocExpo Spotlight

New to StocExpo for 2025, Labkotec’s comprehensive product range covers all measuring devices and systems required for ensuring fuel supply, for accurately monitoring surface levels in industrial storage tanks, petrol tank overfill protection devices as well as oil and grease separator alarms.

The Labkotec oil separator alarm monitors 24/7 and detects if the separator needs to be emptied to prevent oil from being wasted or risking an overflow into the soil or groundwater. The separator alarms and measurements can be connected to LabkoNet cloud service, which is a flexible and easy-to-use remote monitoring system. LabkoNet transmits alarms immediately to the necessary parties regardless of time and place.

At StocExpo 2025, Labkotec will showcase the latest innovation, idSETOTM oil separator alarm for real-time measurement of oil layer thickness in oil separator. Further, Labkotec is looking forward to meeting all existing customers as well as new acquaintances.

NIGHTSTICK

North America Pavilion

Nightstick is a global brand specialising in designing and manufacturing high performance, ultra-durable, safety-certified LED lighting solutions for industrial professionals working in hazardous and non-hazardous environments. At StocExpo 2025, Nightstick will spotlight its advanced tech with upgraded industrial headlamps and area lights, showcasing the world’s largest lineup of 62 intrinsically safe LED lights.

PROTEGO Stand L30

Since 1954, Protego has built and provided flame arresters, valves and tank equipment, expanding into global services which include research and development, application-specific engineering, overall protection system design and safety awareness training. Protego will be showcasing its flame arrestors and ZETOP (Zero Emissions at Tank Operating Pressure) valves that maintain tank pressure thanks to superior tightness. According to the Protego Standard PS-001 leak rates are measured at 90% of the set pressure. This testing ensures Protego Valves exceed the most stringent leakage rate requirements of EPA, API2000 and EN ISO 28300.

SDT ULTRASOUND SOLUTIONS

Stand A25

SDT Ultrasound Solutions is a trusted global leader in predictive maintenance, providing advanced ultrasound technology to help industries detect, diagnose, and prevent equipment failures. The team will be showcasing its comprehensive suite of solutions at StocExpo 2025, with a strong focus on the SDT340 TankTest. This ultrasoundbased device is specially designed for tightness testing, offering a reliable, stepby-step guided mode and immediate reporting through SDT’s TankTest Reporter software.

Among other products, SDT will showcase the CRYSOUND Acoustic Imaging Camera, which delivers versatile ultrasound capabilities for complex leak detection, and the Vigilant device, which provides enhanced remote and permanent monitoring for equipment reliability and energy efficiency.

TECHFLOW MARINE Stand G26

Techflow Marine is a global supplier of fluid transfer systems to the oil, gas and petrochemical industries. With an increased demand for flexible and versatile solutions for tanker loading and offloading operations, in complex situations and multi-purpose docksides, where loading arms or hose towers are not an option, the possibilities with Techflow’s QuayReel are becoming more apparent.

With the versatility of a hose coupled with the ease of a reel the QuayReel System is proving to be a great alternative – with the first installation of its kind completed in the USA at a chemical plant in Beaumont, Texas. Techflow designed, built, delivered and installed 12 QuayReel/DockReel Systems, divided over three berths, as a replacement for their current 26-year-old marine loading arms.

TOPTECH Stand J10

Toptech Systems offers hardware and software automation solutions for terminals, load racks, data management and access control. Toptech will be demonstrating its newest iteration of world-class load rack control system: the Multiload II+. Toptech will also showcase the TMS7 terminal automation system and Load2day – a SaaS and mobile application that helps terminals manage customers and third parties improve communication and efficiency.

STOCEXPO SPOTLIGHT

Looking for a brand new solution?

StocExpo is shining a spotlight on brand new companies to the tank storage industry with a dedicated zone to highlight their innovations.

For more information and loads more to see on site::

To see a full list of exhibitors and what they’re showcasing at StocExpo 2025, visit www.stocexpo.com

Register to attend the event for free by scanning the QR code:

Labkotec
Protego
Techflow Marine
SDT Ultrasound Solutions
NightStick
Toptech

The F e TSA S upplier pA

The F e TSA S upplier pA r T ner S hip

WHO SHOULD JOIN?

The FETSA Supplier Partnership is open to companies that do business with tank storage companies or have an affinity with the tank storage sector. This includes, but is not limited to:

We offer you privileged access and visibility to senior decision makers in the tank storage industry through

We offer you privileged access and visibility to senior decision makers in the tank storage industry through

One complimentary ticket to attend our Annual FETSA Conference and AGM Dinner exclusively dedicated to FETSA members, conference speakers and high level stakeholders from the EU political environment. First option for sponsorship opportunities

AGM Dinner exclusively dedicated to FETSA members, conference speakers and high level stakeholders from the EU political environment. First option for sponsorship opportunities

One complimentary ticket to attend our Annual FETSA Conference and AGM Dinner exclusively dedicated to FETSA members, conference speakers and high level stakeholders from the EU political environment. First option for sponsorship opportunities

One complimentary ticket to attend our Annual FETSA Conference and AGM Dinner exclusively dedicated to FETSA members, conference speakers and high stakeholders from the EU political environment. First option for sponsorship opportunities

Companies providing auditing and management systems

Who S hould join?

which are circulated to senior industry executives. You will be entitled to draft an article in a quarterly supplier partnership newsletter.

You will be entitled to draft an article in a quarterly supplier partnership newsletter.

which are circulated to senior industry executives. You will be entitled to draft an article in a quarterly supplier partnership newsletter.

Who S hould join?

F e TSA kno W ledge ex C h A nge: Possibility to organise industry seminars on relevant topics and/or with the approval of the relevant chair/secretariat to present new/emerging technologies and legislation to our committees/task forces.

Tank farm construction and maintenance companies

The FETSA Supplier Partnership is open to companies that do business with tank storage companies or have an affinity with the tank storage sector. This includes, but is not limited to:

Surveying companies

F e TSA kno W ledge ex C h A nge: Possibility to organise industry seminars on relevant topics and/or with the approval of the relevant chair/secretariat to present new/emerging technologies and legislation to our committees/task forces.

FETSA KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE: Possibility to organise industry seminars on relevant topics and/or with the approval of the relevant chair/secretariat to present new/ emerging technologies and legislation to our committees/task forces.

F e TSA kno W ledge ex C h A nge: Possibility to organise industry seminars on relevant topics and/or with the approval of the relevant chair/secretariat to present new/emerging technologies and legislation to our committees/task forces.

The FETSA Supplier Partnership is open to companies that do business with tank storage companies or have an affinity with the tank storage sector. This includes, but is not limited to:

Port authorities

(Tank) Cleaning companies

Technical equipment providers

Electrical & Instrumentation (E&I) control automation services

pA rT o F our C ommuni T y: Use of FETSA meeting rooms in Brussels at preferential prices (subject to availability). You can use the FETSA logo on your website and printed materials in order to state that you are part of the FETSA supplier partnership.

F e TSA kno W ledge ex C h A nge: Possibility to organise industry seminars on relevant topics and/or with the approval of the relevant chair/secretariat to present new/emerging technologies and legislation to our committees/task forces.

pA rT o F our C ommuni T y: Use of FETSA meeting rooms in Brussels at preferential prices (subject to availability). You can use the FETSA logo on your website and printed materials in order to state that you are part of the FETSA supplier partnership.

Companies providing safety services

Technical equipment providers

Database providers

F e TSA kno W ledge ex C h A nge: Possibility to organise industry seminars on relevant topics and/or with the approval of the relevant chair/secretariat to present new/emerging technologies and legislation to our committees/task forces.

Surveying companies

pA rT o F our C ommuni T y: Use of FETSA meeting rooms in Brussels at preferential prices (subject to availability). You can use the FETSA logo on your website and printed materials in order to state that you are part of the FETSA supplier partnership.

PART OF OUR COMMUNITY: Use of FETSA meeting rooms in Brussels at preferential prices (subject to availability). You can use the FETSA logo on your website and printed materials in order to state that you are part of the FETSA supplier partnership.

Fire fighting/protection companies

Surveying companies

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Companies providing safety services

Magazines and other industry publications

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pA rT o F our C ommuni T y: Use of FETSA meeting rooms in Brussels at preferential prices (subject to availability). You can use the FETSA logo on your website and printed materials in order to state that you are part of the FETSA supplier partnership.

pA rT o F our C ommuni T y: Use of FETSA meeting rooms in Brussels at preferential prices (subject to availability). You can use the FETSA logo on your website and printed materials in order to state that you are part of the FETSA supplier partnership.

INSIGHT: You will receive our exclusive members only newsletter and annual management report so you are kept informed about the challenges we face in EU policy.

in S igh T: You will receive our exclusive members only newsletter and annual management report so you are kept informed about the challenges we face in EU policy.

PRICE

Companies providing auditing and management systems

Fire fighting/protection companies

• Annual fee of EUR 2500 (excl. VAT.)

Loading equipment manufacturers

Tank farm construction and maintenance companies

pri C e

• Billed annually at the start of the subscription period (1 January).

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pri C e

in S igh T: You will receive our exclusive members only newsletter and annual management report so you are kept informed about the challenges we face in EU policy.

Companies providing auditing and management systems

• Competition law must be respected.

Tank farm construction and maintenance companies

in S ighT: You will receive our exclusive members only newsletter and annual management report so you are kept informed about the challenges we face in EU policy.

Port authorities (Tank) Cleaning companies

Electrical & Instrumentation (E&I) control automation services

Database providers

Electrical & Instrumentation (E&I)

in S igh T: You will receive our exclusive members only newsletter and annual management report so you are kept informed about the challenges we face in EU policy.

control automation services

Magazines and other industry publications

• All applications for Supplier Partnership are subject to approval the FETSA Executive Committee, and subject to the terms and conditions set out in the Supplier Partnership Agreement.

in S igh T: You will receive our exclusive members only newsletter and annual management report so you are kept informed about the challenges we face in EU policy.

· Annual fee of EUR 2500 (excl. VAT.)

· Annual fee of EUR 2500 (excl. VAT.)

Database providers

· Billed annually at the start of the subscription period (1 January).

Billed annually at the start of the subscription period (1 January).

· Annual fee of EUR 2500 (excl. VAT.)

pri C e

Magazines and other industry publications

· Billed annually at the start of the subscription period (1 January).

pri C e

· Annual fee of EUR 2500 (excl. VAT.)

· All applications for Supplier Partnership are subject to approval the FETSA Executive Committee, and subject to the terms and conditions set out in the Supplier Partnership Agreement.

· Competition law must be respected.

Competition law must be respected.

· All applications for Supplier Partnership are subject to approval the FETSA Executive Committee, and subject to the terms and conditions set out in the Supplier Partnership Agreement.

· Annual fee of EUR 2500 (excl. VAT.)

· Competition law must be respected.

Contact Ravi Bhatiani, rb@fetsa.eu for further information

FETSA TANK STORAGE CONFERENCE 2025

All applications for Supplier Partnership are subject to approval the FETSA Executive Committee, and subject to the terms and conditions set out in the Supplier Partnership Agreement.

· Billed annually at the start of the subscription period (1 January).

11-12 March 2025 l Rotterdam Ahoy, the Netherlands

· Billed annually at the start of the subscription period (1 January).

· All applications for Supplier Partnership are subject to approval the FETSA Executive Committee, and subject to the terms and conditions set out in the Supplier Partnership Agreement.

Contact Ravi Bhatiani, rb@fetsa.eu for further information.

· Competition law must be respected.

Contact Ravi Bhatiani, rb@fetsa.eu for further information.

· All applications for Supplier Partnership are subject to approval the FETSA Executive Committee, and subject to the terms and conditions set out in the Supplier Partnership Agreement.

· Competition law must be respected.

Contact Ravi Bhatiani, rb@fetsa.eu for further information.

MOVING FORWARD

The International Liquid Terminals Association (ILTA) outlines what the terminals industry is watching for following the 2024 elections

AS WITH every American presidential election cycle, private industry waits with bated breath to see how the next four years will impact the national economy. In 2024, the bulk liquid terminals industry finds itself at a critical crossroads on several key policy matters affecting liquid logistics up and down the supply chain.

With President Donald Trump set to re-enter the White House, the terminals industry will look for meaningful and bipartisan solutions on these topics.

CFATS

Enacted in 2007, the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) governed terminal facility security protocol for over 15 years. The program, led by DHS CISA, was a core component of terminal operations, outlining how to properly handle and store bulk liquid products of national security interest.

Unfortunately, in July 2023, Congress did not reauthorise the program, allowing its statutory authority to expire. Now, terminal facilities around the country are unsure how the government prefers industry handle these critical products, having to use the newly expired regulation as loose guidance.

As such, the terminals industry would appreciate the federal government moving swiftly to clarify its intentions with CFATS so that both the industry and the government can work together in protecting the local communities where terminals operate. Moreover, enacting a long-term, multi-year reauthorisation will provide much needed certainty.

PFAS AND CERCLA

As the terminals industry continues to explore alternatives to per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS)-based firefighting foams proactively, the matter of addressing PFAS remediation will likely be a major talking point over the next four years. Terminal companies, complying with OSHA regulations, have utilised PFAS foams to combat fires at their facilities for decades. Now, as private industry continues to develop powerful firefighting alternatives, the bulk liquid storage industry is ready to work with OSHA and DOD on a national wind-down of PFAS foams.

What must be prevented, however, is for the bulk liquid storage industry to be held liable for PFAS remediation under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) or, as it is more commonly known, Superfund. Placing the significant financial burden of addressing PFAS contamination on terminal companies will have considerable detrimental consequences for the entire liquid product supply chain. As passive receivers and good actors, holding terminals liable for these costs incurred to comply with necessary safety regulations would be inequitable.

As individual sectors are carved out for exemptions, the federal government must work with the terminals sector to ensure the matter of PFAS remediation does not fall to this industry.

ALTERNATIVE FUEL INVESTMENT PROGRAMS

Within the energy evolution, terminals are targeting emissions reductions by expanding on-site renewable energy generation, purchasing low-carbon electricity, implementing energy efficiency improvements throughout operations, and beyond. To serve emerging low-carbon product value chains, terminals are investing in new or expanded infrastructure to store hydrogen, ammonia, sustainable aviation

fuel (SAF), low-carbon marine fuel, renewable diesel, biofuels, ethanol, and other lower carbon liquid commodities.

Today, there are federal programs that support financing for terminals to invest in emissions reduction strategies and to grow their low carbon commodity storage capacity. Grant programs such as the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP), the FAST-SAF program, and the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) National Grants program provide funding for one-time capital investments, while tax credits such as the Biodiesel Mixture Excise Tax Credit, the Biodiesel Income Tax Credit, and the Alternative Fuel Mixture Excise Tax Credit provide incentives through continuous income.

Many of the markets and innovations terminals will rely upon to support these types of investments are costly and in initial stages of development. For terminals to ensure ongoing investments in critical infrastructure to meet the demands of the energy evolution, continued and expanded incentive programs at the national, state, and local levels are necessary.

For more information: www.ilta.org

2 Packed Days

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BUILDING A HYDROGEN FUTURE

Tank Storage Magazine asks Marcel van de Kar, senior vice president hydrogen & CO 2 at Vopak for his thoughts on the emerging hydrogen market

IN THE global race to achieve net zero emissions, low carbon hydrogen has emerged as a needed solution. But crucially, there is no single solution to achieving net zero. ‘We need a diverse portfolio of energy sources, and hydrogen is a crucial part of that mix,’ says Marcel van de Kar, senior vice president hydrogen & CO2 at Vopak. ‘It can be used in various sectors, from power generation and transportation to industrial processes. Within the energy sector, hydrogen is widely recognised as a potential gamechanger in the shift towards a more sustainable energy landscape.’

Many readers active in the terminals industry will know that Vopak has a strong presence in the global energy industry. ‘Our unique network of terminals in key locations around the world, coupled with our expertise in handling ammonia, positions us very well to also support the upcoming low carbon hydrogen market,’ says van de Kar. ‘We are actively investing for new developments in infrastructure and exploring the opportunities for repurposing our existing locations in both export and import locations to accommodate the development of new supply chains for low carbon hydrogen.’

THE IMPORTANCE OF PARTNERSHIPS

Collaboration is key in navigating the complexities of the energy transition, and Vopak has a strong history of building relationships and partnerships in the industry. ‘We strongly believe in the power of partnerships. We have more than 35 joint venture partners , and we are also actively seeking collaborations with other industry leaders to explore opportunities,’ says van de Kar.

‘By combining forces in long-term partnerships, we can better navigate the intricacies of developing the hydrogen market and accelerate its growth. It is important to keep in mind that taking investment decisions is not a linear process. Having to take investment decisions all at the same time is complex, Vopak has a lot of experience with these types of processes.’

‘Furthermore, we recognise the importance of collaborating with partners across the value chain to accelerate the development of the hydrogen market. Just as we did in the LNG market, we are actively seeking partnerships with producers, shippers, and end-users to create a robust and efficient hydrogen ecosystem.’

SUPPLY CHAIN MATURITY

Van de Kar clarifies: ‘We focus on building strong new connections and collaborations to support setting up new ammonia, LOHC, and liquid hydrogen supply chains.’ The supply chain is indeed a key challenge in developing the hydrogen market.

‘Hydrogen production, transportation, and storage infrastructure need to develop simultaneously, along with clear regulations and business cases,’ explains van de Kar. ‘In general, the development of the hydrogen market mirrors the LNG market’s evolution in several ways. Initially, both markets relied on point-topoint projects and long-term contracts to establish supply chains and build confidence. We also see a similar need for significant infrastructure investments and the importance of strong partnerships across the value chain.’

‘Vopak’s extensive experience in the LNG market has taught us valuable lessons that we are applying to our hydrogen strategy,’ he continues. ‘We understand the complexities of building new energy supply chains and the importance of flexibility and adaptability in responding to market dynamics.’

Safety is also of the utmost importance –especially when handling substances like hydrogen and ammonia. ‘Our experience in handling and storing LNG has given us a deep understanding of the safety and operational requirements for handling cryogenic liquids. We can leverage this extensive experience in LNG and of more than 20 years in safely handling ammonia,’ says van de Kar. ‘At this moment we have six ammonia terminals around the world, which supports our aim to develop ammonia terminals in key export and import hubs, such

as the Middle East, USA, Europe, and Southeast Asia.’

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT

Despite the challenges, van de Kar is optimistic about the future of the hydrogen market. ‘Although it is later than expected before, it is actually happening as we speak,’ he says.

‘Although developments have slowed down, we still see that it moved away from a big hype to much more realism in building these new supply chains. We expect to see significant growth in the different hydrogen markets in the coming years.’

Within the next five years, the industry anticipates an additional volume of around 10 million tonnes per annum of hydrogen to come online. While existing terminals can handle some of this volume, additional export and import infrastructure will be crucial.

Furthermore, with political cross-party support, there can be much greater success. ‘Governments are increasingly recognising the potential of hydrogen and are implementing policies and incentives to drive its adoption,’ says van de Kar. ‘We are also witnessing growing commitment from industry leaders, with major investments being made in project development. Additionally, technological advancements are paving the way for new applications, such as ammoniafuelled ships.’

All in all, the future seems bright for the hydrogen market – which in many ways has parallels with the growth of LNG. So watch this space.

For more information:

As senior vice president of hydrogen and CO 2 at Vopak, Marcel van de Kar is at the forefront of the company’s efforts to facilitate the global energy transition.

www.vopak.com

READY FOR TAKE OFF

The experts at Argus Media explain the current trends in SAF, and their predictions for what the market’s future holds

AVIATION ACCOUNTS for 2-3% of global emissions, and the focus of airlines is rapidly shifting to reducing their carbon footprint. Governments and international bodies such as the UN’s International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) are also setting targets and proposing incentives to cut emissions and scale up the use of more sustainable fuels to power aircraft.

With options such as electrification still likely to be decades away, the spotlight is on sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs). There are 11 SAF production pathways approved by the ICAO and 11 more under evaluation. Hydrotreated esters and fatty acid synthesised paraffinic kerosene (HEFA-SPK) are the only type of SAF available at scale today, alongside co-processed SAF, which is produced by processing some renewable feedstocks in a conventional refinery.

HEFA-SPK can be blended up to 50% with conventional jet fuel, while co-processed SAF has a 5% blending limit, and will account for well over half of global SAF capacity by 2028, according to Argus data. The SAF market is still in the early stages of its development, but it has made rapid progress since Argus began assessing the HEFA-SPK fob ARA range price in 2020. Production is increasing and trading patterns have started to develop, primarily from east of Suez to the Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp (ARA) hub and from Asia to the US west coast.

EUROPEAN FOCUS ON MANDATES

In Europe, consumption so far has been driven by mandates in place in Norway, Sweden and France, with demand elsewhere voluntary, although some airports, such as London’s Heathrow, are implementing their own initiatives to boost SAF uptake.

An EU-wide SAF mandate is set to come into effect next year, replacing national obligations. Under the mandate, fuel suppliers will need to incorporate a 2% share of SAF in their jet fuel deliveries in 2025, with the share rising to 6% in 2030,

20% in 2035, 34% in 2040, 42% in 2045 and 70% in 2050. Synthetic aviation fuels, such as e-kerosine and hydrogen, must reach a total share of aviation fuels of 1.2% from 2030, 2% from 2032, 5% in 2035, 10% in 2040, 15% in 2045 and 35% in 2050.

A UK domestic SAF mandate will also come into effect next year. The obligation will be on aviation fuel suppliers, starting with a 2% share in 2025, increasing linearly on an annual basis to reach 10% in 2030, 15% in 2035 and 22% in 2040. An obligation for power-to-liquid SAF will be introduced from 2028 at 0.2% of total jet fuel demand, rising to 0.5% in 2030 and 3.5% in 2040.

While the mandates are set to kick in next year, SAF supply from within Europe and from east of Suez has increased at a faster pace than demand so far this year, weighing on prices. The Argus fob ARA range used cooking oil-based HEFA-SPK SAF price averaged around $2,260 per tonne (€2,064 per tonne) in the first nine months of this year, down from around $3,010 per tonne (€2,749 per tonne) a year earlier.

US BETS ON INCENTIVES

While EU demand will be driven mainly by the upcoming mandates, US SAF market growth is propelled in part by

federal and state financial incentives. At the federal level, each produced US gallon (USG) of SAF generates 1.6 renewable identification number (RIN) credits. RINs are tradeable credits that obligated parties’ use to comply with the EPA’s renewable fuel standard. The US also offers a blenders’ tax credit provisional for SAF production valued at $1.25-$1.75 per US gallon (€1.14 -1.60 per USG). This policy will change to a clean fuel producers tax credit in 2025 and function at a similar price point.

Several US states, including California, Oregon and Washington, have included SAF in their low-carbon fuel standards. Other states, such as Illinois, have passed tax credit bills of their own that reward SAF consumption within their jurisdictions.

US domestic production of SAF has grown steadily since the beginning of this year, while an eight-fold increase in imports has led to downward pressure on prices.

RINs generated from SAF equated to 72.7 million USG of the renewable jet fuel in the first eight months of this year, up from 17.9 million USG a year earlier, according to the latest data published through the US Environmental Protection Agency’s moderated transaction system. In breaking out the quantities between origins, domestic supply nearly doubled,

to 20.5 million USG from 10.8 million USG, while imports soared to 52.1 million USG from 7 million USG. According to ship-tracking data from monitoring firm Kpler, the majority of the exports growth has come from Asia, with cargoes landing in the US near Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area.

Over the same span of time, assessments for US west coast delivered SAF have fallen to about $4.60 per USG (€4.20 per USG) in September from roughly $9 per USG (€8.22 per USG) in January 2023. The drop in value has stirred interest not just in California but elsewhere within the US as airlines look to enter new markets made economical. JetBlue and World Fuel recently signed an offtake agreement to bring SAF from Diamond Green Diesel’s Port Arthur, Texas, facility to New York City once the plant is operational, while Neste agreed to supply United Airlines with SAF in Chicago.

SAF market participants, among others in the biofuels space, await the transition in the US’ federal tax credit framework.

With the election of President Donald Trump, the future of SAF will face more uncertainty, given a new outlook on decarbonisation and government spending. With the guidance for the Inflation Reduction Act’s Section 45Z production tax credit yet to be disclosed, producers of SAF and other biofuels continue to wait for clarity on what will become of economic fundamentals. So far it is unclear what priority will be given to renewable fuels from an executive level, although credits that incentivise domestic production hold bipartisan support over the long term.

The other item to note is what eligibility requirements will remain in place when it comes to CI-lowering measures of the fuel. Preliminary indications introduced carbon reduction measures that span the growing of crops to use as feedstocks, all the way through the transportation of the

fuel to its ultimate destination. Industry groups at present support an expedited release of guidance from the White House, as putting the 45Z Clean Fuel Production tax credit into effect would make SAF more economical and easier to ramp up to scale.

Within Congress, legislation to extend the blenders’ tax credit, a predecessor to the 45Z credit that favours importers of products such as SAF, has gained support as well. The legislation would extend the trend of imports and probably keep downward pressure on prices in the US. In the long run, lower prices could stifle production capacity growth and slow the development of new technologies and pathways for domestic producers. Meanwhile, higher prices would potentially open up export opportunities but would add a layer of difficulty for airlines to keep pace with their goals of decarbonising operations through SAF consumption.

US SAF developers face added headwinds as lower D4 RIN and low carbon fuel standard prices translate to weaker revenues, given the set capacity of production. This has made it more

difficult for SAF producers to reach final investment decisions and accurately project their returns on investment in long-term scenarios. Several producers that previously announced commencements of operations this year have pushed back their timelines or cancelled plans to build in the US.

INDUSTRY CHANGES

EU mandates are around the corner, US legislations and new incentives are under development, and several countries in Asia and South America have been exploring the introduction of SAF targets. And on top of national and regional legislative frameworks, several airlines have signed offtake agreements and have set their own SAF consumption targets. With demand, supply is also on the rise. Global SAF production is expected to be well more than 20 million tonnes by the end of this decade, assuming all announced projects come on line according to schedule and run at full capacity. North America and Asia could be the largest SAF producers by 2030.

With policy frameworks continuing to develop around the world and growing supply, new opportunities for global trade flows will arise, as the industry appears set to establish SAF as a viable, long-term decarbonisation tool.

REDUCING EMISSIONS WITH MINIMAL DISRUPTION

The team at Suttons Tankers share their insights of using hydrotreated vegetable oil from recent fuel replacement trials

THE TRANSPORTATION

industry is undergoing a significant transformation as businesses seek to adopt more sustainable fuel options in response to growing environmental concerns. Among the most promising alternatives is hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), a biofuel that has the potential to drastically reduce carbon emissions while offering operational compatibility with existing diesel engines.

WHAT IS HVO FUEL?

Hydrotreated vegetable oil is a renewable diesel alternative derived from waste vegetable oils and animal fats. By undergoing a hydro-treatment process, these oils are converted into a cleanburning fuel with a much lower carbon footprint than traditional diesel. With the capacity to reduce CO 2 emissions by up to 90%, HVO stands as a critical solution in the move toward sustainability in transportation. This biofuel is free of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) and sulphur, making it one of the cleanest fuels available on the market.

HVO’s versatility allows it to function as a drop-in replacement for conventional diesel. No engine modifications are required, meaning that vehicles, generators, and other equipment designed to run on diesel can immediately transition to HVO, without significant investment. This advantage significantly lowers the barrier for industries looking to reduce their environmental impact. Common applications of HVO include:

• Trucks and tankers

• Agricultural tractors and machinery

• Portable generators

• Commercial boilers

• Marine vessels

BENEFITS OF HVO FUEL

The primary advantage of HVO lies in its ability to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Depending on the lifecycle of the fuel, it can cut emissions by up to 90%, a reduction that directly supports the UK’s efforts to reach its net-zero carbon target.

‘HVO’s long shelf life, up to 10 years compared to one year for mineral diesel, makes it a more durable and cost-effective option for businesses with large storage needs.’

HVO’s compatibility with existing diesel engines means that fleet operators can switch to HVO without any downtime or need for extensive (and potentially expensive) retrofitting.

HVO’s long shelf life, up to 10 years compared to one year for mineral diesel, makes it a more durable and costeffective option for businesses with large storage needs.

Given its environmental credentials and ease of use, many companies are looking to adopt HVO as part of their broader corporate responsibility strategies. Suttons Tankers (now known as Schenk UK, part of Schenk Tanktransport)

recognises the importance of reducing its own carbon footprint and improving the sustainability of our operations. The switch to HVO fuels represents a tangible step in that direction, aligned with its commitment to protecting the environment for future generations.

CHALLENGES OF HVO FUEL

Despite its benefits, HVO faces certain challenges. The cost of HVO is currently higher than that of conventional diesel, although it has started to come down significantly as compared to 2023. Additionally, while HVO can be stored for extended periods, the availability of HVO across the road network is still limited, meaning businesses often need their own dedicated storage facilities to ensure a steady supply.

HVO FUEL TRIALS

To gain a deeper understanding of the operational impact of HVO and to assess its feasibility for broader adoption, Suttons Tankers conducted three significant HVO fuel trials. These

trials were essential in evaluating the performance, sustainability benefits, and practical challenges of using HVO fuel in the company’s truck fleet.

The first of these trials was an in-house HVO trial, which was initiated to gain firsthand experience with the fuel before offering it to Suttons’ customers. Conducted over a period of three months, from June to August 2023, the trial involved multiple trucks operating across five different routes, ensuring it covered all kinds of terrains.

The goal was to assess HVO’s environmental impact, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness compared to conventional diesel. The data collection process was meticulous, with one month dedicated to gathering baseline diesel performance data and two months to HVO usage. Additional data, such as weather and traffic conditions, were also considered to ensure accuracy.

The results of that first trial were promising. HVO achieved an average 80.17% reduction in CO 2 emissions overall. The HVO that the company use is certified by Zemo Partnership, certifying the sustainability of the feedstocks and highlighting HVO’s potential as a sustainable alternative. Based on the success of this trial, Suttons started offering HVO more broadly to its customers.

In the second trial, conducted in partnership with 2M Group, Suttons Tankers aimed to evaluate the long-term viability of introducing HVO into their operations. This trial, which ran from March to August 2024, was designed to explore how much of Suttons’ diesel usage could be replaced by HVO, while also navigating the challenges of HVO availability. Since HVO is not yet widely

available on the road network, Suttons Tankers relied on its own HVO storage facilities to support this trial. It was able to convert 25% of its diesel usage to HVO. The trial yielded significant results, with total CO 2 emissions savings of 27.3 tonnes. The customer was highly satisfied with these outcomes and has since transitioned permanently to a HVO blend in their fleet, further highlighting the longterm potential of HVO.

The third trial is an ongoing collaboration with Nippon Gases UKI. This trial began in August 2024 and is set to run until October 2024, focusing on reducing carbon emissions within Nippon Gases’ logistics operations. It is using a dedicated fleet of vehicles based in Stockton, all running on an HVO blend, to evaluate the fuel’s performance in

terms of both efficiency and emissions reduction. The first month of the trial has already delivered promising results, with a notable 87 tonnes of CO 2 emissions reduced. As the trial progresses, Suttons Tankers continues to collect data on fuel efficiency and emissions, and anticipate further positive outcomes as the end of the trial approaches.

THE FUTURE OF HVO

Hydrotreated vegetable oil presents a viable, sustainable alternative to traditional diesel, offering substantial reductions in carbon emissions and operational flexibility. Suttons’ trials have demonstrated that HVO can be effectively integrated into logistics operations with minimal disruption, while delivering meaningful environmental benefits. However, to unlock the full potential of HVO, the industry must address challenges related to cost, availability, and scalability.

As the world moves toward a greener future, drop-in fuels like HVO will play a crucial role in helping businesses reduce their carbon footprints and meet global sustainability targets. Suttons is committed to exploring innovative solutions like HVO to drive positive change across the industry.

For more information: www.suttonsgroup.com www.schenk-tanktransport.com

ENERGISING THE FUTURE OF TANK TERMINALS

WorldEmp’s business partner Peter van Wessel explains how the company is delivering high-quality talent to tank terminal companies as they address their staffing challenges

COMPANIES IN the tank storage and infrastructure sector face significant challenges, such as increasingly stringent safety standards and the pressure of the energy transition. They must comply with stricter regulations, invest in technological innovations, and compete fiercely in a global market.

Additionally, operational flexibility and logistical complexity require constant adjustments. These factors compel companies to continuously innovate and operate efficiently to remain competitive, despite a growing shortage of qualified personnel. ‘WorldEmp can assist with this,’ according to seasoned expert Peter van Wessel.

Van Wessel has an impressive career spanning more than 20 years in the tank storage industry, including at companies such as Advario and Oiltanking. His experience improving operational efficiency and promoting innovation within the energy and chemical sectors means that he can also spot the gaps. Working as an independent consultant in the industry he knows so well, van Wessel explains that the traditional way of recruiting personnel is no longer sufficient to meet all the challenges. ‘I believe the innovative remote working strategies of WorldEmp are the solution to provide highly qualified international talent for this sector,’ he says.

UNIQUE APPROACH

WorldEmp is not a traditional recruiter. ‘Everyone tends to look for solutions in the familiar. But that is no longer sufficient for the tank storage industry. They will need to look at new ways,’ says van Wessel.

Since joining WorldEmp as a business partner, van Wessel has focused on helping tank terminal companies address their staffing challenges. In a sector where safety and flexibility are paramount, he understands the need for qualified employees who can work remotely without compromising on quality or efficiency. ‘I understand there are questions about whether the WorldEmp

concept can work,’ he says. ‘Although I am fully convinced, it is obviously good to start ‘cautiously’. A lot of engineering work and calculations are done before a decision is made to invest in a project. In that process, I see opportunities. In a next step, you could look at all functions in the entire process. Can current functions be divided, for example? Into tasks that require physical presence or not? And can the person who is physically present not coordinate with someone else in the world, who ensures the work is done? I think so, and would be happy to guide companies in this with WorldEmp.’

The company, founded by CEO Frank Korf, goes beyond the familiar and focuses on finding, training, and connecting highly qualified professionals from countries such as India to European companies. Using modern technology, these ‘digital knowledge workers’ work remotely from their home country while being fully integrated into the team of their employer. This allows companies to tap into a broader talent pool without struggling with local labour shortages or lengthy processes to physically bring in knowledgeable migrants and house them and their families in the region.

Van Wessel says: ‘WorldEmp offers solutions by connecting companies with qualified international talent, especially at a time when the local labour market is tight. You can no longer rely on hiring colleagues who live in the region of your terminal, simply because the world has changed. We have a shortage of young people graduating in technical professions, we have a shortage of houses for those willing to move to fill the gaps, and moreover, the competition from other regions for the same professionals is great.’

‘The demand for flexible and qualified employees is only increasing, while in the Netherlands, fewer students are choosing technical education. With WorldEmp, companies no longer need to search only in that shrinking pool.’

Moreover, WorldEmp has the significant advantage of not only providing personnel but also offering the right support. This means that companies receive assistance not only with recruitment but also with integrating new employees into their existing workflow and work culture, also through the WorldEmp platform. This enables companies to seamlessly transition to a more international and digital way of working.

SEW ENERGY: A SUCCESS STORY

WorldEmp may be a new name in the tank storage industry for some, but it has already proven its value in other industries. A good example of how WorldEmp helps companies solve their

‘The demand for flexible and qualified employees is only increasing, while in the Netherlands, fewer students are choosing technical education. With WorldEmp, companies no longer need to search only in that shrinking pool.’

staffing problems is SEW Energy, a supplier in the Dutch industrial market. SEW Energy was looking for ways to solve their staffing problem, particularly for preparing work packages in their projects with industrial piping and maintenance services for oil and gas operators. After meeting at a networking event, SEW Energy came into contact with WorldEmp, and shortly thereafter, they hired their first employee in India.

The collaboration was immediately successful. Ganesh, a highly qualified professional from India, quickly became an indispensable part of the SEW team. ‘We were initially skeptical about how we would integrate him,’ says Pascal Kool, director of SEW Energy. ‘But with the guidance of WorldEmp, we found a way to fully incorporate Ganesh into our processes. He now independently prepares work packages and delivers them directly to our production manager.’

Ganesh’s success has prompted SEW Energy to seek more talent in India. Although they are still looking for local staff for certain roles, the addition of international employees via WorldEmp has provided an innovative way to expand their workforce. ‘If we can’t find people locally, it’s fantastic that we have access to a global talent pool through WorldEmp,’ explains Kool.

An important aspect of working with international teams is data security. SEW Energy, for example, ensures that all employees work on their company networks, so that critical knowledge remains within the company.

The collaboration between SEW Energy and WorldEmp perfectly illustrates how the tank storage and construction market can also benefit from international employees. Companies like SEW, active in the oil and gas industry, need customised solutions for their piping, welding, and maintenance services. By using remote teams via WorldEmp, they can scale their operations without compromising on quality or safety.

Moreover, the collaboration with WorldEmp contributes to reducing commuting and thus the company’s

carbon footprint. Employees no longer need to leave their families in their home country. They can, so to speak, have breakfast in India in the morning, work in Europe during the day, and be home in time to put the children to bed.

INNOVATEC: ANOTHER SUCCESS STORY

Another example is Innovatec, an innovative world leader in designing, drawing and building of hatchery automation. Innovatec has assembled a team of highly qualified professionals from India with the help of WorldEmp. The time difference allows them to work around the clock, which offers a significant efficiency advantage.

‘The way WorldEmp works also helps,’ says Stephan Luimes, technical director Innovatec. ‘They have a very precise selection procedure, focused on bridging cultural differences. Moreover, the employees are intensively guided when they start working. For example, they receive a course on western culture; that we are direct and expect to hear their opinion as well.’

PIONEERING PROGRESS

The future of the tank storage market is challenging but promising due to its crucial role in energy and production chains. Thanks to companies like WorldEmp, businesses can benefit from international expertise, even in times of staff shortages. By leveraging the power of remote working and digital knowledge workers, WorldEmp offers companies in this sector an innovative and sustainable solution to their staffing problems.

With Peter van Wessel’s decades of expertise from the tank storage industry on board, WorldEmp is ready to support the market in its next evolutionary step, where growth, innovation, and staff development go hand in hand. The question is no longer how companies can find talent, but how quickly they can expand their team with the right people, wherever they are.

For more information:

Contact WorldEmp today to see how their solution can boost your workforce. Recruit engineers and data scientists, pre-vetted with short notice periods. And if it doesn’t work out? A replacement can be arranged for no extra cost.

https://worldemp.com

01 WorldEmp’s CEO Frank Korf (left) and business partner Peter van Wessel (right)

SMARTER STORAGE

With the rise of AI and digitalisation, the fast-pace growth of robotics, and the growing demand for drones on site, Kate Rainford looks at the latest innovative designs entering the industry

STORAGE TERMINALS stand at the forefront of the energy transition and the approaching change sees them adapting to new technologies, and driving advancements in digital technology.

For decades, traditional asset management has relied heavily on manual processes, reactive maintenance, and fragmented systems and data, leading to inefficiencies and elevated risks. For tank storage facilities, this often means costly downtime, safety risks that are hard to manage, and resource constraints.

DIGITALISING WORKFLOWS & DOCUMENTATION

As a global provider of software and services, Implico Group believes that digitalisation is in fact the future of operations. The company introduced the use of digitalisation to eliminate inefficiencies and resolve fragmentation of terminal operations in the energy and chemical industries. ‘We have greatly enhanced our consulting packages and, above all, our business process automation (BPA) services over the last few years. Our BPA services, powered by digitalisation, are designed to streamline complex workflows by automating repetitive tasks for better terminal management workflow,’ says Monica Hildinger, chief product officer at Implico Group.

‘Historically, terminal management has long relied on manual processes and siloed systems, leading to operational delays, data inconsistencies and increased risk across the board. Our BPA service solution centralises all operations,’ says Hildinger. ‘Our terminal

management system integrates digitalisation, to optimise end-to-end supply chain processes. By digitalising traditionally manual workflows like stock inventory management, planning, scheduling and compliance reporting, we can significantly increase a terminal’s operational efficiency and accuracy.’

Similarly, UAB-Online’s platform is designed to reduce manual paperwork, phone calls, and errors. ‘The primary issue our platform, UAB Online, addresses is the inefficiency and fragmentation of communication in the bulk liquid storage industry. To solve this, the platform streamlines communication between terminals, transport companies, and suppliers by providing a real-time digital interface that connects all stakeholders, thereby cutting out the technical difficulty inherent in data exchange. The UAB-Online platform allows for automated scheduling, digital documentation, and real-time monitoring of operations, reducing manpower,’ says CEO Hans Bobeldijk.

Taking a step further, and to reduce the cost and risk that comes with heavy industry management, HyBird created its digital innovation, Clarity. ‘Clarity is an advanced asset management solution, powered by digital twin technology,’ explains Sascha Kunze, head of solutions and industries at HyBird.

‘Clarity offers a life-like 3D model of a terminal, providing real-time insights for operators and enabling preventive and predictive maintenance,’ as well as document management and smart workflows, the platform uses augmented reality to immerse the user in the terminal, and show all the maintenance

documentation associated with a particular part,’ continues Kunze.

‘With the Clarity platform, we have been able to embed intelligence and augmented reality, providing operators with actionable data directly in the field as we augment their equipment information right where the ‘hot work’ happens,’ explains Kunze. ‘It has also accelerated our development process internally, allowed rapid iterations and enabled seamless integrations with systems like SAP (systems, applications, and products in data processing) which is crucial for managing asset master data effectively.’

BARRIERS TO DIGITAL ADOPTION

The introduction of new technologies comes with its issues. Bobeldijk adds: ‘One of the primary difficulties is ensuring the industry-wide adoption of digital tools, as many companies are still hesitant to move away from established practices. Additionally, integrating with diverse legacy systems can sometimes be complex.’

Another barrier is the increased need for robust cybersecurity measures. Implico Group’s Hildinger explains: ‘As we continue to increase our reliance on digital solutions, it is becoming mandatory to implement cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive operational data from potential threats.’

Looking to the next two decades, Hildinger says: ‘In 20 years’ time, the energy and chemical industries will have evolved to become far more agile and resilient, with data and AI enabling enterprises to adapt swiftly to market

GIZIL: THE VIRTUAL PLANT

After winning gold at the Global Tank Storage Awards for Digital Solution, cofounder of Gizil, Esma Gulten, introduces the Virtual Plant, and what she predicts a virtual future will look like

WHAT IS THE VIRTUAL PLANT?

The Virtual Plant is a software solution, that encompasses a digital twin of a site, to help optimise operations at the tank terminals. Through this platform, operators access a virtual version of their terminal from anywhere in the world. The Virtual Plant solution also streamlines document management and VR training.

WHAT PROBLEMS DOES THE VIRTUAL PLANT SOLVE?

The Virtual Plant allows terminal operators to access and visualise plant operations remotely, meaning fewer site visits and lower travel costs. By centralising data management, it streamlines workflows and improves data accuracy, making it easier to adapt quickly to new regulations. In simple terms, the Virtual Plant transforms operational inefficiencies into opportunities for improvement.

The Virtual Plant addresses the issues in a number of ways:

• Remote Access: Visualise plant operations remotely, reducing travel to site, saving time and reducing travel costs.

• Centralised Data and Documents: Instead of searching through different systems or files, operators have everything they need at their fingertips. This makes it easier to find information quickly, reduces errors, and streamlines the workflow.

• Flexibility: When laws or industry standards change, quickly update processes or documentation within the Virtual Plant.

WHAT DO YOU PREDICT FOR THE NEXT 20 YEARS?

I think that digitalisation will be a part of everyday operations. Technology will become more user-friendly and accessible, helping companies work more efficiently. Data from all parts of a company’s operations will be connected seamlessly, giving managers a real-time overview of everything that’s happening.

demands and operational disruptions and more and more autonomous terminals being set up.’

Bobeldijk agrees: ‘The focus will be on sustainability and efficiency, with digital solutions enabling real-time energy consumption monitoring and optimised resource usage. Ultimately, the industry will be far more interconnected, with seamless data exchange between all stakeholders, driving greater transparency, security, and productivity.’

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) has been on a steep incline over the last few years. Companies are turning to AI to help spot hazardous risks and eliminate manual work, and the tank storage industry is no exception. Through intelligent data analysis and machine learning, storage terminals are able to save time, money and manpower.

ENHANCING THE DIGITAL TWIN WITH AI

Hybird’s Kunze says: ‘Recent advancements have also accelerated our collaboration with clients, as we work closely to customise Clarity to fit their individual operational realities. We aim to embed AI on every level of the solution and put it to work for people in the field.’

AI company, Samp, recognises that many industrial sites struggle with discrepancies between their technical documents and the actual conditions on the ground, and its AI innovation, Shared Reality, helps to bridge the gap.

Shared Reality uses patented artificial intelligence to process 3D reality capture of industrial sites to help ensure all teams, from engineers to site personnel, are working with accurate information. Thomas Grand, chief operating officer at Samp explains: ‘Our AI recognises the equipment in the 3D reality model and helps rapidly tag all pieces of equipment using engineering identifiers from lists or drawings. The discrepancies between the actual site conditions and the original P&ID, are identified easily, for rapid action.’

Samp’s software has been proven in the field, too. ‘Tank farms, terminals, and pipeline operators in the oil and gas sector have already deployed Shared Reality, including companies such as Trapil, SPMR, Elengy, Storengy, Teréga,’ says Grand.

The introduction to AI has been faced globally with concern and caution. The tank storage industry is no different. ‘The main challenge faced by Shared Reality is industry education. Industry veterans and decision makers cannot imagine that the longstanding challenge of technical data consistency now has an affordable solution,’ concludes Grand.

DATA DRIVEN LEARNING

It’s difficult to imagine all the ways AI could be used to enhance life and work at tank terminals. But newer companies to the industry are trying to explore exactly that.

Since its inception in 2019, US-based company QADworks has used AI to operate more smoothly and effectively.

‘QADworks has embraced AI as an integral component of our mission to modernise business processes,’ say data architects at QADworks.

One case is when QADworks partnered with a tank storage facility on a multi-year digital transformation project, aimed at improving efficiency. ‘The project involved integrating multiple data sources into a unified system, making it easier to access and manage information,’ QADworks’ data architects explain. In another example, the company developed a custom deep learning model, to help

businesses identify which leads are most likely to turn into customers. ‘The process starts by gathering relevant data, such as customer demographics, engagement with emails and websites, and actions taken by the sales team. The model analyses this information to find patterns that indicate which leads have a higher chance of converting. Once trained on past outcomes, the model assigns a probability score to each new lead, showing how likely they are to convert. This helps sales teams focus their efforts on the most promising leads,’ say the data architects.

Looking to a future that will undoubtedly continue to use AI, QADwork’s data architects say: ‘In 20 years, the tank storage industry is poised for a significant transformation, driven by the integration of artificial intelligence into daily operations. AI will streamline manual processes across all functions, significantly reducing time-consuming tasks such as preparing job orders and updating maintenance tickets. By automating these routine activities, employees will be freed to concentrate on more strategic initiatives, enhancing overall productivity and innovation.’

IMPROVING TANK INSPECTIONS

Later in this piece, we’ll cover drones and robotics – a familiar favourite when it comes to improving tank maintenance and inspection. But another consideration is to first digitalise physical monitoring systems. For example, TWTG uses Industrial IoT (I-IoT) with its ATEX/IECExcertified NEON sensors to monitor and maintain equipment efficiently. ‘When we talk about I-IoT, we mean embedding smart, wireless sensors into operational environments to keep a continuous pulse on what’s happening. This technology acts as a bridge between the physical world of machines and the digital space, giving companies real-time insights that help them optimise processes and make better decisions,’ says Nadine Herrwerth, TWTG’s business development and commercial director – asset monitoring (IMI instrutmenation).

The NEON Sensors help take raw data and turn it into something actionable to improve safety, efficiency, and overall performance. ‘By using wireless sensors that continuously monitor equipment, we enable real-time data collection that provides an accurate view of machinery health. For instance, our NEON Vibration Sensor helps detect early signs of issues like bearing faults in rotating equipment,’ says Herrewerth. Early detection means issues and faults can be fixed before they become more serious.

Rosen explains how it has developed an AI model to enhance this even further. ‘The tank inspection market strives to find the smallest defects in assets to perform

accurate remaining life assessments and precise calculations for the next inspection interval. For this reason, Rosen has developed ultra-high-resolution MFL sensors, that record data in a 1.6x1 mm raster, to find even microbially induced corrosion (MIC) that typically appear in small pitting with only a few millimetres in diameter,’ says Richard Föcke, head of NDT applications and products.

Rosen’s sensors automatically identify and deactivate double features in overlapping areas and false calls, such as tack welds, in the whole tank bottom inspection data set. ‘In the past, these indications have been disabled manually, which was possible with reasonable efforts on a smaller number of detected indications. However, the ultra-highresolution MFL data delivers tank inspections with hundreds of thousands of indications, making a manual assessment no longer possible. This is where AI comes in,’ adds Föcke.

But AI still has its limitations; it’s only as good as the data that is put into it. ‘Careful validation is critical to being confident that the highest degree of parameter variety is covered,’ says Föcke. ‘Even with a super high amount of input data, there will always remain circumstances that the algorithms have not seen before, and it will be important that these situations are also properly handled, eg, by highlighting this to the human operator, who can still assess these exceptions properly offline.’

Overall, AI seems to be getting more popular in the tank storage sector, and companies will keep finding new ways to utilise it to improve operations and efficiency. ‘Recruitment and training of qualified personnel is already becoming increasingly challenging today, and this situation will only intensify. AI will be combined with other innovations, such as robotics, to serve complementary market goals such as the ‘zero incident’ target,’ concludes Föcke.

DRONES AND ROBOTS

By deploying drones into storage tanks, the need for a human in the storage tank is eliminated. This reduces exposure to toxic gas, hazards that come with confined spaces, and any risk of structural failures. In many cases, drones are now able to retrieve more accurate information. Many companies are incorporating light detection and raging methods (LiDAR) such as Rosen. Rosen’s drone inspection service stands out due to its integration of automated processes like dispensing UT couplant and real-time data validation with A-Scan during flight. ‘Using forwardfacing LiDAR and feedback systems to adjust the drone’s position for optimal measurement accuracy mimics the precision of manual tests but without the associated risks and costs,’ says Jabbar Mirzoev, head of group buisness line, NDT diagnostics at Rosen.

‘Drone capability is complemented by our holistic service portfolio, which includes the best-in-class tank floor scanner TBIT Ultra, 3D laser scanning services, and Fitness-for-Purpose and RBI assessments. These integrated solutions position us uniquely in the market, offering comprehensive and technologically advanced inspection options that are unparalleled in the industry.’

While a common barrier is often cost, Mirzoev notes that drones will become more accessible and affordable as the technology develops. ‘The industry is likely to see drones become a standard tool for a wide range of maintenance, inspection, and repair tasks.’

Like Rosen, technology developer and provider, Pike Robotics, also uses LiDAR technology and photogrammetry in its Wall-Eye Tank Inspection Robots, designed for the vapour space of aboveground storage tanks.

Internal inspections are mandated on these tanks annually, every five years, or every 10 years, depending on the type of tank and its location.

CEO and co-founder Connor Crawford comments: ‘To determine the integrity and environmental compliance of the tank roof and perimeter seal, our robot collects visual and LiDAR data, controls lighting conditions, and takes direct 3D measurements of any gaps that exist between metal structure and their rubber seals/fittings. We also employ a multi-gas monitor and computer vision algorithm to locate any tears in the fabric or rubber that may contribute to fugitive emissions (GHGs & VOCs).’

Crawford explains the advantages of the inspection robot are threefold. ‘Firstly, safety. This is the last robotic solution (involving storage tanks) needed to perform internal inspections without requiring workers to enter into confined spaces. Secondly, asset down time. The tank usually must be drained, degassed, cleaned, and shut down before these inspections can be performed, which can cost the operator up to $30,000 per day (€28,388 per day). Thirdly, accuracy. Outside of the benefit of being recordable for later viewing, our method allows inspection crews to get a closer and more detailed look at the object of interest than is possible with human eyes. This allows for recreation of certain tank areas in 3D space, which the customer can analyse to make more informed repair decisions.’

The Wall-Eye robot will be able to operate in the explosive atmospheres of oil and petrochemical storage tanks. It will be able to navigate to any location (for inspection) within the vapour space of the tank, including along the vertical internal shell and across the horizontal floating roof. Crawford states, ‘Along with other existing NDT tools, this robot will allow operators to completely automate their internal storage tank inspection programme, eliminating the need for confined space entry or asset downtime.’

For the inspection of confined internal spaces, Dan Maine, director at DJM Aerial Solutions explains how the company’s Elios 3 works.

‘The Elios 3 drone, with its advanced LiDAR capabilities, resolves these challenges by enabling remote, highprecision inspections without requiring human entry. It can easily navigate the tight, dark, and cluttered spaces found within tanks, capturing detailed visual and thermal data while generating 3D models. By using this technology, we can identify structural issues such as corrosion, cracks, or weld defects, all while reducing safety risks, costs, and time associated with traditional inspection methods,’ says Maine.

For external aerial inspections, Energy Robotics deploys drones to run cost-effective and reliable tank roof inspections, without needing site visits. The drone solution enables operators to execute automated inspection flights from anywhere, thanks to its beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) software. The data collected by the drone is processed by advanced AI applications to deliver insights for predictive maintenance.

Manual inspections of storage tanks are time consuming and, at times, can be dangerous, so the automated inspection drone can reduce inspection time from eight manual hours to just 20 minutes.

TANK CLEANING & PREPARATION

Beyond tank inspection, drones and robots can be used for tank cleaning, maintenance and surface preparation. For example, established in 2008, Vertidrive designs safe and environmentally friendly robotic crawler solutions for surface preparation.

VertiDrive’s V400 and V700 series robots represent the forefront of surface preparation technology, designed as magnetic robotic crawlers that adhere to steel surfaces and operate vertically, horizontally, and even upside down. Engineered for remote-controlled and semi-autonomous blasting, these robots provide consistent, high-quality results across extensive areas, the robots are made with the specific aim of ensuring operator safety, by not exposing humans to heights and high-pressure equipment, as well as general cost efficiency.

Bart van Houwelingen, head of digital marketing communication at VertiDrive comments on the V400 cleaning capabilities, ‘The V400 series can handle pressures up to 43,500 pound per square inch (PSI) with a flow rate of up to 45 litres per minute. This allows for efficient, deep cleaning and coating removal without the use of abrasive media, making it suitable

for environmentally conscious operations and minimising waste.’

THE FUTURE OF DRONES & ROBOTICS

‘In 20 years’ time, I believe drone technology will be fully integrated into routine storage tank inspections, becoming the industry standard for asset integrity management,’ says DJM’s Maine. ‘Drones will likely evolve to include even more advanced sensors and artificial intelligence. Advances in AI could enable drones to autonomously assess and predict the lifespan of assets, providing real-time, data-driven insights on structural health.’

For more information:

Discover innnovations just like this at StocExpo on 11 & 12 March 2025 in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

Be sure to stop by the Sprint Robotics Pavilion and demo zone for live demonstrations throughout the event!

www.stocexpo.com

djm-aerial.com www.energy-robotics.com gizil.de www.hybirdtech.com www.implico.com www.pikerobotics.com qad.works www.rosen-group.com samp.ai/company www.twtg.io uab-online.com www.vertidrive.com

01 Esma Gulten (middle) accepts her award from Kelly Regalado, Advario (left) and Anamika Talwaria. Tank Storage Magazine (right)

02 Operator supervising an automatic drone inspection mission through the Energy Robotics Software platform (Image Courtesy: Shell Energy and Chemicals Park Rheinland)

03 The Elios 3 drone from DJM Aerial Solutions

REDUCING RISKS WITH ROBOTS

CEO of Square Robot, David Lamont, explains the unique nature of the company’s tank inspection robots

ON OF the biggest challenges for a storage terminal is finding a way to inspect the bottom of a tank, due to it being inaccessible from the outside. Established in 2016, Square Robot designs and manufactures robots that inspect tank interiors without taking them out of service.

Since its inception, the team has developed two generations of robot and inspected over 220 tanks globally. Chief executive officer, David Lamont, highlights the distinctive features of the Factory Mutual Class 1 Division II Certified Inspection Robot and reflects on its gold win at the Global Tank Storage Awards. ‘This award is great recognition for the work that has been done by the company on two fronts: the dedication and innovation of our team, and the technology they’ve developed. But also, I think even more importantly, the award signifies industry recognition of the robot’s substantial impact and the compelling benefits it brings.’

THE INNOVATION

The Factory Mutual Class 1 Division II Certified Inspection Robot is designed to operate within storage tanks while they remain in service. This innovation saves time and eliminates the need for entry inside confined spaces, reducing labour hours and production downtime. The robot is designed to operate in a variety of substances, including hydrocarbons, oil, and water. ‘It’s a highly advanced piece of equipment,’ explains Lamont. ‘What’s truly novel is that it swims within the product, functioning like a mini submarine.’

THE INSPECTION PROCESS

Lamont explains the unique approach the company uses to access the bottom of the tank with their robot. ‘We use an ultrasonic array to measure the thickness of the tank floor to check for corrosion and inspect according to various standards, including API and EEMUA, to ensure the tank is compliant and maintains structural integrity,’ he says. ‘Once we’ve acquired the data and processed it, we issue a report to our

customer that details the condition of their tank. In addition to UT, the robot has multiple sensor sets used throughout the inspection process.’

Lamont explains: ‘Inspecting the tank in service prevents the release of carbon. Even a fairly inert product such as diesel, where the process of emptying an average tank of 30m in diameter will result in the release of 5-6 tonnes of carbon equivalent. Something more volatile, like gasoline, could be up to 20 tonnes released in that voiding process. Our services ensure all the carbon stays contained. Environmentally, it is very positive.’

SAFETY FIRST

The robot eliminates the need for humans to enter the tank, providing a much safer alternative. Human entry requires the tank’s contents to be moved elsewhere and introduces significant safety risks, a practice Lamont highlights as less than ideal. ‘Many companies are now striving to exclude people from confined spaces whenever possible,’ he says. ‘From a health and safety perspective, this is a major step up from traditional methods.’

FUTURE PLANNING

Despite the success of the design, Lamont still acknowledges that introducing a new technology is never easy. ‘I would argue that technology development, when you have a great bunch of engineers, is easier than getting a fairly conservative industry to change the way they operate. So the biggest challenge that we’ve had is not in developing the technology, because that’s within our control, but getting the industry to adopt new practices.’

‘The award is acknowledgement by the industry that our technology is of significant benefit on many fronts.’

Looking to the future, Square Robot plans to keep driving technical innovation. The positive reception is recognised by not only the industry but also the judges panel. It was deemed ‘very impressive’ by Jay Leduc, head of HSE & sustainability at Hartree Partners: ‘This is a fantastic advancement, with a high demand within the terminal industry. Not having to take a tank out of service to conduct a full internal inspection will create a great advantage for the companies implementing this technology.’

For more information:

www.squarerobots.com

Nominations for the Global Tank Storage Awards are now open: www.tankstorageawards.com

01 Field supervisor Majid Calil (left) and field service manager Billy Yackel (right) overseeing the deployment of the SR-1 robot for inspection

EVOLVING STORAGE SOLUTIONS

Find out how to optimise bitumen storage operations with TEC’s Bitutainer Storage Facility

IN RECENT years, the bitumen market has undergone substantial logistic shifts, such as refinery closures, reduced availability of vessels, challenges in global shipping and freight routes and climate target pressures to name a few. These changes have made flexibility and adaptability of storage solutions ever more important to remain competitive. The Bitutainer Storage Facility from TEC Container Solutions is an innovative approach to meet this shift, with a focus on flexibility, scalability and cost-efficiency.

CHALLENGES WITH CONVENTIONAL BULK BITUMEN STORAGE

Traditional storage methods typically rely on permanent, large-scale tanks that incur high setup costs and lack the flexibility required in today’s dynamic market conditions. As some regions transition from net exporters to net importers, the ensuing complexities in logistics highlight the limitations of fixed storage solutions.

TEC’S ESTABLISHED SOLUTION

Recognising the evolving industry landscape, TEC’s Bitutainer Storage Facility offers a modular and semi-mobile solution that promises to transform the landscape of bitumen storage. This facility is tailored to provide the adaptability required to swiftly respond to changing market conditions and demand. Key features include:

• Efficient installation & costeffectiveness: Designed for rapid deployment, the Bitutainer Storage Facility can be established on simple loose-laid concrete or steel beams, avoiding the extensive groundwork required for traditional tanks. Its modular approach allows for quick scalability, adapting to immediate needs without the typical expenditure.

• Flexibility & scalability: The facility’s modular system can easily expand or contract in size, responding adeptly to project requirements and market conditions, which is crucial for maintaining resource efficiency and investment value.

• Risk reduction & mobility:

Each Bitutainer unit retains high resale value and can be relocated or adjusted in scale, providing operational flexibility that permanent structures cannot match. This mobility is a strategic advantage in responding to market volatility.

• Comprehensive equipment integration: The facility accommodates a range of configurations, including advanced safety systems, tank monitoring, and control systems, all tailored to enhance safety and operational efficiency.

OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY & ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

The Bitutainer Storage Facility not only enhances logistical operations but also promotes sustainability. By optimising how much bitumen is heated based on immediate use, it reduces unnecessary energy consumption and lowers operational costs, supporting environmental sustainability goals.

SEAMLESS INTEGRATION WITH TRANSPORTATION SOLUTIONS

TEC also offers transportation Bitutainers that integrate smoothly with the storage

facility, forming an efficient network for storing and distributing bitumen. This system includes a unique Ship to Shore gantry capable of efficiently transferring bitumen from vessels directly into the facility or transport containers, streamlining the supply chain from import to deployment.

The Bitutainer Storage Facility by TEC Container Solutions is a strategic asset in the bitumen supply chain, designed to offer resilience and adaptability amid fluctuating market conditions. As the industry’s needs evolve, TEC’s longstanding commitment to innovation ensures that their solutions remain at the forefront, ready to meet both current and future challenges.

For more information:

Explore how the Bitutainer Storage Facility can enhance your bitumen logistics by visiting TECContainerSolutions.com for a customised solution tailored to your specific requirements

UPDATING YOUR MONITORS

THE REQUIREMENTS for overfill protection and ground verification have remained consistent over the decades, yet terminal requirements and end-user needs have evolved. Terminal automation technology has become more sophisticated, while at the same time, truck driver demographics have become more diverse over the past few years. These dynamics have converged, highlighting the need for electronic monitoring systems that are advanced enough to meet terminal automation requirements while at the same time more user-friendly and intuitive to operate.

OPW’s 8800 Series family of overfill protection and ground verification monitors are designed with these requirements in mind. With three options to select from, all models are engineered utilising the latest in electronics technology in a housing that features industry-leading water resistance that is up to half the size and weight of other monitors in the market.

8870 OVERFILL PREVENTION & GROUND VERIFICATION MONITOR

The OPW 8870 overfill prevention and ground verification monitors are designed for API bottom loading applications on single and multi-compartment tank trucks at storage depots. The 8870 is the first unit with a simplified OLED graphic display that includes initiative images that communicate fill status. The loading process becomes more intuitive and simpler to understand and allows the 8870 rack monitor to be used anywhere in the world, no matter the native language of the driver, region or country. Should there be an error other than overfill or ground, the 8870 rack monitor will self-diagnose the issue and provide an error code in the OLED display that can help terminal maintenance quickly identify and fix the issue, minimising

downtime to keep the terminal lane up and running as quickly as possible.

8851 OVERFILL PREVENTION & GROUND VERIFICATION MONITOR

The 8851 provides overfill prevention and ground verification with simple LED light displays. When the truck is connected to the monitor, flashing LED green lights indicate that the system is permissible to fill. Should a sensor become wet, the LED lights will change to flashing red indicating that the system is not permissible to fill.

8814 GROUND VERIFICATION MONITOR

The 8814 utilises the same housing and displays as the 8851 and is engineered to provide ground verification in those applications where overfill protection is not required. Grounding sensors connect to the monitor. If properly grounded, flashing green lights will indicate that the system is permissible to fill.

For more information:

To find a distributor in North America: www.opw-es.com

To find a distributor in Europe: www.opwglobal.com/emea

01 OPW’s 8870 monitor with OLED graphic

02 OPW’s 8851 and 8814 monitors

03 The OLED graphic indicating that the monitor is ready to be connected to the truck. The red LED lights at the bottom of the display indicate that it is not yet permissible to fill

04 The display when the monitor is connected to a truck. The system checks the number of probes and that they are in ‘dry’. It also makes sure the truck is properly grounded. A check mark in the upper corner and green LED lights at the bottom indicate the truck is permissive to fill. Depending on how the truck is wired and in which region of the world, the display can indicate how many tanks are being monitored

05 The OLED display shows a non-permissive state. If a wet probe is sensed, the system will immediately switch to non-permissive. Depending on how the truck is wired and region of the world, the display can indicate which tank is in an overfill state

The Next Generation of Overfill Protection

The 8800 Series family of overfill protection and ground verification monitors incorporate the latest in electronics technology in a sleek, compact design—almost half the size of other products.

The 8870 Monitor utilizes universal icons, a graphic display, and LED lights to easily communicate ground and filling status. The enhanced OLED display provides detailed images and with diagnostic readout capabilities.

The 8814 Monitor provides overfill and ground verification with simple LED lights while the 8814 Monitor provides easy to read ground verification.

Performs in the toughest conditions

Best-in-class water resistance and operates in extreme temperatures from -45°C to 70°C

No more getting “lost in translation”

Designed to be user friendly with status lights and universal pictograms that communicate status

3 product options

Options based on monitoring requirements

8870
8851 & 8814

SUPPLYING THE SKIES

The experts at AC Valve Alliance explain the challenges of jet fuel storage and maintenance

NOT MANY people know that civil airports in the UK hold very little jet fuel storage capacity. The fuel is stored off site in strategic locations around the UK. There is a connecting pipeline grid that feeds the airports 24 hours a day in order to keep the capacity of fuel needed. This strategically designed grid was installed many decades ago and went through a complete upgrade starting in 2019 of all the equipment and controls.

For safety reasons, storage of the bulk of fuel used is kept away from the airport terminals. Jet fuel storage requires large capacity tanks and all the associated pumps and valves for operation.

Traditionally, tank isolation was achieved with a single gate valve or ball valve. In this case study of a UK airport, the end user required upgrading to actuated double block and bleed shut off for each tank inlet and outlet. When tasked with providing a solution, AC Valve Alliance’s team of experts selected zero leakage, fire-safe Zwick triple offset valves for main isolation, fitted with failsafe electrohydraulic actuators, in combination with Pekos ball valves for vents and drains.

AC VALVE ALLIANCE’S SOLUTION

The challenge presented was fitting new double block and bleed into the existing installations without pipework alterations, due to the very limited space available in the valve chambers.

To overcome this challenge, AC Valve Alliance designed a special assembly of two Zwick valves with a spool piece that fitted into the available spaces. The spool pieces housed all the appropriate vents,

drains and instrumentation connections. The company then had to customise the length of each assembly to suit each site as they varied considerably.

Due to the proximity of the actuators on the valves, the specifically designed, bespoke extension kits had to create a staggered mounting arrangement. AC Valve Alliance then surveyed each site in turn to take measurements and ensure that each assembly would fit in the envelope available, producing 3D models in each case to insert into the site layout models, confirming the fit of each individual assembly before manufacturing the valves, actuators and associated instrumentation.

By providing the complete package and utilising its in-house engineering facilities and expert team, AC Valve Alliance is able to provide the customer with peace of mind that the scheduling, manufacturing and testing were all carried out under strict quality control.

DESIGNED TO KEEP PROCESSES OPERATING

Triple offset valves outperform traditional valves with increased durability, reliability and lower ownership cost. The seat of the triple offset valve is designed to eliminate wear, provide lower maintenance cost and extend service life. The zero leakage sealing capabilities of triple offset valves provides the performance to keep your processes operating reliably at top efficiency even in extreme operating conditions. All of these benefits also come with a large weight saving when compared to many other valves, making for much easier installation and maintenance.

In this case, the customer was required to meet the new stringent environmental regulations which the Zwick valve was able to comply with. The patented sealed shaft bearings and packing meets the ISO 15848 Fugitive Emissions Standards and prevents leakage. As the jet fuel is highly flammable, another requirement was that the valves were firesafe to the latest addition of API607.

VALVE AUTOMATION AND MAINTENANCE

The Zwick valve has a unique seat angle of 25°. This means that when closing

there is no contact between the disc seal and the seat until the moment of closure. This is true ‘cone-in-cone’ sealing and is a frictionless seal. This minimises the wear in this area and reduces the torque required to close the valve. The benefit of this is it requires a smaller actuator than on other types of valves.

Triple offset valves are easily maintained as they have minimal parts to replace. There are no exposed threaded stems to lubricate, or body gaskets to leak. In essence, triple offsets are maintenancefree.

For more information:

AC Valve Alliance Group’s mission is to provide end-to-end valve and automation solutions for its customers, across a broad range of industries and applications. As a proven partnership of companies working under one roof, the company operates as a global stockist and distributor while also offering bespoke manufacturing options. www.acvalvealliance.com

Full tank storage valve & automation solutions

Fast-track delivery

Starline Floating and Trunnion mounted Ball Valves Pekos Floating and Trunnion Mounted Ball Valves
Zwick TOS Butterfly Valves
Perar Trunnion Mounted Ball Valves
Air Torque Scotch Yoke Actuators
Starline Hydrogen Ball Valves
Galli & Cassina Double Expanding API 6D Plug Valves
Nacional Safety Relief Valves Nacional Breather Valves
Nacional Emergency Valves
Air Torque Rack & Pinion Actuators

REMOVING VOC FROM API650 STORAGE TANKS

Ensure compliance with environmental guidelines for hydrocarbon tanks using NAT Oil & Energy’s VOC abatement systems

REDUCING EMISSIONS

such as harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is a key consideration as storage terminals look to clean up their sites, especially as environmental regulations get stricter. NAT Oil & Energy (Denmark) provides a full range of tank fittings and tank vents with odour filters, VOC abatement systems (odour removal) and accessories for storage tanks, that meet EU directives, local legislation and customer-specific requirements. The company has also recently applied for its VOC filter to be approved for use in Singapore and Gibraltar.

Furthermore, VOC abatement filters and tank vent systems can completely remove odours – ideal for hydrocarbon storage facilities that might have unpleasant smells. Years of know-how and field experience have positioned NAT Oil & Energy (Denmark)’s products as some of the best choices for environmental protection. So, can a VOC abatement filter work for you?

VOC ABATEMENT FILTERS

Any tanks that are to be fitted with a VOC abatement filter must be built to API 650 standards, and maintained in accordance with API 653 or EEMUA159 (alteration repair and maintenance of tanks).

The dimensions of the filter depend on the tank size, surface area and maximum pump rate for each tank. The tank’s pumping rates are important factors for the correct design of the filter surface, in order to remain within the maximum allowable pressure/vacuum during the operation.

Breather valves are installed parallel to the adsorption filter, with settings complying to the maximum allowable pressure and

vacuum of each tank to avoid break down and mechanical damage.

In the case of tank overfill, mechanical damage or blockage by dirt in the adsorption filter, the breather valves will ensure continued operation and the tank ventilation will continue to function in accordance with the specifications for each individual application.

SAFETY OPTIONS FOR TANK VENT FILTERS

Depending on environmental legislative requirements, or if the hydrocarbon concentration is higher than 50 gram/ m³, an additional safety option may be required. There are five options:

1 Forced Ventilation

Forced ventilation is recommended for tanks with high evaporation, such as light products or products with a low flash point. The option can be fitted with a backup system.

2 Automatic Shut-Off Valve

The shut-off valve option is triggered by sensors for either carbon monoxide, temperature, or both, and can be installed between the filter and the tank to ensure that a rise in temperature in the filter, a hot spot, will be isolated from the tank at a set-point well below the flash point of the tank content.

3 Water Mist System

A water mist system can be inserted in the filter to cool it or, in emergencies, drench the active carbon; preventing or extinguishing a fire inside the filter, which could have been caused by hot spots.

4 Flame Arrestor

A flame arrestor can be inserted between the filter and the tank to prevent vapours from igniting inside the filter. A flame arrestor does not function as a fire protection by itself, and therefore it is recommended that other measures are taken to ensure that an ignition (hot spot) is extinguished either by a built-in fire protection system as per above or by an on-site emergency response team.

5 PLC Automated Control Cabinet

This option enables various alarm settings and reaction patterns to be programmed in combination with one or more of the above options.

CUSTOMISING TANK FILTER SYSTEMS

Customisation requires some collaboration between a storage operator and NAT Oil & Energy (Denmark). For simple installations, the company can calculate the dimensions and other data for the filter and breather valves from simple information. Larger or more complex installations will require a site visit to inspect the tank(s) and possible grouping of filters.

The custom-designed tank vent system has a carbon odour filter, that eliminates odour problems from storage tanks for oil and oil products, thereby avoiding complaints and claims from neighbours, particularly in residential areas.

For more information: www.cbi.dk

CONSERVATION VENTS FOR EMISSION GOALS

STORAGE

TANKS used for chemicals, petroleum products, and other volatile liquids, often experience changes in internal pressure due to temperature fluctuations, filling, and emptying cycles. As liquids expand or contract, vapour build-up can occur, creating excess pressure within the tank. If unchecked, this can lead to fugitive emissions, contributing to air pollution, ozone depletion, and climate change.

Importantly, many of these emissions consist of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are hazardous to both the environment and human health. Regulatory agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and local environmental bodies, have set strict limits on emissions from storage tanks, making it imperative for operators to find effective ways to control and minimise the release of these gases.

CONTROLLED RELEASE

Conservation vents from Protectoseal are designed to provide a controlled release of tank vapours, while preventing harmful emissions from escaping unnecessarily. These vents work by maintaining the pressure balance inside the tank, minimising the risk of over-pressurisation or vacuum conditions that could lead to leaks or even tank rupture.

Conservation vents are typically installed on fixed-roof storage tanks and are engineered to maintain a tank’s vapour space, despite fluctuating temperatures and pressure. The pressure settings on Protectoseal’s conservation vents are finely tuned, ensuring that emissions only occur when the internal pressure or vacuum reaches predetermined levels, thus limiting fugitive emissions.

REDUCING EMISSIONS

Protectoseal’s conservation vents are engineered to exceed the stringent global environmental standards. The products allow ‘no detectable’ emissions (less than 500 parts per million) from low pressure storage tanks that contain VOCs, exceeding the standards set by the EPA.

One example is the PIN-TECH BubbleTight Pressure Relief vents, mounted to the vapour space flange connection of a storage tank or vessel. The vents employ a buckling pin to hold the vent piston closed, with zero leakage up to the relief set point. The pin is an accurately machined, straight metal rod, configured to precisely sense transmitted axial forces that are generated because of tank pressure. The force required to buckle the pin is governed by Euler’s Law and is a function of the pin’s metallurgy, length, and diameter. An exact buckling force can be determined for any specific pin configuration.

When the pressure in the tank reaches the vent set point, the axial force is sufficient to buckle the pin, and the vent sealing piston is allowed to move to its full open, relieving position. The pin buckles completely and instantaneously.

Protectoseal’s 3908-SL Pressure and Vacuum Relief Thief Hatch offers similar protection from emissions as well as easy access to the tank interior for inspection, gauging, or sampling operations. The unit also provides pressure and vacuum relief of the tank’s vapour space through integral, spring-loaded pressure and vacuum relief mechanisms. Vents open and close to permit only that intake or outlet relief necessary to keep interior pressure within permissible working limits. The innovative design includes an ‘aircushion’ pallet to deliver a low leakage performance of no more than 0.1 m3/ hr at 90% of the set pressure. With an automatic condensate drainage design,

protective measures are in place to mitigate freezing, binding, and clogging.

GLOBAL FOCUS

With an increasing global focus on climate change and air quality, regulatory agencies are now imposing heavy penalties for non-compliance, making the reduction of VOC emissions paramount. Conservation vents enable operators to store volatile liquids safely without contributing to environmental degradation by only venting when necessary, maintaining the integrity of the stored materials, and preventing loss of product through unnecessary evaporation.

The storage tank industry is faced with the dual challenge of ensuring safety and reducing environmental impact. With the right equipment, operators can now regulate tank pressure while also preventing unnecessary emissions. These devices not only help storage facilities comply with environmental regulations but also enhance safety, reduce product loss, and contribute to sustainability efforts.

For more information: www.protectoseal.com enquiries@protectoseal.uk

01 Protectoseal’s PIN-TECH Bubble-Tight 500 ppm Pressure Relief Vent demonstration

NAVIGATING 40 CFR 60 SUBPART KC REGULATIONS

Mesa ETP’s Adam Vance explains what tank owners need to know

AS ENVIRONMENTAL regulations continue to evolve, companies in oil, gas, chemical processing, and other industries that store volatile organic liquids (VOLs) must adapt to meet new compliance standards. In the latest development, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has published 40 CFR 60 Subpart Kc, a significant update aimed at reducing emissions from storage tanks. This is the first revision of the EPA’s New Source Performance Standards for volatile organic liquid storage vessels (including petroleum liquid storage vessels) since the 1980s. These regulations will impact tank owners, operators and contractors across the industry.

IN A NUTSHELL

To effectively navigate the disruptions associated with the evolving regulatory landscape, tank owners need to stay informed and prepared. 40 CFR 60 Subpart Kc focuses on above ground storage tanks that store VOLs. The standard indicates when it should be applied, such as storage volume, true vapour pressure, and features of the tank.

The standard focuses on stricter emissions control devices that deliver higher control efficiency. Under the new regulation, the EPA mandates that certain tanks be fitted with controls that significantly reduce VOC emissions, including enhanced seal requirements, improved monitoring, and maintenance practices.

The regulation applies to storage vessels that store VOLs with a maximum true vapour pressure (TVP) of at least 0.25 psia. This includes many common products such as ethanol, crude oil, gasoline and other volatile products. Storage tanks with a capacity of at least 20,000 gallons are included in the standard. Notably, the regulation applies to tanks that were constructed, reconstructed, or modified after October 4, 2023.

This standard provides guidance ranging from control devices for rims and deck fittings, to lower explosion limit (LEL) monitoring, to updates in reporting. Notably, Kc updates the interpretation of modification of a tank to now include a change in liquid service to a higher VOL than historically stored or permitted.

HOW DOES KC AFFECT YOUR TANKS?

Key changes relate to the interpretation of modification, emissions control equipment, vapour capture, degassing, and monitoring. Kc introduces targeted emission control efficiency of 98% compared to 95% in Kb. This creates more stringent requirements on the types of rim seals and emission control products that can be employed when compared to Kb. It is important to note that there is a path to 98% efficiency for both internal and external floating roof tanks. These updates are outlined below:

For new or reconstructed internal floating roofs: The primary seal must be liquid mounted or a mechanical shoe with a rim mounted secondary seal. Vapour mounted primary seals, like wedge or flapper seals, are no longer permitted. For external floating roofs: If the tank employs a slotted guide pole, the primary seal must be a liquid mounted seal, which is a first of its kind requirement. If an unslotted guide pole is used, a mechanical shoe seal is acceptable as a primary seal. Secondary seals remain required for all external floating roof tanks.

Note that slotted guide poles are found in over 80% of external floating roof tanks, and are needed for accurate gauging and sampling. The need for slotted guide poles is so strong that it is critical to deploy a liquid mounted seal that will surpass the reliability and lifespan of mechanical shoe seals, while delivering the superior emission control performance of liquid mounted seals as cited by the EPA in AP-42.

PREPARING FOR COMPLIANCE

To get ready for the new regulations, tank owners should take proactive steps to evaluate their existing equipment and assess areas where they might need upgrades.

1. Audit existing tank emission control: Conduct a thorough review of your tank standards to determine if they meet the new 40 CFR 60 Subpart Kc requirements.

2. Choose high-performing emission control: Consider replacing outdated or non-compliant emission control with innovative new products that

meet the new standards, enhance control efficiency, and provide superior durability and operational flexibility.

3. Train your team: Ensure that your team understands the regulation requirements and knows how to execute best practices for maintenance and compliance, especially as new tanks are constructed, reconstructed, or modified.

4. Develop a monitoring plan: Set up a regular monitoring and maintenance schedule to ensure that your tank emissions remain in compliance and your critical components are performing optimally.

5. Partner with reputable suppliers: Collaborate with reliable suppliers whose engineers will work closely with you to provide storage tank solutions that meet the unique requirements of each tank to support your critical operational and project needs. For example, Mesa ETP’s FlexCore liquidmounted seal offers superior emission performance and durability while addressing the needs outlined in 40 CFR 60 Subpart Kc.

LOOKING AHEAD

Adhering to the new regulation helps reduce environmental harm and supports a healthier planet. Meanwhile, failing to comply can result in significant fines. Investing in compliant equipment and processes is a proactive step to avoid these costly repercussions, while also improving overall operational efficiency. High-quality, durable, emission control products reduce the need for frequent maintenance and help minimise operational disruptions.

Regulatory standards around emissions and environmental compliance are likely to continue evolving. By investing in advanced technology now, tank owners position themselves to more easily adapt to future requirements.

For more information:

Learn more about 40 CFR 60 Subpart Kc at www.epa.gov www.mesaetp.com

DRIVING TANKS

Ahead of speaking at NISTM Woodlands on 10-12 December, Becht’s Rafael Rengifo explores the company’s proactive approach to manage storage tanks

STORAGE TANKS play a key role in the energy and liquids commodities supply chain. Diversity of products, business logistics needs and regulatory frameworks all make storage tank management programmes very complex.

RESPONDING TO INCIDENTS

The visibility and severity of storage tank owner-operators incidents can generate negative public reactions that require a quick response from regulatory bodies, tank owner-operators and industry organisations. This can come in the form of imposing new mandates and standards The root cause of storage tank problems is commonly overlooked, while the focus has been reactive to maintain compliance with mandates from regulatory bodies.

The Becht ‘Driving Tanks’ initiative is focused on proactively managing storage tank problems by consolidating a network

of senior tank owner-operators working together to pool their experience to help influence and impact standards improvements. The general aim is to move towards proactive changes to risk reduction, operational optimisation and improved profits.

At NISTM Woodlands on 10-12 December 2024, Rafael Regifo will share lessons learned and analyse data trends to better define and prioritise tank initiatives, research and feedback to industry organisations, committees and regulators.

PROACTIVE APPROACH

Becht started the conversation at the ‘Driving Tanks’ kickoff meeting on 8 May 2024 in Houston. The meeting was facilitated by Becht with the participation of several tank owner-operators. The meeting helped narrow the focus to four topics:

SEE US IN HOUSTON!

1. Floating Roof Reliability-Centred Management

2. Bottom Repair Proactive Strategies

3. Repairs Scope of Work – Review/ Approval Workflow

4. Risk-Based Tank Integrity Program

KNOWLEDGE-SHARING

Becht also committed to create the ‘Driving Tanks’ Industry Forum, where the community of ‘Tank Drivers’ will be sharing lessons learned and exchanging experiences in response to posted questions and topics for discussion. It’s exactly this kind of knowledge-sharing that thrives at NISTM’s trade show and conference. Attendees can enjoy a packed agenda of tank maintenance courses, conference topics focused on the latest in tank regulations, sustainability and future fuels, as well as plenty of networking opportunities with other terminals professionals and array of exhibitors. Taking place at The Wodlands, Texas, on 10-12 December 2025, NISTM Woodlands is not an event to be missed!

For more information:

NISTM Woodlands takes place in The Woodlands, Texas, on 10-12 December. Register to sttend: www.nistm.org

To find out more about Becht’s ‘Driving Tanks’ initiative contact rrengifo@becht.com

https://becht.com

This year, Tank Storage Magazine is sponsoring the raffle at NISTM Woodlands, so make sure to come and visit our team on booth 420, where our sales team Dave and Kyle can discuss how to elevate your brand and reach the highest calibre of storage operators and decision-makers. Plus, registration is now open for our sister event, StocExpo, which is a proud sponsor of NISTM’s welcome reception. Scan the QR code opposite to register now, and catch up with our team to find out what’s happening at the heart of Europe’s bulk liquid industry!

INSIDE THIS YEAR’S TSA

2024’s annual Tank Storage Association Conference & Exhibition took place on 19 September in Coventry, packed with new insights. Kate Rainford shares some key moments that you may have missed

THE UK’S leading event for the bulk storage and energy infrastructure sector returned Coventry, UK on 19 September. The Tank Storage Association’s Conference & Exhibition hosted a wide range of companies showcasing their latest technologies and services in the sector, with an insightful series of sessions running throughout the day. Topics in the conference room ranged from global trends in oil security and strategy, to the Women in Terminal Operations panel, supported by Tank Storage Magazine

GLOBAL TRENDS IN SECURITY AND STRATEGY

Wilma Kelly, president of the Tank Storage Association, kicked off the day with an introduction to the key themes and challenges in the storage sector.

The first session was delivered by Simon Stoddart, head of international oil security and strategy at the UK’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. Stoddart highlighted three key points to remember when discussing the oil market; diversity of supply, the need for better data and; resilience is key. He added that continued industry uncertainty is partly caused by global conflicts, and that the uncertainty surrounding Russia was a catalyst for change in the oil storage sector –including towards the energy transition. ‘One potential oil security concern is that the focus on transitioning to new energy sources could leave oil storage

infrastructure unrequired, leading to a potential mismatch between supply and demand in the interim period,’ he said. Stoddart also weighed in on the current climate concerns. He noted: ‘It remains fundamental to our economies, that climate concerns, laid out in the 2015 Paris agreement, have ushered in an era of profound change, that is also rapidly gathering pace. Despite the headline time bracket being 2050, the urgent push towards a greener, cleaner energy future, is playing into and affecting the global landscape that, in many ways, is now more complex than ever before.’

The climate concerns, and the fast approaching target goals of 2050 were a common thread throughout the day.

ALTERNATIVE FUELS & STORAGE

James Evans, senior manager at Argus Consulting, explained how renewable fuel and feedstock distribution influences storage dynamics. He highlighted how new SAF (sustainable aviation fuel) mandates in the UK could impact the landscape. ‘RefuelUK announced last year that 2% of aviation fuel will be SAF by 2025, rising to an aggressive goal of 70% by 2050,’ says Evans.

Evans also commented on the global trade flows in relation to SAF. ‘Looking at trends we are seeing in the EU and the UK, we will be seeing a similar picture globally; longer term flows of SAF from Asia, anticipated to be diverted towards Europe, with a relatively balanced

market being expected in the 2030s. We do see some potential for US SAF to enter the UK market, as long as feedstock requirements are met. These requirements ensure that there is no ethanol-based SAF.’

THE ENERGY TRANSITION IN EUROPE

Later in the day, Ravi Bhatiani, executive director at FETSA, commented on the energy transition across geographic Europe. He noted that: ‘Terminals continue to be the backbone for energy logistics.’ Bhatiani also added that bulk liquid storage will be key in the energy transition, and diversity of products and flexibility of infrastructure will help when adapting to geographical circumstances and customer demands.

Echoing what both Evans and Stoddart had previously commented on, Bhatiani outlined the approaching climate targets, both those currently in place for the EU, and others soon to become set in law. ‘There are 2030 emissions targets, within the EU, which are 55% emissions reductions by this time. We will have 2040 targets put into law at EU level, which will see a 90% reduction. This is to be proposed before the next year. This will see the EU negotiating position, to make this 90% target global.’

In addition to the climate targets, Ravi Bhatiani also commented on the renewable fuel trends across the EU. ‘One development that we are seeing at the

moment is stocks for renewable fuels, and a much wider range of chemical stocking obligations for critical supply chains, as well as natural gas and energy stocking obligations.’

Drawing his talk to a close, Bhatiani concluded that despite the energy transition itself being highly variable in terms of speed and technology, there is a level of continuity in the energy transition trajectory. He also remarked on the digital transformation: ‘Digitalisation will be needed in the transition, to increase efficiency in logistics as new energies are less energy dense, with a greater need for import infrastructure, and to manage more complex, and non-traditional supply chains and emissions.’

Women in Terminal Operations

The Women in Terminal Operations panel, produced by Tank Storage Magazine highlighted three women in the industry. Host Justine Fosh from Cogent Skills, was joined by Wilma Kelly, current president of the TSA and director at Certas Energy, Tahya Slaven, project manager at Exolum and Esma Gulten, CEO and co-founder of Gizil. The women shared their experiences within the industry, and what they believe the future of the industry looks like for women. ‘Every day is different. You never know when you arrive what you are going to be faced with. Because of this, you develop quickly, and grow a lot of knowledge too. I really enjoy the variety and pace,’ reflected Kelly.

Addressing the younger generation, Wilma Kelly noted that her advice would be to get things done, and learn from colleagues around you. Similarly, Slaven advised younger generations to ‘drop the ego’ but to have confidence in what you know – just ask questions when you don’t. All three women agreed that the

future is looking bright for those wanting to enter the industry, but there are still pre conceptions to dismantle regarding the female ability.

With the industry seeing a lot of positive change within their shared years, the three women note there is still lots more work to be done. Slaven quickly commented that the facilities on site needed work. ‘We need more than just unisex toilets,’ she said. ‘We need to ensure that PPE comes in a range of sizes, so as women can fit in them too!’

Gulten weighed in on her challenges in the industry: ‘The biggest barrier I have faced has been not being taken seriously enough.’ She remarked on how pregnancy impacted the start of her business venture, and that she found men needed other men to convince each other. In such a traditional industry, Gulten found that, at times, her voice wasn’t heard as much. Kelly also shared the barriers she had found within the industry. ‘There needs to be policy and procedures in place to ensure that there is no gender pay gap.’

CLIMATE ADAPTATION

Dr Mike Nicholas from the Environment Agency emphasised the importance of terminals being ready for unexpected climate changes. For example, the heatwave in the summer of 2022, saw chemical and wire fires, along with overheating of data systems. ‘Those in the industry need to be able to explain how you are planning for safety and taking community views into consideration,’ said Nicholas. Regulatory changes were also highlighted, including emergency response arrangements, plant integrity and safety critical equipment, and maintenance.

‘As we move into more advanced technologies, we need to ensure we are aware of how to plan for more safety, and take community views into consideration, innovating in a way that is still mindful of safety.’

TRADE SHOW & INNOVATION

The Tank Storage Association’s Conference & Exhibition saw a great range of discussions, accompanied by an exhibition perfect for networking and showcasing the latest industry innovations. For example, Rosen was showcasing its latest drone at the show (and you can read all about their innovations on page 62).

In terms of networking, John Reynolds Training Services introduced their group of young apprentices to the tank storage community, and the Tank Storage Magazine team was happy to play a game of Terminal Top Trumps with anyone passing by.

The welcoming atmosphere of the TSA, along with the vast range of those exhibiting, meant that visitors could make the most of the one-day event.

For more information: www.tankstorage.org.uk

Save the date for the next Tank Storage Association Conference & Exhibition on 18 September, 2025

01 Women in terminal operations panel.

L-R: Wilma Kelly, director at Certas Energy, Tahya Slaven, project manager at Exolum, Esma Gulten, CEO and co-founder of Gizil and Justine Fosh, CEO of Cogent Skills

02 Tank Storage Magazine team at our stand

REVOLUTIONISING SAFETY

CEO of ColdPad, Julien Bec, explains how the company’s game-changing bonded fastener is keeping workers out of dangerous situations

STORAGE TERMINALS regularly rely on hot works and welding to fix broken infrastructure. This can involve a range of risks, which require extensive preventative measures, and, in some cases can lead to a shut down. To avoid this, composite bonding specialists ColdPad have created the C-Claw; an innovative non-intrusive bonded fastener. This mechanical fastener eliminates the need for hot works, revolutionising safety and efficiency at tank terminals.

After gaining the gold award recognition at the Global Tank Storage Awards, CEO Julien Bec explains the technology, and how it helps to prioritise workers on site.

SOLVING STRUCTURAL MAINTENANCE

The C-Claw is a non-intrusive solution used to repair and reinforce damaged topside secondary steel structures, especially for offshore environments such as floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) units.

Sparks from welding can cause safety concerns, and putting holes in a storage tank is less than ideal. As an alternative, the C-Claw uses heavy-duty adhesive bonding that eliminates the need for hot works entirely.

The solution is optimised for marine conditions, where hot works generate a considerable number of constraints and shutdowns, while increasing risks and safety hazards. CEO Julien Bec says: ‘You don’t need to stop your asset, you don’t need to wait for general maintenance that happens every year or every few years. The C-Claw allows you to fix everything during operation, and also facilitates quick installations in all weather conditions.’

The idea for the C-Claw was born to tailor to specific client needs. ‘Last year, we had a project in South Africa, where we were asked to repair a leak on a storage tank,’ says Bec. ‘This is where the idea for the innovation began. We were able to produce a very cost-effective technology, and everything started from that.’

EASY-USE

A huge benefit of the C-Claw is how quick and easy it is to use. Installation doesn’t require any specialist training. ‘The only additional cost you have is to buy the kit.

The C-Claw has successfully made its debut in storage terminals, marking a pivotal moment in the industry’s safety landscape.

The customer does not need Cold Pad to install it,’ adds Bec.

Take a onshore storage tank for example. Once the surface has been prepared, the C-Claw can be adhesively bonded, using a vacuum technology. This keeps the anchor points facing outwards, and any external infrastructure can be successfully attached. Furthermore, the C-Claw can be installed on a range of surfaces, including cable trays, pipe supports, skids, handrails, ladders and more.

A PROVEN & ADOPTED TECHNOLOGY

The C-Claw bonded fastener has been embraced in the offshore oil and gas industry by clients such as Shell, BP and TotalEnergies. ‘Its primary appeal lies in its unique ability to eliminate welding and drilling processes, mitigating significant safety risks typically associated with hot

work. The C-Claw has successfully made its debut in storage terminals, marking a pivotal moment in the industry’s safety landscape. Bec says: ‘We have now installed 5,000 C-Claw’s on the FPSO and offshore industry.’

Reflecting on the company’s gold win at the Global Tank Storage Awards, Bec notes that industry recognition is key demonstrating how well a new technology can work, and that it is important to approach new customers with a strong industry reference. ‘Now with the award, we have the recognition from the tank storage industry. The awards are considered very important. To us, it was key that we won to gain that recognition.’

For more information: www.cold-pad.com

Nominations for the Global Tank Storage Awards 2025 are open now. Enter for free: www.tankstorageawards.com

01 Franck Matteoli from ColdPad (middle) accepts the Global Tank Storage Award from Peter Geertse from North Sea Port (left) & Anamika Talwaria from Tank Storage Magazine (right)

GLOBAL EVENTS 2024/25

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