Inside Energy March 2025

Obituary Mr O D (Dai) Somerville-Jones EIC CEO 1991 – 2004

by Stuart Broadley CEO, EIC

Dai Somerville-Jones was first appointed EIC CEO at the end of 1991, taking over from Mr Ronnie A Custiss who had been EIC Director General for the previous 11 years, under the Chairmanship of Mr Tim M Evans CBE.

EIC was just a UK-based trade association at the time, officed at Newcombe House, 45 Notting Hill Gate, London.

Dai hosted EIC’s Annual Dinner that year with Tim Rice as guest speaker, overseeing 936 guests and that same event in 1993 was the highlight of the Council’s 50th anniversary jubilee celebration, raising £60,000 for the Macmillan charity.

Although member engagement at these glamorous dinners was high, Dai knew behind the scenes there were problems at EIC to be addressed.

Membership numbers had fallen in the late 1980s/early 1990s to their lowest levels since the trade association came into existence 50 years earlier, driven by low oil prices and global recession.

Dai had to do something quickly to grow membership and turn fortunes around.

Although the EIC was very active with events, taking stands for the first time at OTC in Houston and ONS in Stavanger in 1994, indeed sponsoring 26 events in 19 countries, EIC was languishing financially.

His priority was to look urgently for alternative sources of revenue, including the feasibility of analysing contracts published in the European Official Journal (OJ) and circulating relevant information to members, at a cost to them of less than a subscription to the OJ.

Named the EIC OJ Report, this new service grew quickly to 72 subscribers within a year and turned a profit. Dai was onto something. This idea was the seed that grew in later years into EICDataStream.

While overseeing a large Board with 37 directors and committee chairs, which must have taken up a lot of his time, Dai jumped on a new proposal by Mr Robert Williams, who worked at overseas member Ryan, Williams Associates, to set up a first overseas office, namely in Houston, Texas.

The Houston chapter, as it was known, received a lot of member support and it was launched at 10777 Westheimer in 1995, and indeed will celebrate its 30th anniversary under Amanda Duhon’s leadership this year.

Also in 1995, after more than 20 years of on-off discussions, Dai drove through the only merger EIC ever did, with the Process Plant Association.

In 1996, EIC distributed almost half a million pages of information to its members annually and Dai began to strive for a more paperless approach and communication with members started to switch to email in 1997.

That same year, Dai hosted the Princess Royal at the EIC Annual Dinner, raising money for the Save the Children Fund, with Sir Tim Rice returning as guest speaker, donating his fee to the charity. The Palace later reported that “HRH had enjoyed the evening and had banked the cheque handed to her at the end of the evening.”

Dai was a founding member of FPAL (First Point Assessment Limited) in Aberdeen in 1996, set up under the CRINE initiative (Cost Reduction Initiative for the New Era), in response to low oil prices and high interest rates.

1998 saw the Board approve EIC’s first website and Dai launched his new strategy called Vision 99, with the slogan ‘Energizing Your Business’, to provide a unique global service. Vision 99 laid out a series of bold ideas – to open new overseas offices in Singapore, UAE and Brazil.

Vision 99 also foresaw how the new EIC website could be “the basis for a new, real-time, global, interactive intelligence system, recommending supplier capability of our members globally, providing quick start-up support in overseas offices and being the voice of the energy industry.” Under Dai’s persuasive and inspiring leadership, the EIC committed £1m for this expansion plan.

By 2001, there were 1,800 projects on the EIC online database, which was to develop ultimately into what is now EIC’s ‘crown jewels’, the projects database EICDataStream.

Dai retired from EIC in 2004, after 13 years of very dynamic and transformative leadership as our CEO, succeeded by Rear Admiral Mike Gregory.

Postscript

Dai attended the EIC 75th anniversary celebration at the House of Lords, along with Mike Major, another retired EIC CEO, and he wrote this at the time:

From my appointment as Secretary of the EIC in 1988, I was aware that the organisation needed to gain a global presence and influence to become a soughtafter source of information and provide UK industry with access to vast worldwide opportunities.

When I became CEO in 1991, I was able to set about accomplishing this by modernising the organisation and its systems. We formed a subsidiary in Houston to provide a simple, inexpensive base for members to operate in while feeding EIC headquarters with global information. Houston also flowed into another part of my plan – to construct a computerised global database of accessible filterable information providing marketing opportunities for members. After the success of this strategy, subsequent EIC subsidiaries were opened over the following four years in Singapore (now Kuala Lumpur), Rio de Janeiro and Dubai.

During this period, we increased our overseas ventures with exhibitions, trade missions and seminars; by the time I retired, we were visiting some 50 countries on a cyclical basis. We were able to gain the confidence of the Department of Trade and Industry enough to receive funding for the events.

While this expansion was taking place, I was invited to be permanent deputy director of First Point Assessment in Aberdeen and Eurogif in Brussels, which boosted the EIC’s profile across the industry both nationally and internationally.

I also introduced the EIC’s own magazine – Global Energy, now Energy Focus. Clearly this has proved its worth, as I am now able to supply this short history of my EIC career in the 75th anniversary edition.

I believed throughout my time at the EIC that the Council had much to give to the UK supply base both nationally and globally. As I enjoy my retirement, I watch the EIC continue its mission with enormous interest – and pride that I was allowed to be a part of its growth.

Left to right: Stuart Broadley, Mike Major, Lord Popat of Harrow and Dai Somerville-Jones

Sector analysis

The UK and US SAF market

Aviation is one of the most challenging sectors to decarbonise, despite its relatively small contribution to global CO2 emissions. In addition to the CO2 produced by fuel combustion, aviation also affects other atmospheric gases, contributing to around 4% of the global temperature rise since pre-industrial times. The shift from conventional jet fuel to low-emission alternatives, such as biofuels, hydrogen, or electrification, is essential, particularly in countries with high and growing consumption. However, hydrogen and electric aviation technologies remain in their early stages, making sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) the most feasible option for decarbonisation in the near term. In this context, both the UK and US are actively advancing SAF markets, supported by regulatory frameworks and technological innovations.

In the UK, a mandate has recently been introduced requiring that SAF constitutes at least 2% of all jet fuel used in flights departing the country. This figure is set to rise to 10% by 2030 and 22% by 2040. The mandate aims to result in an average annual increase of 1.6% in the proportion of SAF within the aviation fuel supply over the next five years, enforced through a traceable certificate scheme. Under this system, suppliers will receive certificates based on the greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) reductions achieved in the previous year. These certificates can be used to meet the mandated obligations, with any excess available for sale to other suppliers. The mandate also includes a buy-out mechanism, allowing suppliers to fulfil obligations if they cannot secure enough SAF.

However, despite the introduction of the mandate, the UK currently has only one operational SAF facility, expected to produce around 50m litres of SAF this year. This represents just 17.3% of the 287.5m litres required for 2025, with the shortfall likely needing to be imported. The limited domestic supply, coupled with the high buy-out price, will lead to higher costs for consumers until SAF production increases. Moreover, the absence of a revenue certainty mechanism may discourage investment in new SAF plants. According to EICDataStream, while there are 17 SAF projects under development in the UK, nine are in the early stages and none are under construction. Notable projects such as LanzaTech’s Project Dragon, which will be the world’s first large-scale alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) fuel plant and was anticipated to begin operations in 2026, has yet to receive final investment decisions (FID), suggesting stagnation in development.

Additionally, although government funding is significant, it is not enough. The Department for Transport (DfT) estimates the cost of a single SAF plant at over £1bn, while the UK government has allocated just over US$2.6bn in total, creating a considerable funding gap. As a result, it seems unlikely that the target of having five commercial SAF plants under construction by 2025 will be met.

Similarly, the US has made progress in advancing the SAF market. In early January 2025, the guidance for the new 45Z Clean Fuels Production tax credit was released. Unlike the flat-rate 40B credit, this scheme offers up to US$1 per gallon for clean fuels used on roads and US$1.75 per gallon for fuels used in SAF production, provided the fuels have at least 50% lower emissions than petroleumbased fuels. However, this policy is set to span only three years, instead of the 10+ years needed to stabilise investor risk. The country also faces challenges regarding feedstock supply, especially used cooking oil (UCO), which accounts for 60% of renewable fuel feedstock. Potential tariffs, particularly those proposed during Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, could disrupt supplies, further complicating the US SAF market.

At present, the US has four commercial-scale SAF facilities with a combined capacity of 64m gallons per year. The government aims to ramp up production to 3bn gallons by 2030, necessitating 8-12 commercial-scale plants. According to EICDataStream, there are 45 SAF projects planned in the US, with 25 in detailed engineering, 18 in early stages and only two under construction.

Of these, only five have received final investment decisions, with just one granted in 2024, well below the 14 anticipated. If the tendency persists, the number of FIDs expected in 2025 may also fall short, further indicating that not all planned projects will materialise.

Therefore, although the new tax credit benefits SAF producers, uncertainties around president Trump’s second term and his stance on tariffs could create challenges. The president has already withdrawn the US from the Paris climate agreement and signed an executive order to ease the permitting process for oil and gas projects on his first day. If tariffs increase, particularly on imports from China, US companies could face higher production costs, which could hinder their competitiveness in the SAF market, sidelining potential investments in clean fuel.

In conclusion, both the UK and US are making progress in decarbonising aviation through SAF development, but several challenges remain. These include slow project development, uncertainties surrounding feedstock supply and regulatory complexities, all of which could hamper the achievement of ambitious government targets. While SAF plays a central role in aviation’s decarbonisation, significant investment and more robust policy frameworks are necessary to ensure the sector’s transition to a lower-carbon future.

Igor Santos

Junior Energy Consultant, EIC South America igor.santos@the-eic.com

Inside this issue...

You’ve probably already seen our tribute to Dai Somerville-Jones, CEO of the EIC from 1991 to 2004. Our current CEO, Stuart Broadley, authored an obituary in observance of Dai’s passing earlier this year. If you haven’t yet, we invite you to read the piece we have prepared. Dai Somerville-Jones was an integral part of the EIC’s history and we wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for his guidance and efforts during his time as CEO. We have also included a postscript written by Dai for the EIC’s 75th anniversary edition of Energy Focus, our quarterly publication.

The second edition of the EIC’s prestigious Net Zero Jeopardy Insight Report series is now available. This year, the report highlights how the energy industry’s confidence in reaching global net zero targets is fading as policy instability, financial uncertainty and slow project approvals continue to hinder progress.

Only 16% of senior energy executives interviewed now believe the world can achieve net zero by 2050, down from 45% last year. The report, based on interviews with EIC member companies mostly based in the UK, points to growing concerns over the lack of clear regulatory frameworks, underinvestment in clean technologies and delays in bringing projects to the final investment decision (FID) stage.

To read the full report, as well as last year’s edition, please visit www.the-eic.com/MediaCentre/Publications/EICNetZeroReport

In this edition of Inside Energy, readers can find pieces on Superheat’s digital solutions for advanced onsite heat treatment services, Siemens’ extension of its Veloce hardware-assisted verification platform and regional updates from our offices and members worldwide.

DataStream

BRAZIL

Complexo Offshore do Sul I Offshore Wind Farm

Operator: EDF Renewables Value: US$3.6bn EDF Renewables has applied for environmental assessments with IBAMA for five offshore wind projects in Brazil. The proposed projects include 2,016MW wind farms in Ceará and Piauí, and three projects in Rio Grande do Sul with capacities of 1,596MW, 1,659MW and 3,024MW.

For information on these and more than 16,000 other current and future projects we are tracking please visit EICDataStream

SOUTH AFRICA

Winterton Concentrated Solar Power Plant

Operator: Photon Energy Value: US$500m

Photon Energy has announced plans to build the concentrated solar plant with 150MW/1.8GWh of long-duration thermal hydro storage. Photon Energy has secured 1,200 hectares (2,965 acres) of land for the project and has now received favourable grid connection terms. It expects to reach readyto-build status by the second quarter of 2026.

Global opportunities

GERMANY

Lingen Green Hydrogen Project

Operator: bp Value: US$250m

bp has taken the final investment decision on the project. Construction is scheduled to start in 2025, with commissioning expected in 2027. The project will have an electrolyser capacity of 100MW.

OMAN Oman SAF Plant

Operator: Nordic Electrofuel Value: US$250m

Nordic Electrofuel has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hydrom, Oman’s central entity for green hydrogen developments, for the deployment of a sustainable aviation fuel plant in the country.

US North Anna SMR Project

Operator: Dominion Virginia Power Value: US$1.5m

Amazon has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dominion Energy to study the potential of deploying a 300MW SMR project at the existing North Anna Nuclear Power Station in Virginia.

VIETNAM

Hai Su Vang Field

Operator: Murphy Oil Value: US$500m

Murphy Oil has made an oil discovery at the Hai Su Vang-1X exploration well, offshore Vietnam. The well was drilled to a depth of 4,000m in 45m of water and encountered 112m of net oil pay from two reservoirs. Additional evaluation is currently ongoing with plans for appraisal drilling in the future.

THE VOICE OF THE ENERGY SUPPLY CHAIN

DataStream

Are you up to date on the latest project developments in the energy market? The EIC’s leading market intelligence database – EICDataStream – contains information on energy projects and associated contracting activity from the inception stage all the way through to construction and commissioning.

• Access details on over 14,000 CAPEX projects across all energy sectors

• Identify business opportunities and inform your business development strategies

• Explore a truly global database, updated daily by an international team of analysts

• Stay up to date with project developments, including information on tenders and awards

• Get insights into what your existing clients are doing and identify potential new clients

• Have a direct interface with analysts for local knowledge and insights

• Access insight and country reports with in-depth data on specific sectors and markets

SupplyMap

EICSupplyMap maps the capabilities of supply chain companies that operate across all energy industries. These industries cover renewables, oil and gas, power, nuclear and energy transition technologies like energy storage, carbon capture and hydrogen.

• Identify the supply chain local to your region, giving you the opportunity to engage with potential new clients.

• Find the supply chain capability in eight regions, now covering the UK, Germany, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Singapore, US (Texas/Louisiana) and Brazil.

• An in-depth look at profiles of more than 8,800 energy sector supply chain companies.

• Make smarter decisions by targeting your offering to international developers/operators and contractors matching your capability with international energy projects.

RIO

KUALA LUMPUR

Member’s news

SUPERHEAT: digital solutions for advanced onsite heat treatment services

The onsite heat treatment industry within the oil, gas and energy sectors, has long struggled with outdated procedures and equipment, leading to project inefficiencies, budget overruns and increased safety risks. Facility owners and contractors have been searching for innovative service providers who can modernise this crucial service, offering safer, more cost-effective and qualitydriven solutions. In 2000, a company emerged to meet this need – Superheat. Founded on the principle of advancing heat treatment through innovation and technology, with a focus on listening to its client’s pains, Superheat set out to transform pre and post-weld heat treatment services, introducing a new era of efficiency and safety.

Superheat SmartView™:

a digital project management and QA hub

The Superheat SmartWay™ process Superheat’s SmartWay™ solution seamlessly integrates advanced remote operation technology with digital project management and quality assurance. This approach supports various heat treatment applications, such as weld preheating, post-weld heat treatment, induction heating and more. Central to this process is the Superheat SmartCenter™, a patented remote-control hub that optimises labour productivity by managing equipment and heat cycles offsite, reducing the onsite workforce, and minimising the job site footprint. To look at SmartWay, check out Superheat’s video.

Superheat SmartCenter™: patented wireless remote efficiency at its best Superheat’s SmartCenter sets it apart by eliminating the need for traditional onsite trailer control hubs or further archaic 1:1 tech-to-equipment direct programming and monitoring. Instead, strategic global remote control centres manage equipment and heat cycles, ensuring optimal efficiency and quality. In-house engineers configure heat treatments according to industry standards, while its QA team oversees project specifications. All QA/QC data is then digitally documented and shared through Superheat SmartReports™, accessible via SmartView.

SmartView is Superheat’s digital project management and quality assurance platform, offering unparalleled transparency and efficiency. Clients can monitor project status, view live heat cycle progress and access critical documentation in real time. This centralised system streamlines communication and ensures all parties have a single source of truth, enhancing decision-making and project execution.

Advanced equipment for enhanced performance

Continual field-level feedback drives investment in R&D, ensuring Superheat’s services use the most advanced equipment with the highest safety certifications in the industry. It understands you’re pressured to do more with less; therefore, it is committed to designing and manufacturing equipment that maximises output while minimising the footprint on your project. To learn more about this innovative equipment, visit Superheat’s website.

Conclusion

Superheat’s SmartWay solution represents a new standard in onsite heat treatment, combining innovation, safety and efficiency. By embracing advanced technology and focusing on client needs, the company delivers a Better. Safer. Faster.™ approach to onsite heat treatment, shaping the future of the industry.

To learn more about Superheat, visit its website at superheat.com or call today on +44 (0)1462 888 003

Follow Superheat on LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube to see first hand how it is revolutionising the onsite heat treatment industry.

Siemens Digital Industries Spotlight on technology

Siemens Digital Industries Software has announced an extension of its Veloce™ hardware-assisted verification platform to support 1.6 Tbps Ethernet. As a core component of the Siemens software/hardware and system validation platform, Veloce delivers complete virtual models to support Ethernet Packet Generator and Monitor (EPGM) Ethernet port speeds up to 1.6 Tbps. This enables full performance, pre-silicon verification for complex networking designs targeting data centre, cloud, HPC and AI workloads.

The Veloce hardware-assisted verification platform now supports the evolving standard of IEEE 802.3dj for port speeds of 1.6 Tbps based on 200G per lane and also supports 200G/400G/800G performance based on the 200G per lane technology standard.

The Veloce portfolio of supported DUT interfaces for 200G, 400G, 800G and 1.6T Ethernet (based on 200G/lane technology) is available now. To learn more about how Siemens is enabling the semiconductor and electronic systems industry to deliver to market the world’s most advanced SoCs and systems, visit https://eda.sw.siemens.com/en-US/ic/hav/

These interfaces enable customers to scale up large networking configurations for skyrocketing bandwidth demand. The Veloce low latency, high bandwidth co-model channel provides a complete, high-performance pre-silicon environment so customers can easily run complex system-level scenarios for maximum functional and performance verification of Ethernet devices.

Jean-Marie Brunet, Vice President and General Manager, Hardware-Assisted Verification, Siemens Digital Industries Software

Siemens Digital Industries Software helps organisations of all sizes digitally transform using software, hardware and services from the Siemens Xcelerator business platform.

Siemens’ software and the comprehensive digital twin enable companies to optimise their design, engineering and manufacturing processes to turn today’s ideas into the sustainable products of the future. From chips to entire systems, from product to process, across all industries. Siemens Digital Industries Software –accelerating transformation.

New EIC members

NEW GLOBAL MEMBER

AHI Carrier

B1-22, SAIF Zone

PO Box 122341

Sharjah UAE

Contact

Sujit Gopalan, Senior Manager –Business Development

Telephone +971 6 5045 700

Email sujit@ahi-carrier.com

Web www.ahi-carrier.com

AHI Carrier is one of the largest carrier joint venture HVAC distribution companies outside the US delivering energy-efficient and innovative HVAC solutions to its customers in over 100 countries, spread across four continents.

With over two decades of experience, the Energy and Renewables Division provides complete management of your projects in the oil and gas, petrochemical, offshore wind, green hydrogen and mining segments.

AHI Carrier provides system solutions including detailed engineering, procurement and field support services expertise for HVAC and related electrical, instrumentation, fire and gas detection and security systems tailored to your specific requirements.

NEW GLOBAL MEMBER

Arendal S de RL de CV

Prol Los Soles 200 Int 302

Valle Oriente

San Pedor Garza García Nuevo León

Mexico

Contact

Pilar Gutiérrez, Business Development Manager

Telephone +52 (81) 81 54 11 00

Email pilar.gutierrez@arendal.com.mx

Web www.arendal.com.mx

Arendal, founded in 1995, specialises in EPC solutions, providing services throughout the oil and gas, power infrastructure and mining sectors. With a presence in North, Central, South America, the Caribbean and several international markets, Arendal has solid corporate governance that invests in talent, technology and processes to develop a unique operational methodology. This ensures the execution of complex projects with innovative construction methods and a focus on efficiency.

NEW GLOBAL MEMBER Belden

Industrielaan 17b 2250 Olen Belgium

Contact

Peter Beckers, Business Development Manager

Telephone +32 14 25 28 47

Email peter.beckers@belden.com

Web www.belden.com

Belden Inc delivers complete connection solutions that unlock untold possibilities for its customers, their customers and the world. The company advances ideas and technologies that enable a safer, smarter and more prosperous future.

Throughout Belden’s 120+ year history it has evolved as a company, but its purpose remains – making connections. By connecting people, information and ideas, the company makes it possible. It is headquartered in St Louis and has manufacturing capabilities in North America, Europe, Asia and Africa.

NEW PRIMARY MEMBER Braver

Rua General Venancio Flores, 604 303 Lebion Rio de Janeiro

Brazil

Contact

Filipe Sá, General Manager

Telephone +55 21 99385 0828

Email

filipe@braverengenharia.com

Web

https://braverengenharia.com/

Braver is a leading company in structural solutions using composite materials, particularly FRP (fiberreinforced polymer). With expertise in advanced engineering, Braver develops innovative projects for industries such as offshore, infrastructure and agribusiness, ensuring durability, lightweight structures and corrosion resistance.

The company also specialises in research and development, material certification and structural optimisation, delivering cost reduction and efficiency improvements. With over 90 completed projects, Braver has been transforming the market by challenging traditional solutions and offering high-performance alternatives to steel and concrete. Innovative solutions for the future of engineering.

NEW PRIMARY MEMBER

Forship

Av Pres Wilson 231 16th Floor, Room 1602 Rio de Janeiro 20.030-905

Brazil

Contact

Hannah Mignon Tauil, Marketing Co-ordinator

Telephone +55 (21) 97986 0303

Email

hannah.mignon@forship.com comercial@forship.com

Web www.forship.com

Forship provides integrated engineering solutions for industrial asset management across sectors such as oil and gas, petrochemicals, biofuels, maritime, energy, mining, infrastructure and more.

With a global presence, the company excels in offering services in commissioning, operation and maintenance, consultancy, modifications (IMR) and Brazilian regulatory compliance. Known for its innovation, Forship leverages advanced technologies like the HMSWeb© platform to optimise project efficiency and performance.

Committed to excellence, the company embraces ESG practices, focusing on environmental, social and corporate governance and serves over 150 clients worldwide.

NEW PRIMARY MEMBER Gascat Indústria e Comércio Ltda

Rod SP 73, 1141 Indaiatuba/SP 13347-390

Brazil

Contact

Mayara Cantelli, Senior Sales Analyst

Telephone +55 (19) 3936 9300

Email mayara@gascat.com.br

Web

www.gascat.com.br

Gascat is a 100% Brazilian company with over 30 years of market experience, standing out in the development of equipment and systems for the control and handling of all gaseous fluids, including green gas.

With technological independence and assured quality, it serves gas distribution and transportation companies throughout Brazil and in over 40 countries. Located in Indaiatuba/SP, it has more than 150 employees in a 16,000 sq m area.

Tuesday 20 May 2025

NEW PRIMARY MEMBER

GD Express Sdn Bhd

No 19, Jalan Tandang 46050 Petaling Jaya Selangor Malaysia

Contact Teong Tsang Whon, Executive Director/ Head of Global Business Development

Telephone +603 7787 2222

Email edmundteong@gdexpress.com

Web www.gdexpress.com

Established in 1997, GDEX Berhad is a leading domestic and international express delivery services provider in Malaysia. GDEX also has increasing presence in South East Asia, with operations in Singapore, Indonesia (SAP Express) and Vietnam (NETCO).

Through its investee companies, GDEX also offers comprehensive digital solutions, such as cloudbased point-of-sales (POS) system, e-commerce and customised web and software solutions, as well as artificial intelligence-enabled cybersecurity solutions.

NEW PRIMARY MEMBER

JD Neuhaus UK/ME

Unit 9 & 10 Kirkton Avenue Aberdeen, UK/ LB182505 Jafza Views Dubai

Contact

Steve Walker, Managing Director JDN UK/ME

Telephone +44 01224 722 751 UK +44 7557 789 784 UK Mobile

+971 58 503 7326 UAE Mobile

Email steve.walker@jdngroup.com

Web www.jdngroup.com

The JD Neuhaus Group is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of pneumatic and hydraulic hoists, cranes and system solutions, headquartered in Witten, Germany.

Founded in 1745 and with 155 employees at the headquarters in Witten and another 70 spread over subsidiaries in Baltimore (US), Aberdeen (UK), Lyon (France), Dubai (UAE) as well as Singapore, JD Neuhaus supplies customers from 90 countries and 70 industries.

The company helps people to move loads in a sustainable digitised world.

NEW PRIMARY MEMBER

Massutera Engineering Sdn Bhd

Lot No 49, 50 & 51

Sg Bera Light Industrial Area Seria KB 1933 Brunei

Contact Chong Huang Seng, Executive Director

Telephone +673 322 3863

Email hschong@massutera.com

Web www.massutera.com

Massutera Engineering Sdn Bhd, formally known as Syarikat Kejuruteraan Sistematik Sdn Bhd was incorporated in 1984 and derived from humble beginnings to emerge as one of the leading contractors in Brunei Darussalam.

Over the years, the company has steadily expanded and accomplished remarkable achievements and success in many landmark projects. These achievements have served as an opportunity for its expansion into other heavy industrial fields such as the construction of industrial plant and equipment, offshore facilities maintenance and construction.

Since its inception in 1984, MESB has consistently focused on efficient management and the development of a wide range of multi-skilled local personnel to meet the changing demands of various projects.

Linking them together is a strong central commitment allowing the very best skills and expertise to be utilised on any project undertaken. While offering the broadest range of services, the company also provides the simplicity of single point responsibility for even the most complex projects.

NEW PRIMARY MEMBER OSSO

Howe Moss Crescent Dyce, Aberdeen AB21 0GN UK

Contact

Samantha Breese, Head of Marketing

Telephone +44 (0)1224 772 918

Email sbreese@ossoltd.com

Web

www.ossoltd.com

OSSO is a worldwide rental provider of integrated products and maintenance services focused on fluid purification, wastewater treatment, mud cooling, cooling solutions and plate heat exchanger overhaul.

Its products are supported by technical experts with years of field proven knowledge who provide sound consultative advice. OSSO’s products provide a material difference in the commercial and environmental running of projects across the oil and gas, decommissioning, geothermal, industrial and construction industries.

NEW PRIMARY MEMBER Tekgem

Rashid Al Suwaidi Building 390 Musaffah Abu Dhabi UAE

Contact

Nader Ferjini, Account Director – Middle East

Telephone +44 (0)1642 062 109

Email nader.ferjini@tekgem.ae

Web

www.tekgem.ae

Tekgem is an industry leading industrial cyber security company that bridges the gap between information technology and operational technology.

The company’s innovative software platforms, Unity and Shield, are designed to continuously monitor cyber risks and protect against the latest threats, while its consultancy and engineering services ensure that customers operate safely and securely in compliance with international industry standards and regulatory requirements.

Celebrating 20 years in business, Tekgem is headquartered in the UK with Middle East regional offices in Abu Dhabi. Tekgem operates globally across the process industry having extensive experience working with the manufacturing, chemical, petrochemical, oil and gas, energy, utilities and pharmaceutical sectors.

NEW GLOBAL MEMBER

United Heavy Lift GmbH & Co KG

Am Kaiserkai 69 20457 Hamburg Germany

Contact

Sissel Pauls, Marketing Manager

Telephone +49 40 308 5424 00

Email marketing@unitedshippinggroup.de

Web www.unitedheavylift.de

United Heavy Lift (UHL) is a leading provider of maritime heavy-lift transport and project logistics solutions. Headquartered in Hamburg, Germany, UHL specialises in the global transportation of oversized and heavy cargo, serving industries such as renewable energy, oil and gas, infrastructure and shipbuilding.

The company operates a modern fleet of fuel-efficient vessels equipped with advanced lifting technology, ensuring safe and reliable delivery worldwide.

Committed to sustainability, UHL actively invests in eco-friendly shipping solutions to reduce its environmental footprint. With a customer-centric approach and engineering expertise, UHL delivers tailored logistics solutions for the most complex cargo challenges.

7 August 2025 • Rio de Janeiro

Member news

ABB launches next-generation medium voltage drive, designed to enhance industrial performance

ABB has launched the ACS8080, its newest medium voltage air-cooled drive. The new drive represents an evolution, building on over 50 years of experience in delivering drives to industrial applications and bringing reliability, performance and flexibility to the next level thanks to innovative motor control, versatile design and digital capabilities.

The converter can achieve up to 98% efficiency, targeting optimal performance for the entire drive system. The new motor control technology MP3C pushes efficiency and motor friendliness to the limit, while preserving the dynamic performance and robustness of the predecessor DTC. It also reduces harmonic distortions by around 50% compared to classic control and modulation schemes, thereby extending equipment lifetime and achieving energy savings.

Designed for versatility and ease of integration, the new ACS8080 easily adapts to a wide range of applications and industries. The modular and flexible design includes the possibility of utilising an external transformer and selecting a sine filter option, making it an optimal match not only for new applications, but also for retrofitting existing drive systems or direct online (DOL) machines.

A high degree of flexibility is also possible due to the advanced digital features: the integration of the open software platform, Crealizer™, into the ABB drive operating system allows for advanced programming capabilities that enable the rapid development and deployment of innovative applicationspecific functionalities, reducing reliance on external controllers.

The leaner design of the ACS8080 translates into a lower number of components than its predecessors, increasing reliability but also simplifying maintenance and service processes.

For this new drive, being reliable also means being able to withstand extreme conditions and this has been tested through rigorous accelerated lifetime tests carried out in the ABB Drives testing facility in Estonia, simulating 20 years of operations.

At ABB, we invest in R&D to deliver new solutions that enhance productivity while reducing emissions and operating costs.

Chris

Poynter, President of Systems Drives Division, ABB Motion

Enhanced sensing capabilities and a next generation control hardware enable the collection of up to 10 times more diagnostic data for better and faster monitoring solutions. The new ABB Connectivity Edge Gateway allows connectivity whether on premises or to the cloud, making it an optimal fit for many digital needs. The built-in sensing solutions enable asset health and performance management (AHPM) capabilities, reliability monitoring and data supported inspection for faster troubleshooting and failure detection.

Fully embedded in the new drive are advanced safety and protection systems designed to prevent foreseeable hazardous situations and effectively manage unexpected ones. The new ACS8080 is developed to protect against unauthenticated access, malicious firmware, data breaches and insecure connectivity allowing customers to benefit from all modern digital capabilities.

Aramco, SINOPEC and Fujian Petrochemical break ground on new refining and petrochemical project in China

Aramco, one of the world’s leading integrated energy and chemicals companies, China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (SINOPEC) and Fujian Petrochemical Company Limited (FPCL) have broken ground on a new integrated refining and petrochemical complex in Fujian Province, China.

The facility is planned to have a 16m tons per year oil refining unit (320,000 barrels per day), a 1.5m tons per year ethylene unit, a 2m tons paraxylene and downstream derivatives capacity and a 300,000 tons crude oil terminal. FPCL, a 50:50 joint venture between SINOPEC and Fujian Petrochemical Industrial Group Company, will own a 50% stake in the complex, with Aramco and SINOPEC each taking a 25% stake. The project is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2030.

Aramco is a global integrated energy and chemicals company. It is driven by its core belief that energy is opportunity. From producing approximately one in every eight barrels of the world’s oil supply to developing new energy technologies, Aramco’s global team is dedicated to creating impact in all that it does.

For more information: www.abb.com

The ABB ACS8080 next generation medium voltage drive

BASF – Kent collaboration to advance gas treatment innovation in the Middle East

Kent, a leading provider of engineering and project management services in the energy sector, has been awarded a contract for engineering services by BASF to support the company’s gas treatment initiatives in the UAE. Kent will provide essential engineering and design services as part of the development of process design packages (PDP) within BASF’s licensed gas treatment technology package OASE®

Under the terms of the contract, Kent will perform critical engineering tasks essential to BASF’s objectives. This includes optimised process schemes, preparing comprehensive PDPs and ensuring strict adherence to applicable industry standards. Kent’s services will be essential during both the define and execute phases of the project.

Kent is a privately-owned international integrated energy services partner backed by Nesma & Partners. Founded in 1919 as a small family business in Ireland, Kent is a 13,000 people strong, client-centric team and US$1.4bn revenue global business. It delivers sustainable and innovative engineering services and project delivery solutions for the oil and gas, industrial, renewables and low-carbon industries. It has a roster of blue-chip clients, including international energy companies, national oil companies, renewable energy companies and global petrochemical companies.

BASF creates chemistry for a sustainable future. It combines economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Around 112,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of its customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. BASF’s portfolio comprises six segments: chemicals, materials, industrial solutions, surface technologies, nutrition & care and agricultural solutions. BASF generated sales of €68.9bn in 2023. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the US.

Clyde & Co comments on announcement of Global Clean Power Alliance

The announcement of the Global Clean Power Alliance is a welcome step in tackling the fact that power generation accounts for around one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions. However, its success depends on overcoming significant challenges. Renewables cannot yet provide reliable baseload energy – they only generate when the sun is shining or the wind is blowing.

Battery storage technology does not yet offer long-discharge, very high capacity solutions. So, a solution for clean and sustainable baseload generation is required. Also, it is one thing to try to encourage private finance investment in clean energy but private finance will only invest where there is a profit.

Additionally, lengthy planning approvals, potential legal challenges and the absence of robust legislative frameworks for new technologies could delay progress. Planning approvals for wind farms, solar farms and transmission and distribution infrastructure take time to be obtained and are then usually subject to challenge in the courts. This can take years to resolve. 2030 is only five years away, well within the time it could take to resolve challenges and appeals for new energy projects. Some new projects will require enabling legislation or supporting regulations, especially for new technologies, which takes time to be enacted.

Supporting and encouraging foreign private investment will depend on how investments into new, cutting-edge technologies are to be protected from the subsequent imposition of windfall taxes, the withdrawal of government subsidies intended to encourage the investment, or even expropriation. Some protections were traditionally available from bi- or multilateral investment treaties such as the Energy Charter Treaty, but the recent trend has been for nation states to withdraw from such treaties. Balancing investor protection and the sovereign right to legislate can be tricky.

Richard Power, Partner and leading lawyer in energy industry disputes, Clyde & Co

Costain wins two significant awards at Project Controls Expo UK 2024

Costain secured two award wins at the Project Controls Expo UK 2024 last year in London. The awards recognise Costain’s commitment to excellence and innovation in project controls, as well as the dedication and skill of its talented team members.

Costain’s Stefanie Bragg was named UK Project Controls Apprentice of the Year in recognition of her exceptional contributions and rapid professional development within the project controls sector. Stefanie has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to her role, bringing both technical skills and a proactive approach to her work.

Costain, in partnership with EDF UK, also won Global Project Controls Consultancy of the Year. This award underscores Costain’s role as an industry leader in delivering complex project controls solutions that drive digital transformation and optimise project delivery. Working alongside EDF UK, Costain has leveraged specialised services and advanced data analytics through Power BI to enhance the efficiency and forecasting accuracy within the nuclear decommissioning sector.

Costain colleagues Macy O’Connor and Alex Restell were also shortlisted in the categories of UK Project Management/ Project Controls Apprentice of the Year and Global Project Controls Professional of the Year, respectively, signalling the breadth of talent within Costain’s project controls team.

Costain is a leading UK infrastructure solutions company, committed to delivering innovative solutions across energy, water, transportation and defence. Through advanced project controls, digital technology and datadriven approaches, Costain partners with clients to drive improvements, enhance sustainability and contribute to the success of the UK’s critical infrastructure.

DNV: Spain needs immediate action for 2050 climate neutrality despite emission reductions

DNV’s first Spain-focused energy transition outlook (ETO) underscores the critical need to accelerate efforts toward achieving the country’s 2050 climate neutrality goals. The report reveals that while Spain is on track to reduce CO2 emissions by 74% compared to 1990 levels by mid-century, this pace lags behind the ambitious milestones outlined in the National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP).

Spain’s long-term success requires not only infrastructure and policy changes but also public understanding of and support for the energy transition. A clear, sustainable plan will help us navigate the challenges ahead. The path to full climate neutrality by 2050 requires urgent action, but Spain can meet its goals and lead the way in Europe by accelerating renewable energy deployment, improving electrification and expanding infrastructure.

Santiago Blanco, Executive

Vice President and Regional Director for Southern Europe, Energy Systems, DNV

Spain has already made remarkable progress, cutting greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 27% between 2005 and 2019 – well above the EU’s average reduction of 19%.

The ambitious 2050 strategy targets a carbon-neutral, sustainable and climate-resilient nation. In 2020, Spain underscored this commitment by declaring a climate emergency and setting thirty priority actions to confront climate change.

DNV forecasts that Spain’s installed renewables capacity will quadruple by 2050, with solar capacity increasing to 230GW and wind power to 120GW, positioning Spain as a leading European solar market. This surge will not only drive energy security but also lower electricity production costs to 10% below the European average for solar and 15% lower for onshore wind by mid-century. Fossil fuels, currently 70% of the energy mix, are expected to drop to below 30% by 2050.

However, Spain’s short-term targets remain challenging. The National Energy and Climate Plan goal for a 32% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 currently outpaces projected progress, with DNV forecasting a 13% reduction by that date instead.

Despite Spain’s competitive renewable energy costs, immediate infrastructure limitations could slow progress. The share of electricity in energy is set to increase only modestly from 22% today to 26% by 2030, falling short of the NECP’s 35% target, before reaching 50% by 2050, driven by electric vehicles, buildings and manufacturing. However, bottlenecks in permitting and limited interconnections threaten this shift. Streamlined regulatory frameworks and expanded grid capacity are needed.

From the 2030s, hydrogen will become a notable component of Spain’s industrial energy strategy, with exports to Europe expected to reach 1.7Mt by mid-century. DNV’s report highlights Spain’s low-cost renewable resources as key to achieving competitive hydrogen production, provided there is significant investment in infrastructure.

DNV’s outlook underscores the significant economic growth potential for Spain and shows that strengthening infrastructure and interconnections will enhance the country’s role in the European energy landscape. However, as the country phases out nuclear power, it may face extended reliance on natural gas for grid stability until the early 2030s.

Fulkrum announces new Iraq entity and major gas project

Fulkrum, a leader in inspection, expediting, auditing and technical staffing services, has announced the launch of its new entity in Iraq. This significant milestone comes as Fulkrum secures a multi-million US$ contract to provide surveillance services for a major gas hub development project in the region.

The launch of our Iraq entity highlights our dedication to the region. This major project is a significant win for Fulkrum and marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our team in Iraq. We are proud to contribute to a project that will enhance the region’s energy capabilities and are committed to delivering our high standards of service throughout its execution.

Muhammad Tayyab, Regional Manager for the Middle East and Caspian, Fulkrum

The new entity, registered in Basra, enhances Fulkrum’s presence in Iraq and strengthens its ability to bid for and secure large-scale contracts. With this fully incorporated local entity, Fulkrum aims to improve service delivery for new and existing clients, including several leading operators in the region. This strategic expansion is a key step in advancing Fulkrum’s operational capabilities across Iraq’s growing energy sector.

Fulkrum has already made significant progress, having secured a significant contract for a major gas hub development project in Iraq. The project, set to be executed in phases, will play a key role in the country’s energy infrastructure. The first gas processing train is designed with provisions for future growth, ensuring scalability in plant layout, integrated control and safety systems (ICSS) and power infrastructure. Fulkrum’s scope of work includes monitoring quality control, quality assurance, expediting, project and procurement management and other activities.

Fulkrum’s new entity, along with this latest project success, reflects the company’s commitment to growth and excellence in delivering inspection and quality services for large-scale energy projects across the globe.

iFor more information: https://fulkrum.com/

Safety symposium marks 25th anniversary of HIMA Benelux

HIMA Group celebrated 25 years of HIMA’s presence in the Benelux market at the Functional Safety Symposium 2024, held in Dordrecht. More than 150 attendees explored the latest solutions for the digitalisation of functional safety.

HIMA operated in Benelux through representatives and partners from the early 1980s; opened an office in the Netherlands in 1999 and founded HIMA Benelux in 2008. Today, HIMA Benelux offers sales, services, consulting and engineering for the integration of HIMA solutions for the process and railway industries.

The event featured a dynamic mix of presentations, live demos and networking opportunities, offering insights into the future of safety automation while reflecting on HIMA’s rich history and strategic vision.

The symposium reinforces HIMA’s commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation in the process and rail industries. Attendees explored a packed agenda of presentations and interactive sessions.

Industry-leading partners, including genua, Deuta, Valmet, Krohne, EPSC, Rivada Space Network and Mokveld shared their expertise through presentations and hands-on demonstrations creating an interactive experience for attendees.

Feedback from attendees was positive, with participants praising the high-quality presentations and the event’s emphasis on collaboration and future-focused discussions.

Muhammad Tayyab, Regional Manager for the Middle East and Caspian, Fulkrum

More than 150 attendees explored the latest solutions for the digitalisation of functional safety at the symposium in Dordrecht Photo

This award is a significant milestone that underscores our strength and global reach in project delivery and highlights the trust and valuable relationship we have built with bp. This framework is perfectly aligned with Kent’s strategy of fostering long-term relationships and we are excited to continue supporting bp in its energy journey by delivering high-quality, safe and sustainable solutions across their asset base.

Kent awarded 3-year global EPCm framework with bp

Kent, a leading engineering and project services company, has announced that it has been awarded a three-year global engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCm) framework contract by bp (P&O Projects). This contract includes options for two additional 2-year extensions and positions Kent as a key partner to bp in delivering world-class project services across bp’s global asset portfolio.

The framework covers the full scope of EPCm services, supporting bp’s asset lifecycle, from small and large projects to minor modifications. The framework will encompass bp’s global portfolio of offshore and onshore projects.

This prestigious award was negotiated as a result of Kent’s long-standing relationship with bp and builds upon their growing association. The new framework sits alongside Kent’s existing contracts with bp, including concept and FEED engineering services and a global commissioning framework. This contract reinforces bp’s commitment to its energy goals worldwide.

McDermott awarded FEED contract by Repsol

McDermott has been awarded a frontend engineering design (FEED) contract by Repsol Exploración México SA for the Polok and Chinwol field development project in the Gulf of Mexico.

Under the contract scope, McDermott will provide comprehensive FEED services for the project’s engineering, procurement, construction and installation (EPCI) of subsea, umbilicals, risers and flowlines (SURF).

McDermott is a premier, fullyintegrated provider of engineering and construction solutions to the energy industry. Its customers trust the company’s technology-driven approach engineered to responsibly harness and transform global energy resources into the products the world needs.

McDermott’s innovative expertise and capabilities advance the next generation of global energy infrastructure –empowering a brighter, more sustainable future for us all. Operating in over 54 countries, McDermott’s locally-focused and globally-integrated resources include more than 30,000 employees, a diversified fleet of specialty marine construction vessels and fabrication facilities around the world.

Penspen awarded hydrogen blending contract in Latvia

Penspen, a leading international energy consultancy dedicated to improving access to secure and sustainable energy for communities worldwide, is expanding its energy transition project portfolio with the award of a hydrogen blending contract from Latvian natural gas operator, Conexus Baltic Grid.

Under this new contract, Penspen’s integrity team in the UK will assess the feasibility of introducing hydrogen blends into Conexus’ existing natural gas pipeline network, in alignment with industry international and national codes and regulations, to help optimise existing gas infrastructure in Latvia for a cleaner energy future.

Leveraging its global expertise in hydrogen integration and pipeline safety, Penspen will conduct studies to assess and provide recommendations to mitigate the effects of hydrogen on pipeline steel properties, to ensure structural integrity and ongoing safe operations under blended conditions. Penspen will provide essential insights to support Conexus’ safe and sustainable transition to hydrogen and contribution to global decarbonisation efforts.

i For more information: www.penspen.com

John Gilley, CEO, Kent

Photo © Kent plc

Peterson Energy Logistics moves to Aberdeen city centre

Peterson Energy Logistics has relocated its Aberdeen office to a brand new, custom-designed collaborative and modern working space at the prestigious Marischal Square development.

Peterson Energy Logistics has moved to the Grade A building, which is the most environmentally friendly office in Aberdeen, to place itself at the heart of the city while remaining close to its bases throughout the harbour region.

The state-of-the-art building comprises 122,000 sq ft over six floors and has the best BREEAM and EPC ratings of any office building in Aberdeen with sustainability features and technology embedded throughout which was a draw for Peterson Energy Logistics as a PAS2060 certified carbon neutral company.

Peterson Energy Logistics has joined the likes of NSMP, CBRE, Royal Bank of Scotland, Chevron UK, KPMG, EY, Aberdeen Journals and NSTA at the commercial complex.

i For more information: www.onepeterson.com

Siemens and NZTC reduce emissions by 80% in an alternative fuel demonstration

Net Zero Technology Centre (NZTC) and Siemens Energy have once again proven the transformative potential of alternative fuels for decarbonisation. The latest demonstration successfully operated an SGT-A35 gas turbine on methanol. The benefits of methanol as an alternative to traditional fossil fuels include its production from various feedstock. These include lower carbon intensities using carbon capture and storage (blue methanol), biogenic sources (bio-methanol) or green hydrogen and captured CO2 (e-methanol).

Widely available conventional methanol, produced from natural gas can result in a 10% reduction in CO2 emissions today compared to traditional liquid fuels. Renewable methanol can cut CO2 emissions by up to 95%.

Methanol, in all its forms, significantly reduces other emissions including NOx, PM, SO2 and smoke. The demonstration test showed a decrease in NOx of up to 80%.

Siemens Energy and NZTC carried out the demonstration at the RWG facility in Aberdeen, which was witnessed by Proman, a world leading producer of methanol, who also contributed the methanol fuel for the test.

The SGT-A35 gas turbine was introduced to the market in the 1970s, now producing up to 38MW of power per unit.

Used both offshore and onshore for power generation and mechanical drive, there are 800 plus turbines worldwide accumulating over 46m operating hours.

Siemens Energy utilised 3D printing techniques to manufacture and install the new components required for methanol fuel conversion. This shows that existing gas turbines can be retrofitted to use methanol with minor modifications.

This latest feat builds on NZTC and Siemens Energy’s 2023 worldfirst success, demonstrating a less powerful SGT-A20 turbine. This showed CO2 emissions could be reduced by up to 75% when compared to conventional fuels.

Left to right: Sarah Moore, Chief Executive; Councillor Alex McLellan and Andrew Ellis, Commercial Director

The Siemens SGT-A35 gas turbine

Photo © Peterson Energy Logistics

Tracerco’s oil and gas safety product reaches sales milestone in Europe

Global industrial technology company, Tracerco, has now supplied over 1,300 of its Personal Electronic Dosimeters (PED) monitors to ensure the highest safety standards and efficiency within around 50 German first responder departments.

Tracerco is a company at the forefront of innovation, with over 450 employees in 17 countries. The company’s background and specialism in the oil and gas industry has allowed Tracerco to adapt its PED monitors, which were originally designed for use in the oil and gas sector, to meet meticulous safety standards for first responders in Germany. Tracerco developed the world’s first intrinsically safe radiation monitor in 1970 and has since advanced the product range in response to client demand and industry requirements.

ATEX certification is required for equipment used in hazardous areas. The type of equipment allowed in each zone is highly specific, with ATEX Zone 0 being classed as a hazardous area where an explosive atmosphere is present continuously or for long periods of time. Tracerco is the only company globally with Zone 0 ATEX certification for its PED monitors, making it a unique product in the market.

In 2011, Tracerco launched the world’s first industry-standard personal dosimeter, the PED and has continued to progress the monitor’s abilities – in 2015, the company launched the PED+ and PED Blue to extend the PED range. Tracerco has designed the PED range to be the easiest personal radiation monitor to use and understand on the market. Previously, first responders had to carry four devices, but with the introduction of the 4-in-1 Tracerco™ PED monitor to the German market, all of the functions are included within the one device, making it quicker to access data and eliminating the need to handle extra equipment.

TWMA announces Q3 revenue of US$18 million

Specialist drilling waste management company, TWMA, has reported its third quarter 2024 revenue of US$18m and an EBITDA for continuing operations of US$4.9m, marking a 23% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Yearto-date EBITDA has grown to US$14.4m, a US$3.5m (32%) increase over 2023, reflecting the Group’s strong financial performance driven by new contract wins and enhanced utilisation of assets across the UAE and UK.

In the quarter, TWMA continued to expand its Middle East operations having secured a two-year contract extension for the Upper Zakum project, in addition to achieving full operations on the first and second islands of the Ghasha Mega Project and winning further work with an international oil operator in Egypt.

Recovering 1bbl of oil for every tonne processed, and in line with TWMA’s commitment to delivering low carbon drilling and sustainable operations across the globe, TWMA’s RotoMill ® technology enables operators across the globe to reduce operational carbon footprints by 50% and NOx emissions by up to 90%.

Utilisation of TWMA’s technology was 60% during this quarter as RotoMill’s were redeployed in preparation for the construction and operation of a major new onshore facility in the Middle East for a key client.

I am pleased to report our third quarter results which demonstrate the continued demand for our sustainable solutions. Our high standards of safety have once again delivered zero lost time incidents and injuries this quarter.

Halle Aslaksen, Chief Executive Officer,

TWMA

Earlier last year, TWMA announced that it has closed a US$62.5m sustainability linked bond on the Nordic ABM in Oslo. Qualifying for a sustainability linked bond required third party recognition that TWMA’s sustainability framework is aligned with the principles issued by the International Capital Market Association. This included validation of a science-based target for CO2 in line with the 1.5-degree scenario and confirms TWMA’s position as an environmental leader within the energy industry.

TWMA operations

Wood signs a trio of global engineering and project delivery agreements with bp

Wood, a global leader in consulting and engineering, has signed three major agreements with bp to provide engineering and project delivery services for their capital projects worldwide. The contracts cover a new master services agreement (MSA) for engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCm) services as well as two extensions to existing long-term frameworks for the provision of conceptual engineering and preFEED/FEED engineering.

The new EPCm agreement will run for an initial term of three years with the potential for extensions of an additional four years. Meanwhile the conceptual engineering and preFEED/FEED frameworks have been extended for an additional three years each.

The agreements cover all of bp’s business units and will see Wood providing support for offshore and onshore assets within the upstream, midstream and downstream energy markets. The deals build on a decades-long successful partnership between the two companies and are in addition to a multi-region asset management agreement signed in September 2022.

The new frameworks will help to drive efficient and predictable delivery outcomes for bp global projects worldwide and will see Wood providing a clear focus on digitallyenabled delivery as well as asset decarbonisation.

Wood is a global leader in consulting and engineering, delivering solutions to critical challenges in energy and materials markets. The company provides consulting, projects and operations solutions in 60 countries, employing around 35,000 people.

Social media round up

We want to use every opportunity to connect with our members, so please follow us on LinkedIn –

EIC (Energy Industries Council)

Below you’ll find a selection of some of the exciting EIC activities and useful industry information we’ve shared through our social media channels.

EIC (Energy Industries Council)

EIC’s Net Zero Jeopardy Report is out now! It reveals a sharp decline in industry confidence, with just 16% of energy executives believing the 2050 target is achievable. See: https://lnkd.in/eMX3TZ4R

EIC (Energy Industries Council)

Returning to Aberdeen in June, the Energy Exports Conference (EEC) 2025 promises to be bigger and better than ever! Discover more and book your places: https://lnkd.in/duyjCvup

EIC (Energy Industries Council)

Discover how our databases can assist your company in identifying potential opportunities. Watch the full webinar on EICTV: https://lnkd.in/d9gmUWD2

Events calendar LIVE events

Global Events and Campaigns

March Update

The Global Events and Campaigns team at EIC is excited to support the global energy supply chain through a series of impactful events and campaigns.

The team successfully delivered EIC’s inaugural Bankable Energies event in London on 26-27 February. With a focus on de-risking investments and enabling bankable solutions, this event brought together key stakeholders, including industry leaders, financial experts and policymakers to discuss what can be done to increase the amount of low carbon and renewable energy projects obtaining final investment decision (FID).

Some of the highlights of the event included our welcome drinks reception held at the Cinnamon Club in Westminster where EIC’s president Campbell Keir announced the launch of our Net Zero Jeopardy Report and set the scene for the conference as policy uncertainty, slow approvals and weak investments are holding projects back.

We welcomed Joanna Drake, Deputy DirectorGeneral, European Commission to join the keynote session focusing on the important role of the EU in the energy transition and the opportunities offered under EU funding programmes such as Horizon Europe for UK research centres and companies.

Following the presentations our premium pass holders were offered the chance to further discuss each topic in closed door roundtables with sessions including UK – EU alignment, Balancing the Local and China Supply Chain and Advancing Investment and Decision Timelines for Nuclear and SMR’s.

Jo Campbell

The discussion points will support our suggested outcomes for the white paper following the event.

We are proud of delivering this event alongside the advisory committee for Bankable Energies which included Alan Haigh, retired European Commission Official; Anne Johnson, Blaze Manufacturing Services; Kerry-Ann Adamson, Capgemini; Matthew Taylor, Green Giraffe Advisory; Audrey Louise, CCC Training; Abel Martins Alexandre, former Lloyds Corporate & Institutional Bank; Jennifer Pemberton, National Energy System Operator; Sandra Antonovic, Relex Marine; Ian Headley, Santander; Keiren Lake, Siemens Energy; Michael Stirling, Stirling Infrastructure Partners; Roger Brandwood, Uniper and Andrew Cochrane, The World Bank.

Bankable Energies 2025 – a full house on day one

Bankable Energies 2025 – leveraging EU and UK relations

Bankable Energies 2025 – in-depth discussions at the roundtables

We would also like to thank our sponsors, partners and exhibitors for their support for the first addition of Bankable Energies: Atmos, Blaze Manufacturing Solutions, Energy Voice, Implement Consulting, London Chamber of Commerce, Petrofac, Reflex Marine, SSEN Transmission, Technip Energies, The World Bank and Wood.

Make sure you’re back for the conversation next year and mark your calendar for February 2026 in London, more information to follow.

The highly anticipated Energy Exports Conference (EEC) returns on 3-4 June 2025 at P&J Live in Aberdeen. Bringing worldwide delegations into Aberdeen, EEC 2025 will focus on showcasing global opportunities across the energy landscape, providing contractor updates, in-country opportunities, exhibition and meet the buyer meetings.

Access over US$200bn of global opportunities by registering for your free place and gain access to over a year’s worth of networking in just two days. Includes actionable insights to key markets including the Middle East, Africa, North America, South America, Asia Pacific, Europe and many more. Find out more here www.the-eic.com/EEC

Are you looking to host an event and need help reaching the right audience? EIC’s event management service is here to help. Our Event Solutions service provides and simplifies the entire event planning process and allows you access to key industry contacts. Get in touch with the team today to discuss how EIC can help support your next event global.events@the-eic.com

Jo Campbell

Director of Global Events and Campaigns jo.campbell@the-eic.com

EVENT Solu ons

Bankable Energies 2025 – Keynote: the urgency of achieving net zero. Inset: unlocking finance for renewable and low carbon energy projects

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

UK AND EIC PAVILIONS

2025

In 2025 the International Trade team continues to strengthen supply chain companies’ global presence by managing UK and EIC pavilions at key energy exhibitions worldwide. These pavilions provide prime locations with prominent branding, exclusive networking opportunities and comprehensive logistical support, ensuring exhibitors can focus on connecting with new business prospects and industry leaders. As we strive to expand our portfolio, we are listing the new additions for 2025 below.

Hydrogen Technology Conference & Expo North America 2025

Scheduled for 25-26 June 2025 at the NRG Center in Houston, Texas, this event serves as a pivotal platform for hydrogen and fuel cell technologies. The UK and EIC pavilion provides exhibitors with a prime location, innovative stand designs and enhanced networking opportunities to connect with key industry players.

Saudi Maritime Congress 2025

Taking place on 1-2 October in Dammam, Saudi Maritime & Logistics Congress is the largest shipping event in Saudi Arabia. With so much investment and development throughout the Middle East shipping industry, now is the time for UK companies to get involved in this thriving sector. Throughout the two days, participants will explore cutting-edge innovations and enjoy exceptional networking opportunities.

All Energy Australia 2025

All Energy AUSTRALIA

As Australia’s most comprehensive renewable energy event, All Energy Australia, 29-30 October, provides an excellent platform for UK companies to showcase their expertise. The EIC-managed UK pavilion offers exhibitors a prime location, innovative stand designs and opportunities to connect with industry leaders in the renewable energy sector.

Kormarine 2025

Kormarine is a leading international maritime exhibition held in Busan, South Korea. The EIC’s UK pavilion at Kormarine provides exhibitors with a prime location, high-level UK branding and enhanced networking opportunities to engage with key players in the maritime industry.

Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) Brazil 2025

OTC Brazil is one of the main offshore events in the world, taking place in Rio de Janeiro. The EIC-managed UK pavilion offers exhibitors a prime location within the exhibition hall, innovative stand designs and exclusive networking opportunities to connect with key industry players in the offshore energy sector.

UK news

UK Events and UK Regional Committees

UK Events

We have a whole host of events coming up in March – will we see you at any EIC events soon?

The Celtic Sea, Floating Toward Sustainable Horizons, 6 March 2025, Cardiff

Focusing on decarbonisation projects in the region, speakers include Celtic Sea Power, Tata Steel, AXIS, Marine Power Systems, Marine Energy Wales and Wood.

Opportunities in Teesside, 11 March 2025

Explore low-carbon projects reshaping Teesside’s industrial landscape with sessions on sustainable aviation fuel, carbon capture and wind.

EICAssetMap Training, 12 March 2025, Webinar

Learn more about EICAssetMap which tracks operational assets from all energy sectors, including upstream, midstream, downstream, power, nuclear and renewables. The easy map-based search is ideal for O&M contractors looking for new opportunities in their chosen sector. (EIC members only).

Opportunities in Wave & Tidal, 18 March 2025, Liverpool

Discover emerging projects and opportunities in UK waters and hear about the latest advancements, market trends and policy developments driving the industry forward. Speakers include Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, UK Marine Energy Council, ORE Catapult, Magallanes Renovables and Orbital Marine Power.

ETZ Masterclass, 25 March 2025, Aberdeen

Delve into geothermal and hydropower in Scotland’s energy mix. The masterclass will provide a unique platform to explore the latest technological advancements in geothermal and hydropower energy systems, engage with leading experts, manufacturers and service providers and connect with project developers, technology providers and supply chain experts who are driving Scotland’s green energy future.

Unlocking the Power of EICAssetMap and EICSupplyMap, 27 March 2025, Webinar

Explore the latest features of EIC’s upgraded tools. During this session you will hear from two of EIC’s marketing intelligence managers, Tom Bacon, OPEX and Decommissioning and Chris Shirley, Supply Chain. (EIC members only).

UK Regional Committees

In the latter half of 2024, we were thrilled to bring back our first face-to-face regional committee meetings in all three regions of the UK and what a success they proved to be.

These committees provide an invaluable platform for members to directly engage, network, discuss key regional topics, share insights and ideas and help shape the EIC’s offerings for the future.

Looking ahead, we’re pleased to announce the dates and locations for the second round of faceto-face meetings, hosted by some of our generous member companies:

• Scotland: 12 March at Emerson, Aberdeen

• Southern: 19 March at TRS Staffing Solutions, London

• Northern: 27 March at Samuel Knight, Newcastle

We’re also delighted to announce our Chair and Vice Chair of the Scotland Committee, having counted and verified the votes from other committee members: Chair Scotland Committee, Lucy Brown, Severn Glocon UK Valves and Vice Chair Scotland Committee Tony Brady, Sodexo.

News of the Chair and Vice Chair roles from the Northern and Southern committees will be announced in due course. If you have an interest in taking part in a committee close to you, please speak to your membership manager or email me to learn more.

Kim Stephen, Regional Director, UK kim.stephen@the-eic.com

Kim Stephen

Lucy Brown Tony Brady

Middle East news

Regional update

Following the successful delivery of our second EIC Connect KSA, held in collaboration with the Asharqia Chamber, it was an absolute privilege to welcome so many of you to an unforgetable day of dynamic networking and invaluable insights into one of the world’s most influential energy markets. A heartfelt thank you to all our speakers, sponsors and attendees whose contributions made this event such a resounding success.

This flagship event will host numerous international delegations, offering companies unparalleled access to hundreds of key contacts and the chance to explore a wide range of new export opportunities. Free to attend, this is an unmissable event for businesses looking to expand their global reach.

With the holy month now underway, we would like to take this opportunity to wish all our members Ramadan Kareem. On behalf of our entire team, we extend our warmest wishes to you and your family for a safe, peaceful and blessed Ramadan.

Ryan McPherson Regional Director, Middle East, Africa, Russia & CIS ryan.mcpherson@the-eic.com

Building on this momentum, we are excited to announce the launch of the EIC KSA Chapter – a new initiative designed to strengthen connections and foster growth within the Kingdom. We warmly invite any of our members who are based in, or frequently travel to, Saudi Arabia to join us in shaping this exciting venture.

Our Annual Golf Day is just about upon us at the Els Club, Dubai on 6 March, where in addition to the golf itself, the evening reception will take on a more significant meaning and will serve as a farewell to our incredible office manager, Helen Aittis, before she relocates back to the UK. We would love you to join us for what will surely be a truly unforgettable event.

We are also excited to announce the launch of EIC Connect UAE, taking place on 20 May in Abu Dhabi. We warmly welcome your speaker suggestions to help us craft an event that is as impactful and engaging as possible.

Applications are now closed for the ninth edition of our EIC Survive & Thrive Insight Report, and we’re delighted to announce that this year has seen a record number of entries – a testament to the remarkable resilience and innovation within our industry. I’ve already begun conducting interviews with participating companies and the insights shared so far have been both inspiring and thoughtprovoking. I’m excited to continue these conversations as we shape a report that reflects the dynamic strategies driving success across the energy sector.

We look forward to publishing the report in July 2025, which will showcase the stories, lessons learned and growth strategies from businesses around the globe. This will be followed by the highly anticipated World Energy Supply Chain Awards in October 2025, where we will celebrate the outstanding achievements of companies featured in the report. Thank you to everyone who submitted entries – we truly appreciate your contributions and look forward to sharing your successes with the wider industry.

The Energy Exports Conference 2025 has officially launched and will be returning to Aberdeen from 3–4 June 2025.

Regional news

Oman and UAE advance major solar energy projects

Oman’s largest solar farm, the 500MW Manah 1 project, has begun supplying clean electricity to over 60,000 households, reducing carbon emissions by 780,000 tonnes annually. Developed by EDF Renewables and Korea Western Power, it features over 1m bifacial PV modules. Concurrently, the UAE’s Masdar, in partnership with Emirates Water and Electricity Company, plans a world-first 24/7 gigascale solar PV and battery energy storage system in Abu Dhabi, combining a 5.2GW solar plant with a 19GWh battery system to address renewable energy intermittency.

North Africa emerges as leader in green hydrogen

North African nations, notably Algeria, Morocco and Egypt, are poised to become key players in the global green hydrogen market, with 41 projects anticipated in the next five years. Their abundant sunshine and strategic proximity to Europe make them ideal for green hydrogen production and export. Plans include repurposing 3,300km of gas infrastructure to import 4m tonnes annually into Europe. However, challenges such as securing offtake agreements, establishing regulatory frameworks and developing infrastructure remain.

Ryan McPherson

Asia Pacific news

Regional update

EIC Connect Energy Borneo 2025 is the largest event ever organised by the EIC APAC office in Kuala Lumpur. We are proud to report that the event was a huge success with nearly 1000 delegates, 90 speakers, 30 exhibitors and 17 sponsors. The Premier of Sarawak, a territory within Malaysia, delivered the keynote speech and officially launched the conference. In attendance were Sarawakian government ministers, deputy ministers of energy from Brunei and Indonesia and various government officials and trade associations from the region.

wwwRegional news

India launches its largest licensing round offering 25 blocks

The conference, held on 25-26 February 2025 focussed on Borneo’s potential as an energy hub within ASEAN and dealt with themes such as Net Zero as a Catalyst for Economic Growth and Regional Energy Security and Collaboration. Speakers and delegates came from 16 different countries and deliberated on various topics affecting all sectors of the energy industry, including oil and gas, carbon capture, sustainable aviation fuel, floating solar, power grids, space technology, the carbon market and much more. The Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability, who was our collaboration partner in organising the conference, congratulated EIC for successfully organising the conference.

Immediately after EIC Connect Energy Borneo, we will be in the month of Ramadhan which will conclude with Eid celebrations at the end of March. As in previous years, EIC APAC plans to organise Iftar or breaking of fast with members in the region. In April, EIC APAC will be a coorganiser for the OGSE Outlook hosted by the Malaysian Petroleum Resources Corporation (MPRC), a government agency under the Prime Minister’s Office.

EIC APAC has been working closely with MPRC for the last six months to produce a report on the state of play of carbon capture in Malaysia and how it benefits oil and gas small and medium players. The event will be launched by the Ministry of Economy of Malaysia. Our own director of market intelligence, Neil Golding, will be presenting at the event on the outlook and opportunities for the energy sector in Asia.

In 2025 we are planning several large events including Oil & Gas Asia (OGA), once again as a conference partner and also for the first time we will be organising EIC Connect China. Watch this space.

Azman Nasir Head of Asia Pacific azman.nasir@the-eic.com

The Government of India has launched the tenth round of the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) offering the largest area to date for oil and gas exploration in India. This bid round is part of the government’s efforts to boost domestic production and reduce import dependence. It includes 25 blocks across 13 sedimentary basins. The blocks are spread across Category-I, Category-II and Category-III basins. This bid round will focus on offshore blocks with 19 blocks being offered including 13 deepwater and ultra-deepwater blocks.

Fortescue eyeing green hydrogen in Sarawak

Fortescue, a global Australian mining and energy company, has committed to investing in green hydrogen energy in Bintulu, Sarawak, according to Malaysia’s Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. This agreement was made during a meeting at the 2025 World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Summit with Fortescue’s executive chairman and founder, Andrew Forrest. The Sarawak government has agreed in principle to the project and that incentives and support will be provided to help make Bintulu a hub for green hydrogen production. This initiative is part of Malaysia’s broader push to develop sustainable energy solutions. In addition to Fortescue, other international developers are already exploring green hydrogen projects in Bintulu. State-owned SEDC Energy has partnered with Korean firms Samsung Engineering, Lotte Chemical and Posco to build a plant with a capacity to produce 150,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually. Another project, with Japanese companies Sumitomo and Eneos, will produce 90,000 tonnes per year. These projects aim to utilise Sarawak’s abundant hydropower, which accounts for approximately 70% of the state’s electricity.

Azman Nasir

North and Central America news

Regional update

As we look forward to welcoming spring weather across North and Central America, we hope you will join us for our upcoming events in Houston.

On 7 March 2025, the EIC will welcome Advisory Board member, Renee Sotelo, Director of Contracts & Procurement, Urban Grid and EIC member Justine Burgett, Manager of Contracts & Prime Contracts, Bechtel as panellists discussing topics ranging from the changing procurement arena to closing the gender gap at Women’s International Day High Tea: Energy Supply Chain. The event will serve as a great opportunity to network with our community of EIC members and non-members over high tea at Houston’s restaurant, Kiran’s. As seats are limited, please email houston@the-eic.com to register today. Thank you to our Golden Sponsor Raba Kistner for its support.

EIC Night with the Houston Dynamo

14 May 2025 Shell Energy Stadium

We also look forward to our annual night of soccer (football) on 14 May; if you or your company would like to join us as the Houston Dynamo FC take on rivals Minnesota, register onto our 2025 EIC Night with the Houston Dynamo at Shell Energy Stadium. This year, in addition to having a reserved seat, delegates will have access to the stadium’s AC controlled East Club providing all with unlimited food and drinks throughout the game. To register or to learn more, visit www.the-eic.com/ EventDetail/dateid/4428 and don’t forget to sponsor.

Finally, please keep a close eye on our region’s event communications as we have multiple online events in the pipeline covering market updates such as oil and gas in the Gulf of Mexico and much more. As a reminder, all our events this 2025 are open to sponsorship. To ensure your company takes advantage of the available profile-raising opportunities, please CLICK HERE

The Houston team is always available to further discuss registration support and sponsorship via email at houston@the-eic.com

Amanda Duhon

VP & Regional Director, North & Central America amanda.duhon@the-eic.com

Regional news

New Jersey advances offshore wind transmission with loan

The US Department of Energy (DoE) has guaranteed a US$715m loan to Jersey Central Power & Light Company (JCP&L) for transmission upgrades to integrate nearly 5GW of clean energy, primarily offshore wind, into New Jersey’s grid. The project, part of the Clean Energy Corridor, will support the state’s goal of achieving a 100% clean energy grid by 2035. Upgrades focus on expanding transmission capacity at the Larrabee substation in Howell, enabling enough energy to power 1.6m homes and save ratepayers US$150m over the loan’s term.

Trump inaugurates new term with major shift in energy policy direction

Newly inaugurated US President Donald Trump signed numerous executive orders immediately after being sworn in. Among these actions, implemented sooner than the industry expected, he declared a national energy emergency, easing environmental regulations on energy infrastructure and accelerating permitting processes for new projects. Another significant move involves lifting the freeze on export permits for new LNG projects, the rescindment of a 2023 order that had prohibited oil drilling on approximately 16m acres in the Arctic and the overturning of a Biden policy that withdrew large areas of the US coastline, including the Bering Sea near Alaska, from future oil and gas exploration. These decisions mark a clear shift away from energy transition goals towards prioritising fossil fuel production, reaffirming the central role of oil and gas in the nation’s forthcoming energy policies.

Forthcoming events

Please go to page 26 to see upcoming events around the world

Amanda Duhon

South America news

Regional update

In the first week of March, Brazil is filled with the colours and music of carnival.

After, we will go back to working on hosting our traditional Rio Breakfast on 25 March. This edition will focus on low carbon opportunities and our guest company will be Eletrobras, a key player in Brazil’s energy sector.

With the goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2030, Eletrobras has one of the cleanest electricity matrices in the world, with 94.6% of its installed capacity coming from hydropower. The company also collaborates with Germany’s SEFE and Kuwait’s EnerTech on a larger initiative to produce up to 200,000 tons of green hydrogen annually.

EIC will also be supporting the first edition of the Brazilian International Energy Meeting – iBEM25, hosted by the Bahia Oil and Gas organisers on 25-27 March. The conference is in Salvador, Bahia, and is aimed at all stakeholders interested in Brazil’s diverse energy sector.

Further ahead, from 23-27 June, EIC is organising another trade delegation to Guyana with expectations of it being as fruitful or even more so than the last one.

Regional news

Rising Argentine gas production eyes Brazilian market

Natural gas production is rapidly growing in Argentina through the Vaca Muerta formation. This growth coincides with the decline of Bolivia’s gas reserves, which have dropped from around 10tn cubic metres in 2005 to 4tn today. As a result, Argentina is likely to become a key supplier of natural gas for the Brazilian market, which has relied on Bolivian gas for the past two decades. In response, several Argentine companies have secured export contracts approved by the national government. So far, six operators have signed agreements with Brazilian companies for interruptible gas supply, with contract durations ranging from 18 to 48 months. Argentina’s two largest private producers, Total Austral and Tecpetrol, are leading this effort. Since June of last year, these companies have committed to delivering over 12m cubic metres per day (MMm³/d) thanks to the reversal of the Northern Gas Pipeline.

Delegates will have the opportunity to attend organised group meetings with key local players, as well as incorporating briefing meetings presented by qualified speakers with in-market experience and the opportunity to meet with local companies. Book your place by emailing internationaltrade@the-eic.com

On 30 January we hosted our first event of 2025: Breakfast in Rio: Offshore E&P Opportunities with Seatrium and Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO), with over 150 participants. Seatrium is a global engineering leader, with a strong presence in Brazil and strategic projects with Petrobras in FPSOs, with capacity to produce more than 850,000 barrels/day. Currently, its portfolio includes 32 projects worth US$26bn with 40% of revenue from Brazil. Present in more than 20 countries, Edison Chouest Offshore provides maritime services, offering platform supply, anchor handling and subsea support solutions for large operators, including Petrobras.

Clarisse Rocha, Director – Americas clarisse.rocha@the-eic.com

Auction announced for Brazil’s thermal and hydroelectric plants

Brazil’s Ministry of Mines and Energy has announced the rules for the electricity capacity auction, scheduled for June 2025, with contracts ranging from 7 to 15 years, starting between 2025 and 2030. The goal is to ensure the stability of Brazil’s energy supply amidst the growth of solar power, which requires backup from other sources during late afternoon hours. Operating gas-fired power plants will compete for contracts for deliveries until 2027, while new projects involving gas, biofuels and expanded hydroelectric plants will compete for later deadlines. The country’s National Electric System Operator (ONS) has warned of a capacity deficit, estimating the need to contract 3GW annually.

membership@the-eic.com

Keeping you up to date with energy news from around the world

Clarisse Rocha

Offshore E&P Opportunities with Seatrium and Edison Chouest Offshore

Survive &

EIC Insight Report 2024 Volume VIII

In its 8th year, EIC’s Survive & Thrive initiative continues to research the 15 most popular growth strategies used by the world’s energy supply chain in challenging market conditions. Each year reveals new and important findings, such as the conundrum of record growth, with 96% of companies forecasting record revenues in 2024, offset by clear and worrying growing geopolitical and policy uncertainties, resulting in more cautious decision-making by energy bosses, which hampers investment.

The report features success stories and insights from 134 member companies and underscores the need for clearer policies and trade agreements to support market expansion. It reflects that leaders are now more committed than ever to pursuing the energy transition, with or without total policy clarity, but just not on pace with 2050 net zero timelines.

Exporting to new markets remains the least used growth strategy due to excessive risks, cost and time to market. Companies call for more government support and funding with market access. The #1 growth strategy is to develop client-facing solutions and services, with 82% of these companies now working directly with operators, increasingly side-stepping the Tier 1 EPC contractors.

Please see our success stories overleaf or visit the EIC website to view the complete report www.the-eic.com/MediaCentre/Publications/SurviveandThrive

The EIC Awards Programme

The World Energy Supply Chain Awards aim to recognise excellence from all companies and organisations across the energy industries globally. In their business cases featured in the Survive & Thrive report, EIC member companies can demonstrate how they faced a specific challenge and introduced a new business solution or any initiative that drove successful results.

AWARD CATEGORIES

Collaboration

Culture

Digital

Diversification

Energy Transition

Environmental Sustainability

Export

Innovation

Optimisation

People & Competency

Resilience

Scale Up

Service & Solutions

Technology

Transformation

The WESCA winners 2024

SecurEx

Finding a niche, taking a risk, and reaping the rewards

Story type

#technology (main category)

#scale up

Benefits

▸ Sales figures reaching new record heights.

▸ Niche market secured.

William Bedford Technical Director

How is SecurEx thriving?

Formed on the shoulders of a well-established family business, SecurEx Technology has evolved from being something of a punt on a new idea to a fully-fledged security and safety company which has become a go-to player for firms operating in challenging Ex environments. With a growing portfolio that is being driven by enquiries received from clients across various industries worldwide, the future looks bright.

The challenge - SecurEx knows the market for security and safety solutions inside-out. Set up in 2015, its modus operandi has been to collaborate with top-tier partners in the security industry to deliver premier solutions tailored for both safe and hazardous environments across multiple markets, including oil and gas, renewables and pharmaceuticals.

But getting there has not been straightforward. The inspiration behind the formation of the company was to bring something different to the family firm, Wath Group. SecurEx saw a gap in the market, but taking the leap involved absorbing a high degree of risk and up-front investment. Alternative means of financing was needed in the form of loans and private investment, making it imperative that the new venture succeeded.

The solution - Despite the risks, SecurEx always had the advantage of being backed by Wath, which continues to manufacture its portfolio of safety products for use in harsh hazardous (Ex) environments.

Development of these highly niche technologies and solutions has taken place entirely inhouse. Crucially, SecurEx was making moves before any competing company spotted the opportunity, a big potential advantage, but one that meant William Bedford was on his own. Investing long hours in building out concepts from home, he has also taken on board feedback from clients and integrators, listening to their pain points and attempting to create solutions to their problems.

The first major innovation, and still the firm’s hero product, is the Ex Electromagnetic Door Lock. This unique certified device works with the company’s door controller and access products, as well as third-party ACU systems, to provide a highly effective security solution for access control in haz-

ardous areas. SecurEx was the first to bring this type of device to market, and with its connections from Wath Group, the product has gone on to sell itself. Indeed, the SecurEx lock has become something of a go-to in the Ex lock domain.

After this initial success, customers soon came knocking on SecurEx’s doors with questions about other challenges facing them in hazardous environments, creating a natural pipeline of product developments that continues to keep the firm busy. Today, its portfolio consists of a range of access control solutions, intruder detection and alarm systems and accessories in addition to the Ex Electromagnetic Door Lock.

Investment in technology early in the process has also been a wise decision. During the transition from developing the first Ex Electromagnetic Door Lock to manufacturing, the company invested in computer numerical control (CNC), a method that automates the control, movement and precision of machine tools through the use of preprogrammed computer software embedded inside the tools.

This has enabled greater production efficiencies and helped SecurEx fulfil an order book that continues to grow. After selling its first Ex Electromagnetic Door Lock product in 2018, revenue from this category, also commonly referred to as mag-bars, has climbed steadily, reaching £150,000 in 2021 and £600,000 in 2023. Newer products like alarm systems, meanwhile, accounted for £300,000 in income last year and are forecast to reach £500,000 in sales during 2024.

meanwhile,

The Middle East continues to be a fruitful market. For instance, SecurEx has supplied to multiple companies working on the North Field Expansion Project in Qatar since securing its first contract there in 2021. Well over £1m of value has been derived so far, with key products sold including the Ex Electromagnetic Door Lock, PIR sensing system and RFID readers.

Having mastered and cornered a niche market, Wath Group has reaped the rewards of taking on risk and backing the innovation instincts of its family. Almost a decade into existence, SecurEx has built up a reputation for highly bespoke and technical problem solving for companies in all manner of complex and hazardous operating environments.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Don’t over engineer and don’t be over complex – there’s beauty in the simple answers.

▸ Believe in Pareto’s rule of 80–20.

For government

▸ Governments need to incorporate better Ex visibility for regulations in the UK to prevent noncompetent personnel installing equipment into Ex areas.

SecurEx at a glance:

Key products and services: uniquely UK based, specialises in hazardous area security for the modern world.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 30%

▸ Hydrogen – 15%

▸ Onshore renewable energy – 10%

▸ Conventional power – 5%

▸ Nuclear power – 5%

▸ Others (non-energy): pharma, distillery, agriculture – 35%

Headquarters: Wath Upon Dearne, UK

Year established: 2015

Number of employees: 6

Revenue: £1m

Revenue from exports: 60%

Sensia

and gas

Tom

Regional Sales Manager (EMEA North)

How is Sensia thriving?

Sensia is an enterprise at the forefront of digital transformation in the oil and gas industry. Established less than five years ago, the company has gone from strength to strength, developing a highly sophisticated suite of digital solutions designed to meet a series of specific challenges faced by oil and gas operators around the world. With proven case studies now under its belt, the firm looks set to further build its reputation and capitalise on continual digital optimisation efforts among market players globally.

The challenge - As a joint venture between Rockwell Automation and SLB, Sensia has some serious pedigree. Indeed, the company is renowned as a champion of energy industry innovation, combining SLB’s deep oil and gas domain knowledge and Rockwell Automation’s rich automation and information expertise to deliver intelligent, integrated automation solutions to sector specialists.

The firm’s digitalisation and automation capabilities are impressive. Indeed, its solutions are specifically designed to sense, think, control and optimise every aspect of the energy production process to make its clients’ operations smarter, safer and more sustainable. However, it’s not all been plain sailing for Sensia since its establishment in 2019.

Moving beyond the traditional automation solutions that are available in the energy sector is a difficult place to reach in a mature and conservative industry. Combine this with strict safety guidelines and cyber security risks, it is easy to see why the digital solutions available in other industries have not been so quick to be adopted.

Sensia concentrated its digital development efforts on enhancing operations, by gathering field intelligence, analysing data and reporting the best outcome to take. In short, using real time data to make key operational decisions.

The solution - As soon as Sensia was established, the company set about ironing out any potential creases as quickly as possible with the combining of the parents contributed business units. As well as prioritising change management to ensure that the merger would settle at speed, the firm also placed major emphasis on the importance of integrating its Sales and Operations teams.

Cross training across the firm’s four key business units – Process Automation & Safety Solutions, Measurement Solutions, Digital Solutions, Lift Control Solutions – was prioritised to ensure all employees were up to speed on each of its core business units. The firm has also focused on evolving its digital platforms to provide a series of production-based applications, rolling out several new products.

Here, Sensia’s QRATE HCC2 hyperconverged controller stands as a prime example. A robust, secure, flexible and scalable edge controller platform leveraging a dedicated RTU controller with a modern IoT Edge processor and LTE communication, it is an ideal solution in aiding enterprises to manage their assets out in the field.

Indeed, QRATE HCC2 solves several prominent challenges in this domain, spanning everything from remote terminal unit information gathering to cloud interpretation and data protection requirements. By offering a package that delivers in terms of low power, cyber security, edge technology and data transfer, the firm has seen resounding feedback from its clients.

In one instance, an oilfield player came to Sensia requiring assistance in the management of an oilfield comprising hundreds of wellheads. By in turn helping its client to gather information more quickly and accurately, it has enabled the operator to make informed decisions at speed, with Sensia receiving a game changing, highly positive testimonial as a result.

Beyond Sensia’s QRATE HCC2 hyperconverged controller, its clients have also benefitted significantly from the firm’s Avalon product. An open platform that can integrate seamlessly with existing IT/OT investments, Avalon can unlock the hidden potential of assets, allowing clients to visualise and control all aspects of their oil and gas operation. By collecting the right data and contextualising it into real-time diagnostics, production trends and KPIs, organisations become empowered with Avalon in a variety of different ways.

Indeed, the evidence in favour of digitally connected oil and gas operations is overwhelming. From improving production rates and resource recovery to reducing operating costs and asset downtime, the case to be made for Sensia’s

Story type

#digital (main category)

#innovation, #service & solutions

Benefits

▸ Building closer relationship with customers, Sensia has received a game changing, highly positive testimonial.

▸ More companies looking to digitally transform their operations.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Encourage and support the future green energy jobs and opportunities.

▸ See good on your promises – push for those targets, don’t let it be all talk. It needs to come from the top.

For government

▸ Government needs to take a long-term view – we need energy security. We need a proper plan.

Sensia at a glance:

Key products and services: automation solutions provider.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 70%

▸ Hydrogen – 10%

▸ Carbon capture – 20%

Headquarters: Houston, US

Year established: 2019

Number of employees: 1,500

Revenue: £358m

Revenue from exports: 30%

offering is clear. According to Upstream Intelligence, big data could help companies extract 80 billion additional oil barrels globally. Further, Chevron Technology Magazine highlights that production could increase 8% and operating costs decrease 25% from digitally connected oil and gas operations.

With more and more oil and gas companies looking to digitally transform their operations to capitalise on these potential merits, Sensia undoubtedly stands to make the most of a growing market moving forward as a disruptive, proven player in the provision of key solutions.

Shannon

Driving digital transformation in oil

Sepakat Energy

Journeying on a business improvement roadmap to profitability

Story type

#resilience (main category) #transformation

Benefits

▸ Sepakat’s turnover has almost doubled in one year, maintaining a profit despite a period of rapid growth.

Dzairenny Muslim Managing Director

How is Sepakat Energy thriving?

Asset integrity and specialised maintenance company Sepakat Energy is reinvigorated after investing in the development of leadership capabilities and implementation of a business improvement pathway. Now, with a new direction and proper processes in place, the company is operating on a firm footing and turning a profit in its home country of Brunei.

The challenge - In the period between late 2019 and early 2020, Sepakat Energy, having been in operation for just over five years, faced a critical challenge. Cashflow sustainability was a major concern as the company had not secured any long-term contracts with local operators. Meanwhile, the commercial arrangements with existing clients were not commercially favourable, and the business was heavily reliant on shareholders’ capital injection, accumulating significant accounts payable and debt.

Adding to the challenge, Sepakat Energy’s Technical Manager announced his departure to rejoin a large international oil and gas service company, citing the reviving market demand for his expertise.

Despite this, the firm was confident it had the right offering. In establishing technical partnerships and representation agreements with international companies offering unique capabilities, Sepakat Energy knew that in Brunei’s market, dominated by a single major operator awarding long-term multi-year contracts, securing new work would be a matter of patience.

However, if the company continued with business as usual, it would not survive in the short term due to its depleted financial capability.

The solution - Dzairenny Muslim and Liana Radzak, Sepakat Energy’s co-owners, decided to take hands-on action and fully invest their time in the business, prioritising this venture ahead of other entrepreneurial and employment commitments.

In an effort to enhance their capabilities as owners and managers, the owners invested in self-development through coaching and workshops. They explored various avenues to improve their leadership capabilities – this included hiring a business coach to provide guidance and mentoring, attending business

leaderships workshop, and signing up for Brunei Shell’s Energy Business Academy 2.0, where they had access to an exeprienced business mentor.

Alongside this, the duo developed a business improvement roadmap to steer Sepakat Energy back into financial sustainability.

Here, they identified areas of the business that needed improvement and worked on, setting out a plan to achieve those improvements and close the identified gaps. These included financial discipline and governance, including proper record-keeping and reporting, as well as the setting up of formal HR procedures and processes.

Sepakat Energy also invested in the implementation of critical business IT systems such as Office 365, Zoho Books for financial management, and Track & Roll/People Hum for HR management. Furthermore, the company implemented a quality management system and secured ISO9001 certification in 2023.

Meanwhile, to enable competitiveness and support operational cash flow, the company renegotiated its existing rates for manpower and equipment and renegotiated existing financing credit lines with its bankers. Hires have also been made, with personnel taken on in finance, HR, admin, and operational roles, with many of the positions filled by talented graduates identified through the Brunei government’s i-Ready scheme.

business,

Now, with a better organised and managed business, Sepakat Energy has transitioned into a stable entity which, ultimately, is better able to provide clients with asset integrity and specialised maintenance services.

After making losses in 2019, 2020 and 2021, the company moved into the black in 2022 by generating profits for the first time in the company’s history from a revenue of around B$4.6m. Last year, it went one step better, almost doubling its turnover to B$9m and maintaining a profit despite a period of rapid growth in headcount. With a team of just 12 employees in 2019, Sepakat Energy now has more than 100 full time members of staff on its books in 2024.

Its revenue pipeline is also looking solid, with several contracts involving pipeline maintenance and inspection, parts provision, ma-

▸ Staff has grown from 12 employees in 2019 to more than 100 in 2024.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Focus on business fundamentals and organisation.

▸ The O&G industry in general has historically lagged in the largescale adoption of technology. This gap needs to be addressed and closed in order for productivity and efficiency gains.

For government

▸ Access to financing for SMEs in the early years of their development is key.

▸ Digital transformation support including incentives and training for adopting new technologies and tools should be offered.

Sepakat Energy at a glance:

Key products and services: energy services business, focused on asset integrity and specialized maintenance services.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 100%

Headquarters: Kuala Belait, Brunei

Year established: 2013

Number of employees: 103

Revenue: £5.76m

Revenue from exports: N/A

terial preservation services and laser scanning and dimensional control and surveying services currently underway, the longest of which ending in November 2029. After taking a step back to evaluate the business, and dedicating more time to it in the process, Sepakat’s owners have successfully steered the ship back on course.

Serimax

On a diversification drive into utilities and renewables

Murdo MacAngus

Story type

#service & solutions (main category)

#diversification, #resilience

Benefits

▸ Serimax successfully diversifying, with the renewables market coming next.

Zoe de Crécy

Commercial & Operations Development Director Marketing Consultant

How is Serimax thriving?

With rich historic roots as a welding specialist serving the oil and gas sector, Serimax is embracing the transition into utilities and renewables. Starting to realise its transformation plan in 2020, the firm has already ensured that 45% of its welding activities are outside of its core market, applying its renowned solutions to valuable new clients in a diverse variety of sectors.

The challenge - As a renowned provider of integral welding solutions for a multitude of major energy projects globally, the firm’s expertise has previously been applied to the oil and gas sector – an association it is now continuing to diversify further from as it works to move into utility pipeline installations for the renewables sector, covering wind, hydrogen, nuclear and carbon capture.

For Serimax, adaptability and visibility are key in supporting the renewables verticals it is targeting, and the need to partner with an experienced welding contractor is essential to their clients’ success. In addition to this, Serimax is backed by a large Research & Development Facility in its WTC (Welding Technology Centre, Paris, France), and building brand awareness around this is pivotal in showcasing its innovative welding solutions for any scenario for the target markets.

Internally, the need for adaptation was key for this. Serimax is lucky in the fact that it has its own in-house training school, where its welding apprentices have been steadily graduating since 2003 with up to 19 welding codings. This training facility is able to identify and provide the key certification for new industries and propel skilled resources into the ‘newer’ industries whilst adopting their base trade skills.

The solution - In many ways, the firm has found moving the dial towards renewables a natural endeavour, with the transfer of skills and knowledge being seamless. Its long history of manufacturing workable solutions in the field to ensure a safe, quality and productive output is achieved has made this possible. On the flip side, several hurdles have been encountered along the way as Scotland has set itself a tough target of hitting net-zero

targets by 2045, five years ahead of the rest of the UK. Indeed, the firm has had to engage in lengthy discussions with key players in the wind industry, highlighting the importance of being involved from the design phase. Despite this, Serimax has continued to make steady and consistent progress in its strategic transformation.

Since 2020, the firm has successfully branched out into utility pipeline installations and added renewables, carbon capture, hydrogen pipelines and floating wind to its portfolio of activities. Such is the success of these new areas of operation, 40% of Serimax’s staff now work in activities outside of oil and gas, with the firm securing several major contracts.

Perhaps the most notable among these is the work being completed for the Strategic Pipeline Alliance (SPA) – a consortium of five companies looking to develop a 500-kilometre utility pipeline comprising 200 kilometres of steel.

Serimax is responsible for completing the E-Joint end prep and welding work, for which it has created a bespoke solution, positioning itself as a valuable welding partner.

Here, the company is already leaving a positive impression. Critically, the client has expressed that Serimax’s unique approach has dramatically reduced internal pipe repairs –a technique it plans to adopt for every one of its steel pipes moving forward to prevent costly, wasteful and avoidable repairs.

Looking ahead, Serimax itself is now looking at wind turbines and offshore floating wind as the next big phase of its evolution. Meanwhile, it is also engaged in ongoing conversations with Scottish ports as it looks to play a significant role as a supply chain partner to the renewables sector. Serimax is in the key position to support the Inverness & Cromarty Firth Green Freeport, as one of the founding partners in this initiative, as the area launches into an incredible investment period in the local area for the Renewable Energy Sector. Serimax has already an innovative welding solution developed specifically with the wind structure in mind.

Serimax has recently been granted the status

▸ About 45% of the company’s profits now come from outside oil and gas.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Invest in training and education, it has never been so important.

▸ Work together in the early stages of project to make things happen faster.

For government

▸ Bring the industry’s leadership together.

Serimax at a glance:

Key products and services: welding and pipeline fabrication.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 60%

▸ Others (non-energy): water – 40%

Headquarters: Evanton, UK (Serimax)

Roissy-en-France, France (Group)

Year established: 1978

Number of employees: 137 (Serimax), 600 (Group)

Revenue: £32m

of ‘Fit for Offshore Renewables’, one of the first seven companies in the North of Scotland.With 45% of the business’s profi ts now coming from outside oil and gas, the firm’s reducing dependence on its historic core market, and progress with its transition goals, continues to provide greater cause for optimism by the day. This embraces their goal to secure net zero by 2035.

Siemens Energy

Repurposing a proven onshore gas turbine for the FPSO market

Daniel Tomicic Head of Project Management, Oil & Gas

How is Siemens Energy thriving?

After a decade of successfully serving onshore applications in the energy sector, Siemens Energy’s SGT-750 gas turbine is now being deployed in the offshore world. A notable project to fit an Australia-bound FPSO with the turbine has given the company the perfect opportunity to evolve the product, an opportunity the company has grabbed with both hands.

The challenge - Siemens Energy is on a mission to support the decarbonisation of power generation. It is doing so by enabling the integration of renewable energy into grids through the use of reliable, efficient and low-emission turbines which deliver the baseload and/or supplement the fluctuating supplies from renewable sources.

These include the SGT-750 breed of gas turbine. A lightweight and energy effi cient model, the SGT-750 has a track record of successful performance after years in operation and verifi ed results in various applications, the most common being for use in power generation and compressor applications such as pipelines and LNG.

Recently, Siemens Energy saw an opportunity to enter the FPSO market with a dual fuel SGT750. A first for the sector, the pressure was on for the company to get it right.

The solution - Siemens Energy began to target the FPSO market in 2020. The sector is competitive, but the SGT-750 carried a number of advantages due to its excellent record onshore in terms of performance, low failure rate and strong heat rate, as well as its ability to fit with a heat recovery unit. The unit is also very compact, making it suitable for mounting on a floating structure with limited space. From 2021 onwards, the key priority has been to get the SGT-750 fit for purpose and onto FPSOs. Once in play, Siemens Energy will be able to start building up a track record in the offshore industry.

The most significant of these initial forays is taking place in Singapore in the form of a €190-195m contract to install five units onto an FPSO. Kicking off at the end of 2021, the

SGT-750s are currently being installed as a combined cycle plant with steam generation and heat recovery. The completed FPSO will be deployed in the Asia Pacific region.

For Siemens Energy, it has been a challenging endeavour from the outset.

Despite not having a finalised design at the bidding stage, Siemens Energy’s bid management and sales teams worked diligently with the client teams to successfully identify and mitigate all risks, ultimately securing the contract.

Initially, there was anxiety and uncertainty surrounding the project’s risk elements – however, with all five units now built, tested, delivered and with proved performance above nominal power to customer satisfaction, these concerns have well and truly subsided.

While the project faced challenges such as parts delays and geopolitical events leading to force majeure claims, it is expected to be a win for Siemens Energy. Internal areas for improvement were identified through a ‘lessons learned’ workshop, including finalising clarifications during the sales phase, streamlining customer documentation, and guiding the customer to focus on interface-related comments.

Most notably, the project has resulted in an industrial gas turbine capable of dual-fuel operation throughout the entire load range, a capability previously limited to aero-derivative products. With the increasing trend towards combined cycle solutions in FPSO, the Project serves as an important reference for Siemens Energy’s competitiveness in this segment. The collaborative efforts have fostered a positive relationship with the customer, who is already providing favourable feedback about the company to the market.

As more success stories such as this begin to materialise, Siemens Energy can expect to see demand growing for the SGT-750 in the FPSO sector. For now, it is very much a case of watch this space.

Story type

#diversification (main category)

#energy transition, #technology

Benefits

▸ Demand expected to grow for the SGT-750.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Work as a team and a partner with your customer. A good relationship with a client is the key factor to success.

▸ Be transparent when working, internally and externally.

For government

▸ Look at companies’ portfolio and stringent work on lowering emissions and support them.

Siemens Energy at a glance:

Key products and services: energy technologies solutions and services.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas

▸ Renewables

▸ Independent power generation

▸ Pulp and paper

▸ Marine

▸ Others

Headquarters: Munich, Germany

Year established: 2020

Number of employees: 95,671

Revenue: £26.5bn

Revenue from exports: 100%

SOURCE

Bring its innovative Hydropanel technology to new markets

How is SOURCE thriving?

Rob Bartrop CRO

With its revolutionary way of producing and storing drinking water, SOURCE is providing a sustainable solution for organisations in need of reliable supply to hydrate workforces and residents. After gaining quick traction in markets such as the US and Australia, the company is progressing in previously challenging markets, including the GCC.

The challenge - SOURCE has pioneered a game-changing means of producing safe drinking water for individual, commercial and industrial use cases. Its patented Hydropanel solution uses only sunlight and air to generate sustainable supplies of water, making it accessible in almost every climate and location worldwide. Crucially, this all happens off-grid with no required infrastructure, all while preserving levels of groundwater.

Set up in 2014, the company has already gained traction. SOURCE’s commitment to social good is recognised as a Public Benefit Corporation, evidenced by its inclusion in Fast Company’s 2020 list of the most innovative companies in the social good sector.

From a commercial perspective, Hydropanel had been receiving mixed responses from different markets. In the US, players in the private and public sectors jumped to adopt the solution, while there was also substantial support from educational institutions. This swift acceptance demonstrated its viability and appeal in specific contexts, with global NGOs and philanthropists such as the WWF and USAID adopting the Hydropanel and implementing it in South Africa and Asia Pacific. However, because the non-extractive nature of its technology is new to many government officials and regulatory agencies, project approval doesn’t happen quickly. Other international markets such as the GCC have proven tougher nuts to crack, calling for a change in strategy – one geared around building trust and nurturing relationships in these regions.

The solution - SOURCE therefore adjusted its approach to emphasise engagement, education, and fostering long-term relationships with potential clients and partners.

There are several key messages. From a technology perspective, the fact it is scalable and designed for off-grid operation without electricity or infrastructure, marks a significant

innovation. Historically, transporting drinking water from its source to demand points has relied on aging infrastructure. Moreover, traditional well water poses challenges.

SOURCE Hydropanels offer a distinct solution, generating high-quality drinking water onsite using solar energy and air. Through solar-powered fans, each Hydropanel draws in air, passing it through water-absorbing material to convert water vapor into clean, mineralised drinking water. This water is stored safely until required, ensuring both health and taste benefits.

The company has always had a compelling story to tell. Its mantra is built around providing a solution that not only addresses individual needs for clean and sustainable water, but also contributes to a larger movement towards environmental responsibility and resource independence.

By focusing on education, ease of access, and trust-building, SOURCE’s new strategy aims to position the Hydropanel not simply as a product. More than that, it is a key player in the global shift towards more sustainable living practices. The company is doing this by creating awareness and informational campaigns, facilitating and pursuing sales for medium-sized purchases to build trust in its partnerships, and engaging with the governments and trusted companies.

Several projects and developments have taken off. For example, in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, the Chan Soon-Shiong Family Foundation is supporting its communities and students by installing 400 SOURCE Hydropanels in two communities and two schools, helping to ensure a resilient source of clean drinking water for many years to come.

In Oman, a partnership is underway with Renaissance, the country’s leading accommodation, services solutions and integrated facility management company which also has a growing presence in UAE and Qatar. Using SOURCE Hydropanels, the company will generate sustainably sourced drinking water for Renaissance Village Duqm (RSVD) in Oman’s Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD), with plans to expand to additional sites.

Breakthroughs such as these represent important inroads into markets which SOURCE had previously struggled to gain traction in. In-

Story type

#environmental sustainability (main category)

#technology

Benefits

▸ Increasing engagement and interest from potential and existing clients.

▸ Presence in over 50 countries.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Think outside the box and embrace continuous learning.

▸ Work together to tackle global problems such as drinking water scarcity.

For government

▸ Embrace new technologies and simplify their adoption process.

▸ Advocate for renewable and clean solutions, enabling consumers to play an active role in sustainable practices and thereby alleviating the sole burden from the government.

SOURCE at a glance:

Key products and services: world’s first renewable water supply.

Main industries served:

▸ Energy – 35%

▸ Others (non-energy): communities, schools, hospitals, government –65%

Headquarters: Scottsdale, US

Year established: 2014

Number of employees: 320

deed, since adopting its new positioning strategy, the organisation has seen increased client engagement and interest with both new and existing customers.

Now in 52 countries and counting, SOURCE and its Hydropanel solution are certainly ones to watch as the world seeks to stabilise and futureproof a sustainable drinking water supply.

Special Piping Materials

Passing a test of resilience and diversification to overcome a challenging period

Les Buckley CEO

How is Special Piping Materials thriving?

Founded in 1989, Special Piping Materials (SPM) has supplied the oil and gas industry with exotic stainless steel products, including duplex and super duplex, pipes fittings and flanges. With a reputation for quality and excellent service, SPM is now firmly established on almost all approved vendors lists of oil and gas companies and EPC contractors. Recently, all industries have had to respond to the difficult conditions caused by COVID and the war in Ukraine. The price of raw material almost doubled, which had a far-reaching impact on the whole supply chain. However, SPM continued to re-stock, although on a smaller scale, allowing the company to continue to be profitable through those two to three years.

One of SPM’s main strengths is that it is open 24 hours per day. Offices and warehouses are located in England, Scotland, Singapore, Australia, the UAE, Brazil and the US. Now, in 2024, conditions have stabilised, and SPM can move forward. Due to a strong cash flow, in 2022 it was able to diversify and create a new company: Special Metric Materials Ltd.

The challenge - The renewables sector and global warming have made it clear that the future of oil and gas is limited. Although the market for new products like lithium (for batteries) and the progression of FPSOs is still strong, SPM searched for a way to diversify.

Water treatment has proved to be the right answer. The sector was a great fit because the product is still stainless steel pipe, fittings and flanges – but in metric and ISO thin wall sizing, in contrast to SPM’s core products for oil and gas, where the products are generally imperial, with a heavier wall thickness.

The solution - So, Special Metric Materials Ltd (SMM) was established in 2022, a sister company to SPM. SMM is built to serve the water treatment and business services sectors. The experience and know-how of SPM, a similar model of company, carrying stocks of pipes and fittings, has expediated the process. The operation requires competitive pricing and next-day deliveries. High quality product goes without saying. To help with the transition, SMM hired an experienced specialist and built a relationship with a Scandinavian manu-

facturer of metric stainless steel welded pipes and fittings – OSTP – one of the world’s leaders of this product. Together with OSTP as a partner, SMM supplies the water, process and building services sectors with key items such as metric and ISO stainless steel piping systems, a range of Tru-Bore®, ISO and hygienic materials.

David Garratt, a director of OSTP, commented: “SMM is one of OSTP’s key partner distributors and stockholders in the UK, for welded stainless steel metric Tru-Bore® products and in addition welded ISO and ANSI pipes and fittings. Their progress in the last three years has been impressive and we look forward to supporting them in the coming years”.

The success of SMM arrived quickly. In 2023, the company, in its second year, was profitable. 2024 is extremely busy and the future is looking bright with over 100 customers on the books. In-house projects include supplying the materials, through contractors, for football stadiums. In June 2024, SMM is moving premises to a 52,000ft² unit. More stock will follow, and the size of the unit will enhance its ability to provide an even better service. Meanwhile, after just over two years, SMM’s headcount is now 15 and growing. Indeed, several factors have contributed to the rapid success enjoyed by SMM so far. Starting from scratch with an experienced manager, and a staff who knows the product inside out, has expediated the whole process. Teething problems have been eliminated earlier than usual.

Alongside SMM, SPM continues to flourish. An interesting project is ongoing – supplying the stainless piping system for a lithium plant being constructed for Tesla. Desalination plants also use super duplex, a material which is used where brackish water is present. It should be noted that material carried in stock by SPM is tested in accordance with NORSOK, ISO 17781 and provided by M650 approved manufacturers.

Combined, the two entities are forecast to generate almost £60m of business in 2024, with £9m of that coming from SMM. With two successful brands, the organisation is set up to thrive in the coming years.

Story type

#diversification (main category)

#collaboration

Benefits

▸ Significant supplies of piping materials to a lithium plant being constructed for Tesla.

▸ Revenue forecast for 2024 at £60m.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Recognise who are the potential key figures in your business and provide the right incentives and work environment to allow them to flourish.

▸ Understand the importance of cash flow, especially when in the stocking and manufacturing business.

For government

▸ Lower corporation tax to allow businesses to grow and invest.

Special Piping Materials at a glance:

Key products and services: stockholder and supplier of piping components.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 80%

▸ Nuclear power – 5%

▸ Others (non-energy): water – 15%

Headquarters: Dukinfield, UK

Year established: 1989

Number of employees: 80

Revenue: £45m

Revenue from exports: 80%

SPP Pumps

Investing in the next generation of technicians to futureproof its business

Robert Tichband COO

How are SPP Pumps thriving?

Building on a legacy which started in 1875, SPP Pumps is investing in the future through its new apprenticeship programme. In a short space of time, the company has already recouped its investment into new machinery to accommodate the initiative, at the same time reducing its reliance on costly subcontracting processes.

The challenge - SPP Pumps has truly stood the test of time. Armed with a rich legacy spanning close to 150 years, the company remains a prominent manufacturer of centrifugal pumps and associated systems. Today, it excels in the design, supply and servicing of pumps and is renowned for its fire pump packages and highquality equipment tailored for a wide range of applications across a diverse array of sectors all over the world.

However, even the most formidably experienced firms encounter challenges, and SPP has had to negotiate its fair share since its founding in 1875. Among the most recent obstacles faced by the company have been high subcontracting costs and delivery delays, prompting it to consider the value of bringing more of its processes in-house.

The solution - Doing so requires a steady pipeline of talent coming into the organisation. Over the years, SPP has found it difficult to recruit skilled technicians, prompting a move in 2023 to recruit from the bottom and train people in-house to SPP standards and cultural values. Alongside this, SPP sought to invest in its in-house machine shop and give it a new lease of life, bringing in new technologies and efficiencies to help make it more competitive in the modern industrial world.

These activities have been centred around a new apprenticeship programme called Future Cell. Designed and implemented by the machine shop team, it gives apprentices and those wishing to retrain or further their training the opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues and take

part in exciting challenges, working on real-life pumping products and projects.

To deliver the programme, which currently has five apprentices onboarded, SPP invested in two new CNC machines with remote monitoring and wireless probing, allowing trainees to develop their programming and machining skills whilst producing critical pump components. SPP also purchased three conventional machines, enabling trainees to become proficient in the underpinning knowledge essential to CNC machining and production engineering.

The initiative has already been a resounding success. So far more than 3,000 machining hours have been achieved, activity alone which has covered the investment into the new equipment. One former apprentice, Ben Warren, who also went through a programme at SPP, has impressed to the point where he is now in charge of the Future Cell and received a rising star accolade at the BPMA awards.

From a purely practical perspective, the Future Cell initiative has enabled SPP to reduce its reliance on subcontracting, with 10 apprentices going onto full-time employment with the business over the past two years.

In terms of financials, a key indicator of success has been how SPP is generating greater income with a smaller team, which came about during the pandemic period as projects were put on hold. In 2018, the company turned over £45m with a headcount of over 310. In 2024, with a team of 260, SPP is forecasting revenues of £70m.

It is an impressive feat, one which the firm seeks to build on as it grows its team again through the Future Cell programme. Indeed, growing awareness of the initiative and broader opportunities to develop careers in the sector has been a priority, the team supports primary school visits,

Story type

#people & competency (main category)

#optimisation, #scale up

Benefits

▸ Revenue forecast of £70m in 2024.

▸ Over 90% of staff retention level.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Value the people, organisation is nothing without them.

▸ Recognise the importance of communication and make sure you communicate effectively.

For government

▸ Be more realistic about oil and gas and admit it as part of the solution.

SPP Pumps at a glance:

Key products and services: design, manufacture and service of centrifugal pumps and pumping solutions.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 63%

▸ Carbon capture – 2.8%

▸ Energy storage – 2.8%

▸ Conventional power – 1.4%

▸ Others (non-energy): water, others –35%

Headquarters: Coleford, UK

Year established: 1875

Number of employees: 375

Revenue: £110m

Revenue from exports: 70%

secondary school careers events, scouting engagements, STEM activities, and work experience placements.

With staff retention levels north of 90%, SPP looks to have a sustainable, future-proof team that can deliver even more success for clients and the company in years to come.

STATS Group

Embarking on a promising path under new ownership with fresh ideas

Leigh Howarth CEO

How is STATS Group thriving?

After trebling its business during 10 years of stewardship under CEO Leigh Howarth, STATS Group has entered a new phase of development after being acquired by Japanese firm Mitsui in the summer of 2023. With Howarth still at the helm, the company’s strategy for 2024-2026 has been defined –one which identifies a series of clear goals and objectives wrapped around the ongoing vision of being a first-class, specialist tools and technology services provider for a safer energy industry.

The challenge - STATS Group has come a long way since it was founded in 1998. Today, the company has operations in nine countries, making it a global player in the field of pipeline repair equipment manufacturing and engineering services. Over more than 25 years, its reputation has been built around excelling in the servicing of large-diameter, high-pressure pipelines, a process which requires advanced technical capabilities unique to STATS. Over the years, the company has carried out thousands of high-criticality projects for major national and international energy companies and pipeline operators in many countries around the world.

Its current CEO, Leigh Howarth, has been steering the ship for a decade, during which time STATS has grown its revenue from £26m to £75m last year. Now, with new ownership on board, the time has come to further accelerate the company’s strategy.

The solution - Mitsui took an interest in STATS for several reasons. Within the context of moving to a more circular economy, the demand for services capable of prolonging the life of ageing energy pipeline infrastructure through maintenance and repairs is expected to continue to grow.

At the same time, the ongoing energy transition process creates a necessity to convert existing pipeline infrastructure to the supply of hydrogen. In addition, the capturing, transportation, and storage of carbon dioxide is required to support a decarbonised society. Seeing that STATS is ideally positioned to provide its products and services to support these emerging market opportunities, Mitsui made the decision to invest, with the

takeover being announced in June 2023.

Speaking at the time, Howarth commented: “The acquisition of STATS is complementary to Mitsui’s plan to establish a strong, sustainable presence in the pipeline maintenance market as a service provider. Having worked with the Mitsui team for several months now, we’re delighted to be formally joining forces to pursue opportunities in both the traditional oil and gas pipeline markets and the emerging low-carbon markets.”

STATS will continue to deliver its services, products and solutions to customers from its existing operational bases across the globe, but will do so while under the umbrella of a refined strategy for 2024-2026, taking into account the broader opportunities Mitsui will bring to the company.

The three-year plan is framed around a stated vision “to provide specialist tools and technology services for a safer energy industry”. Specifically, this entails hitting a series of objectives over the period, led by a goal to avoid incidents in the pursuit of generating annual revenues of £100m by 2026, improving operational efficiency by 10% and delivering on its product innovation and development plans. Alongside this, other key targets involve reducing greenhouse gas emissions, building out internal capabilities, and increasing the diversity of its workforce.

Underpinning these goals are four core values – teamwork, respect, delivery and innovation. Adhering to these will ensure STATS works as one global team, operating with integrity and committing to reliable and responsive delivery for clients, while acting with curiosity to pioneer new solutions.

All STATS operating regions, each run by different regional leads, will operate under these parameters – helping to optimise processes and behaviours and, ultimately, consistency across the Group’s global activities.

Based on how STATS has developed with Howarth as CEO to date, there are many reasons to be optimistic about the company enjoying further success as it journeys through its three-year strategy, now in conjunction with Mitsui. It has demonstrated it has market leading technology which is

Story type

#transformation (main category)

#culture, #optimisation

Benefits

▸ Refined strategy aims to generate revenues of £100m by 2026, improve operational efficiency by 10% and deliver on its product innovation and development plans.

▸ Company takes pride in its market leading technology combined with a customer-centric culture.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Do not underestimate the length of time and amount of money it takes to transform from UK to international business.

▸ Focus on consistency, communication and trusted leadership.

For government

▸ Commit to a long-term strategy, for the good of society.

STATS Group at a glance:

Key products and services: supply of pressurised pipeline isolation, hot tapping and plugging services to the global energy industry.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 99%

▸ Hydrogen – 1%

Headquarters: Kintore, UK

Year established: 1998

Number of employees: 400

Revenue: £75m

Revenue from exports: 90%

combined with a customer-centric culture of understanding clients’ pain points and providing solutions to problems. The company takes pride in providing opportunities for its talented employees to be stretched – people who will be central to ensuring business excellence, innovation and growth in the years ahead.

Sulzer GT Aero Ltd. (Alba Power)

Revitalising the business through a full integration into a global parent

James Davies Managing Director

How is Sulzer GT Aero Ltd. thriving?

As a result of the acquisition by Sulzer, the former Alba Power is now undergoing a full integration process with its parent company. While Sulzer is widely recognised for its expertise in pump services, it is also a significant player in rotating equipment services. Leveraging this strong foundation, Alba Power, now known as Sulzer GT Aero Ltd, has been designated as the primary hub for aeroderivative gas turbine services within the broader Sulzer organization, enabling us to deliver even greater value to our customers.

The challenge - For more than 20 years, Alba Power was a family-owned business specialising in the service, inspection, repair and overhaul of Rolls-Royce, Pratt & Whitney and other aeroderivative gas turbines, as well as power turbines and controls.

Switzerland-based Sulzer acquired the company in 2019, allowing Alba to operate as usual following a partial integration. In the past two years, however, it became clear that a complete integration was necessary in order to achieve global growth ambitions.

As part of this, the local business is to be rebranded and reorganized, and significant investments are being made in people and processes, equipment and facilities.

The solution - Integration of a privately-owned company is always a delicate matter, but it can be particularly sensitive when the company has been successfully operating for two decades. The benefits, however, can also be significant. With its Aberdeen centre of competence for aeroderivatives, Sulzer GT Aero is uniquely positioned to provide local service while also extending support to the broader Sulzer organization.

James Davies was appointed Managing Director in September 2023, and is spearheading a number of initiatives to ensure a seamless integration.

Apart from positioning the aeroderivative gas turbine services hub for Sulzer, a top priority is to establish a one-team culture and offer employees a broader purpose and sense of belonging to a larger company. In order to reach its growth goals, the company has recruited up-skilled leaders for HR, sales, operations, engineering, purchasing and

next-generation technicians. An apprenticeship program that had lain dormant for four years has also been revived. The company has recruited 15 new employees, representing a significant investment in its future and long-term potential.

The next wave of investment in Aberdeen is already in motion for 2024, which plans to address the location’s physical facilities. Here, new yard tarmac, fixtures and tooling will be installed, and the storage system will be completely revamped. This is particularly important, as it will enable more comprehensive operational efficiency gains at the facility to free required resources and best ensure timely delivery for our customers.

Processes will also get attention. As part of the ongoing integration, both time and money are being allocated to new, more scalable systems that allow superior cost tracking and other internal processes and align with Sulzer’s systems. As part of its investment plan, Sulzer GT Aero has also earmarked investment to enhance output quality and improve processes, including implementation and training and for standardised operating procedures. The ultimate goal is to provide an enhanced customer experience in accordance with global Sulzer service standards.

The most significant investment to date, however, has been around the integration of Sulzer GT Aero’s capabilities with Sulzer’s wider network and key suppliers. Carried out in collaboration with Sulzer’s manufacturing locations across Europe, this investment has resulted in production parts that are already proving themselves in operation at customer sites.

It has been a busy period, but one that is yielding some promising results. Due to available market opportunities, Sulzer GT Aero is expected to grow substantially during 2025 while maintaining its existing customer base. Many people are unaware that Sulzer is an important player with much transferable experience and expertise to offer the industry. Sulzer’s substantial investment, parental guidance and commitment to Sulzer GT Aero is a major milestone in the company’s history, promising many growth opportunities for the future.

Story type

#transformation (main category)

#resilience

Benefits

▸ Reduced engine repair and overhaul turnaround times.

▸ Enhanced customer experience.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Seek expansion and growth.

▸ Be resilient.

For government

▸ Support apprenticeship programmes, R&D, innovation projects, etc.

▸ Enable growth in manufacturing via expansion of light and heavy industry.

Sulzer GT Aero Ltd. at a glance:

Key products and services: independent service provider for maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) of legacy Rolls-Royce (RR) aero-derivative gas turbines and power turbines.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 90%

▸ Conventional power – 9%

▸ Nuclear power – 1%

Headquarters: Winterthur, Switzerland

Number of employees: 13,000

Revenue: £3bn

Revenue from exports: 70%

Technical Royal Excellence

Meeting

the demand for a one-stop shop solution

Tanweer Ahmed General Manager

How is Technical Royal Excellence thriving?

Technical Royal Excellence (TRE) continues to keep a finger on the pulse of energy market requirements. Having recognised the demand for a one-stop crane and lifting solutions shop, the company is now providing a suite of new integrated services to clients across the industry. After dramatically expanding both market share and revenue because of these recent service alignment efforts, as well as making several savvy technology investments into VR training and software-based reporting and certifi cation, the UAE-based firm has continued to rise to a series of new and evolving challenges.

The challenge - Established in 2014 under the umbrella of Royal Marine Group incorporated in 2001, UAE-based TRE provides products and services in several specialist areas, from lifting inspection and crane maintenance to training, equipment rental and non-destructive testing (NDT).

Currently, a major part of its offering lies in third party inspection services. However, the company has faced a series of challenges here in recent times.

Having previously prepared inspection reports using relatively old school Microsoft Office applications such as Word and Excel, it found that its process was fraught with challenges. Not only was it time consuming, but also inconsistent and subject to errors that would result in client complaints.

In addition, the company had also struggled because of its dependencies on other parties in arranging the testing of equipment, with the presence of inspectors needed to witness and verify the testing being a particularly common hurdle. Indeed, arrangements were usually made by other suppliers, causing delays for TRE’s clients.

Thus, it was diffi cult to get all stakeholders aligned within a specifi c timeframe, with TRE’s surveyors regularly losing hours of time from waiting around, harming their productivity and job satisfaction through unplanned overtime and long hours.

With the vast majority of crane and lifting

equipment manufactured in Europe, North America, and Australia, the non-availability of parts and trained technicians was also adding to delays and operational disruptions. And now, with Gen Z joining the industry, TRE has also had to work to adapt its training methods for a wave of new employees that prefer innovative or technological learning models.

The solution - TRE continuously analyses areas for improvement and ways in which it can more closely align with its energy sector needs, working to provide innovative and value-added solutions for its clients and employees.

Regarding the latter, the company has recently implemented a new crane operator training scheme which leverages virtual reality and is highly acclaimed by industry experts. Not only should this shift serve to enhance its training delivery overall, but it will also closely align with the needs of new Gen Z starters.

Internally, it has recently implemented software-based reporting and certification solutions, carefully designed in line with industry needs, to eliminate the inefficiencies and errors it was encountering by relying on the Microsoft Office Suite for complex reporting needs. Indeed, as anticipated, this initiative has yielded significant accuracy and efficiency improvements.

Additionally, the company recognised the struggles that rig operators, marine specialists and EPCs have faced in getting a single solution that aligned with their crane and lifting needs. To address this, the firm is working to include several new integrated services that are allowing it to be a one-stop shop for its clients.

Here, TRE is now offering lifting surveyor services, crane maintenance and overhaul, testing equipment such as water weights, solid weights and load cells, SLI calibration and trouble shooting, NDT services, health and safety trainings all in one coordinated package. Resultantly, the company has successfully established itself as a supplier of choice among many industry professionals, enabling them to do business with one single supplier rather than working with four or five different partners.

With these changes being implemented since Q2 2022 onward, the firm is already enjoying

Story type

#service & solutions (main category)

Benefits

▸ Revenue growth of 63% in 2023.

▸ Company headcount increased 23%.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Focus now on sustainability to move towards clean energy as soon as possible.

▸ Look for innovative solutions.

For government

▸ Provide funding for new business initiatives with sustainable goals to ensure a green future.

Technical Royal Excellence at a glance:

Key products and services: consulting, inspection and training services to a variety of industries.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 88%

▸ Offshore renewable energy – 12%

Headquarters: Abu Dhabi, UAE

Year established: 2014

Number of employees: 40

Revenue: £6.1m

Revenue from exports: 10%

significant success from its efforts just two years on.

The figures speak for themselves. Not only has TRE increased its market share from 18% to 35%, but it also achieved 63% revenue growth in 2023, with its crane and lifting activities directly responsible for 15% of overall revenue. Meanwhile, TRE’s headcount has grown 23%, and with profit margins exceeding 21%, the firm has laid the foundations from which it can continue to reap significant rewards moving forward.

TenzorGEO

Uncovering new markets and applications for its seismic data capabilities

Ivan Starostin CEO

How is TenzorGEO thriving?

To futureproof itself against market challenges, TenzorGEO has expanded into new markets and verticals within the energy sector. Moving away from reliance on the United Kingdom Continental Shelf (UKCS), the firm has also unlocked a new, potentially lucrative avenue in the carbon capture and storage space – a sector which stands to benefit from its CO2 monitoring solutions.

The challenge - Since 2018, TenzorGEO has brought significant geophysical expertise to the oil and gas market from its base in Aberdeen. Specialising in the acquisition, processing and interpretation of passive seismic data, the company helps clients to optimise economic recovery and extend the lifespan of both onshore and offshore fields.

Over the past three years, TenzorGEO has been faced with significant challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the oil and gas industry, resulting in fluctuating prices, reduced demand and industry bankruptcies. Additionally, the firm came up against the deferment of exploration investments due to economic uncertainties, shifting government agendas towards lower-carbon energy sources, project delays, budget constraints, intense competition, and environmental and social concerns regarding fossil fuels.

To address these headwinds head on, the company needed to adopt a new and proactive approach – one which would solidify and widen its message to the market around the value of leading-edge passive seismic data analysis as a means of extending asset lifespans.

The solution - This approach has, so far, involved activities across numerous strands. From a territorial perspective, TenzorGEO changed its operating focus to markets outside of the United Kingdom Continental Shelf (UKCS), recognising that the international oil and gas industry is constantly seeking new technologies to help solve challenges. Specifically, the firm has targeted the UAE and Australia through strategic recruitment, considered market research and tenacious networking, a process which has already yielded promising results.

As well as broadening its horizons geographically, TenzorGEO has also looked at how it

can apply its expertise to solve a wider range of subsurface challenges faced by companies in the energy sector. Here, it worked closely with a partner in the Middle East, going through a feasibility study, capability testing and pilot project in its field asset.

Efforts have also been redirected into applying the company’s technology in the carbon capture and storage space, the firm developing a means of monitoring the injection of carbon dioxide (CO2) in subsurface reservoirs. Named Cuttlefish Carbon Guard (CGG), this CO2 monitoring solution has been the subject of a pilot at study in the Middle East, with multiple engagements and promising prospects on the horizon.

As these developments have unfolded, TenzorGEO has contemplated the way in which it sells its solutions and expertise. Now, the firm is considering a software-as-a-service (SaaS) type of business model, where client organisations deploy their own sensors and leverage analytical software modules installed by TenzorGEO. The company is seeking investment to explore this opportunity, the aim being to provide a means for clients to improve the quality of their passive seismic data profiles and analytical capabilities.

Alongside this, the firm is seeking to position itself as a thought leader among stakeholders in the sector, contributing to academic debate through the drafting of articles and delivery of presentations to industry audiences. The company is also engaging in its own learning exercises, finding organisations willing to take on a degree of risk and be early adopters of technologies, understanding their pain points, and innovating solutions to problems. It is also engaging academia in the UK and US to see what else it can do with the data it handles on a daily basis.

Through these concerted efforts, combined with active engagement with academia in the UK and US to see what else it can do with the data it handles on a daily basis, TenzorGEO is starting to see the benefit.

The market is beginning to realise the value of and need for passive seismic monitoring, a trend reflected in improving performance which has seen TenzorGEO achieve £1m in revenue in its first year. Meanwhile, its team continues to grow organically and benefit from extremely high retention levels, with

Story type

#export (main category)

#innovation, #service & solutions, #technology

Benefits

▸ Improving both the well hit rate of commercial oil while reducing exploration and appraisal costs.

▸ Better help clients to implement appropriate risk management strategies to mitigate risks that can compromise the integrity of reservoirs to ensure project safety and success.

▸ Support companies to ensure regulatory compliance, optimise project performance, and achieve environmental sustainability goals, ultimately contributing to the success and long-term viability of their projects.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Never give up, stay true to what you believe in. Silence the negative voices around you.

▸ Learn how to be “aggressive”, a doer. Resilience and discipline are key.

For government

▸ Better understanding of the challenges SMEs and startups face in the industry.

TenzorGEO at a glance:

Key products and services: acquisition and interpretation of passive seismic data.

Main industries served: ▸ Oil and gas – 50% ▸ Carbon capture – 50%

Headquarters: Aberdeen, UK

Year established: 2018

Number of employees: 8

Revenue: £1.5m

Revenue from exports: 70%

the only departures occurring as a result of talent being headhunted.

With more plans and potential investment in the pipeline, TenzorGEO has many reasons to be optimistic for the years ahead.

TKR Engineering

Building a formidable reputation in just five years

How is TKR Engineering thriving?

Founder

TKR has achieved more in just five years than many similar firms have in more than a decade.

Through an unwavering commitment to continually enhancing its employee base, upholding its core values, improving its internal structures and processes, and developing bespoke solutions, the company has excelled, securing much of its business from repeat customers that have seen the value in its tailored problem-solving approach.

The challenge - Established in 2019, Malaysia-based TKR has quickly become renowned as a disruptive force in the field of civil engineering, structural maintenance, metal structure design and custom fabrication, and oilfield equipment and services.

Of course, being a new market entrant, the firm has had to overcome several hurdles to not only grow but equally futureproof itself as a viable, successful organisation for years to come. Indeed, the firm started life operating in Sarawak – a Malaysian state based in Borneo that is not the largest market, yet one that is relatively competitive.

Against this backdrop, the firm undoubtedly needed to differentiate itself to become considered a reliable, credible entity that would be able to not only meet but exceed the needs of its customers on a consistent basis.

The solution - It is within this context that the company opted to focus its efforts and overall growth strategy on value creation for customers, ensuring that it provides exceptional service through the delivery of superior quality projects that meet budget and scheduling goals.

For this to be achievable, the firm’s workforce and culture were critically important.

Indeed, TKR has continued to prioritise the recruitment and retention of key industry talent, providing competitive packages and a series of additional benefits in order to attract those that it believes are a perfect fit for its unique culture of working.

Here, emphasis is also placed on empowering employees, giving them the freedom to take decisions, with management only intervening where necessary. By trusting its people to deliver their work successfully, the firm finds it can sustain a strong working culture and higher levels of employee satisfaction.

There are, of course, guidelines that employees are expected to abide by. Specifically, the company asks that its workforce embrace and embody TKR’s six core values, applying these throughout their operations on a day-to-day basis. Critically, these are integrity, professionalism, commitment, innovative, teamwork, and health and safety.

Albeit vitally important, it is not just the firm’s workforce that are vital to ensuring that TKR is able to operate successfully. Additionally, it continues to invest in the improvement of its processes and procedures, as is demonstrated by its securement of ISO 9000 certification.

A set of internationally recognised standards for quality assurance and management, aligning with these has served as an excellent enabler to instil a culture of organised and systematic working. By combining the right talent with the right systems and structures, the risk of errors and unnecessary mistakes can be eliminated, serving to improve the quality of the firm’s services, and its ability to consistently meet customer expectations. Further, this accreditation provides assurances upfront to potential customers, helping to move prospect further down marketing and sales funnels.

In addition to its processes, TKR continuously invests in equipment, tools and technologies. Indeed, the company doesn’t take its new position in the market for granted, continuing to keep a finger on the pulse of technology development year by year. This includes carrying out extensive R&D within its facilities and solutions, with a view to deliver customised solutions that meet its customers’ requirements.

Interestingly, the firm also focuses significant attention on developing unique prototypes to provide proof of concepts, demonstrating its commitment to excellence and enhancing internal capabilities.

Through these efforts, and an unwavering focus on centric-centric success, TKR has quickly established a strong market reputation, with a large proportion of its business coming from repeat customers. With its focus for 2024 centring on everything from improving its development and deliverance of customised solutions, empowering its esteemed engineers to solve increasingly diverse and complex customer problems, and expanding overseas as it continues to grow, the future undoubtedly looks bright for a company so young.

Story type

#culture (main category)

#technology

Benefits

▸ As a result of company’s efforts to improve its process and procedures, TKR Engineering has secured its ISO 9000 certification.

▸ Internal management were made to sustain a strong work culture and improve employee satisfaction at the workplace while embracing TKR’s six core values on day-today activities.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Embrace technology and innovation by staying updated with the advancements and investing in R&D to offer customised solutions.

▸ Innovation comes from fostering a culture of innovation by encouraging creativity and new ideas. A good management needs to provide platforms for employees to share and celebrate successes while also learning from failures.

For government

▸ For policymakers to facilitate international trade and partnerships to boost the competitiveness of energy industry companies.

TKR Engineering at a glance:

Key products and services: civil engineering, structural maintenance, manufacturing and oilfield equipment and services.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 80%

▸ Others (non-energy): civil engineering – 20%

Headquarters: Sarawak, Malaysia

Year established: 2019

Number of employees: 50

Revenue: £2m

Revenue from exports: N/A

Tang Siong Chung

Turner & Townsend

Deploying QuanTTum across the world to assure asset delivery on time, in scope and to design specification

David Whysall

Global Managing Director –Energy and Natural Resources

How is Turner & Townsend thriving?

A decade in the making, Turner & Townsend’s QuanTTum solution continues to amass new and cutting-edge capabilities which are enabling clients to design and build energy assets around the world more effectively.

The challenge - Turner & Townsend embarked on a mission to make a difference to how energy infrastructure assets are designed, controlled, and delivered. Witnessing first-hand the struggles that clients have had in managing such huge scope developments and their supply chains, the company knew that if it could offer real visibility over performance across the project lifecycle, huge rewards could be gained.

The solution - Turner & Townsend’s answer is QuanTTum, a highly intuitive assurance service tool, it provides asset visualisation throughout project development and delivery. Pre-construction, the QuanTTum service offers energy and natural resources projects independent model verification to provide an objective analysis of the project’s design model. It performs data harvesting and measurement analysis, extracting quantities and weights and segmenting them according to the work breakdown structure. Accurate bills of approximate quantities and bills of quantities are produced and live-linked to the model, with unmeasured balances highlighted to support development of estimates.

During asset construction, progress is digitally reflected on the model, providing a clear and transparent audit trail through remeasurement and reporting. In addition, an accurate digital asset based on the design data, quantities, and costs can be used for asset management activities and to support future project development during project closeout and legacy stages.

In 2020, QuanTTum became the digital core of Turner & Townsend’s projects control methodology. Fast-forward to 2022, and cutting-edge features such as LiDAR and scanning technologies were added, offering the ability to collect construction site data from anywhere in the world and update models to show progress. This enabled teams to visual-

Sarah-Jane Finlayson

Director (Global Business Generation)

ise their projects with unparalleled clarity and enable the control of cost, schedule, risk and quality like never before.

Through QuanTTum, Turner & Townsend has been able to build long and fruitful partnerships with clients. Its ability to identify and resolve schedule and cost issues quickly and efficiently is bolstering both its brand reputation and revenue growth to boot.

In North America, for example, the company is supporting several major conventional and low carbon projects. Here, QuanTTum is being leveraged to provide visibility in both the design and construction phases, with LiDAR scanners being used to measure progress and feed back into the model . The service is enabling total visibility of change throughout the project development and construction phases, with critical projections on cost, weight, scheduling and other parameters enabling timely, targeted interventions when needed.

Indeed, such has been QuanTTum’s impact on one major onshore liquefied natural gas project, the client has benefitted from an ~90% reduction in survey costs, with over 2,500 project hours equivalent saved so far. On another major floating liquefied natural gas project, differences did emerge between Turner & Townsend’s data and the contractor’s material take off (MTO) for 14 topsides modules. Following collaboration, the contractor resubmitted their MTO, aiding the client to negotiate conversion of the topsides more accurately from a reimbursable to a lump sum contract.

Work is ongoing, with many major clients now writing QuanTTum into their employer’s information requirements for their projects to enable improved transparency during the design and construction.

The impact this is having on some of the world’s largest energy projects is testament to the constant refinement and development Turner & Townsend has invested into the QuanTTum offering. As more and more clients extract value, momentum will only continue to build in the coming years.

Story type

#service & solutions (main category)

#collaboration, #digital, #innovation

Benefits

▸ Faster delivery for less: Near real time visibility of construction progress from anywhere in the world.

▸ Supported client to reduce surveying costs by 90%, with 2,500 project hours equivalent saved.

Key findings

For industry

▸ There is an urgent need to build more balanced and more sustainable societies. Construction is a key enabler for this change, but successful delivery depends on industry transformation.

▸ By driving innovation, embedding social, environmental and economic impact and improving productivity across energy transition critical projects and programmes, we can accelerate performance and realise essential change.

For government

▸ Progressive decline in major programme performance continues to erode confidence from investors and stakeholders.

Turner & Townsend at a glance:

Key products and services: global consultancy business in the real estate, infrastructure and natural resources sectors.

Main industries served:

▸ Conventional and low carbon energy – 26%

▸ Offshore renewable energy – 23%

▸ Transmission and distribution – 17%

▸ Nuclear and hydro power – 15%

▸ Mining – 19%

Headquarters: Leeds, UK

Year established: 1947

Number of employees: 12,500

Revenue: £1.225bn

Revenue from exports: 60%