InsideEnergyFebruary2025

Sector analysis

Data centres in Malaysia: growing challenges in energy demand

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been an integral tool in improving process efficiency across various sectors, from a simple prompt on Google’s Gemini or ChatGPT to industrial software such as Petronas’s VROC AI. The growing use of AI is strongly supported by the computational power and data provided by the data centre (DC) industry. DCs are remote facilities that store, process and distribute large amounts of data. A single DC houses servers, storage systems and networking equipment to power the digital world. The rapid integration of AI is quickly driving the demand for DC development globally.

APAC has the highest amount of operating and upcoming DCs, with Malaysia having the fastest growing market in the region as of 2024. The Malaysian digital minister announced that about US$15bn in investment was recorded for the digital sector by H1 2024. Major investments include Microsoft’s commitment to invest US$2.2bn and another US$2bn by Google for the development of DCs as well as advanced cloud and AI infrastructure in Malaysia. Malaysia’s Budget 2025 also allocated US$226.1m in funding which includes the development of the AI sector. DCs will remain a key driver of industrial growth, but its implications for the energy industry deserve discussions of their own.

RHB Research mentioned that Malaysia currently has DC capacity of under 400MW, with 1.2GW expected to come online in 2025. An additional 3GW will be developed progressively in the next three to five years. This indicates a staggering 300% growth in capacity by the end of 2025 alone. Johor is on its way to becoming the DC capital in Malaysia. In October 2024, 36 DC development applications were being reviewed by the Johor state government, on top of the 10 operating DCs. Besides cheaper electricity and land costs, the surge is partly driven by Singapore’s new DC moratorium framework released in 2022. The framework encourages clustering of DCs to optimise energy efficiency and local infrastructure. Meanwhile, the DC market in Borneo gained momentum in 2024. Sarawak has five upcoming DC projects, while Sabah will set up its first Tier IV certified DC.

The rapid expansion of this industry, albeit driving economic and technological growth, is placing a significant strain on the national grid. The Malaysian Energy Commission identifies DC development as a major contributor to the projected 20% increase in power demand over the next decade. Depending on the size, server density and applications used, the energy demand per DC is estimated to be about 1MWh per square metre per year. The substantial energy consumption also results in immense heat generation, requiring additional power to pump water for cooling.

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) predicts that the energy demand from DCs in Malaysia may reach 5GW by 2035. As the demand for data storage and processing continues to soar, there is a critical challenge of balancing digital ambitions with sustainable energy practices.

MDEC highlighted investors’ interest in using renewable energy for direct power sources, with solar farms as a prominent choice. As of Q4 2024, there are only two DC projects in Malaysia with onsite solar farms. YTL Power International Berhad is developing the YTL Green DC Park in Johor. The Tier III certified DC is equipped with the 500MW Kulai Solar Farm. Zecon Group will be developing six AI-driven DCs in their Kota Petra Green Technology Park (KPGTP). Located in Kuching, Sarawak, it will have a 300MW solar farm and 600MWh battery energy storage system. Poseiden Technologies has proposed a hybrid power system for Sabah’s first DC, combining onsite solar generation with conventional grid power. Meanwhile, other DCs tend to procure renewable energy from nearby power plants. One example includes the Irix DC @ Santubong 1 project, which will be connected to the Baleh Hydroelectric Dam in Sarawak.

Nonetheless, the need for instantaneous energy is still strong due to the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources. Therefore, the conventional power sector will remain essential in ensuring stable energy supply as demand increases. As Malaysia phases out coal by 2044, gas power plants are projected to grow at an average annual rate of 3.8%, becoming a primary power source by 2031. Upcoming gas power projects are also incorporating multifuel capabilities for fuel diversification. Projects like the Miri Gas Power Plant and Maharani Energy Gateway CCGT will utilise gas and hydrogen as primary fuels, leveraging the increasing availability of locally produced hydrogen. TNB has also been investing in co-firing initiatives in retiring and operating coal power plants. Projects include Stesen Janakuasa Sultan Azlan Shah and Stesen Janakuasa Tuanku Mukhriz Co-firing Demonstration Projects, both of which are in FEED stages. The coal power plants will be co-fired with 1% ammonia and 2% biomass pellets. Besides that, the Malaysian government is assessing small modular nuclear reactor (SMR) technology for the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13), with Sabah expressing interest in using SMR’s to meet its Sabah Energy Roadmap and Master Plan 2040 (SE-RAMP 2040) targets.

Despite energy and environmental concerns, DCs are projected to grow exponentially and significantly reshape the global energy landscape. Strategic energy planning is crucial to meet the demands of the digital age.

Aisyah Sarjuni, Research Analyst aisyah.sarjuni@the-eic.com

Inside this issue...

Last call for two of the EIC’s largest events of the year. Between 26-27 February in London, one of our latest initiatives, Bankable Energies will bring together the global investment community, key project developers and policymakers to discuss the global shift needed to attract investment and drive energy transition projects forward. This event serves as a pivotal platform to unite the global energy industry in discussions to drive action. Join us as we explore solutions to unlock investment for future projects, discuss the policy and regulatory considerations required to accelerate new energy initiatives and highlight the strategies for managing risk associated with the business. If you’re ready to register or want to know more, please visit www.the-eic.com/Events/BankableEnergies/Home

Meanwhile, EIC Connect, our flagship meet-the-buyer event series, is heading to a new destination. From 25-26 February, our Asia Pacific team will be hosting EIC Connect Energy Borneo in Kuching, Malaysia. The conference will engage, discuss and identify business opportunities within the energy market in Malaysia and Indonesia and promote cross-border partnerships to accelerate the energy transition landscape in the Borneo region. Learn more and secure your place at www.the-eic.com/Events/EICConnect/EICConnectEnergyBorneo2025

Finally, applications close this month for the eagerly anticipated ninth edition of the Survive & Thrive Insight Report series. Don’t miss the opportunity to raise the profile of your organisation among the global energy community and to automatically enter the 2025 World Energy Supply Chain Awards (WESCA). To read instalments from previous years and to register your company, please visit www.the-eic.com/MediaCentre/Publications/SurviveandThrive

In this edition of Inside Energy, readers can find pieces on the role of data centres in Malaysia, the acquisition of Gamesa Electric’s power electronic business in Spain by ABB, Kongsberg Digital’s K-Pos DP system, as well as updates from our offices and members worldwide.

DataStream

ANGOLA Soyo Fertiliser Plant

Operator: Sonangol Value: US$2bn

KBR has secured a contract for its ammonia technology. The contract scope includes, to provide technology license, proprietary engineering design, equipment and catalyst solutions for the 2,300 tpd ammonia plant.

Global opportunities

GERMANY

Geseke Cement Plant GeZero CCS Project

Operator: HeidelbergCement Value: US$1bn

Fluor has been awarded a FEED contract and will be responsible for design integration of several decarbonisation technologies at the Geseke cement production facility. Construction is planned to start in 2026, with commissioning three years later.

MEXICO

Polok

and Chinwol Oil Discoveries

Operator: Repsol Value: US$2.5bn

Repsol has awarded McDermott a FEED contract for the Polok and Chinwol field development project. McDermott will supply the operator with comprehensive services for the project’s EPCI of subsea, umbilicals, risers and flowlines.

For information on these and more than 15,000 other current and future projects we are tracking please visit EICDataStream

PERU

La Joya Solar PV Project

Operator: Kallpa Generación Value: US$250m

Kallpa Generación has unveiled a plan to build a 225MWp solar farm in the district of La Joya, Arequipa, Peru. The full EPC contract has been awarded to Acciona. The solar farm will feature 371,040 bifacial panels and will be connected to the 220kV San José substation.

SAUDI ARABIA Saudi Arabia SAF Project

Operator: Saudi Aramco Value: US$500m

Aramco, TotalEnergies and Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC), subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia have signed a Joint Development and Cost Sharing Agreement (JDCSA) to assess the potential development of a sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) plant in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province.

SOUTH KOREA Dangjin Hydrogen Power Plant

Operator: Korea Southern Power Co Ltd (KOSPO)

Value: US$1.7bn

A MoU was signed between the Governor of Chungcheong province with KOSPO and Samsung C&T to construct the Dangjin Green Energy Hub. The hub consists of a US$1.724m fuel cell powered plant, a US$646m battery energy storage system (BESS) and a US$860m data centre.

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

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

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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

ABB to acquire power electronics business of Gamesa Electric

ABB has signed an agreement to acquire the power electronics business of Gamesa Electric in Spain from Siemens Gamesa to strengthen ABB’s position in the growing market for high-powered renewable power conversion technology.

The acquisition will significantly expand ABB’s existing power conversion product and service offering to renewables OEMs and end users, with new portfolio and engineering assets that will support the profitable growth strategy of ABB’s Motion business area. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions and is expected to close in the second half of 2025. Financial terms were not disclosed.

The offering ABB is acquiring is focused on electrical products for power conversion and includes doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) wind converters, industrial battery energy storage system (BESS) and utility-scale solar power inverters.

The transaction will complement ABB’s expertise with over 100 highly specialised engineers and two Spanish converter factories in Madrid and Valencia, for a total workforce of around 400 employees, including key resources in India, China, US and Australia.

The power electronics business of Gamesa Electric reported revenues of around €170m for the fiscal year that ended on 30 September 2024.

The International Energy Agency estimates that global renewable capacity additions will continue to increase every year, reaching almost 940GW annually by 2030 from 666GW in 2024, based on existing policies and market conditions. Solar PV and wind together are expected to account for 95% of all renewable capacity growth through to the end of this decade.

The acquisition also aims to increase ABB’s serviceable power conversion installed base with the addition of around 40GW, leveraging ABB’s global organisation to access new service, modernisation and repower opportunities. The deep domain expertise of the Gamesa Electric team will also help increase the scope of ABB’s digital offering. In addition, ABB plans to enter into a supply and services agreement with Siemens Gamesa.

This targeted acquisition is in line with our commitments to grow our portfolio for high power renewable applications and support productivity in a low-carbon world. It will expand our engineering depth for power conversion and grid connection and will add significant opportunity to service a large installed base. With the acquisition of this business we will be much better positioned to capitalise on the expansion of the power conversion market for renewables while building on our relationship with Siemens Gamesa.

Chris Poynter, President of ABB’s System Drives division

Spotlight on technology

Kongsberg Digital has announced an important new simulator contract with Noble Corporation, one of the world’s leading offshore drilling companies, headquartered in Houston, Texas.

The contract includes the delivery of state-of-the-art navigation, engine and dynamic positioning (DP) simulators based on Kongsberg Maritime’s market-leading K-Pos DP system. The simulators will be tailored and integrated with Kongsberg Maritime’s riser monitoring system (RMS) and electronic well specific operating guidelines (eWSOG) to meet Noble’s unique training needs.

Noble will be the first company globally to implement such an advanced DP drilling training solution for in-house Nautical Institute-accredited training. This innovative training installation is designed to enhance operational competencies, increase safety awareness and promote effective team collaboration – critical factors in drilling operations where engineers, dynamic positioning operators and drillers must work seamlessly together to solve potential challenges. The simulators will also support root-cause incident analysis and help integrate legacy crews from recent mergers, fostering a cohesive and well-trained workforce.

Our unwavering commitment to safety, performance and innovation has defined who we are. We put our people above all else. Investing in Kongsberg cutting-edge simulators is a testament to our dedication to our offshore workforce and an integral part of our safety and training programmes. This new immersive training environment will not only enhance the skills and preparedness of our crew and operators but also reinforces Noble’s aim to be first choice for employees, customers and investors.

Brian Herbert, Marine Training Simulation Supervisor, Noble

Our K-Sim simulators are transforming offshore training by offering professionals with a realistic training environment that prepares them for high-pressure scenarios without any risk to personnel, equipment or environment. We are honoured that Noble has chosen us to deliver solutions that fulfil their specific training needs and welcome them to our growing community of offshore customers, including companies like Equinor, Maersk and Heerema Marine, who recognise the value of investing in crew competence to enhance safety, sustainability and operational efficiency.

Are Føllesdal Tjønn, Managing Director, Kongsberg Digital Maritime Simulation Division

KONGSBERG DIGITAL’S K-SIM OFFSHORE SIMULATOR

Photo © 2025 Kongsberg Digital

New EIC members

NEW GLOBAL MEMBER

Trillium Flow TechnologiesTM

Westpoint House 5 Redwood Place East Kilbride Glasgow G74 5PB UK

Contact Chris Molineaux, Global Marketing and Communications Director

Telephone +1 832 200 6220

Email media@trilliumflow.com

Web www.trilliumflow.com

Trillium Flow Technologies is a global designer, manufacturer and aftermarket services provider of highly engineered valves and pumps used in critical infrastructure, including nuclear, water, power, processing, minerals and general industrial applications.

Built on industry leading global brands with hundreds of years of heritage, Trillium powers its advancement through cutting-edge innovation, industry expertise and company vision to become one of the most relied upon flow control solutions companies in the world.

NEW PRIMARY MEMBER

Woodcock & Wilson Ltd

Airstream Works

Blackmoorfoot Road

Huddersfield HD4 7AA UK

Contact Scott Harding, Sales Director

Telephone +44 (0)1484 462 777

Email

scottharding@fanmanufacturers.com

Web

www.fanmanufacturers.com

Woodcock & Wilson Ltd, established in 1973, is a leading British manufacturer of bespoke industrial fans, including centrifugal and axial models. Based in Huddersfield, the company serves a variety of sectors, including oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, chemicals and the nuclear industry.

Renowned for its innovative approach, Woodcock & Wilson developed the world’s first independently certified ATEX and IECEx fans, ensuring safe and reliable ventilation in hazardous environments. With over 120 years of combined engineering experience, the company is dedicated to quality, safety and customer satisfaction, delivering tailored solutions that meet rigorous international standards.

Member news

ABS approves ammonia fuel supply system for Nikkiso

ABS has issued an approval in principle (AIP) for a new ammonia fuel supply system (FSS) from Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases.

The ammonia fuel supply system features high efficiency pumps and an integrated fuel management system and can be installed in marine applications such as merchant ships. ABS completed design reviews based on class and statutory requirements.

Ammonia promises to be one of the leading fuel alternatives in the energy transition. Along with safety excellence, our deep technical expertise in alternative fuels and engine designs makes us the ideal classification society for innovative projects such as this.

Patrick Ryan, Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, ABS

ABS offers industry-leading services in the application of ammonia as a marine fuel, as well as other alternative energy sources.

ABS, a leading global provider of classification and technical advisory services to the marine and offshore industries, is committed to setting standards for safety and excellence in design and construction. Focused on safe and practical application of advanced technologies and digital solutions, ABS works with industry and clients to develop accurate and cost-effective compliance, optimised performance and operational efficiency for marine and offshore assets.

ASCO welcomes new general manager ahead of first steel delivery

ASCO, a leading global logistics and materials management provider, has appointed William ‘Bill’ Draper as general manager of its Teesworks operations, as the site prepares for its first steel delivery.

With over 34 years of experience working on the River Tees, Bill will manage the team at Steel River Quay, on the south bank of the River Tees. His role includes overseeing operations as the team prepares for the significant milestone of receiving the first steel delivery at Teesworks, the UK’s largest freeport and one of the largest in Europe.

The quay recently welcomed its first two vessels, which ASCO’s team supported with mobilisation and finalising deck spread for projects and stores deliveries. Once fully operational, the quay is initially expected to support the region’s offshore wind energy projects by handling up to 140 journeys per year.

ASCO secured the contract at Teesworks earlier in 2024, which involves planning, scheduling and dayto-day operations, as well as providing stevedoring services. These efforts will be focused on the South Bank site, with access to the dedicated Steel River Quay, designed and developed to serve the offshore sector.

With immediate access to the River Tees and the North Sea, the 1km quay provides ASCO and other firms with 508 acres of development land, as well as unlocking the wider Teesworks site. The zone is in prime position for renewable activity and projects on the North East coast.

ASCO’s work here is expected to create up to 65 local jobs, with employees based at ASCO’s existing facilities at the port.

The initial delivery will support the construction of monopiles for a major offshore wind farm off the Yorkshire coast. These monopiles will be manufactured at the facility at Teesworks. The site is set to handle substantial volumes of steel, with initial deliveries starting at 2,500 tonnes as part of a trial run before ramping up to an annual capacity of 250,000 tonnes, eventually reaching 325,000 tonnes.

We are thrilled to have Bill lead our Teesworks operations at such an important time. His extensive knowledge of the River Tees and leadership experience make him the perfect choice to guide the team through the critical phase of launching operations at Steel River Quay.

Mike Pettigrew, CEO, ASCO

ASCO is a leading materials management and logistics company for the global energy industry. Headquartered in Aberdeen, UK, ASCO operates from over 60 locations worldwide and employs around 1,500 people.

As the essential partner for global energy logistics and materials management, ASCO works with the world’s largest operators to deliver solutions that are underpinned by the group’s three pillars of safety, service excellence and sustainability. With digitalisation and modernisation at the heart of all operations, ASCO’s innovative processes and systems ensure the company is at the forefront of driving supply chain efficiency to support the energy transition.

Atmos announces the launch of Atmos Pit Sentry, a new technology that innovates pit valve integrity testing

Airports across the world operate hydrant systems to speed up the refuelling process and maximise uptime for the aircraft fleet. Atmos has developed a new technology to support commercial and military airports operating fuel hydrant systems.

The challenge

Failure of an aviation fuel hydrant pit valve can have significant operational and safety implications for both commercial and military airports, potentially impacting aircraft refuelling and incurring substantial financial costs.

It’s recommended in A4A’s specifications and the industry standards set by the Joint Inspection Group (JIG) and the Energy Institute (EI) that hydrant operators perform monthly integrity checks on fuel hydrant pit valves to determine if they have a ‘hot valve’.

However, the manual process for pit valve integrity checks is intrusive, labour intensive, costly, requires heavy equipment and increases the risk of jet fuel leaking into the pit box. Considering there can be up to 1,000 pit valves to inspect monthly in some airports, manual checks can be time consuming and disruptive to operations too.

Introducing Atmos Pit Sentry

Atmos Pit Sentry is a new technology which digitises the pit valve integrity testing process while saving time and streamlining operations.

Designed in collaboration with Cla-Val, Atmos Pit Sentry introduces a safe and cost efficient way to digitise pit valve integrity checks. By attaching directly to EI 1584 qualified Cla-Val pit valves, Atmos Pit Sentry provides automated monitoring and replaces the need to perform manual monthly pit valve integrity tests to determine if there is a hot valve. This saves operators’ time, streamlines airport operations and supports with industry compliant and sustainable airport operations.

Support from Atmos Pit Sentry’s subscription service ensures operations remain safe and efficient all year round, with automatic updates to ensure continuous software improvement.

Working with the understanding that hydrant operators across the world subscribe to standards set by the JIG and EI, Atmos Pit Sentry supports international aviation standards including EI 1560 and requirements from JIG2 to stay aligned with the needs of the industry.

The benefits

Atmos Pit Sentry provides the following outcomes to aviation fuel hydrant operations:

• A safe and cost efficient technology for digitising pit valve integrity tests, improving safety and reducing manual monthly testing requirements.

• Support minimising sustainability and environmental obligations.

• A collaborative innovation from Atmos and Cla-Val that delivers a smart pit valve testing solution that enhances hydrant system safety and reliability.

• Subscription service for continuous monitoring, ongoing support, firmware updates and data insights through a cloud based platform.

• Access to an aviation team with over 25 years’ experience supplying tightness monitoring systems for jet fuel pipelines and airport hydrant systems.

• Access to industry professionals who are members of the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Strategic Partnerships Programme, meaning that Atmos International constantly stays up to date with the needs of the industry and continues to develop solutions in line with the market’s needs.

Atmos Pit Sentry with UV cover (left) and attached to a fuel hydrant’s pit valve (right)

The current process for pit valve integrity checks is labour intensive

Belzona: new composite wrap system for aqueous environments

For over 16 years, the composite wrap system, Belzona SuperWrap II, has been applied throughout multiple industries to restore the strength of holed, weakened and corroded assets. Now, the R&D department at Belzona Limited has honed the capabilities of this technology so that, with the new epoxy resin, Belzona 1984, this technology is now optimised to be applied in aqueous environments.

The Belzona 1984 system has undergone rigorous testing and is fully approved for compliance with ISO 24817 and ASME PCC-2 standards. These tests utilised samples which were applied and cured underwater in artificial seawater, representing the worst-case and most aggressive environments. Compliance with these standards demonstrates how Belzona SuperWrap II is optimised for use in a variety of challenging environments, making it a welcome addition to many a maintenance engineer’s repertoire of repair solutions.

In order to apply Belzona SuperWrap II to ISO/ASME standards, applicators are required to complete a rigorous training programme at one of Belzona’s 16 training centres located worldwide. By thoroughly equipping applicators with the skills and expertise to successfully apply the composite wrap system, this ensures that an excellent standard of application is maintained.

To uphold this standard, every two years, Belzona’s Corporate Belzona SuperWrap II trainer committee conducts a mandatory audit of all Belzona SuperWrap II trainers, facilities as well as internal staff. On completion of the audit, Belzona SuperWrap II accreditations are then renewed. Again, this process is designed to ensure a consistently safe and successful application of the composite wrap system.

up their carbon mitigation measures in line with the net zero by 2050 pathway, the use of polymeric repair and protection technology offers a real boon for maintenance engineers. The process of replacing damaged assets incurs a hefty carbon footprint, not to mention considerable financial expenditure. With polymeric technology, engineers can successfully bypass the carbon and cost-intensive process of replacement and instead rehabilitate their assets and protect them against future damage. Now, this can be achieved even in the most challenging application environments thanks to the surfacetolerant epoxy resin, Belzona 1984.

Costain increases 2025 graduate and early careers intake to match growth

Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, is increasing its intake of early careers professionals to more than 180 places in 2025, in response to a strong forward work position across the business.

Costain will offer early careers roles for more than 60 graduates, 90 apprentices and 30 internships and university placements following a successful period of growth for the business. This includes long-term AMP8 framework awards with Northumbrian Water, United Utilities and Southern Water and contracts to construct a CO2 gathering network and design a hydrogen system as part of the East Coast Cluster in Teesside.

Costain recruits for early careers positions across its sectors, which include road, rail, integrated transport, energy, water, defence and nuclear energy and in a variety of disciplines, including civil engineering, electrical and mechanical engineering, quantity surveyors, consultancy and project management.

Costain’s graduate programme lasts two years, while apprentices complete a programme lasting one to six years depending on the level of study. Both programmes allow candidates to rotate around projects across multiple sectors in locations all over the UK. Costain covers the full cost of professional development charterships through industry bodies such as the Institution of Civil Engineers, Institution of Chemical Engineers and Institution of Mechanical Engineers, which for apprentices, means they can ‘earn and learn’ and develop transferable skills within the workplace.

Costain’s internships and university placements last from three to 12 months. Costain also offers work experience opportunities and T-Level placements for those at school or college.

The announcement follows Costain being named by The Times as a Top 50 Employer for Gender Equality in 2024 and in 2023 was listed in the top 25 of the UK’s Best Big Companies to work for.

As industries continue to ratchet

Application of composite wrap system in submerged environment

Surface-tolerant epoxy repair resin, Belzona 1984

Photos Copyright © 2025 Belzona

The 2025 cohort will include the continuation of Costain’s partnership with the Nuclear Graduates programme, carried out by Energus on behalf of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority. Last year saw the first cohort of Costain’s nuclear graduates join the programme, with the opportunity to experience some of the UK’s most complex and critical nuclear infrastructure projects in three secondments over a two-year period, including positions in engineering, project controls and decommissioning.

Costain’s graduate vacancies are now open and close at the end of March 2025. Apprenticeship vacancies will open in February through to April, while internship and placement opportunities will open in March and May. Find out more and how to apply here www.costain.com/careers/ early-careers/graduate-roles/

We’re incredibly proud of our graduates, apprentices and those who join Costain on a work placement. More than ever, we’re looking for fresh ideas and innovative thinkers to make a real impact for our customers, which we know is essential for shaping, creating and delivering sustainable infrastructure that improves people’s lives.

Catherine Warbrick, Chief People and Sustainability Officer, Costain

Costain is an inclusive and family friendly employer; it is committed to tackling systemic barriers to create a psychologically safe workplace, where everyone has equal opportunities to reach their full potential.

More information about a career at Costain and the current vacancies for young professionals is available via the Costain website.

ERSG expands global reach with new office in

South Korea

ERSG has opened its new office in South Korea. Located in Seoul, this expansion marks a significant step in ERSG’s commitment to providing specialised recruitment services across Asia, supporting the region’s rapidly growing innovations into renewable energy and sustainability.

ERSG is a global leader in recruitment and workforce solutions for the clean energy markets. The new office will enhance its ability to reach clients in the South Korean market and beyond, delivering talent solutions tailored to the unique needs of the wind energy sector. With South Korea investing heavily in offshore wind and making strides toward a low carbon economy, ERSG’s presence will help meet the rising demand for skilled professionals needed to support the country’s ambitious projects and initiatives.

ERSG’s South Korea office will provide a full range of services, including permanent/direct hire, contract staffing and tailored workforce solutions, including RPO management, to meet the distinct needs of the energy and engineering sectors. This expansion supports ERSG’s mission to drive sustainable development by matching top talent with leading organisations globally.

EthosEnergy teams up with EP Produzione on multimillion-euro asset integrity project at unique power plant

EthosEnergy, a company specialising in services and solutions for rotating equipment in the energy and industrial sectors, has been awarded a multimillion-euro contract to retrofit the historic Trapani thermoelectric power plant in north west Sicily. This plant, with a customised configuration specific to the site, is operated by EP Produzione, the fifthlargest electricity producer in Italy, with an installed capacity of 4.4GW.

The 213MW facility, a former dual fuel (natural gas/diesel-oil) fired power plant now consisting of two open-cycle gas turbines, provides emergency power supply and other essential services to Sicily’s electricity grid. Due to its strategic location, the grid authority recently awarded the plant with a continuation of its ‘Must Run’ status and approved the first phase of an asset integrity project.

In 2013, the plant underwent a major renovation when the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) partially converted the facility’s two Frame 9B gas turbines into Frame 9E units. The operating conditions over the years have caused wear and tear to the exhaust system and other components which now require upgrades and modifications.

Costain graduates and apprentices

Photo © 2025 Costain Group Plc

The opportunity to enhance this unique plant was something that excited us from the early moments of our discussions. It’s a testament to the technical ingenuity, hard work, commercial flexibility and dedication of our team that EP Produzione chose EthosEnergy for this modernisation project. Graeme Donald, East Hemisphere Vice President of Commercial, EthosEnergy

The project will progress over the coming months, with the initial focus being integrity improvements, including the replacement of exhaust systems and other auxiliary systems to the first unit.

EthosEnergy’s relationship with EP Produzione is well-established, having previously upgraded and increased the efficiency of the steam turbines at Fiume Santo, EP Produzione’s coalfired power station on Sardinia.

EthosEnergy turns on potential to deliver services and solutions globally for rotating equipment to make energy affordable, available and sustainable. Tailoring solutions for the power, oil and gas, industrial and aerospace markets, so customers can achieve more.

EthosEnergy is a leader in providing flexible delivery and broad expertise to its customers. Its local teams go above and beyond customer expectations with their services and support. EthosEnergy has a strong track record of extensive maintenance and customer service.

Kent launches UAE training programme

Kent, a UAE-headquartered leading engineering company in the energy sector, has announced the launch of its UAE Designers and Drafters Training Programme. This initiative is specifically designed to equip young Emirati high school graduates and engineering diploma holders with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the energy industry.

This comprehensive programme is part of Kent’s ongoing commitment to contribute to the UAE’s energy future, addressing current energy demands while also focusing on the urgent transition to net zero emissions. The training will immerse participants in the fundamentals of engineering and design, providing hands-on experience and mentorship to ensure that they are well-prepared to thrive in their careers.

The UAE Designers and Drafters Training Programme also supports the core pillars of Kent’s Sustainability by Kent Strategy, demonstrating the company’s commitment to uplifting communities and empowering individuals to prosper.

Participants will undergo a structured journey through three key phases, designed to build their expertise and prepare them for successful careers.

Phase 1: Foundational Training Participants will begin with foundational knowledge in engineering and the energy industry, focusing on key topics such as safety, project management and industry standards.

Phase 2: Design Software Proficiency

This phase will enhance participants’ proficiency in industry-leading design software, providing practical experience to create accurate and professional drafts.

Phase 3: Mastering Drafting/Designing Participants will apply their skills in real-world scenarios, working on actual projects under the mentorship of Kent’s professionals to develop advanced design techniques.

After completing the programme, participants will have the opportunity to join Kent’s designer/drafter team, gaining valuable experience on diverse projects and advancing their careers within the energy sector.

Photo ©

SpA The Trapani Thermoelectric Power Plant

Kiwa strengthens global presence with key additions in US, UK and China

Kiwa is expanding its global presence, following an agreement with Element Materials Technology (Element), through the addition of NQA (US, UK and India), the management systems certification division of BM Trada (UK), Unitek (USA), the technical services division of Trialon (USA) and the remaining 50% stake in SNQA, a joint venture partner (China). These businesses bring Kiwa additional expertise across a wide variety of markets and throughout the global testing, inspection and certification (TIC) sector.

The investment in these companies brings a wealth of TIC and TIC-related services from offices in Europe, the Americas and Asia. NQA USA is recognised as the number one provider of certification services to aerospace in the US; Unitek is the country’s second largest provider of supply chain management and technical support services, with a strong focus on automotive, defence and aviation.

The acquisition also gives Kiwa the remaining 50% stake in SNQA, a Chinese joint venture focused on certification in the automative sector, where it has had a long-standing partnership together with NQA UK. Meanwhile, by obtaining NQA UK and the management systems certification division of BM Trada, Kiwa also becomes a leading provider of management system and sustainability certifications in the UK.

Kiwa is a TIC company – it is an independent, impartial global leader in testing, inspection and certification. The company offers laboratory, (statutory) inspection, auditing and assurance activities, supported and strengthened by (strictly separated) training, consultancy and data services. Customers are in virtually all markets and in both the private and public sectors.

i

NRL signs up as employer member of Blyth’s Energy Central Campus

NRL’s North East recruitment team is proud to have signed up as an employer member of the innovative Energy Central Campus in Blyth, underscoring its commitment to fostering job opportunities and enhancing skills within the community. Within the port based Energy Central Learning Hub, a range of courses are available including apprenticeships, T-Levels and short courses. The new state-of-the-art facility aims to attract school leavers and young people looking to build a career in the energy sector.

We’re passionate about supporting people from all walks of life to help them find rewarding work, so welcome the addition the Energy Central Campus will make to Blyth and the wider region and look forward to supporting residents in the coming years as they grow their energy careers.

Emma Lowden, Regional Director, NRL

In the drive towards a sustainable future, the new Energy Central Campus provides a dedicated place within the region to learn new engineering and energy skills firsthand. Its mission, to ensure the region has the talent and skills needed to meet the growing need for clean energy expertise, while ensuring the local community benefits from prosperous career opportunities.

Opening its doors in September 2024, the first intake of students is now benefiting from the campus’ £15m investment. STEM related courses are delivered together with educational partners, designed to provide an immersive learning environment.

Specialist engineering recruitment and workforce solutions business NRL, joins the list of local businesses who have signed up as sponsors of the new campus. Having extensively developed its expertise in renewable and clean energy in recent years, NRL opened a new regional office in Blyth in 2023, its third dedicated branch in the North East of England.

The Energy Central Campus initiative is the result of a strategic partnership between the Port of Blyth, Northumberland County Council and the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult. Working in partnership, the campus plans to welcome hundreds of people looking to learn more about the energy sector, to provide industryrecognised training qualifications to kick start their careers.

Powering organisations by empowering people. At NRL Group, experts make a positive impact in society by supporting some of the most innovative global companies, the people who power them and the major Infrastructure projects they deliver.

From humble beginnings in 1983 providing NDT services at the Sellafield nuclear site, today’s diverse international Group provides a range of resourcing, outsourcing, non-destructive testing, rail contracting and consultancy services.

NRL’s expert recruitment teams have partnered with leading engineering companies since 1985. For NRL, it’s about more than just filling job vacancies. The company helps clients to meet their future growth plans and delivers their projects with 100% compliance, knowing that this approach provides a wealth of opportunity for its candidates.

i For more information: www.nrl.co.uk

OPITO launches new Hydrogen Open Learning course

OPITO, an industry-led organisation committed to developing a safe, skilled and mobile energy workforce, has introduced a new Hydrogen Open Learning course, adding to its flexible self-learning Open Learning portfolio, accredited by City & Guilds.

Delivered via partner Chorus Training, the Hydrogen Open Learning course provides global learners with a comprehensive introduction to working with hydrogen.

Learners will gain an understanding in the role of hydrogen in supporting the transition to clean energy, the characteristics and categories of hydrogen and the required health, safety and regulatory frameworks of working with the gas. Awareness of the production, storage, transmission and distribution of hydrogen is also covered in the Open Learning course.

Complementing OPITO’s range of energy transition related qualifications, the organisation’s Open Learning courses provide a knowledge-based introduction to the emerging energy transition specialisms for trainee technicians, existing technicians and others looking to upskill and gain an understanding of emerging energy sectors.

Aligning the multiple technical and safety standards and frameworks across different parts of the offshore energy industry is a critical component of the commitments made within the North Sea Transition Deal’s Integrated People and Skills Strategy which OPITO published in 2022.

OPITO’s Open Learning portfolio offers a flexible learning solution delivered in a modular format. This approach allows learners to select when and where they study, enabling them to tailor their studies to fit their personal and work commitments while earning an industry-recognised certification.

This contract win highlights the significant impact we’ve made in the region, having partnered with this operator since 2012. It’s also a testament to exceptional work our team in Abu Dhabi has accomplished over several years. Pierre-Marie Hinden, UAE General Manager, TWMA

TWMA expands Middle East operations following contract win

Drilling waste management specialist, TWMA, has announced a significant contract win with a leading UAE operator. Valued at approximately US$70m, the initial contract underscores TWMA’s capacity to support large-scale energy projects globally while further solidifying its presence in the region.

The two-year contract, which includes options for renewal, covers 100% of Abu Dhabi’s thermal processing operations and will see the company increase its workforce by over 100 personnel, further strengthening its local footprint. The contract renews TWMA’s long-standing offshore processing commitment on four artificial islands in the UAE which it has serviced since 2012.

Expanding TWMA’s existing work scope to include 10 additional jackups with skip and ship operations, this latest contract includes the development of a new onshore treatment facility.

Once completed, the new facility is expected to process more than 50,000 metric tons of waste annually, generated by more than 100 land rigs operating in the region.

The project will utilise TWMA’s advanced drilling waste management technologies including the RotoMill® 2.0, the latest evolution in its award-winning portfolio. These innovative solutions allow for the onsite processing and recycling of drilling waste, minimising environmental impact while optimising operational efficiency.

Headquartered in Dyce, Aberdeen, TWMA is one of the world’s drilling waste specialists, pioneering the best solutions and technology to turn waste into value. Developing safe and efficient solutions for the transfer, storage and processing of drilling waste, slops and other associated materials generated from drilling operations, TWMA supports a portfolio of global clients to reduce carbon emissions, improve safety and remain compliant with local legislation.

New build RotoMill® 2.0 on route to location following contract win

i For more information: www.woodplc.com region, to the

Wood to support cleaner, increased fuel production in Vietnam

Wood, a global leader in consulting and engineering, has been awarded a frontend engineering design (FEED) contract for cleaner, increased fuel production at the Dung Quat oil refinery in Quang Ngai Province, Central Vietnam.

Under this contract with Binh Son Refining and Petrochemical Joint Stock Company (BSR), Wood will upgrade and expand the state-owned refinery to increase throughput and ensure fuels comply with Euro V specifications. This will ultimately reduce emissions, meeting environmental regulations, enhancing Vietnam’s energy security and protecting air quality.

This award is testament to our proven track record of delivering complex refinery expansions and the capabilities of our global process specialists. Wood’s team in Thailand will deliver the FEED scope with specialist support from Singapore and Reading on technology selection, licensing, processing and advisory.

Henry Ling, Senior Vice President, Projects, Wood

The expansion and upgrade, due to be completed by 2028, is part of Vietnam’s long-term strategy to become fully self-sufficient in industrial and transport fuels, reduce fuel imports and ensure the country’s future security of supply.

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 Twitter (@TheEICEnergy) and connect with 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.

The EIC @TheEICEnergy Watch our webinar and see the latest insights into the Philippines energy market which includes oil and gas, power and emerging sectors in the country. Visit https://www.the-eic.com/EICTV

EIC (Energy Industries Council)

In 2024 Africa witnessed a shift in its energy sector, with renewables and oil & gas projects reaching an equal number of commissions across the continent. See https://lnkd.in/eTBksbGh

EIC (Energy Industries Council)

We invite you to take a look into the first Energy Focus of the year! In this edition, we explore financing roadblocks that stall global progress towards a net zero future. https://lnkd.in/dmeig_5y

Events calendar LIVE events

EIC CONNECT KSA

Japan

EIC CONNECT Energy Borneo

Hikmah

Bankable Energies 2025

Leonardo

EICDataStream/AssetMap training

6 March Regional Showcase

Tuesday 18 February 2025 Dammam

Fuelling Prosperity: Opportunities across the Saudi energy market

The Celtic Sea: Sustainable Horizons Hilton Cardiff

6 March Corporate Entertainment

EIC Middle East Annual Golf Day

The Els Club, Dubai, including farewell to Helen Aittis

7 March Business Presentation

Women’s International Day High Tea Kiran’s, Houston

11 March Regional Showcase Opportunities in Teesside Leonardo Hotel, Middlesbrough

March Business Presentation North America EICDataStream Online

18 March Business Presentation

Opportunities in Wave & Tidal Energy Mercure Liverpool Atlantic Tower Hotel

19 March Business Presentation

EICDataStream/AssetMap training Online

20 March Business Presentation

11 March LIVE e-vents CIS Market & Project Update Webinar 12 March Business Presentation

Offshore Wind Opportunities in Germany Online

25-26 February 2025 Hikmah Exchange Event Centre, Kuching, Sarawak

Global Events and Campaigns

Countdown to Bankable Energies 2025

The final countdown to Bankable Energies 2025 has officially begun. Scheduled for 26-27 February 2025 at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge, this inaugural event will unite global energy leaders, financiers, policymakers and innovators to explore the challenges and opportunities in sustainable energy investments.

What to expect

Bankable Energies 2025 will serve as a vibrant platform for collaboration, focusing on unlocking investment for renewable and low-carbon projects.

Key highlights of the two-day event include:

• Keynote sessions: Hear from some of the most influential voices in energy and finance.

• Panel discussions: Listen to key industry experts discuss actionable solutions and strategies to help drive energy projects forward.

• Interactive roundtables: Premium delegates can participate in focused discussions on themes such as project bankability, supply chain innovation and risk mitigation strategies.

Speaker highlights

We are thrilled to welcome an exceptional lineup of speakers, including:

• Joanna Drake, Deputy Director-General, European Commission

• Julia Pyke, Managing Director, Sizewell C

• Kelly Azevedo Dent, Head of Energy Transition Strategy, Shell

• Matthew Taylor, Managing Director, Green Giraffe Advisory

• John Pearson, COO, Petrofac

• Alastair Evans, Corporate Affairs Director, Rolls Royce SMR

Jo Campbell

Their insights will provide critical guidance on navigating the complexities of energy finance, how we can accelerate energy projects forward and unlock opportunities.

EIC’s White Paper initiative

In line with our commitment to industry progress, the EIC will produce a white paper capturing the key findings, discussions and recommendations from the event. This resource will empower stakeholders with actionable insights to address challenges and seize opportunities in the evolving energy landscape.

Why attend?

Whether you are a project developer or supply chain company looking to expand your renewable or low carbon energy portfolio, an investor of transition initiatives, or a policymaker looking to make positive change, Bankable Energies 2025 has something for everyone.

• Market intelligence: Stay ahead of trends and strategies.

• Access to industry leaders: Engage with influential figures in energy and finance.

• Focused networking: Build meaningful connections through structured events.

• Actionable insights: Gain practical knowledge to advance energy projects.

• Shaping the future: Contribute to the EIC’s white paper and influence the industry’s direction.

BOOKING NOW

Event Partners and Sponsors

We’d like to acknowledge the generous support of our event partners and sponsors, including:

• Stage Partner:

• Stationery, Lanyard and Registration Sponsor:

• Session Co-Host:

Join Us

• Press Partner:

• Media Partners: Energy Voice reNEWS OGV

Energy Intelligence

We look forward to seeing you there.

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

Bankable Energies 2025 is more than an event – it’s a movement shaping the future of global energy investment. From engaging discussions to actionable outcomes, this is your chance to be part of a transformative journey.

Secure your spot today and join the conversation that will define the next chapter of the energy transition. For more information and registration, visit the EIC website here: www.the-eic.com/Events/BankableEnergies/Home

For more information and registration visit the EIC website here... www.the-eic.com/Events/BankableEnergies/Home

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

PAVILIONS & TRADE MISSIONS

2025 is already off to a busy start for the International Trade team with two UK pavilions being delivered in January and February; Hyvolution in Paris and Wind Expo Japan in Tokyo.

Hyvolution 2025

From 28-30 January, the EIC, in partnership with Department for Business & Trade, Hydrogen Energy Association and Scottish Development International, hosted the UK pavilion at Hyvolution Paris, the world’s leading hydrogen event.

Taking place at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, the three-day event was a buzz from the get-go and was full of insightful conversations, industry experts and lots of networking.

20 companies exhibited as part of the UK pavilion showcasing the best of the UK supply chain to the French and Europe, with exhibitors providing solutions, innovation and technical knowledge to the hydrogen industry.

One of the leading events in the industry, Hyvolution has become unmissable, acting as an accelerator and providing a real international, commercial and political focal point for the entire industry.

In addition to the growth of the event, the French hydrogen sector is also ramping up and has set ambitious targets of 6.5GW of electrolyser capacity by 2030. Low-carbon hydrogen is also emerging as one of the most promising solutions for meeting the challenges of climate change and the energy transition. This is a very exciting time for the European hydrogen market indeed.

We reflect on a successful UK pavilion at Hyvolution 2025 and are already looking forward to returning to Paris very soon.

Wind Expo Japan 2025

The EIC, in partnership with the Department for Business & Trade, will lead the UK pavilion and trade mission at Wind Expo Japan 2025. Representing 11 companies from across the UK, we aim to showcase British expertise and strengthen connections with Japan’s wind energy market.

Activities will begin on 12 February with a DBT-hosted webinar, designed to introduce UK exhibitors and spark early interest among Japanese buyers. A week later, on 17 February, the UK delegation arrives in Tokyo to deliver presentations to the Floating Offshore Wind Technology Research Association (FLOWRA). Launched in April, FLOWRA consists of 20 Japanese offshore wind stakeholders – including major players like INPEX, ENEOS and JERA – offering an invaluable platform for UK companies to forge partnerships.

On 18 February, the British Embassy in Tokyo will host an exhibitor briefing and seminar featuring high-profile speakers, including Huub den Rooijen (former managing director of The Crown Estate’s marine portfolio). A networking session follows, providing a relaxed environment for UK exhibitors to build rapport with Japanese buyers before the main exhibition.

Wind Expo Japan will run from 19-21 February, with the UK pavilion strategically positioned near the main entrance for maximum visibility. On the second day of the exhibition, UK companies will each give concise five-minute presentations, culminating in a whisky tasting and networking event at both the UK and Scottish pavilions. These sessions aim to spark new connections, encourage partnerships and pave the way for ongoing collaboration.

If you plan to attend Wind Expo Japan, be sure to stop by on the second day for the UK Pavilion Showcase and whisky tasting. For further information, please contact: abhi.aruna@the-eic.com

Camilla Tew

Director,

International Trade camilla.tew@the-eic.com

Photo © Nicolas RodetHyvolution Paris 2024

UK news

London office spaces available and UK Principal Partner announced

EIC UK Principal Partner

This month I am delighted to announce ABL Group as the UK’s principal partner for the year.

ABL Group, who have been valued EIC members for more than 10 years, are global leaders in marine and energy consultancy, specialising in technical solutions which supports safety and sustainability across the renewables, maritime and oil and gas sectors.

This partnership brings together a joint commitment to accelerating the energy transition through innovation, collaboration and impactful engagement through the EIC UK event series.

We are thrilled to partner with the EIC on its 2025 event programme to promote accelerated efforts, greater innovation and information dissemination in energy transition. Our commitment to the development of key energy transition technologies across energy and oceans, lies at the very heart of our ABL Group company purpose. We, therefore, very much look forward to contributing to the discussion on the next steps required in marine and energy markets, to help reach our global climate goals. RV Ahilan, Chief Energy Transition Officer, ABL Group

Meeting Rooms in London

It’s been great to see so many of our members using the London office facilities over the past couple of months. Just a two minute walk from Vauxhall station, our offices are open Monday-Thursday from 9am-5pm.

We’re delighted to welcome ABL Group as principal partner of our flagship event, the North Sea Decarbonisation Conference which will take place in London on 23-24 April this year and other highlights of this partnership will include additional event collaboration, focusing on driving sustainability in energy and oceans, as well as participation in the EIC National Awards Dinner.

EIC Survive & Insight Report 2025

Having opened applications just before the festive break, I’ve been delighted to meet with so many members already who are interested in sharing their strategy for success through this consultative interview process. The deadline for signing up to take part is 21 February so be sure to complete the short online form here: www.the-eic.com/ MediaCentre/Publications/SurviveandThrive

If you find yourself in London with an hour or two to spare between meetings, then do pop in to grab a cuppa and a desk to work from. Hot desking from the office is free for members and can be booked in by emailing Brigitta, Events and Office Co-ordinator: brigitta.bara@the-eic.com

For any larger meeting requirements for up to 12 people, members can also hire a larger space which comes with inclusive hybrid meeting technology, as well as unlimited free bean to cup coffee too. These can be booked by the hour, as well as for a half or full day by speaking to our Event Partnerships Manager, Hannah Wood: hannah.wood@the-eic.com

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

Kim Stephen

Brigitta Bara

RV Ahilan

Hannah Wood

Middle East news

Regional update

With the year well underway, we are thrilled to announce the return of EIC Connect KSA in collaboration with the Asharqia Chamber, taking place in Dammam on Tuesday 18 February 2025.

This event is free to attend for EIC and Chamber members and, following last year’s overwhelming success, we are honoured to deliver a comprehensive programme featuring industry leaders such as Saudi Aramco, SABIC, ACWA Power, as well as EPC contractors and developers.

BOOKING NOW KSA

Energy growth in Africa experienced a significant shift in 2024, with an equal number of projects commissioned in both the renewables and oil and gas sectors across the continent. For those looking to expand their business in Africa, our recently published Africa OPEX Report offers invaluable insights and a comprehensive overview of the market landscape. The report is available free to download for EIC members and is an essential resource for understanding the opportunities and challenges in this dynamic region.

With another busy year ahead, our team is here to support your business in maximising the opportunities available. We value your input and encourage you to share any suggestions or feedback on how we can help you get the most out of your EIC membership.

CONNECT

EIC Connect KSA provides a unique platform to explore opportunities across the entire energy spectrum in Saudi Arabia. Whether you are new to the market or considering exports for the first time, this is a must-attend event for anyone looking to engage with one of the world’s most dynamic energy markets.

This year’s Annual Golf Day taking place on Thursday 6 March 2025 holds a special significance as it will be the final event for our incredible office manager, Helen Aittis, before she relocates back to the UK. Helen is deeply respected and admired across the industry and her contributions have been invaluable to our team.

To honour her remarkable tenure, we’ve planned a few special surprises to ensure this is our most memorable golf day yet. Spaces are filling quickly, so don’t miss your chance to join us for this unforgettable event. Book your place now to celebrate Helen and make this day truly extraordinary. www.the-eic.com/EventDetail/dateid/4425

Applications remain open until 21 February for the ninth edition of our EIC Survive & Thrive Insight Report which is on course to have a record number of entries. Recognised as a critical tool to voice the energy sector globally, this opportunity is open for companies to share their experiences where you are automatically entered into our World Energy Supply Chain Awards held towards the end of the year at a black tie event onboard the illustrious QE2. Participating companies have benefitted from the sustained publicity that comes from sharing their stories and many have gone on to win prestigious awards in recognition of their amazing leadership and results. If you need more information, please feel free to reach out to me.

Ryan

McPherson

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

Regional news

Iran’s oil industry under pressure amid renewed sanctions

Iran’s oil industry is confronting severe challenges as President Trump reinstates stringent sanctions aimed at curbing the nation’s nuclear ambitions and regional influence. These measures have led to a significant reduction in Iran’s oil exports, with key customers like China facing increased costs due to limited shipping options and elevated freight expenses.

Abu Dhabi to host UAE’s solarpowered crypto mining farm

Abu Dhabi is set to become home to the UAE’s largest solar-powered cryptocurrency mining farm, with an investment of US$1bn. This initiative underscores the nation’s commitment to integrating renewable energy with advanced technologies, positioning the UAE as a leader in sustainable crypto mining. The project aims to leverage the region’s abundant solar resources to power energy-intensive crypto mining operations and reduce the carbon footprint associated with digital currency production.

Forthcoming events

Ryan McPherson

Fuelling Prosperity: Opportunities across the Saudi energy market

BOOKING NOW

Asia Pacific news

EIC Connect Energy Borneo powering Borneo’s future

We are delighted to announce EIC Connect Energy Borneo 2025, our flagship event set to take place on 25-26 February 2025 at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. This prestigious event continues to be a cornerstone for the energy sector, bringing together global professionals, key industry stakeholders and decision-makers under one roof.

EIC Connect Energy Borneo 2025 focuses on fostering business partnerships and driving the energy transition across the Borneo region, encompassing Sabah, Sarawak, Brunei and Kalimantan, Indonesia. The event will serve as a vital platform to identify new business opportunities in the energy market while promoting cross-border collaboration. The conference will feature a diverse range of functions designed to nurture relationships and create new opportunities, including panel discussions, solo-themed conferences, one-to-one business matching and a networking reception. These activities are carefully curated to equip participants with the tools to thrive in this rapidly evolving sector.

Driving regional collaboration for a sustainable future

The key objective of EIC Connect Energy Borneo 2025 is to explore and expand business opportunities in the energy markets across the region, focusing on:

• Enhancing regional interconnectivity

• Securing energy resources

• Fostering economic prosperity

Through cross-border co-operation, the event will pave the way for achieving net zero goals and strengthening the energy landscape across Borneo. The conference will bring together a diverse array of stakeholders, including key industry players, energy regulators and policymakers, to address pressing challenges and opportunities in the region’s energy ecosystem.

Themes of the conference

The conference will centre on three pivotal themes:

• Net zero as a catalyst for economic prosperity

Examining how net zero initiatives can unlock new economic opportunities and foster sustainable development in the region.

• Enhancing energy security in the region

Addressing strategies to secure reliable and sustainable energy supplies for long-term growth and stability.

• Regional interconnectivity and co-operation

Promoting collaborative efforts among ASEAN nations to advance energy infrastructure and connectivity.

What to expect

25-26 February 2025

CONNECT

Energy Borneo

With an expected turnout of over 1,000 delegates, the two day event will showcase:

• 20+ speaking sessions led by industry experts

• Insights from 50+ thought leaders and innovators from around the globe

• Participation from key authorities, including the Sarawak Government, Sabah’s Energy Commission, Brunei’s Ministry of Energy and Indonesia’s Nusantara Capital City Authority

Beyond discussions and networking, the conference will offer an exclusive platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies and innovations in energy. Attendees will gain insights into the latest advancements in energy production, distribution and consumption, along with actionable solutions to drive renewable energy adoption and sustainable practices.

Why you should attend

Whether you are a buyer, supplier, policymaker, or industry leader, EIC Connect Energy Borneo 2025 is the ultimate opportunity to:

• Expand your network with key players in the industry

• Explore business opportunities in emerging energy markets

• Shape the future through collaboration and innovation

Event details

EIC Connect Energy Borneo 2025

25-26 February 2025

Hikmah Exchange Event Centre, Kuching, Sarawak

Join us in powering Borneo’s energy future and advancing ASEAN’s position as a global hub for sustainable energy. Register now on our EIC website to secure your place and be part of the transformation shaping the future of energy in the region: www.the-eic.com/Events/EICConnect/ EICConnectEnergyBorneo2025

Let’s collaborate to build a sustainable energy future for Borneo and beyond.

Azman

Nasir

Head

of Asia Pacific azman.nasir@the-eic.com

Azman Nasir

Hikmah Exchange Event Centre, Kuching, Sarawak

North and Central America news

Regional update

Last year provided for some uncertainty in the region, as we saw two presidential elections take place, Mexico and US respectively and whispers of a possible resignation of Canada’s prime minister.

Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo was elected as the first woman to hold the office in June 2023, officially taking office on 1 October 2024. Her background is impressive; she holds a PhD in Energy Engineering, has authored over 100 articles and two books on energy, the environment and sustainable development, was named one of the BBC’s 100 Women, and previously held positions as Secretary of the Environment Mexico City, Mayor of Tlalpan and Head of Government for Mexico City. Although she supports reversing the 2013 Energy Reform, she is a strong supporter of both oil and gas and clean energy. All eyes have been on the US presidential elections where Donald Trump won the office by a landslide against Kamala Harris. Behind the rhetoric lies an energy policy which adopts an ‘all of the above’ approach. Trump is a strong supporter of ‘liquid gold’ (oil and gas), but his appointments thus far signal policies that support oil and natural gas and every other form of domestic energy including solar, wind, geothermal and nuclear. To the north, whispers of a possible resignation by Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada and Leader of the Liberal Party came to fruition on 6 January 2025. It is expected that elections will be held early in the Spring. What does this mean for energy in the North and Central America region? Join us on 25 February 2025 for our webinar North and Central America: Post US Election Analysis where we will address 2024 US Presidential and Congressional implications for the energy industry and what this means for projects across sectors in the future. To join this virtual discussion and hear from the EIC’s very own Rebecca Groundwater, Head of External Affairs and Neil Golding, Director of Market Intelligence as well as special guest Margaret A Kidd, Program Director and Instructional Associate Professor, Supply Chain & Logistics Technology, University of Houston, please visit: www.the-eic.com/EventDetail/dateid/4426

As the year closed, the North and Central America team had the pleasure of welcoming fellow Advisory Board members, Renee Sotelo, Director of Contracts & Procurement, Urban Grid; Darren Rowan, Director of Business Development, TRS Workforce Solutions; and Aaron Drucker, Senior Commercial Director – Onshore Western Hemisphere, McDermott for the Annual British American Business Council Christmas Curry. Many thanks to all 2024 Advisory Board members for their service and we look forward to collaborating and meeting this 2025.

If you or your company are interested in attending in-person events, on 7 March 2025 in celebration of Women’s International Day, our region will be hosting a high tea at Houston’s renowned restaurant, Kiran’s, where we will be welcoming a panel of women spearheading the energy supply chain. To join this event please visit: www.the-eic.com/EventDetail/dateid/4427 On 6 May 2025, within the margins of OTC, the EIC will join Houston’s own Dynamo team at the Shell Energy Stadium East Club equipped with AC and unlimited food onsite ready for all registrants. To register and attend this event, please see: www.the-eic.com/EventDetail/dateid/4428

All our events this 2025 are open to sponsorship. To ensure your company takes advantage of the available profile-raising opportunities and join our valuable networking opportunities, please CLICK HERE As a reminder, 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

Final rules released for the US 45V clean hydrogen production tax credits

The US Treasury has eased rules for hydrogen producers seeking tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) scheme. Electrolysers and renewable power sources must still be in the same grid region and renewables must be no older than three years. However, new pathways are now considered for hydrogen production including using existing nuclear reactors (up to 200MW) and fossil-fuel generators with CCS. The revisions followed 30,000 public comments and aim to boost clean hydrogen deployment and job creation. However, the elected president Trump’s incoming administration may challenge the IRA’s climate incentives, raising uncertainty about future federal support for hydrogen initiatives.

Amanda Duhon

South America news

Regional update

This month begins with the third Macaé Breakfast: Opportunities in the Drilling Sector with Transocean and SLB on 6 February.

Transocean, one of the leading international companies providing offshore contract drilling services for oil and gas wells, announced the signing of a contract worth US$486m with Petrobras for the chartering of the Deepwater Aquila drillship for a period of three years.

SLB pioneers transformative technology that expands access to energy for the benefit of all. In 2024, the company secured three contracts to develop up to 35 subsea wells in Petrobras’ Búzios oil field and reached an agreement with Argentinian oil company Vista Energy entailing a second fracturing set to scale up Vista’s production of unconventional oil in the Vaca Muerta region.

We move then to the Rio Breakfast: E&P Opportunities with Independant Players with Brava as speaker on 20 February. If you’re not in Rio, you can also join the webinar about Nuclear Energy Opportunities with Electronuclear on 4 February. The whole country stops for carnival from 1-5 March.

Petrobras’ 2050 strategic plan highlights expansion of the Brazilian downstream sector

The Petrobras Business Plan 2025-2029 outlines the company’s short and medium term goals, which include investments of US$111bn, primarily in the E&P sector. On the other hand, in the long-term Strategic Plan, Petrobras’ vision for 2050 has been unveiled, emphasising sustainability, low-carbon initiatives and global recognition. For the next five years, investments are 9% higher than the previous plan, with US$20bn allocated to refining, transport and commercialisation, including petrochemicals and fertilisers. The investments aim to increase the supply of derivatives by expanding the capacity of various refineries such as the Abreu e Lima Refinery (RNEST), the UFN-III unit and the Boaventura Energy Complex, as well as advancing the production of bioproducts, including R5 diesel (with 5% renewable content), sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and 100% renewable diesel (HVO).

Some of the highlights from the end of 2024: Breakfast in Rio with TechnipFMC and Saipem focused on SURF equipment market opportunities. Regarding procurement, TechnipFMC has an annual investment of US$750m in direct and indirect purchasing, continually seeking qualified local suppliers. Saipem shared their technological innovation: underwater drones, designed for asset maintenance and inspection.

Our third edition of the Women of Energy Lunch was inspired by the stories of two incredible women from the energy sector: Sylvia Anjos, director of E&P at Petrobras and Heloisa Borges Esteves, director of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels Studies at EPE (Energy Research Company).

In our last Breakfast of the year, we welcomed Petrobras and MODEC who shared Opportunities on FPSOs and new projects.

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

Brazil’s offshore wind bill moves forward

The Brazilian Senate has approved the main text of Bill No 576/2021, which establishes a regulatory framework for offshore wind energy development. The bill permits the installation of wind farms in territorial waters, the exclusive economic zone and the continental shelf, requiring governmentled auctions and formal concession agreements. However, controversial provisions favouring fossil fuels, such as mandating the addition of 4.2GW of inflexible natural gas plants and extending coal plant contracts, have caused delays in its approval and created insecurity among developers. The President has sanctioned the bill, but issued vetoes on the controversial points and it will now return to Congress, which will decide whether to uphold the vetoes.

Regional news

Clarisse Rocha

The third Women of Energy Lunch

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

Find out more here www.the-eic.com/MediaCentre/Publications/SurviveandThrive

Raba Kistner

A three-step approach to advancing progress on Gulf Coast energy projects

H. Mickey Barrett PE, Vice President/Principal Engineer: Energy and Infrastructure

How is Raba Kistner thriving?

By breaking down barriers and working with stakeholders across the value chain, including competitors, Raba Kistner is emerging as a genuine problem solver and progress facilitator in key energy projects along the Gulf Coast.

The challenge - Raba Kistner, as a leading engineering consultant based in Texas, knows all too well the challenge of preparing sites for LNG facilities along the Gulf Coast.

These locations are characterised by saturated muck, silts and clays that make it difficult for most equipment to manoeuvre without special measures. Site development can take years to complete before vertical construction can commence.

Raba Kistner was left at a crossroads. The company decided to grasp the situation as an opportunity – a proactive approach was needed, one which would enable rapid site mobilisation and access across challenging locations.

The company knew it had to collaborate with operators, contractors and even competitors. Doing so would drive these LNG projects forward and position Raba Kistner as a go-to problem solver.

The solution - In 2021, the company devised a radical strategy to launch its energy-focused business.

It is centred around an approach to energy projects and construction contracts that involves three steps – follow the money, connect the dots, and exploit your differentiators.

The first step, following the money, is all about Raba Kistner doing its homework – chiefly, leveraging verified data and taking advantage of its key stakeholders’ information. For example, through networking and research, the company found that there was a US$280bn backlog of construction projects along the Gulf Coast. These massive LNG facilities, with individual projects ranging from US$12bn to over US$30bn and construction durations of three to eight years, were driven by the need for port facilities for LNG transportation. With construction materials testing and inspection services typically accounting for 1.25% to

1.5% of construction costs, the potential opportunity for Raba Kistner was estimated to be around US$350m in fees.

Step two is the main collaboration piece. In terms of the Gulf Coast opportunity, Raba Kistner’s Energy Committee met for a day of strategic planning in the summer of 2021. The committee meticulously mapped out all the known LNG projects, assessing their status, such as final investment decisions (FID) or Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) approvals, and identified the likely awarded engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractors.

Armed with this knowledge, the company explored existing relationships, strategically partnering with Fugro, geotechnical engineers with which it was already teamed with on shortlisted projects to pursue, and approaching firms such as Thompson Engineering, Braun Intertec, and Tolunay Wong for potential collaborations. This collaborative approach was key to securing business wins and providing the necessary value to drive these critical projects forward.

Step three entails leveraging differentiators created by teaming up with supply chain partners, including competitors favoured by owners and EPCs. In doing so, Raba Kistner is narrowing the field and presenting clients with their top consultant choices without forcing them to choose one over the other. To further solidify its position, the company recruited two former Braun Intertec execs who had previously collaborated on the Calcasieu Pass LNG project. Shortly after this, it acquired Braun’s Gulf operations, equipment and over 60 staff members, creating a regional presence larger than some of its biggest offices.

This has proven to be a major differentiator. In addition, Raba Kistner and their teammates developed a technique utilising field exploration vehicles and cone penetration testing (CPT) to eliminate excessive laboratory and field testing for major site civil works, providing instantaneous results and accelerating project schedules. This innovative approach has now become the norm adopted by major EPCs on LNG projects across Texas and Louisiana, driving substantial growth for Raba Kistner’s CPT truck and track-mounted rig operations.

Story type

#service & solutions (main category) #collaboration

Benefits

▸ Six energy contracts in progress and more on the way.

▸ Major growth observed in the company in multiple fronts.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Adopt the ‘Three-Legged Stool’ approach: develop technical, business development and people skills.

▸ Have a formal strategic planning process for developing success.

For government

▸ Think about what is best for everyone globally.

▸ Be friendly to the energy business world.

Raba Kistner at a glance:

Key products and services: engineering consulting services.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 75%

▸ Hydrogen – 15%

▸ Onshore renewable energy – 10%

Headquarters: San Antonio, US

Year established: 1968

Number of employees: 802

Revenue: £114m

Revenue from exports: N/A

This strategy has already delivered significant returns. At the beginning, Raba Kistner’s goal for its energy business was to have one major project awarded in 2022 and a minimum of two to three major projects by the year end of 2023. Both goals were exceeded – the company now has six contracts in progress with more on the way.

Across the whole organisation, 2023 was the strongest year in Raba Kistner’s history in terms of fee growth, profitability, business diversification and number of internal career promotions. With its energy division up and running, the firm could be set to break even more records in 2024 and beyond.

Rain for Rent

Adopting a new business to drive the next phase of growth

Mike Parsons UK & Ireland Country Manager

How is Rain for Rent thriving?

After setting up in the UK a decade ago, Rain for Rent has successfully pivoted its delivery model for clients by bringing more of its service scope under its direct control. Now, with the flexibility it needs, the company is opening up a new wave of opportunities.

The challenge - Operating as a family business in the US since 1934, Rain for Rent set up an international division in the UK in 2014.

Building on its legacy and track record in liquid systems engineering, Rain for Rent International provides newly designed mobile storage tanks, filtration units, spill containment and accessories for the petrochemical, refining, construction, environmental and civil sectors, and many other industries which require liquid handling solutions. Today, the group services customers across the European continent from its locations in Germany, the Netherlands and France as well as the UK.

The journey in the UK began through a series of partnerships to help the company establish a firm footing in the market. As a hire company, Rain for Rent opted to leave operations, maintenance and transportation of equipment to established and knowledgeable providers of the industry while focussing on sales and business development. Although the initial approach had proven successful, Rain for Rent has outgrown this model. The last two years in particular have exposed the need for the company to be truly independent and a master of its own destiny. If it was to offer the level of service flexibility to customers that it desired, changed was needed.

The solution - This realisation came in 2021, although it wasn’t until 2023 when Rain for Rent really began to turbocharge the process of transitioning away from a partner-based model.

In many ways, the company reset itself to start-up mode, a reality which gave it the flexibility it was craving but at the same time brought additional pressures and risks, not least around financing and securing a longterm pipeline of work to sustain itself.

Here, the US parent has been key. By providing organic investment, it has placed a significant amount of faith in the UK operation, providing the resources it needs to develop

its team, build a growth strategy and execute it sustainably.

Indeed, last year was a busy and transformational one for the business. In January, Rain for Rent’s UK team presented a business plan to the US group which outlined various scenarios – maintaining the status quo, becoming an independent solutions provider or forming new partnerships. With having the eye on growth and opportunity rather than dependency and sharing control, option number two revealed itself as the way to go.

A suitable property was found in Leeds, and Rain for Rent moved into new premises to store equipment and house offices in July 2023.

Between July and September, the UK operations team recruited additional staff members to support its growth, and the company also invested in forklifts, pallet trucks, warehousing shelving, compressors and other essential equipment alongside an allocation for new inventory.

Another important hire has been the group’s new marketing manager based in Germany to promote the UK business’ new approach –since joining, she has been influential in spreading the message; a key event being an open day for customers and suppliers held in September.

As the process has unfolded, multiple successes have been enjoyed along the way. For example, the company’s product range is newly expanded with more specialist chemical response equipment now in stock to meet specific client needs. This has fed into a growing client base, with regular clients up over the course of just two years. Alongside this, Rain for Rent has served hundreds of other customers on one-off projects, ranging from environmental response to water pump supply.

Several large projects, in addition to a growing pool of regular client work, are driving Rain for Rent’s revenue growth in the UK. This year, the company is budgeting to more than double the income recorded in 2021, when its leadership decided a change in approach was needed to better exploit opportunities in the market.

Now, the focus is on continuing to serve and expand its client base, taking advantage of its newfound freedom to operate with more flexibility and control.

Story type

#transformation (main category)

#optimisation, #service & solutions

Benefits

▸ UK income to more than double in 2024.

▸ Growing pool of client network.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Be confident in your vision and listen to experienced people.

▸ Research is key.

For government

▸ Be more realistic with economy: look at what’s really happening, talk to people on the ground.

Rain for Rent at a glance:

Key products and services: temporary liquid handling solutions.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 10%

▸ Nuclear power – 15%

▸ Conventional power – 5%

▸ Others (non-energy) – 70%

Headquarters: Bakersfield, US Year established: 1937

Rapid Solutions

A two-pronged diversification strategy to survive and thrive

Howard Lyn Regional Director

How is Rapid Solutions thriving?

Recognising the need to diversify its offerings and target markets outside of Azerbaijan, Rapid Solutions has undergone a transformation exercise over the past few years. Today, it is now established as a leading contractor of engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services to several key players in its target region. The challenge - For many years, Rapid Solutions was operating a healthy business centred around construction and maintenance services targeted to the Oil & Gas industry. The construction services covered electrical, instrumentation, and mechanical disciplines. Whilst the maintenance services covered almost all types of electro-mechanical, rotating and static equipment via a network of certified service facilities in the Caucasus region which straddles Europe and Asia. It operated with a particular specialism in the inspection, overhaul, repair and reclamation of explosion proof (Ex) equipment certified for hazardous areas.

However, following years of volatile oil prices and in the aftermath of the global pandemic, the oil and gas industry confronted a transformed landscape. Operators in the Caspian region were aggressively slashing costs, while the market became inundated with companies providing services that Rapid Solutions had previously considered niche offerings. Indeed, as an increasing number of rivals entered the fray and touted comparable services, the company’s specialisation began to lose its distinctiveness. It became evident that adaptation was a necessity – for Rapid Solutions to endure, it required reinvention.

The solution - In 2020, the company settled on a two-pronged diversification strategy that would focus on expanding its service portfolio and tapping into new territories.

Firstly, Rapid Solutions broadened its offering to encompass engineering, procurement, and construction services. This was a logical step, as the company had already garnered extensive experience delivering constructions works to several elite Tier 1 contractors over numerous years. Acknowledging the industry’s pivot towards digitalisation and renewable energy sources, Rapid Solutions also channelled investments into burgeoning service areas such as automation, communications, and intelligent energy solutions. These investments aimed to buttress existing and forth-

coming energy infrastructure to align with broader transformations shaping the sector.

Indeed, the move to low carbon and renewable energy sources was a very clear opportunity for the business, not least because it had already built up some experience working on wind farm and solar projects. And while Rapid Solutions has invested more in energy transition than it has generated at present, this is clearly a forward-thinking move that will stand the company in good stead when larger renewable project opportunities come online. Alongside this service portfolio development, Rapid Solutions has ventured into nearby regions that showed promise as burgeoning markets, extending its reach beyond traditional operational areas around Azerbaijan.

Crucially, this diversification was driven not merely by survival instincts, but by a determination to seize new opportunities and lay the groundwork for sustained growth. As a result, the company secured several high-profile contracts and projects from industry-leading operators, including involvement in upgrading the communication infrastructure along one of the world’s key pipelines, spanning 1,768km. Now, Rapid Solutions stands tall as a key EPC contractor for the main and biggest Operator covering the Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiye region.

This diversification exercise has been about more than just extending into new services and markets, however. It has also been about people. Throughout the process, the company retained most of its staff by repurposing their skills, with employees transitioned from projects on offshore platforms into more technologically oriented roles. Indeed, the Rapid Solutions team’s adaptability has fuelled the success of the diversification strategy.

The journey of the past few years has also revealed the importance of adaptability and resilience. During this time, the company has learned that a strategy is not a rigid construct, but rather a dynamic blueprint that must evolve in lockstep with changing circumstances. For instance, its geographical expansion necessitated tweaks to service delivery to cater to national preferences. Meanwhile, the company also had to differentiate itself to compete with firmly established incumbent players. In each instance, and with the assistance of new re-

Story type

#diversification (main category)

#energy transition

Benefits

▸ Portfolio diversification and expansion to new markets.

▸ High-profile contracts and projects win, stablishing Rapid Solutions as one of the main EPC contractors for BP covering the Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiye region.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Be patient but persistent with your goals.

▸ Enjoy the rollercoaster ride because you will face ups and downs.

For government

▸ Contractors have a voice and need to be heard, they represent a large percentage of the supply chain.

Rapid Solutions at a glance:

Key products and services: multidisciplinary engineering, procurement, and construction services to the energy industry.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 70%

▸ Onshore renewable energy – 15%

▸ Conventional power – 10%

▸ Energy storage – 5%

Headquarters: Cambridge, UK

Year established: 1996

Number of employees: 385

Revenue: £48m

Revenue from exports: 20%

cruits, the company re-examined its goals and trajectory and made necessary recalibrations. Now, with lessons learned and a newly diversified operation in place, Rapid Solutions stands far better placed to serve the ever-evolving energy sector in and around the Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye and Kazakhstan regions.

RelyOn Nutec (Copenhagen)

Changing with the times by shifting to blended learning

Andreas Dennak Head of Strategy and Executive Support

How is RelyOn Nutec thriving?

A seasoned training provider to companies operating in the energy sector since 1968, RelyOn Nutec (Copenhagen) has shown that it can stand the test of time. However, after recognising the need to streamline its offering in order to deliver greater value for clients, the decision was made to explore digital models of service delivery and build out a blended learning environment. Through several savvy acquisitions and partnerships, the company now stands taller than ever with a unique proposition to those clients seeking a reliable, flexible and credible partner for sector-specifi c safety training.

The challenge - RelyOn Nutec has been synonymous with training in safety critical industries for well over 50 years. During this time, it has become a truly global company with sites all over the world, specialising in safety and competence services which aid clients in safeguarding their personnel, assets and ecosystems.

Much of its historic growth has been achieved through acquisitions. While this has boosted the firm’s size and scope, the situation it found itself in towards the end of 2018 and into 2019 prompted a change in approach. Indeed, RelyOn Nutec had morphed into a group of training facilities with little operational synergy or point of difference to others in the market. Further, overheads had grown, making it difficult to remain competitive on price.

The solution - The company required a solution which would deliver on two fronts. Not only did it need to streamline its cost base and deliver efficiencies, but it also needed to develop a greater value proposition to justify higher premiums to customers.

One of the key differentiators lied in digital. For decades, RelyOn Nutec delivered its training services to clients almost exclusively in person. While this face-to-face delivery and relationship building with customers is still key, it became clear that some of the theoretical elements of its content could be presented digitally – this, the company’s leadership determined, would help to reduce costs, increase flexibility, and enable clients to receive the same benefits without having to take as much time away from their own day jobs.

Acquisitions, once again, have been key to making this strategy a reality. In 2019, RelyOn Nutec made two key purchases, the first being oil and gas digital learning specialist Cresent’s UK business. The second concerned a tech platform named Rider, which manages training compliance and competence through an online module and has been key to RelyOn Nutec developing an outsourcing model for its clients to cover their training and compliance needs. When the pandemic struck in 2020, the pivot towards a blended approach to learning became even more important. Revenue dropped 83% in one month, making it paramount for RelyOn Nutec to continue developing the remote strand of its offering.

Indeed, given the impact of covid, going digital was also no longer a differentiator. To move one step ahead again, the company struck up a partnership with fellow Danish firm Area9 in 2021. As a renowned provider of AI-powered adaptive learning solutions, it has enabled RelyOn Nutec to build out a more responsive, tailored learning journey including flipped classroom learning for clients and their individual employees.

Built on more than 25 years of scientific and mathematical experience, Area9 has more than 30 million learners and 2,000 products on its books. So far, it has generated more than eight billion human responses. Indeed, such a pedigree and track record was always going to make it a perfect match for RelyOn Nutec.

Crucially, these types of services enabled by the Area9 partnership can be delivered via a subscription style basis, offering recurring income. Today, the firm very much stands apart from its competitors, operating with an optimised balance of physical and digital training programmes. This is reflected in the financials, with digital accounting for 14% of total revenues during 2023 – up from 10% in 2021 and 1% in 2019.

Moving forward, the continued growth of this strand will directly bolster RelyOn Nutec’s profitability, not least because digital services carry a margin that is two to three times higher compared to traditional training services which operate at margins of around 20-30%.

Story type

#digital (main category)

#collaboration, #transformation

Benefits

▸ Digital accounting for 14% of RelyOn Nutec’ total revenues during 2023.

▸ Development of a unique and reliable physical and digital training programmes.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Embrace new technology, don’t underestimate what it can do to your business.

For government

▸ Make the world greener in all aspects of what you do.

RelyOn Nutec (Copenhagen) at a glance:

Key products and services: safety and training, competence and compliance company. Moving to be a digital learning provider, consultancy and simulation.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 60%

▸ Offshore renewable energy – 9%

▸ Conventional power – 3%

▸ Onshore renewable energy – 1%

▸ Others (non-energy): maritime, defence, training – 27%

Headquarters: Copenhagen, Denmark

Year established: 1968

Number of employees: 1,010

Revenue: £125m

Revenue from exports: 93%

Reflex Marine Ltd

Reaping the rewards from prioritising its people

How is Reflex Marine Ltd thriving?

Reflex Marine has surpassed expectations, achieving record growth despite a significant reduction in its sales team from six members to just one. Recognising the importance of aligning its culture with staff needs and feedback, the company has implemented substantial improvements to its recruitment, retention, and onboarding processes, successfully navigating significant resource-related challenges. With ambitious revenue targets set at £10 million for 2025, the firm is thriving like never before.

The challenge - Founded in 1992, Reflex Marine Ltd specialises in designing and developing offshore personnel and cargo transfer solutions. Emphasising safety, convenience, equipment durability, and cost efficiency, the company and its 25 employees have successfully maintained a renowned industry reputation for more than three decades.

Indeed, the key to Reflex’s sustained excellence lies in the dedication and expertise of its employees. Being a specialist in transfer solutions, Covid-19 has undoubtedly been the greatest obstacle that the firm has faced in recent years. However, in more recent times, it has been the lingering affects of the pandemic that have continued to post challenges across various departments.

Specifically, Reflex points to the challenge of attracting and retaining talent as one that has been particularly significant in recent times. The pandemic has dramatically transformed employment cultures, making flexible and home-based working more common worldwide. Additionally, job hopping has increased, with a 2023 report revealing that over 41% of people who started their current job in 2022 were already actively seeking new roles.

It is this specific challenge that Reflex had been grappling with at length. Indeed, with the retention of key talent having become increasingly difficult, the firm recognised that it needed to find a way to adapt and continually succeed.

The solution - While this challenge didn’t directly impact Reflex Marine’s revenue, it has been a significant source of frustration for the firm. Having always offered competitive salaries, benefits, career development opportunities and personal growth avenues, the firm was finding itself faced with wasted training

costs and inter-team instability due to a rapidly changing workforce.

With so many internal fires arising from the continual overhaul of its staffing base, the firm’s ability to grow and excel became limited. This was particularly evident in 2022, when the firm’s sales resource team abruptly shrank from six to just one.

Interestingly, however, despite this loss in headcount, the firm’s sales actually grew by 40% during this period, surpassing the £6 million milestone that had long remained elusive to Reflex.

This was a lightbulb moment for Reflex. It became clear that the focus shouldn’t be on constantly attracting and retaining the same mix of staff which had been such a struggle and led to inconsistent workflows. Instead, the emphasis needed to shift to market analysts and backing those teams focused on operational support.

To address these issues and support the staff who were delivering results, the firm implemented several strategies. These included flexible working options and more regular, constructive feedback sessions with managers. Additionally, anonymous bi-monthly employee engagement surveys were introduced, covering topics from company catering to role fulfilment, travel options, and training satisfaction.

To better support new staff, the company also revamped its onboarding process to be more effective and straightforward, ensuring that within 72 hours, new hires clearly understand their role within the company. A major part of this initiative focused on emphasising cultural fit for each department during the hiring process, moving away from criteria solely based on academic qualifications or experience, which had proven problematic in the past.

Through these strategic changes, the company engaged many of its longer-term employees, ensuring their voices were heard in shaping this major pivot in HR and hiring strategy. And resultantly, this shift has paid off significantly. In 2023, the firm’s revenues reached £7.2 million – yet another substantial annual increase despite the firm having struggled to hit the £5 million milestone for several years prior to Covid.

Story type

#people & competency (main category)

#culture

Benefits

▸ Flexible working options and employee engagement surveys in order to retain staff.

▸ £7m in revenues in 2023.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Come with a lot of questions and be open minded to feedback. See critical feedback as an opportunity to continue the conversation, not closing the conversation.

▸ The biggest value every company has is its people.

For government

▸ More conversations or an open platform to discuss about developing more businesses in the UK with the intention to export.

Reflex Marine Ltd at a glance:

Key products and services: global experts in crew transfer equipment for offshore industries, 30 years’ experience in the design, develop, manufacture, market safety transfer and equipment accessories.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 88%

▸ Offshore renewable energy – 12%

Headquarters: Truro, UK

Year established: 1992

Number of employees: 252

Revenue: £7m

Revenue from exports: 90%

Despite still only having one individual operating in a sales role internally, the firm has now set ambitious targets to reach £10m in revenue come 2025.

Through several simple yet vital changes, the firm has inspired and galvanised a loyal workforce, ensuring their needs are met so they can excel and drive Reflex’s expertise forward for many more years.

Sandra Antonovic COO

From a small family business to an international leader… Reflex Marine has been setting industry standards and pioneering safe crew transfer for over three decades. We offer global excellence across tailored solutions and support.

30+

80+

300+ years of innovation clients across the globe countries, from the Arctic to the tropics

RelyOn Nutec (US)

Operating within a global business, offering it through local delivery

Story type

#transformation (main category)

#collaboration, #digital

Benefits

▸ RelyOn Nutec’s US division has contributed 11% to overall annual turnover.

Jenni Lewis Managing Director (Caribbean, Mexico and USA)

How is RelyOn Nutec thriving?

For the Americas, RelyOn Nutec believed that diversification would enable it to succeed through the highs and lows of oil prices and rig counts. In addition to its digital transformation, they aimed at becoming a partner that contributes further value by providing multiple, integrated services. While some of this was facilitated by our Group’s aggressive M&A activity, they also focused on inorganic growth through enhancements to its organisational structure, local footprint and partnerships.

The challenge - RelyOn Nutec experienced similar issues in the America’s region. They fell into a cycle of reactive, marketplace bookings and lacked a comprehensive, long-term strategy that would enable them to compete with competitors and poor market conditions. Add a pandemic that impacted a global economy, and thus resulting in an opportunity for us to reevaluate and reinvent.

While traditional training can be effective, the pandemic, upcoming skill shortage and ambitious acceleration of investments in the United States’ energy sector put pressure on training and capabilities of both the existing and upcoming workforce as well as training providers’ capacity to meet the growing demand. Additionally, the demographics of the workforce is undergoing a generational change which requires them to review effective training practices and understand the unique differences in how these groups consume information.

And while the Americas were instrumental in integrating the recent and planned acquisitions alongside the digital transformation, they had a strong growth strategy of their own. With new centers planned in Mexico and Guyana – as well as partnerships to accelerate progress in the US – RelyON Nutec faced with managing a balance of simultaneous maintenance, integration and growth.

The solution - Its wider digital transformation, and acquisition of platforms and management tools, offered alternatives to traditional training and gave the America’s team a competitive advantage by adding digital, hybrid and virtual training options to its portfolio.

Complimenting this shift was the Americas emergence into Wind Energy. Leveraging RelyOn’s European experience in this sector, the organisation upskilled existing trainers and facilities to expand our catalogue. Partnerships with academia, like Massachusetts Maritime Academy and SUNY Maritime College, made renewable offerings available in the Northeast where most of the wind related projects and personnel are located. The renewables division now accounts for 4% of its annual revenue and has an estimated year on year growth of 11-15% for the next three years.

Regions outside of the US were still seeing traditional oil and gas growth – such as Mexico and Guyana. Leveraging current operations in Ciudad del Carmen and Trinidad and Tobago, they invested in two additional centres: Port of Tampico, Mexico and Houston, Guyana. The Tampico centre, which has been fully operational since late 2022, strengthens the delivery capability and rising demand for safety and technical services support to the Gulf of Mexico region. To date, usage of the newly added centre is up 57% as compared to 2H 2023.

In complement, the country of Guyana expressed a strong commitment to developing the local workforce to meet the rising operational and personnel demands that current and future backlog promises. To answer, RelyOn Nutec formed a strategic partnership with Guyanese-owned Atlantic Marine Supplies Inc. to build a training centre in Houston, Guyana. Through this partnership, they will bring more opportunities for nationals and supporting businesses by offering the underpinning knowledge and practical workshop areas to develop and enhance competence. Center opening is currently planned for early Summer 2024.

To

Last, RelyOn Nutec explored customer value propositions that supplemented existing training catalogue, such as Consultancy, Safety Leadership and Competence solutions. They expanded their local structure to include a Technical Services Division that reinforced the delivery capability in these areas. In just two years, this division has contributed 11% to overall annual turnover with an optimistic forecast for the coming years.

▸ Renewable’s division accounts 4% of its annual revenue and is estimated to grow 11%-15% in the next three years.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Understand the distinction between ‘managing’ a business and ‘leading’ one. The transition from ‘managing’ into ‘leading’ is what enabled the transformation of RelyOn Nutec Americas business and the success it has experienced to date.

RelyOn Nutec at a glance:

Key products and services: safety and training, competence and compliance company. Moving to be a digital learning provider, consultancy and simulation.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 78%

▸ Renewables – 6%

▸ Others (non-energy): maritime – 9%

▸ Others (energy) – 7%

Headquarters: Copenhagen, Denmark

Year established: 2000 (in US)

Number of employees: 175 (in Americas)

Revenue: £19.7m (in Americas)

Revenue from exports: N/A

Rotork

Revolutionising ESD solutions

Jon Taylor Head of Business Development, Oil & Gas

How is Rotork thriving?

Bath-based Rotork has developed a game-changing solution in the field of ESD.

In finding an innovative use of existing technologies for partial stroke testing, the company is successfully eliminating the guesswork that has burdened clients with unnecessary plant shutdowns due to a lack of certainty over potential problems. This unique solution enables customers to reduce costs.

The challenge - Established in 1957, Rotork has evolved into a powerhouse with a workforce of 3,300 individuals, generating annual revenues surpassing £700m.

Renowned globally, the company stands as a market-leading provider of mission-critical intelligent flow control solutions for oil and gas, water and wastewater, power, chemical process and industrial applications. Specifically, Rotork strives to support its customers around the world in improving efficiency, reducing emissions, minimising environmental impacts and assuring safety.

The focus of Rotork’s survive and thrive journey centres around its emphasis on enhancing emergency shutdown (ESD) control.

Typically, ESD systems employ single acting actuators with integrated springs to ensure fail-safe operations. It’s a well-established fact that plant operators aspire to maintain uninterrupted operations while prioritising safety, necessitating regular safety checks and verifications. Partial stroke testing (PST), a time-tested technology, plays a pivotal role by diagnosing up to 85% of potential failure modes.

In cases where a valve fails to respond during PST, the system simply registers the valve’s non-movement and triggers an alarm. However, operators are left unaware of whether the valve was on the verge of movement, leading to potentially unnecessary plant shutdowns and subsequent downtime to address a potential issue.

Moreover, implementing PST often requires the operator to utilise valve positioners to facilitate testing, resulting in a continuous steady-state air loss. Each device may leak millions of litres of air annually, and in facilities with numerous devices, this cumulative loss escalates electricity expenses and contributes to unnecessary atmospheric venting.

The solution - To address these challenges, Rotork has spearheaded the development of an innovative electronic system designed to operate solenoid valves. Known as PIC0, this solution boasts a unique capability to throttle the solenoid valve, thereby reducing the volume of air passing through while facilitating swift emergency shutdowns. This not only instils confidence in operators regarding the assessment of system integrity in a controlled and timely manner but also mitigates the risk of over-stroking during operations, thanks to its ability to conduct PST at lower speeds.

During PST procedures, Rotork’s solution follows the standard protocol of venting out a specific amount of air in order to achieve a predetermined valve position. As with all existing PST systems, it is entirely possible that a build-up of friction will prevent the valve from moving. However, what sets Rotork apart is PIC0’s Spring Side Pressure Assist, a distinctive approach of applying pressure to assist the spring from the opposite side of the actuator piston, thereby equalising pressure on both sides of the piston. This normalisation of pressure effectively eliminates the effects of air pressure from the equation, leaving only the effects of spring force against friction.

In essence, this removes the guesswork, minimising downtime by providing greater certainty over issues. If the valve fails to move during testing, it unequivocally indicates that the valve will not close in an emergency, thus warranting immediate attention. Equally, it will typically free the ‘stuck’ valve; the performance of which would otherwise remain uncertain.

Notably, while this technology has been available for several years, Rotork has pioneered its application for PST, garnering high praise from clients.

Having introduced the PIC0 Spring Side Pressure Assist in mid-2023, Rotork’s foremost objective now is to further expand its transformative solution into the market and capitalise on the burgeoning pipeline of potential projects, which continues to grow in size and significance.

Story type

#innovation (main category)

#technology

Benefits

▸ Rotork setting foot to further expand new solution into the market.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Always search for innovation and improvement.

▸ Look beyond costs when buying solutions and open eyes to specifications.

For government

▸ Review previous decisions regarding the approval of LNG liquefaction facilities. Although gas is obviously still a hydrocarbon, it is an important transition fuel to reduce dependency on coal, which is far more harmful.

Rotork at a glance:

Key products and services: missioncritical intelligent flow control solutions.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 46%

▸ Chemical, process and industrial –30%

▸ Water and power – 24%

Headquarters: Bath, UK

Year established: 1957

Number of employees: 3,300

Revenue: £719m

Revenue from exports: 95%

Royal Dutch LV Logistics

A multi-faceted response to safeguard against a series of logistics market challenges

Story type

#people & competency (main category)

#environmental sustainability

Benefits

▸ Strategic partnerships with suppliers, carriers and other stakeholders forged.

Henry Rios Group Director Commercial, Energy & Capital Projects

How is Royal Dutch LV Logistics thriving?

Operating in a highly complex environment, Royal Dutch LV Logistics has been extremely busy implementing a range of strategies designed to make it fit for the future. Such activities, so far, have spanned the embracement of automation technologies, development of sustainable practices, investment in employee training and wellbeing, and collaboration with external partners.

The challenge - With a rich history dating back over a century, LV Logistics received the Royal Warrant in the Netherlands in 2021 to become officially known as Royal Dutch LV Logistics. It is an extremely exclusive recognition, one which celebrates the contribution that the company has made over several years.

Today, LV is engaged in numerous activities which support companies up and down the energy value chain – these include transportation, project management, warehousing, inventory management, freight forwarding, customs brokerage and supply chain management services.

However, the logistics industry faces various challenges that LV must navigate effectively. These include supply chain disruptions caused by natural disasters or global events, inadequate transportation infrastructure, fluctuating fuel costs and labour shortages. Meanwhile, regulatory compliance, technological disruptions, evolving customer expectations and sustainability pressures further compound these issues and add to the complexity of the logistics landscape.

For LV to thrive, it must strategically plan, innovate technologically, ensure compliance and collaborate within the industry to adapt to changing market dynamics and ensure long-term success, all while addressing operational inefficiencies, wage pressures, and the need for greener practices.

The solution - To address this plethora of challenges, LV is implementing solutions across numerous areas.

For example, the company is investing in key technologies such as IoT sensors, blockchain and advanced analytics to improve supply chain visibility and enable real-time tracking of goods and proactive risk management. At the same time, it is advocating for infrastructure improvements and investing in alterna-

tive transportation modes like rail and waterways to diversify transportation networks.

Sustainability has been another critical focus. Here, LV is in the process of adopting fuel-efficient vehicles, optimising routing, and scheduling to minimise fuel consumption and exploring alternative energy sources, all with an aim of becoming a net zero enterprise. Alongside this, the company is implementing a range of other eco-friendly initiatives centred around the use of renewable energy sources and the optimisation of packaging to reduce waste.

Retaining, developing, and attracting talent is also crucial. To compete in a tough labour market, LV is committed to offering competitive wages, training programmes and career advancement opportunities. In 2023, the firm set up a new online training school for all staff to engage in, with modules covering key topics such as first aid, wellbeing, industry skills and general business knowledge. This is all feeds into its ambition to create the safest and healthiest working workplace possible, an enabling environment which will help it to exceed client expectations through exceptional service delivery.

Additionally, the company is also embracing automation and robotics to augment human workloads and make its proposition more attractive to employees and prospective candidates. Indeed, emerging technologies such as AI, machine learning and predictive analytics are helping LV to optimise operational processes, enhance decision-making and improve customer experiences. Here, the firm is focusing on providing personalised and transparent services, including real-time shipment tracking, flexible delivery options and responsive customer support channels.

Communication and collaboration are other important priorities which are helping LV to embrace best practice and a culture of continuous improvement. For instance, the company has forged strategic partnerships with suppliers, carriers and other stakeholders to enhance collaboration and efficiency throughout the supply chain, working closely with industry associations and government agencies to address common challenges. Furthermore, feedback from employees, customers and partners is being utilised to identify areas for optimisation and process improvements.

By implementing this wide variety of solu-

▸ Development of a safe and healthy workplace environment.

Key findings

▸ Embracing sustainable solutions with 27 hectares site. LV adapting to reduce the CO2 climate issue.

▸ Investing continuously in knowledge, quality and wellbeing of its employees.

▸ Embracing and developing innovative and digital services.

For industry

▸ Engage with numerous organisations.

▸ Be transparent on how to get client’s work.

For government

▸ Stick with long-term vision and deliver on it.

Royal Dutch LV Logistics at a glance:

Key products and services: international logistics services.

Main industries served:

35%

Headquarters: Vlaardingen, Netherlands

Year established: 1921

Number of employees: 850

Revenue: £188m

Revenue from exports: 75%

tions, LV is not only gradually futureproofing itself against a series of market challenges, but also setting itself up to improve operational efficiency, enhance customer satisfaction, and achieve sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving market.

S3 ID

Redesigning its solutions and strategy to better target the onshore market

How is S3 ID thriving?

Rob Speirs

Managing Director

After being successful in the offshore segment of the oil and gas industry for many years, S3 ID wanted to better apply its expertise to clients in the onshore space. Realising some tweaks and adjustments needed to be made, the company took its time to research, develop and sell an evolved offering to existing and prospective customers. Now, five years on from when the research phase began, commercial opportunities are starting to materialise.

The challenge - For well over 15 years, S3 ID has been providing tech-driven solutions to health and safety challenges faced by asset operators. Its unique range of wireless location awareness solutions are Ex-certified, making them suitable for use in hazardous atmospheres where explosive gases could be present, and have been developed off the back of extensive first-hand experience serving the onshore and offshore energy industries.

Over the past five years, the company has aimed to enhance its presence in the onshore market, building upon its established strength in the offshore sector. With a historic strength lying in the offshore sector, S3 ID had initially believed its strategy and solutions would naturally carry over to clients in the onshore trade. Admittedly, however, this assumption led the company astray in some instances.

To properly penetrate the onshore market, and therefore diversify its revenue base and spread risk, a strategic pivot was required.

The solution - The move to better target onshore coincided with the appointment of Rob Speirs as Managing Director in 2018. Through 2018 and 2019, the first steps of the plan were all about getting prepared. During this time, S3 ID and its team conducted detailed market research and spoke to existing clients in key territories such as Qatar, Thailand and Malaysia about their onshore sites and requirements.

Several conclusions were made after studying customers, the competition and where S3 ID’s current portfolio of products and solutions sat. Crucially, the company decided to pursue opportunities downstream oil and gas. It developed new solutions that spoke to customers and potential customers in this

market and, once marketing materials were produced, Rob and his business development team began to travel the world to put their new offering in front of prospects.

Although the major mechanics of its offshore suite of products remained similar, key alterations were made to account for the higher number of workers typically found in onshore sites. Additionally, client feedback indicated a need for solutions focused more on improving productivity rather than solely on safety. These observations led to new features such as logging the time and attendance of workers, with attention also being paid to making its software more user friendly with enhanced reporting functions and a broader scope of applications.

Much of this development occurred during 2020 and 2021 when the covid pandemic brought a lot of on-site activity to a halt. Come 2022, S3 ID was ready to pursue projects and bid for contracts.

Fast-forward to 2024, and the revamped product suite is starting to gain some tangible traction among significant players in the downstream oil and gas market. The company has secured its first major onshore project in March, striking a deal with a major global Operator to design a bespoke product for its assets in Malaysia. By the end of the year, S3 ID expects to have secured another two projects along with three additional contract wins in the offshore space.

These developments are certainly promising. Five years in the making, the decision to revisit how it approaches the onshore market is on the verge of paying dividends – if its forecasts prove accurate, 2024 will see the company generate 20% increase in revenue from its new onshore business line.

Patience and persistence, alongside some innovative ingenuity, has enabled S3 ID to successfully diversify its business and de-risk for the longer term. As more clients in the onshore space see the merits of its re-designed safety and productivity solutions, momentum should continue to build.

Story type

#resilience (main category)

#diversification, #innovation

Benefits

▸ First major onshore contract win in 2024 with a major global Operator.

▸ S3 ID projects to increase revenues by 20% in 2024.

Key findings

For industry

▸ It can be tough out there. Create a strong and loyal team and keep your customers close.

▸ Understand the fine balance between ambition and practicality but don’t ever give up on the ambition.

For government

▸ More support for small business.

S3 ID at a glance:

Key products and services: safety and security systems for the oil, gas and energy industry.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas –100%

Headquarters: Rotherham, UK

Year established: 2007

Number of employees: 25 (UK)

Revenue: £3m

Revenue from exports: 95%

Safelift Offshore

Capitalising on Middle East market opportunities postCOVID

Story type

#export (main category)

#diversification, #energy transition

Benefits

▸ Big investments in the Middle East region in R&D and new hires are paying off as company recorded revenues.

Steven Simpson Managing Director

How is Safelift Offshore thriving?

Having invested significantly in expanding both its renewables and oil and gas capabilities, Safelift is cashing in on several streams of new opportunities. With a particular focus on the Middle East, the company is gearing up for long-term export-led growth, with ambitions to establish an overseas base for the first time firmly on the horizon.

The challenge - Founded in 1994, Safelift is a proud UK manufacturer and exporter of safety-related lifting and manual handling equipment for global clients across a multitude of sectors. Employing more than 30 staff, it serves organisations across the UAE, Qatar, Azerbaijan, Germany, the Netherlands and beyond.

Pre-covid, the firm had been excelling. Revenues and profits were high, with business booming in both traditional and energy transition markets. However, the pandemic had a major impact. Revenues and margins were reduced due to postponed projects and cutbacks on shutdowns and general maintenance.

Recognising it was over-reliant on the UK oil and gas market, the firm knew that it needed to change tact and diversify its client base –doing so would enable it to minimise the peaks and troughs it had experienced during tough market conditions.

The solution - Safelift has spent the past two years licking its wounds and bouncing back, opting to pursue a fresh approach that would enable it to capitalise on opportunities within changing markets.

Here, expanding geographical reach and presence in export markets has proven pivotal for the company. As certain locations have heightened their health and safety requirements, Safelift has taken advantage.

The Middle East has proven particularly promising, with many organisations in the region requiring upgrading their equipment in line with modern global standards. Here, Safelift has worked closely alongside clients and prospects, highlighting key risks that were being taken for small cost savings.

Having first realised the opportunities in the region in 2017/18 following its attendance at

ADIPEC, where multiple operators and specialists queued up to speak with the company, it began pivoting to offer its services more directly overseas from 2018/19 onwards, with more active visits to the region helping to bolsters its client base.

After establishing a foothold in the time since, Safelift is now looking at the Middle East and Europe through a longer-term lens, working to invest in and expand its capabilities in relation to both oil and gas projects and renewables. This has included adapting products for renewable markets, underpinned by R&D and engineering investments.

Overall, the company has hired specialists and spent over six-figures on Middle East-related R&D over the last five years, with plans to recruit a further six staff dedicated to its operations in the region. At the same time, the firm is currently working on the funding for a new 863-square-metre fabrication facility, with construction planned for 2024/25.

To date, Safelift has invested more than £1m in growing its presence in the region – expenditure that appears to be paying off. In 2022, the company recorded revenues of £4.8m, with £250,000 coming from the Middle East and £700,000 driven by renewables. In 2024 overall revenue is expected to jump to £6m, with £800,000 anticipated to come from the Middle East, and £1m from renewables.

With significant plans on the horizon, including LLC discussions with an in-country partner in the aim establishing a manufacturing facility in the UAE, the opportunities for Safelift will only continue to heighten moving forward.

▸ Increase in revenues from renewable energy.

Key findings

For industry

▸ The energy sector is vital to UK security. Encourage people to think hard before opting out because it provides so many opportunities in UK home market and globally.

▸ Health and safety are critical, no corners can ever be cut, not just in oil and gas, but across all sectors.

For government

▸ Huge advocate of how good UK energy is. Embrace what we’ve got and don’t jeopardize our future.

Safelift Offshore at a glance:

Key products and services: design and manufacture safety-oriented lifting and manually handling equipment, for clients across multiple sectors.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 70%

▸ Offshore renewable energy – 20%

▸ Onshore renewable energy – 4%

▸ Nuclear power – 2%

▸ Others (non-energy): defence, marine, construction – 4%

Headquarters: Kemnay, UK

Year established: 1994

Number of employees: 33

Revenue: £5.1m

Revenue from exports: 35%

Samuel Knight

Creating new energy industry recruitment talent and delivering a holistic talent service for their energy customers

Dan Kerr

Managing Director - Energy

How is Samuel Knight thriving?

Samuel Knight International has undergone a transformation on two fronts.

Its energy division, Samuel Knight Energy, has pivoted towards offering more of a turnkey, one-stop recruiting solution for clients seeking to source talent requirements for entire project scopes. This led to the formation of Samuel Knights Projects, which now accounts for around a third of energy-related revenues. Alongside this, the company has changed the way it sources its own talent, opting to hire based on potential and training new recruits from the ground up in specialised niche areas of the energy sector.

The strategy has paid off, with a promising stream of project involvements being completed during the past three years, alongside an increase in internal headcount, expertise and knowledge, and staff retention.

The challenge - There is a huge skills shortage within renewable energy. Many firms cite their struggles to hire good engineers to support their growth plans, partly because it remains a relatively new market and skills are still being developed.

Samuel Knight’s OEM customers were having challenges with candidate attraction and retention with their O&M teams, with many workers leaving projects before completion.

For Samuel Knight Energy, not only was it facing a challenge to find the recruitment talent it needed to fulfil clients’ needs in the renewable space, but it was also facing a challenge to find skilled recruiters with energy industry experience to join SK Energy.

The soluti on - A conversation with GE in 2022 sparked a series of events which inspired the launch of a brand-new business unit, Samuel Knights Projects.

GE was the main contractor working on a project in Markbygden, Sweden, with SK Energy providing individual contractors to provide troubleshooting activities. After receiving positive feedback, GE changed its personnel strategy and was seeking to outsource other scopes of work, including retrofitting and

major component exchanges. SK Energy was already supplying contractors for similar projects, so took the opportunity to bid for a more comprehensive, catch-all recruiting solution that also covered the provision of tooling, PPE, on-site transportation, accommodation and compliance/HSE checks.

Off the back of this, SK Projects was launched as a division specifically designed to provide full installation, commissioning, service and maintenance teams to its customers. This also includes continual training, meaning the technicians are qualified to the appropriate technical and safety standards and are more likely to stay for the duration of a project.

To provision this level of service, SK Energy has had to adopt a new approach to its own recruitment – one which seeks to hire on potential rather than experience. The company created the SK Academy, a learning & development function set up specifically to train recruiters with no previous experience, and now actively seeks graduates from the Northeast of England region, training and developing them from the ground up and providing constant mentoring along the way. They specialise in a narrow part of the industry, generally with a specific geographical focus – the upshot being that, within a short period of time, they develop deep market knowledge within their particular niche. The creation of the SK Academy has increased graduate retention from 65% to 90%, reducing the break-even time for graduates from 11 to six months.

Albeit in the early days, the fresh approach adopted by SK Energy and the new SK Projects is already starting to yield success. So far, SK Projects has completed seven projects with clients, the longest being over a two-year period. Currently, the division is supplying teams to two OEMs, with a third being signed in April 2024.

From a financial perspective, the trends are also looking promising, with SK Projects now accounting for around a third of the annual revenue generated by SK Energy, which produces the largest amount of income across the Samuel Knight International group. At a group level, turnover is also growing steadily, with

Story type

#service & solutions, #people & competency (main categories)

Benefits

▸ A record revenue of £20.1m registered in 2023.

▸ SK Projects division completed seven projects and is now supplying teams to two OEMs.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Rather than shuffle between competitors, create talent yourself.

For government

▸ Make the raising of funds as easy as possible.

▸ Support critical industries in developing people.

Samuel Knight at a glance:

Key products and services: global recruitment and project management expert.

Main industries served:

▸ Onshore renewable energy – 45%

▸ Conventional power – 30%

▸ Offshore renewable energy – 10%

▸ Energy storage – 10%

▸ Nuclear power – 5%

Headquarters: Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Year established: 2014

Number of employees: 56

Revenue: £20.1m

Revenue from exports: 66%

2023’s revenue (around £20.1m) more than double that recorded in 2019 (around £9m).

With a new approach to finding and deploying talent in a tough market now bedded in, alongside its transformed hiring and development process, Samuel Knight looks far better placed to help fulfil the skills needs of the future.

Schneider Electric

Leading by example to become a global sustainability leader

Story type

#energy transition (main category)

#digital, #environmental sustainability

Benefits

▸ Named in Corporate Knight’s Top 100 sustainability ranking for the 13th year in a row.

Chris Dartnell SVP for Power Systems

How is Schneider Electric thriving?

As a global powerhouse in energy management and automation solutions, Schneider Electric has firmly embraced sustainability as its guiding ethos.

While historically rooted in traditional energy sectors like oil and gas, the company swiftly pivoted to address the pressing challenge of greenhouse gas emissions. Leveraging its vast expertise and resources, Schneider Electric is spearheading decarbonisation efforts not just for legacy industries but across diverse sectors.

With dedicated sustainability and process electrification consulting, partnerships in UK transport electrification, and through nurturing emerging green tech, Schneider Electric exemplifies agility and steadfast commitment to driving positive environmental impact as a trusted ally.

The challenge - Schneider Electric, as a global leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, is on a sustainability mission.

Traditionally, much of its work has been in traditional power industries, especially oil and gas. In recent years, as well as the disruption caused by Covid and the subsequent supply chain challenges faced since, the company has witnessed the continuous threat from growing greenhouse gas emissions and has long recognised the need to take decisive action to curb and reverse the trend.

It also knew it could make a huge difference given the formidable resources and talent at its disposal. Leveraging this, Schneider Electric has sought not just to decarbonise the traditional energy sector, but support clients across all industries in their bids to reduce emissions and become more sustainable.

The solution - Crucially, the company knows that it can achieve big things without having to reinvent the wheel.

This is because a lot of the technologies which can help clients to decarbonise already exists – in the heavy industry segment, for example, the company believes that existing solutions can drive 30-40% decarbonisation.

Schneider Electric, as one of the largest industrial software companies in the world, is already helping to make this happen through

its energy management and automation technologies and services.

In recent times, it has created a consulting business, dedicated to supporting clients on their decarbonisation journeys, a key focus being to enable customers to measure various sustainability metrics and build out longterm strategies. Here, the unit works closely with chief sustainability officers, its ultimate aim being to be a positive force for change by building up credibility and demonstrating results with clients. More recently, expert consultancy has been established to help heavy industries accelerate decarbonisation through electrification of their processes and assets, with technologies existing today.

In the UK, meanwhile, Schneider Electric is heavily involved in the decarbonisation of the country’s transportation networks by supporting the scale up of electric vehicle adoption. The company operates several factories in the country, including a large electrical distribution site in Leeds which supplies switchgear to the energy sector, as well as another factory in Scarborough which produces switchgear for electricity grids and EV charging infrastructure.

Schneider Electric also supports the development of other sustainable technologies in their journeys to market, with key focus areas at the moment being in areas such as carbon capture and electrolyses, the process behind the production of hydrogen fuel.

Alongside bringing solutions into the real world, the company is very active on the networking and thought leadership front. Its Sustainability Research Institute, for example, has been engaging on the world stage for several years now, leading conversations around carbon reduction and facilitating knowledge sharing among stakeholders.

Much of that insight comes from sustainable practices being carried out within Schneider Electric itself. Indeed, the company seeks to become the world’s most sustainable company, a feat it achieved in 2022 when it came top of a list of rankings produced by Corporate Knight. It has also been named in 2024’s Top 100 for the 13th year in a row. This is no surprise, not least because all of its 153 factories spread across 38 countries are on track to become net zero operations within two years. In addition, Schneider Electric

▸ On track to have full net zero operations worldwide within two years.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Choose to really have an impact on decarbonisation. Be conscious of what you say and do.

▸ Don’t procrastinate: choose existing solutions and keep up to date with technologies.

For government

▸ Stop delaying energy transition projects. Have a sense of urgency.

▸ Require that companies publish emission reports and prohibit less efficient equipment.

Schneider Electric at a glance:

Key products and services: digitalisation, energy management and automation solutions.

solutions.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and gas – 40%

▸ Carbon capture and renewables –10%

▸ Conventional power – 9%

▸ Nuclear power – 5%

▸ Others (energy) – 36%

Headquarters: Paris, France

Year established: 1836

Number of employees: 153,000

Revenue: £30.1bn

Revenue from exports: 90%

seeks to use 50% sustainable plastics, acting as a customer as well as a supplier to its petrochemical clients.

Looking ahead, the company will continue to build long term partnerships with suppliers and customers, many of which see the firm as a strategic partner and crucial contributor to their sustainability strategies.

Score

Score’s Gas Turbine division is making more out of its assets and capabilities

Paul Stein Managing Director of Gas Turbine division

How is Score’s Gas Turbine division thriving?

Despite performing solidly for two decades, Score’s Gas Turbine division was somewhat stuck in a rut. The status quo carried significant risk because the division relied on a small pool of clients, and it showed no sign of changing. In 2022, a fresh approach was adopted, one that looked to spread risk and better utilise the division’s assets. Fast-forward to 2024, and that decision is paying off.

The challenge - Score’s Gas Turbine division was established more than 20 years ago. An independent supplier of aeroderivative gas turbine services based out of a leading-edge facility in Aberdeenshire, the company specialises in overhaul, repair, upgrade, modification, testing and supply of gas turbines, fuel systems and accessories.

During its time, Score has built up trusted relationships with major OEMs, including GE, Parker, Woodward, and Honeywell, carving out a reputation for reliability.

However, when new Managing Director Paul Stein joined the Gas Turbine division in 2022, he immediately saw that the division was over reliant on work from a small number of major clients. Recognising the need to de-risk, the decision was made to explore how Score’s Gas Turbine facilities and expertise could be leveraged by a wider range of customers for different applications. The challenge, therefore, lay in putting together and executing a strategy to realise this untapped potential.

The solution - Paul Stein assembled the company’s Gas Turbine management team together early on to explore the journey needed to drive different behaviours and accountability. The first wave of change emerged through the shift towards a culture of empowerment that fostered a sense of ownership across the organisation, blended with an open-door policy that motivated colleagues to come forward with new ideas and suggestions.

A second wave of change came through the introduction of clear operational and financial metrics that drove improvement in key areas such as on-time delivery, utilisation, and costs. Furthermore, the metrics enabled the collection of data that was used to make tactical and strategic decisions.

To help embed these new values and culture, several management workshops were held

in the early months of the transformation, with LEAN workshops also involving dozens of employees. In addition, townhalls have been made a staple on the calendar, these meetings occurring every quarter to share growth ideas, business performance and leadership activities.

Changing the mindset of the team has been a huge priority. Paul Stein and his leadership team knew the division had the capabilities to execute its new strategy, with several colleagues holding multiple decades of experience. At the other end of the scale, getting younger talent into the business has also been prioritised, the company’s apprenticeship programme now one of the biggest of its kind in the UK and award-winning.

Success has been felt on many fronts, not least around the reinvigorated culture and behaviour among employees, who actively provide feedback on how the workplace has changed for the better.

In terms of providing a greater scope of services, this has also applied to longstanding clients who are now leveraging Score in new ways. For example, it has broadened its channel partner arrangement with Baker Hughes, which uses Score’s facility for work on fuel systems and compressors, offshore field services and warehousing, as well as customer meetings and inspections. In 2023, this work generated revenue growth, and provides a solid platform to build on.

Overall revenue figures are also on the rise. Between 2021 and 2024, Score’s Gas Turbine division’s turnover increased 20% per year.

Now, the aim is to continue growing the Gas Turbine division building on its recent growth, with opportunities in the energy transition market being of particular interest. Here, the company is on the early stages of an exciting project with a partner to prove a concept for a new carbon capture test cell. Indeed, having injected a new sense of purpose and ambition across the organisation, Score’s Gas Turbine division is now primed to accelerate its growth further over the next few years.

Story type

#optimisation (main category)

#collaboration, #culture, #people & competency

Benefits

▸ Score’s Gas Turbine division’s turnover grew by 20% annually, between 2021 and 2024.

▸ Strengthen partnership with big names such as Baker Hughes which has generated a growth in revenue.

Key findings

For industry

▸ Have a vision in your mind about where you want to take the business, then look at the people you have in place to decide if they can help you get there.

▸ Be aware of your own weaknesses, and make sure you have a team around you to support you accordingly.

For government

▸ Learn quickly from past lessons, e.g. coal industry – it had no strategy for transition.

Score at a glance:

Key products and services: a global provider of advanced engineering technology services in the fields of valve and emissions management, gas turbines, surface technologies, energy, defence and aerospace.

Main industries served:

▸ Oil and Gas

▸ Energy Transition

▸ Mining

▸ Power

▸ Utilities

▸ Defence

▸ Aerospace

Headquarters: Peterhead, UK

Year established: 1982

Number of employees: 2,160

Revenue: £350m

Revenue from exports: 65%