The oil and gas industry remains a pivotal sector in the global economy, providing essential energy resources and contributing significantly to economic stability and growth. As of 2024, the industry is navigating a complex landscape shaped by fluctuating demand, technological advancements, geopolitical tensions, and an increasing shift towards sustainable energy sources.
The global demand for oil and gas rebounded in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Economic recovery in various regions has spurred increased energy consumption, particularly in emerging markets.
Despite rising demand, supply constraints due to geopolitical tensions, production cuts by OPEC+, and natural disasters affecting key production areas have contributed to volatility in the market.
As of mid-2024, oil prices have seen a moderate increase compared to the previous year, stabilizing around $80-$90 per barrel. This is driven by a combination of supply constraints and robust demand.
Natural gas prices have also seen fluctuations, influenced by factors such as seasonal demand, geopolitical tensions, and shifts in production strategies.
The integration of digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and big data analytics, has revolutionized operations within the oil and gas sector. These technologies enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve safety.
Advanced EOR techniques, including thermal recovery, gas injection, and chemical flooding, are being employed to maximize extraction from existing oil fields. These methods are crucial for extending the life of mature fields and boosting production.
Middle East Tensions
Persistent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, a critical region for global oil supply, continue to pose risks to the stability of the oil market. Conflicts and political instability can disrupt production and supply chains, leading to price spikes.
Economic sanctions on key oil-producing countries, such as Iran and Venezuela, have significantly impacted global oil supply. Additionally, trade policies and tariffs, particularly between major economies like the US and China, influence market dynamics and investment flows.
The energy transition is reshaping the industry, with a gradual but steady shift towards renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydrogen. Major oil and gas companies are diversifying their portfolios to include renewable energy projects and investing in research and development to drive innovation in this space.
CapEx
Capital expenditure in the oil and gas sector is seeing a cautious recovery. Companies are focusing on maintaining operational efficiency and profitability while selectively investing in high-return projects and technological upgrades.
Future Prospects
The future of the oil and gas industry lies in its ability to integrate sustainable energy practices. Companies that successfully transition towards a balanced energy portfolio, combining fossil fuels with renewables, are likely to thrive in the long term.
Continued innovation and adaptation to changing market conditions, regulatory environments, and technological advancements will be crucial. The industry must leverage cutting-edge technologies and embrace sustainable practices to remain competitive and resilient.
International collaboration will play a key role in ensuring energy security and stability. Joint efforts in research, policy-making, and technological development can drive the industry towards a more sustainable and efficient future.
The oil and gas industry in 2024 stands at a crossroads, facing both significant challenges and promising opportunities. While the path ahead is fraught with uncertainties, the industry’s resilience and capacity for innovation provide a solid foundation for navigating the evolving energy landscape. By embracing sustainable practices, leveraging technological advancements, and fostering global collaboration, the oil and gas sector can continue to play a vital role in the global economy while contributing to a sustainable energy future.
Powering the Future of Geoscience
OGI Magazine sits down with Athanasios Koutsouridis, Senior Marketing Manager at BRESSNER Technology GmbH, to discuss delivering highend computers and custom-built GPU servers that support AI-accelerated geoscience simulations and other complex machine learning tasks.
Giant Cargo Tank Remote Inspection
Equinor’s Johan Castberg FPSO is a cutting-edge offshore production, storage, and offloading unit designed for harsh arctic conditions in the Barents Sea, with an operational life of 30 years.
German Engineering Skills Used Worldwide
Schäfer Pumpen & Hydraulik GmbH is proud of the pump technology, the background from R. Schäfer & Urbach GmbH & Co. KG. having a history of almost 100 years.
Contributions of UW-ELAST to the Oil and Gas Industry
W-ELAST, a leading Swedish manufacturer specializing in polyurethane (PUR) and other polymeric materials, plays a crucial role in the oil and gas industry by providing high-quality, durable products designed to meet the unique challenges of marine environments.
Safely Testing Subsea Electrical Systems
Subsea control systems perform a critical role in the offshore oil and gas industry. These systems manage vital components such as manifolds, Xmas trees and process instruments, enabling the management of hydrocarbon flow from below the seabed.
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Front Line Maintenance (FLM)
Front Line Maintenance (FLM) is the preservation of tools and assets in a company in order to allow operations to continually run smooth transactions and avoidance of major hindrances. FLM is more convoluted than other forms of maintenance since it requires maintenance crews to fix issues whilst the assets are in use.
MIDSTREAM & PIPELINES
A Pillar of Excellence in the Tic Industry
The Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) sector is a vital industry providing conformity assessment services across diverse sectors, including energy, food, agriculture, and chemicals.
Chevron and American Aerospace Technologies to
Fly Unmanned Aircraft
Chevron Pipe Line Company, subsidiary of Chevron Corp, and American Aerospace Technologies, Inc. (AATI) received a first-of-itskind waiver from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct unmanned aircraft surveillance in the San Joaquin Valley.
PROCESSING
Software and Logistics in Automation
One of the greatest challenges that fabrication shops all over the world, and across all industries, are facing, is a lack of skilled workers, especially welders. While demand is constantly increasing, the available pool of workers continues to shrink, as older workers retire, without enough new workers picking up the trade to replace them.
Valves for the Future
The global need for reliable, clean energy is abundantly clear, yet the debate on what is the best process to produce green energy or even what the definition of green energy is will probably be discussed for decades to come. Yet the requirement is ever present. Global sea temperatures are increasing and we are already seeing more extreme weather conditions around the world.
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Powering the Future of Geoscience
OGI Magazine sits down with Athanasios Koutsouridis, Senior Marketing Manager at BRESSNER Technology GmbH, to discuss delivering high-end computers and custom-built GPU servers that support AI-accelerated geoscience simulations and other complex machine learning tasks. In this interview, we delve into the importance of high-performance hardware in geoscience simulations, and discuss BRESSNER’s contributions to industrial IoT and the challenges of operating in rugged environments, and much more.
OGI: Could you start by explaining BRESSNER Technology’s credentials and experience in terms of your products and services for the oil and gas sector? Could you tell our readers the breadth of your experience, how long the company has been active, and its reach?
Koutsouridis: BRESSNER Technology, founded in 1994 by Josef Bressner, has been at the forefront of the industrial IT hardware market for over 30 years. As a system integrator and value-added distributor, we specialize in high-end computers, complete solutions, and PC components. Specifically, for the oil and gas sector, we offer custom-built high-performance computers and GPU servers that are essential for AI-accelerated geoscience simulations and other intensive machine learning tasks. With a robust global presence and a wide array of partners and customers, we pride ourselves on delivering tailored, cutting-edge solutions that meet the unique demands of our clients in this industry.
OGI: Could you explain to our readers what are geoscience simulations, and what do they achieve?
Koutsouridis: Geoscience simulations are advanced computational models that replicate various geological processes and phenomena. These simulations are used to analyze and predict subsurface characteristics, such as rock
Geoscience simulations are crucial for identifying potential hydrocarbon reservoirs, assessing extraction viability, and minimizing drilling risks.
formations, fluid dynamics, and seismic activity. In the oil and gas sector, geoscience simulations are crucial for identifying potential hydrocarbon reservoirs, assessing extraction viability, and minimizing drilling risks. By leveraging high-performance computing and
BRESSNER Technology offers hyper converged server systems like the 3U-SDS for AI accelerated geoscience simulations.
AI technologies, these simulations provide highly accurate and detailed insights, enabling more efficient exploration and production strategies, ultimately optimizing resource management and reducing operational costs.
OGI: Why is it so important to use high performance hardware for these types of simulations?
Koutsouridis: High-performance hardware is essential for geoscience simulations due to the sheer complexity and scale of the computations involved. These simulations require processing vast amounts of data to model intricate geological structures and dynamic processes accurately. High-performance computers and hyper converged server systems offer the computational power and speed necessary to handle these intensive tasks efficiently. They enable faster data processing, real-time analysis, and more precise simulations, which are crucial for making timely and informed decisions in the oil and gas sector. Without such robust hardware, the simulations would be significantly slower and less accurate, potentially leading to suboptimal exploration and production strategies.
Athanasios Koutsouridis, BRESSNER Technology GmbH
OGI: Can you talk about GPU acceleration?
Koutsouridis: GPU acceleration leverages Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) to enhance computational tasks significantly by handling parallel processing efficiently. In geoscience simulations for the oil and gas sector, GPUs are crucial due to their ability to process large datasets and complex algorithms quickly. This results in faster, more accurate simulations of geological processes, essential for identifying oil reserves and assessing extraction viability. The high computational power of GPUs enables real-time data analysis, which is vital for dynamic decision-making. By integrating stateof-the-art GPUs into our solutions, BRESSNER Technology ensures our clients benefit from reduced operational costs and optimized resource management in exploration and production.
OGI: What does BRESSNER do in the field of industrial IoT?
Koutsouridis: BRESSNER Technology is deeply involved in the field of industrial IoT (Internet of Things) by providing comprehensive solutions that connect and integrate various industrial devices and systems. We offer ruggedized IoT gateways, cellular routers, embedded modules, edge computing devices, and industrial-grade networking components designed to withstand harsh environments. Our solutions enable real-time data collection, analysis, and remote monitoring, which are essential for optimizing industrial operations, improving efficiency, and reducing downtime. Additionally, we support various IoT protocols and platforms, ensuring seamless communication and interoperability across different systems. By leveraging our expertise in industrial IoT, we help businesses in sectors like manufacturing, energy, and transportation to enhance their operational
capabilities and achieve greater automation and intelligence in their processes.
OGI: Oil and gas can be quite a rugged environment, reliable PC’s, computing and servers are a must at times. Could you talk about how BRESSNER helps their clients in that regard?
Koutsouridis: In the rugged and demanding environment of the oil and gas industry, reliability and durability of computing systems are paramount. BRESSNER Technology addresses these challenges by providing robust, industrial-grade PCs, highperformance computing solutions, and servers specifically designed to operate in harsh conditions. Our hardware is built to withstand extreme temperatures, vibrations, and dust, ensuring uninterrupted performance in the field. We also offer comprehensive support and customization options to meet the specific needs of our clients. By ensuring the reliability and durability of our systems, we help our clients maintain continuous operations, minimize downtime, and enhance overall productivity in their critical applications.
OGI: Finally, could you enlighten our readers of a case study where you helped a client with your solutions?
Koutsouridis: We recently assisted a client, a subsidiary of one of the world’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturers, by designing and manufacturing a ruggedized Liquid Cooling System for their autonomous truck deployment. This client, a pioneer in self-driving technology, needed a reliable cooling solution for their Level 4 driving automation systems. Valued at $300,000, this project involved creating a self-contained active cooling system with a chassis-mounted liquid chiller, coolant pump, and control
The Rigel Edge Supercomputer offers full immersion or liquid cooling for the most demanding of environments.
system firmware. Our expertise in rugged high-performance compute systems ensured that the cooling solution met the stringent requirements of the client’s advanced driverassistance systems (ADAS), supporting their commercialization efforts and paving the way for future production scaling and further collaborations.
OGI: Thank you for your time. •
Athanasios Koutsouridis, Senior
Marketing Manager
BRESSNER Technology GmbH
Germany
Phone: +49 8142 7284-0
E-Mail: info@bressner.de
Web: www.bressner.de
BRESSNERs ruggedized high performance computers thrive in any transportable land, sea or aerospace application.
Giant Cargo Tank Remote Inspection Turns Stress-Free,
Safe and Efficient With
Unlimited Flight Time.
Equinor’s Johan Castberg FPSO is a cutting-edge offshore production, storage, and offloading unit designed for harsh arctic conditions in the Barents Sea, with an operational life of 30 years.
IKM Testing performed visual inspection of the cargo tanks of the newly built vessel using the Scout 137 Drone System, focusing on documenting the coating condition and the as-built structure welded to the underside of the cargo tank deck.
The inspection was conducted during cold winter days at a yard in Stord, Norway. Two inspectors covered the vast area working shifts, comfortably seated on the tank floor. This thorough inspection required several revisits and many hours, relying on the Scout 137 Drone System’s unlimited flight time for safe and timely completion.
About IKM Testing AS Norwegian company IKM Testing is a complete service provider to the energy industry. Since 1992, they have offered their services to both offshore and onshore sectors, establishing themselves as a significant supplier to the industry.
Johan Castberg
Equinor’s Johan Castberg FPSO is a large offshore production, storage and offloading unit designed and destined to operate at the Johan Castberg field in the Barents Sea for the next 30 years. Its approximate length and width are 313m and 55m.
Job scope
The scope of this job was to establish baseline visual documentation of coating condition and the as-built structure welded to the underside of the cargo tank deck. The cargo tank deck area
is about 3500 m2, and responsible and meticulous inspection is vital.
Locating potential falling objects is also an important part of such jobs.
Data from this visual inspection forms a part of the baseline documentation for subsequent Risk-Based-Inspection (RBI), i.e. serves as comparison for future inspections. It allows likelihood estimation of future anomaly detections based on structural fatigue analysis in the design.
A huge project like this requires several revisits and many flight hours.. It is vital that the crew remains safe and alert throughout the entire job. In this case many hours were spent in freezing temperatures during cold Norwegian winter days.
Tethered drone system
The Scout 137 Drone System is a tethered system, meaning that the drone is connected to a Ground Station via a thin and lightweight cable (tether).
The tether provides power and a fully wired connection for data and controls.
A fully wired setup like this is not subject to radio-frequency disturbance. The Ground Station can be connected to the Internet for live inspection streaming, via ethernet or your mobile phone’s 4G/5G.
Unlimited Flight Time: A Key Advantage
The drone inspection was conducted mainly from the cargo tank floor, keeping the crew safe and comfortable throughout the job. Since the standard tether is 40m and the cargo tanks are +25m tall, it is sometimes required to move the Ground Station to reach everything comfortably. Also, structural details necessitate flying with
the tether hanging straight down, in which case the Ground Station must be moved more often.
Thankfully, you don’t have to land the drone to do this. Letting go of the controller, you can reposition the Ground Station while the Scout 137 hovers in the same position up in the air.
Each cargo tank represented approximately 120-150 minutes of flight-time. The cargo tanks were rather cold, with temperatures way below 0°C. For this reason, two pilots worked on shift, inspecting continuously for about one hour before shifting.
The tether of the Scout 137 Drone System enabled inspection of hard-to-reach structural components without the concern of pausing for battery changes before taking on the next challenge.
It also eliminates the need for improvising charging stations and a charging regime for many batteries, with chargers and sufficient power sources on the tank floor.
The ability to focus entirely on the job with minimal external distractions ensured the safety and efficiency of the operation.
Safety Benefits
Rope access via climbing has long remained
IKM Testing inspects cargo tanks of Equinor FPSO “Johan Castberg” with Scout 137 Drone System.
Above: Johan Castberg in the yard at Stord, Norway. This vessel will see more wind and snow than most.
Scout 137 Drone in flight, note the yellow tether.
the standard method for structural inspection in the Oil & Gas and offshore industries. For this project, the shipyard would not have built scaffolding for accessing the structure, as that could damage the fresh coating. So rope access would have been the alternative to drone inspection.
Due to the significant height and size of the Johan Castberg tanks, climbing or working from scaffolding is inherently exhausting, hazardous and time-consuming.
The reduction of human exposure to hazardous environments is key. By utilizing the unlimited flight time property, the pilots remained safe and relaxed on the cargo tank floor, concentrating on drone navigation and inspection without the additional physical strain and dangers of climbing.
This approach, relying on the Scout 137 Drone System’s unlimited flight time and BVLOS capabilities, resulted in a much safer, more efficient and accurate inspection process, as they did not need to move around at height.
Operational Benefits and Efficiency
The vast scale of the FPSO and meticulous nature of this inspection, plus the needs to minimize interference with yard schedules also required a highly efficient inspection process. The unlimited flight time enabled Hanssen and his colleague to conduct a thorough examination without unnecessary interruptions.
The Scout 137 Drone’s ability to cover large areas seamlessly made the inspection efficient. It allows organizing the inspection in a way practical for both data structure and job completion concerns. You can inspect starboard transversal, deck and aft in separate sessions, whichever way makes most sense out of on-site considerations or to the data assessment work in the Scout Portal afterwards.
The IKM pilots generally flew at approximately 80 cm surface distance throughout the job,
The inspectors were seated safely on the tank floor throughout the inspection, shifting pilot every hour in the sometimes freezing temperatures. Maintaining a safety distance to the flight zone also comes with a more ergonomic viewing angle.
for good coverage and to balance glare intensity from the protruding H-beams. Their experience is that intuitive controls and anti-collision system of the Scout 137 are helpful tools when navigating complex tank environments.
The virtual anti-collision ensures that the Scout 137 remains at safe distance from any obstacles, while the spatial awareness provided to the pilot redefines the concept of ‘arm’s length’: Making it feel as if the camera is an extension of your own arm.
Combined, these features mean that every aspect of the cargo tanks can be inspected effectively and without concerns about damaging equipment or breaking time
The Scout 137 Drone puts your eyes where you need them: Screenshot from the Scout App with camera feed, point cloud, minimap, UTM A-scan and other controls. Image is borrowed from a different inspection.
schedules.
Conclusion
The inspection of the Johan Castberg cargo tanks highlights how the Scout 137 Drone System’s unlimited flight time and advanced positioning simplify complex inspections. Multiple revisits were needed, and efficiency, safety, and crew comfort were crucial. The Scout 137 enabled IKM Testing to work safely and efficiently from a seated position for a total of 22 inspection hours.
The Scout 137 Drone System’s tethered design provides unlimited flight time, which offered flexibility and eliminated stress factors related to battery management. The Ground Station required minimal movement for full coverage. Stein Hanssen of IKM Testing commends ScoutDI for their support and valuable technology for offshore projects. •
If you would like to know more, contact us:
ScoutDI
www.scoutdi.com | sales@scoutdi.com
T: +47 73 60 49 90
Scan the QR code to watch video of IKM testing, FPSO inspection.
Eni Welcomes Visit of a Joint Delegation from Italy and the European Union to the HyNet North West Industrial
Cluster
Strong show of interest in the groundbreaking Eni-led CCS project in the UK
Eniwelcomed the visit of a delegation led by the Italian Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Inigo Lambertini, today at several facilities included in the HyNet Industrial Cluster, one of the world’s first low carbon clusters where Eni is the operator of the CO2 transportation and storage (T&S) system. The Italian Ambassador was joined on his visit by representatives from the Delegation of the European Union to the United Kingdom, highlighting the interest shown by key stakeholders in a project that has the potential to make a key contribution to the UK’s Net Zero and economic growth objectives.
This visit was an occasion to reiterate the importance of the UK in Eni’s activities in the Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) sector, emphasising the critical role CCS will play in the energy transition strategy. It comes at a particularly relevant time as Eni and the UK Government agreed ‘Heads of Terms’ for the world’s first T&S asset based regulated CCS business model at HyNet in October 2023. Following this milestone, the UK Government’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) moved forward by granting a Development Consent Order for the HyNet CO₂ pipeline in March 2024. The DCO will allow the construction, operation, and maintenance of infrastructure to transport captured CO2 as part of the HyNet CCS cluster. Eni, the selected Track 1 industrial emitters, and the Authorities are working together with the aim to achieve the Cluster Final Investment Decision (FID) by September 2024, in order to move the project to its execution phase and unlock significant investment in the region.
The tour provided an opportunity to highlight how the project will help preserve local jobs by supporting the decarbonization of hard-to-abate industries, preserving the UK’s long-term industrial competitiveness, and creating additional jobs from innovative productive chains.
Within the HyNet Cluster, Eni’s T&S system will significantly and safely abate emissions from third party industries. With an initial capacity of 4.5 million tonnes of CO2 per year in the first phase, and the potential to increase up to 10 million tonnes of CO2 per year after 2030, the project will transform one of the country’s most energy intensive industrial regions into one of the world’s first low-carbon industrial clusters.
Eni has plans to expand its activity in the UK’s CCS industry as part of its comprehensive industrial strategy to grow and create value in the Energy Transition. It is also spearheading the Bacton Thames Net Zero project, which aims to decarbonise the South East of England and Thames region. In addition, the recent acquisition of Neptune Energy, has opened up access to three more CO2 storage licenses strategically located in the North Sea. These licenses further reinforce Eni UK CCS portfolio, which currently accounts for a total gross storage capacity of about 1 giga tons in the Country.
Eni will leverage its decades of experience in developing natural gas fields, applying its knowledge, technical capability, and skills in managing complex projects, to efficiently repurpose some of its existing assets to deliver reliable CO2 storage hubs with rapid time and at competitive cost, allowing the decarbonisation of its own, as well as third parties’ industrial activities. Beyond the UK Eni has also established a leadership position in Italy and is further expanding other CCS initiatives at different stage of maturity in the North Sea, North Africa and Far East.
SLB OneSubsea Awarded Contract for TotalEnergies’ Kaminho Deepwater Project
SLB has announced the award of a contract by TotalEnergies to its OneSubsea™ joint venture for a 13-well Subsea Production System scope, including associated equipment and services, in the development of the Kaminho project, offshore Angola. The project will be developed by TotalEnergies and its Block 20/11 partners in two phases for the Cameia and Golfinho discoveries. Together, SLB OneSubsea and TotalEnergies will work to deliver a sustainable project that will improve production in Angola.
During the Kaminho project’s first phase of development for the Cameia field, SLB OneSubsea will collaborate with TotalEnergies to deploy a highly configurable subsea production platform with standardized vertical monobore subsea tree, wellhead, and controls system.
“We are excited for this opportunity to unlock the large potential of the Kaminho project together with TotalEnergies,” said Mads Hjelmeland, CEO of SLB OneSubsea. “Our collaborative contract model enables us to leverage both standardization and highly configurable subsea production platforms, creating greater efficiencies and long-term value for this and future projects in Angola and around the world.”
The Kaminho project overall will involve more than 10 million man-hours in Angola, mainly with offshore operations and construction at local yards. SLB OneSubsea will play a significant role in supporting the Kaminho project locally in Angola for offshore operations including assembly, manufacturing of modules, installation, commissioning, and life-of-field services. First production is targeted for 2028, with an estimated 70,000 barrels of oil per day.
AF Gruppen Awarded Offshore Contract
Aeron, a company in AF Gruppen, has been awarded an EPCi contract for the supply of complete ventilation and cooling systems for a 2GW offshore wind project, which is part of a large development project under the auspices of the Dutch, state-owned company TenneT. Upon completion, the project will produce electricity to households in Germany and the Netherlands. The agreement with Aeron has a value that exceeds MNOK 500 excl VAT.
Aeron will deliver detailed engineering, design, engineering, procurement, and assembly of ventilation and cooling systems for the 2GW projects, BalWin4 & LanWin1, which will provide green wind power from the North Sea to approx. 5 million households. The contract has been awarded by a recognized international EPC supplier on behalf of TenneT for the project development.
The issuer of the contract is a reputed global supplier of engineering and construction solutions to the energy industry.
“We are honored to have been trusted with this contract, marking a significant advancement in our activities within the offshore wind sector. This contract marks a significant step forward in our commitment to renewable energy, and we look forward to collaborating with our customer and partners to ensure successful project implementation”, says Amund Tøftum, CEO of AF Gruppen ASA.
Project planning will start immediately, and the equipment delivery will take place in 2025 and 2026. Following Aeron’s deliveries, the systems will be mounted on the platforms at the shipyard before installation, and completion offshore in 20292030. Aeron will provide service and maintenance services until 2034.
Green Hydrogen: TE H2 Partners with VERBUND on a Large Project in Tunisia
TE H2 a joint-venture between TotalEnergies and EREN Groupe, together with VERBUND, Austria’s leading electricity company, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Republic of Tunisia to study the implementation of a large green hydrogen project named “H2 Notos” for export to Central Europe through pipelines.
H2 Notos aims to produce green hydrogen using electrolysers powered by large onshore wind and solar projects and supplied with desalinated sea water. The project aims to produce 200,000 tons of green hydrogen annually during its initial phase, with the potential to scale up production to one million tons per year in South Tunisia. The project will have access to the European market through the “SoutH2 Corridor”, a hydrogen pipeline project connecting North Africa to Italy, Austria, and Germany, which is expected to be commissioned around 2030.
TE H2, together with VERBUND, will be leading the development, financing, construction, and operation of the integrated project from production of green electricity to production of green hydrogen. In addition, VERBUND will coordinate the transport of the produced hydrogen towards Central Europe.
David Corchia, CEO of TE H2, said: “The signing of this MOU with the Republic of Tunisia marks the actual start of this highly ambitious project after months of work and interactions with all stakeholders. We are delighted to partner with VERBUND to support the development of such a pioneering and ambitious endeavor in such a strategic location. H2 Notos has the potential to become a significant supplier of green hydrogen for Europe while fostering significant jobs creation in Tunisia. We are entering into a phase of greenfield development and major technical work to assess the feasibility of the project and we will need to further deepen the highly constructive and fruitful collaboration we have enjoyed with the national and local authorities through H2 Notos.”
Fatma Thabet Chiboub, Tunisia’s Minister of Industry, Mines and Energy, stated: “This agreement with TE H2 and VERBUND marks a significant step forward in our quest for clean, sustainable energy. Tunisia, firmly committed to its energy transition, sees in this project a strategic pivot to strengthen its attractiveness as a destination of choice for foreign investment in renewable energies.”
Michael Strugl, CEO of VERBUND AG, added: “Tunisia is a particularly important upstream region in terms of scalability and competitiveness and a significant part of VERBUND’s hydrogen plans. We have set ourselves the goal of supplying the European industry with green hydrogen. By combining competitive hydrogen production in Tunisia and pipelinebased transportation, we can ensure a long-term supply at scale to support a sustainable transition of our customers to green hydrogen as well as support a sustainable economic development in Tunisia. We are delighted to be working with a strong consortium capable of realizing GW-scale projects and look forward to developing them in partnership and close collaboration with the Tunisian authorities and population.”
“Just
Google and ENGIE Strengthen their Partnership through Power Purchase Agreements in Belgium
Google and ENGIE have just signed a series of new Corporate Power Purchase Agreements (cPPAs) for which ENGIE will provide more than 118 MW of renewable power to Google’s digital infrastructure portfolio in Belgium.
ENGIE, a global reference in low-carbon energy and services, will support the operations and the expansion of Google in Belgium, thanks to five new cPPAs. Both companies have longstanding cooperation in the country, and had already concluded several cPPAs together in various countries in the last years. Aiming to achieve net-zero emissions and 24/7 carbonfree energy by 2030, Google will receive the full production of 4 new-to-the-grid onshore wind farms developed by ENGIE in Belgium, representing a total capacity of 26 MW. Moreover, Google and ENGIE also agreed to extend the existing offtake from the 92MW cPPA from another Belgian wind park already in operation for another 8 years. ENGIE will therefore be supplying Google with more than 118 MW of renewable capacity to power its infrastructure in Belgium. This is equivalent to around 3.7 TWh of carbon-free energy.
These news deals foster ENGIE’s pole position on the PPA market. ENGIE became the largest developer of renewable projects to the attention of corporates as the Group sold 2.4GW of green electricity to industry and large energy consumers in 2023. Last year, ENGIE announced 34 deals across six markets and was the only developer to announce PPAs for these three technologies: solar, onshore wind and offshore wind.
As announced in its #ENERGIZE2030 strategy in Belgium, the ambition of ENGIE in the country is to lead the energy transition by building up with its customers and partners the carbon-free, reliable and affordable energy system of tomorrow. To achieve this, ENGIE will, among other things, accelerate the development of renewables up to 2.5GW by 2030, but also draw on its unmatched capabilities as a global mid-streamer to deliver low carbon energy to its clients.
Vincent Verbeke, CEO of ENGIE Belgium,said: “We are delighted to partner with the reference corporates of the tech industry, and in particular with Google, as most players of the sector are accelerating widely the development of their infrastructure and stepping up their purchasing programs for carbon-free energy. As the top developer for clean energy cPPAs worldwide, we are proud to contribute to the economic feasibility of new investments for renewable projects while supporting the
operations and the investments of energy-intensive industries, as well as their local anchorage.”
Frederic Descamps, Google’s Data Center Lead in Belgium added: “Sustainability has been one of Google’s core values since its founding. We’re pursuing net zero emissions across our operations and value chain by 2030, supported by an ambitious clean energy goal to operate our data centers and office campuses on 24/7 carbon-free energy. Our ambition to make a positive impact in every grid that we operate in can be met working closely with leading energy companies such as ENGIE, a long term partner for Google in Belgium, sharing similar commitments to our sustainable goals.”
Equinor Divests Interests in the Gina Krog area
Equinoris selling 19.5% interests in production licenses PL 048E, which is the Eirin field, and PL 1201 to PGNiG Upstream Norway AS (PGNiG). With this, the ownership between Equinor and PGNiG in these licenses will be balanced with the Gina Krog field.
The plan for development and operation (PDO) for Eirin was approved in January 2024, and the field will be developed as a subsea facility tied back to the Gina Krog platform. The subsea template is under construction in Egersund and is scheduled for installation in the summer of 2024.
“Balanced partnerships will make it easier to coordinate decisions in the licences to optimise production and enhance value creation from the area. Together with the electrification of the platform, the Eirin development will extend the lifetime of the Gina Krog field, which supplies gas to Europe with low emissions from production and transport,” says Camilla Salthe, Equinor’s senior vice president for late-life fields.
Production licence PL 1201 was awarded in this year’s Awards in Predefined Areas (APA). Any discoveries in this licence could make use of Eirin’s infrastructure and be tied back to the Gina Krog platform. The economic effective date for the transfers is 1 January 2024. Closing of the transaction is conditional upon ministry approval.
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SLB OneSubsea and Subsea7 Awarded Integrated Contract for OKEA’s North Sea Bestla Project
SLB has announced the award of a sizeable integrated engineering, procurement, construction, and installation (EPCI) contract by OKEA to its OneSubsea™ joint venture and Subsea7. The contract will see the partnership develop the Bestla (formerly known as Brasse) Project in the North Sea, offshore Norway, specifically to accelerate the subsea tieback delivery to aging platforms for profitable and sustainable marginal field development.
The two-well project, with a 13-km tieback to the Brage Platform, is the latest to be signed under the frame agreement signed with OKEA in 2017 and furthers SLB OneSubsea and Subsea7’s partnership under its Subsea Integration Alliance.
Early engagement and collaborative field development planning combined with North Sea compliant configurable equipment will be critical for enabling profitable and sustainable marginal field development. SLB OneSubsea will deliver the subsea production system which will include two subsea trees, a two-slot template, an umbilical, and a control system. Subsea7 will install the subsea production system and design and install the flowline systems, spools, and protection measures, including rock installation.
“We enjoy a long, productive relationship with OKEA, building upon the successful execution of the Hasselmus development, the first project under our Alliance frame agreement, which was delivered on time and on budget in October 2023,” said Mads Hjelmeland, CEO of SLB OneSubsea. “Reaching this point has been driven by outstanding collaboration across all partners. Our ongoing partnership has enabled us to work together to simplify the field layout and secure long lead items and vessel capacity, which will bring the new wells online quickly and efficiently.”
Bestla was discovered in 2016 but today’s solution proposed by Subsea Integration Alliance represents the first commercially viable field development plan submitted for the Brasse development. The solution is compliant with NCS2017+ for standardized subsea production systems tailored for application in the Norwegian Continental Shelf, and the Alliance will support the local economy by commissioning fabrication and manufacturing from partners in Norway.
The field is estimated to contain 24 million barrels of oil equivalent, of which two-thirds is oil and the remaining onethird is gas and natural gas liquids. First oil is targeted for Q4 2026.
BASF and ENGIE Signed a Long Term Biomethane Purchase Agreement in Europe
• BASF and ENGIE signed a 7-year Biomethane Purchase Agreement (BPA)
• Biomethane is used as a substitute for fossil raw materials in chemical production at BASF’s Ludwigshafen and Antwerp sites
• Further expansion of product portfolio with a reduced Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) for customers
• BASF and ENGIE signed a 7-year Biomethane Purchase Agreement (BPA). Under the BPA, ENGIE will supply BASF with 2.7 to 3.0 terawatt hours of biomethane throughout the term of the agreement.
BASF uses certified biomethane at its Ludwigshafen/Germany and Antwerp/Belgium sites as a sustainable alternative to fossil raw materials in its manufacturing process. The approach supports the company’s sustainable transformation by reducing its carbon footprint. The biomethane amount is allocated to the end product using a third-party, globally recognized certification scheme, known as the Biomass Balance approach.
With the purchase agreement and usage of biomethane, BASF further expands its product portfolio by offering products with lower or zero Product Carbon Footprints (PCF) to its customers across industries like automotive, packaging and detergents.
“BASF and ENGIE have been working together for many years. We are increasingly using alternative feedstocks such as biomethane at the beginning of our value chain, as part of our transition towards a circular economy. This agreement will ensure a long-term supply of biomethane at competitive prices. We are happy to have such a reliable partner in ENGIE”, said Matthias Dohrn, Head of Global Procurement at BASF.
Edouard Neviaski, CEO of ENGIE’s Business Entity ‘Global Energy Management & Sales’ stated: “ENGIE and BASF is a story of green chemistry. After entering into the longest-term Power Purchase Agreement ever signed in the European chemical industry in 2021*, we are happy to accompany our partner again to take strides on the biomethane side. With a biomethane portfolio steadily growing, this new deal sets us on the right path to achieve our ambition to sell 30 terawatt hours of biomethane per year by 2030. With a strong growth potential, and Europe’s ambition to produce 35 billion m3 by 2030, we believe that BPAs will experience significant growth.”
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Equinor Starts Production from Kristin South
Equinor and its partners Petoro, Vår Energi, and TotalEnergies EP Norge started production from the first Lavrans well in the Kristin South area on 7 July.
The partnership submitted the plan for development and operation (PDO) of the Lavrans and Kristin Q discoveries as satellites to the Kristin field in 2021. This is the first phase of the Kristin South project. The PDO was approved by the authorities in 2022.
“The Kristin South project demonstrates our strategy to create value by developing existing infrastructure on the Norwegian Continental Shelf. Together with our partners and suppliers, we have developed the project and started the production from Lavrans in a safe and good way,” says Trond Bokn, senior vice president for project development in Equinor.
A new subsea template has been installed and tied into the Kristin platform, now processing oil and gas from the first well at the Lavrans field. The gas will be exported through the pipeline system to the European market, while the oil will be transported to the market by ship via the Åsgard C storage vessel.
Four additional wells are planned as part of the first phase of the Kristin South project, three at the Lavrans field and one in the Q-segment at the Kristin field. The latter will be drilled from an existing subsea template that has been tied back to the Kristin SEMI.
The expected production in phase one of the Kristin South project is in the PDO estimated at 6.2 GSm3 of gas and 1.9 MSm3 of oil (a total of 58.2 million barrels of oil equivalent).
“This is a key milestone in our plan to continue to develop new resources in a mature area in the Norwegian Sea. Tying in additional resources to our producing hubs is a cost-efficient way to add production and extend the lifespan of our fields in operation. This approach contributes to energy security and job creation in Norway,” says Grete B. Haaland, senior vice president for Exploration & Production North.
The CO2 intensity for extraction and production of Kristin South phase 1 is very low - less than 1 kg of CO2 per barrel of oil equivalent. The emissions will mainly be generated from the project’s drilling activities.
Norwegian suppliers have been awarded over 60% of the contract values in the development phase creating ripple effects along the coast. The project is estimated to have created 4,000 person-years across Norway, with 800 in the Mid-Norway region, over the 2020-2025 period.
Lavrans was discovered in 1995, while the Kristin field was put on stream in 2005. The technical lifetime of the Kristin platform is currently estimated to be 2043 with potential for further extensions.
Partners (Haltenbanken Vest Unit): Equinor Energy AS (54.82 %, operator), Petoro AS (22.52 %), Vår Energi ASA (16.66 %), TotalEnergies EP Norge AS (6 %).
Nominated for Contract to Expand Wastewater Treatment Plant
AFGruppen has been chosen by Nedre Romerike vannog avløpsselskap (NRVA) as the main contractor for the collaborative contract involving the expansion of the existing wastewater treatment plant in Strømmen, Romerike.
Contract B2 pertains to construction and civil engineering work. In the first phase of the project, the collaboration will focus on optimizing technical solutions and project execution before the parties agree on a target price for the actual construction. It is planned that the collaboration phase will take approximately one year. It is expected that a construction contract could have a value of approximately NOK 1 billion. The construction contract will only be included in the order backlog once the phase 2 contract is signed.
“AF Gruppen has extensive experience and expertise from several similar projects and contract forms. Together with NRVA, we will use this expertise to find the best solutions for the expansion of the existing treatment plant. We look forward to contributing so that the new facility achieves the desired capacity and meets the relevant requirements,” says Amund Tøftum, CEO of AF Gruppen.
Prosafe
SE: Safe Caledonia Awarded Letter of Intent
Prosafe has been issued a Letter of Intent (LoI) from Ithaca Energy (UK) Limited for the charter of the Safe Caledonia to provide gangway connected accommodation support at the Captain field in the UK sector of the North Sea.
The firm duration of the contract commencing June 2025 is 6 months with up to 3 months of options and final contract award is subject to meeting certain site specific technical criteria. The Safe Caledonia will undergo its five-yearly special periodic survey and other maintenance works prior to commencement of the contract.
The value of the contract linked to the LoI is approximately USD 26 million to USD 37 million depending on options.
Terje Askvig, CEO of Prosafe says: “The Safe Caledonia has provided consistently safe and reliable high quality accommodation support in the UK sector for many years, and we are very pleased to gain this LoI from a new client in Ithaca Energy. The reactivation and commitment of the Safe Caledonia reflects the continued tightening of the accommodation market in the North Sea and globally”
SE: Prosafe issued Conditional Letter of Intent for Safe Boreas
Prosafe has been issued a Conditional Letter of Intent (CLoI) for the Safe Boreas to provide gangway connected operations to support a project off the coast of Western Australia. The CLoI is conditional upon execution of a final contract.
The firm duration of the contract linked to the CLoI is 15 months with up to six months of options. The Safe Boreas will mobilise from the North Sea within Q2 2025. Safe Boreas will undergo its five-yearly special periodic survey and other maintenance works prior to commencement of the contract.
The value of the contract linked to the CLoI is approximately USD 75 million to USD 100 million depending on options.
The Safe Boreas is one of the world’s most advanced and versatile semi-submersible DP-3 accommodation vessels and complies with stringent rules in Australia, Norway and UK. Single person cabins, extensive recreation facilities, combined with a large deck area, cranes and passive motion compensated gangway will ensure the highest level of performance.
Terje Askvig, CEO of Prosafe says: “Prosafe is proud to receive this Conditional LoI and confident of formalising to contract. With Safe Boreas, the client will receive a vessel with the highest standard and reputation in supporting the world’s foremost hook-up and commissioning projects. The market outside the North Sea has seen an increasing level of activity and highend offshore accommodation demand and this CLoI is further evidence of this trend.”
Prosafe
Siemens Mobility Equips Berlin Metro with CBTC Technology to Enable Semi-Automated Operation for the First Time
• U5 and U8 metro lines to receive modern Trainguard MT train control system for semi-automated (GoA2) operation
• With CBTC, headways can be shortened, and line capacity increased by up to 30%; conversion to be completed by 2032 during ongoing operations
Siemens Mobility has won the tender from Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe [BVG] and will introduce a Communications-Based Train Control System [CBTC] on the U5 and U8 metro lines in Berlin for the first time. The state-of-theart Trainguard MT CBTC solution will enable semi-automated operation (GoA2: Grade of Automation) on the U5 line by 2029 and on the U8 line by 2032, increasing capacity on these lines by around 30%. Technically speaking, CBTC technology even allows headways of less than 100 seconds. This technological advance will also significantly improve the reliability and punctuality of the two metro lines. Siemens Mobility will carry out the conversion during ongoing operations so that trains on both lines of Germany’s largest metro system can continue to run uninterrupted throughout the entire project. The contract has a volume of approximately 200 million euros, plus additional longterm technology maintenance contracts.
Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility, said: “The investment in our leading CBTC technology for metros is really good news for rail passengers in Berlin. It will provide the technical conditions for semi-automated trains to run on the lines every 100 seconds. This translates into 30% more passenger capacity for Berliners and is the best answer for increasing climate protection and meeting the growing need for mobility. Our tried and tested CBTC systems for metros are already being used in many major cities around the world, including Singapore, Paris, and New York.”
Trainguard MT train control system for Berlin metro lines U5 and U8
The BVG lines U5 and U8 will be equipped with Trainguard MT over a total route length of 40 kilometers, which includes all 26 stations on the U5 line and 24 stations on the U8 line. Siemens Mobility will completely replace the existing signaling system with its digital CBTC technology to enable a more efficient and centralized monitoring of operations and a higher level of automation and connectivity. When the system is installed, the semi-automated operation will allow trains to communication continuously with the trackside, run automatically at specified safety intervals, perform emergency braking, and accelerate and brake autonomously. The train driver can then concentrate on boarding and alighting passengers, monitor the route visually, and intervene in an emergency. By relying on real-time data on train positions and speeds, more trains can run at shorter headways along the line.
Digitalization ensures greater efficiency on the rail lines
Siemens Mobility’s Rail Infrastructure Business Unit, the global market leader, offers a wide range of intelligent mobility solutions
and a diverse product portfolio for various rail markets, including mass transit, mainline, and freight. The company’s Trainguard MT CBTC solution is the leading solution for train control systems. It is currently used by 56 operators on five continents, in 25 countries and 49 cities to optimize their metro and suburban rail systems and operate them more efficiently, sustainably, and economically. Trainguard MT is the most widely used control system worldwide and is currently deployed on 96 metro lines, in 4,351 equipped trains transporting more than 30 million passengers daily. The system can maximize the capacity and performance of new as well as existing rail systems and enable fully automated train operation.
Shell First Quarter 2024
TheBoard of Shell plc announced the pounds sterling and euro equivalent dividend payments in respect of the first quarter 2024 interim dividend, which was announced on May 2, 2024 at US$0.344 per ordinary share.
Shareholders have been able to elect to receive their dividends in US dollars, euros or pounds sterling. Holders of ordinary shares who have validly submitted US dollars, euros or pounds sterling currency elections by June 3, 2024 will be entitled to a dividend of US$0.344, €0.3166 or 26.94p per ordinary share, respectively.
Absent any valid election to the contrary, persons holding their ordinary shares through Euroclear Nederland will receive their dividends in euros at the euro rate per ordinary share shown above. Absent any valid election to the contrary, shareholders (both holding in certificated and uncertificated form (CREST members)) and persons holding their shares through the Shell Corporate Nominee will receive their dividends in pounds sterling, at the pound sterling rate per ordinary share shown above.
Euro and pounds sterling dividends payable in cash have been converted from US dollars based on an average of market exchange rates over the three dealing days from June 5 to June 7, 2024. This dividend will be payable on June 24, 2024 to those members whose names were on the Register of Members on May 17, 2024.
Decarbonization of European Refineries: A first Agreement Signed Between TotalEnergies and Air Products for the Delivery of Green Hydrogen
TotalEnergies and Air Products have signed a 15-year agreement for the annual supply in Europe of 70,000 tons of green hydrogen starting in 2030. This first long-term deal follows TotalEnergies’ call for tenders for the supply of 500,000 tons per year of green hydrogen to decarbonize TotalEnergies’ European refineries.
Under the agreement, Air Products will deliver at TotalEnergies’ Northern European refineries’ doorstep, green hydrogen from Air Products’ global supply network. This hydrogen will avoid around 700,000 tons of CO2 each year. The contract awarded to Air Products is a first step towards achieving TotalEnergies’ objective of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions from its operated oil and gas operations (Scope 1+2) by 40% by 2030 compared to 2015 levels.
Air Products, worldwide leader in terms of hydrogen supply, has been a first mover, committing more than $15 billion dollars to real, large-scale energy transition projects and launching several large low carbon hydrogen projects in the world, making it a leading and reliable supplier.
“This deal with Air Products, the first signed following the call for tenders launched last year, is a steppingstone towards our goal of decarbonizing the hydrogen used in TotalEnergies’ refineries in Northern Europe by the end of the decade. We are proud to partner with Air Products, a pioneer in low carbon hydrogen production, under the leadership of Seifi Ghasemi. Once again, we demonstrate our capacity to pioneer the energy transition and contribute to the emergence of a green hydrogen industry by offering long-term contracts with our six refineries and two biorefineries in Europe. We are also happy to extend our partnership with Air Products by becoming ourselves a supplier of green power to Air Products and contributing to Air Products’ own decarbonization roadmap,” said Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies.
“Today, one of the largest energy companies in the world has committed to use renewable hydrogen to decarbonize its refineries in Northern Europe, and we at Air Products are honored and proud to be the producer and supplier of the green hydrogen required,” said Air Products’ Chairman, President and CEO Seifi Ghasemi. Noting that Air Products started on the journey of producing clean hydrogen seven years ago, Seifi Ghasemi added, “We always believed that if we made clean hydrogen available at commercial scale, the demand would be there. This contract validates our long-term strategy. Clearly the demand is here, and it will grow significantly as we move forward, playing an essential role in decarbonizing heavy industry and other sectors. I also want to express my admiration for Mr. Patrick Pouyanné’s vision and courage in acting as a first-mover towards creating a cleaner future for the world.”
At the same time, TotalEnergies and Air Products have signed a memorandum of understanding for the supply of renewable power, which entails the signing of a first Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for 150 MW produced at a solar project in Texas. The parties also plan to explore together further PPA
opportunities in the UK, Poland and France. This agreement, which strengthens the partnership between TotalEnergies and Air Products, will contribute to Air Products‘ decarbonization roadmap and is in line with TotalEnergies’ integrated electricity strategy along the value chain.
ENGIE Starts Construction of One of Europe’s largest Battery Parks in Belgium
ENGIE began construction of one of Europe’s largest Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) at its Vilvoorde site in Belgium. This milestone follows the project’s construction permit in July 2023 and its selection for capacity remuneration in October 2023.
With an installed capacity of 200 MW on a 3.5-hectare site, BESS Vilvoorde will be able to store 800 MWh of energy in 320 battery modules measuring 25 m x 4 m x 3 m, and release it to the grid for four hours. Equivalent to 160,000 5 kWh domestic batteries, it will cover the electricity consumption of 96,000 households. The battery park has a 15-year contract with Elia, the national grid operator.
BESS Vilvoorde will be launched in two phases, with the commissioning of 100 MW of batteries in September 2025, and a further 100 MW in January 2026. ENGIE is also developing two other BESS projects in Belgium for which the Group has already obtained permits, in Kallo (100MW / 400 MWh) and Drogenbos (80MW / 320 MWh).
The BESS Vilvorde project is in line with the Group’s commitment to developing large-scale flexibility solutions, an essential link in the integration of renewable energy production. It will contribute to ENGIE’s goal of achieving 10 GW of installed battery capacity worldwide by 2030.
Sébastien Arbola, Executive Vice President in charge of Flex Gen & Retail activities, commented: “With the growing share of renewable energies in the energy mix, the contribution of Battery Energy Storage Systems to ensuring the reliability and security of energy systems is becoming crucial. Batteries will enable the absorption of peaks in renewable energy production, and the release of this energy when production is lower and consumption higher. These flexibility solutions will thus help accelerate the development of renewable energies and the energy transition.”
At December 31, 2023, ENGIE had 1.3 GW of battery capacity in operation and 3.6 GW secured under development.
Merger Plan Approved by the General Meetings of Oceanteam ASA and Soiltech AS
Reference is made to the joint announcement issued on 30 May 2024 by Oceanteam ASA (“Oceanteam”, OSE: OTS) and Soiltech AS (“Soiltech”, NOTC: SOIL) (hereinafter jointly referred to as the “Companies”) regarding the signing of a merger plan for the combination of the Companies. Further reference is made to subsequent announcements on 3 June 2024, concerning the notices for the respective extraordinary general meetings (individually “EGM”) for approval of the merger.
The EGM for Soiltech was held today at 10:00 CEST, followed by the EGM for Oceanteam at 11:00 CEST. All proposals on the respective agendas, including the merger plan dated 30 May 2024, were approved with the requisite majorities. The decision to approve the merger plan will be filed with the Norwegian Register of Business Enterprises.
Completion of the merger remains conditional upon (i) the six weeks creditor period pursuant to section 13-15 of the Norwegian Public Companies Act 15 having expired without any objections from the creditors, or, if any objection has been made within the notification period, such creditor having received adequate security or the court having rejected the demand for security pursuant to section 13-16 of the Norwegian Public Limited Liability Companies Act, (ii) all regulatory approvals necessary or reasonably required for completion of the merger having been obtained without any conditions or conditions considered to be acceptable to Oceanteam and Soiltech (acting reasonably), (iii) the conversion of Soiltech into a Norwegian public limited liability company (ASA), including the appointment of a former member of the Oceanteam board of directors to the board of directors of the merged entity, (iv) the Oslo Stock Exchange having approved the merged entity for listing on Euronext Oslo Børs or Euronext Expand, and (v) no material breach of any covenant or other obligations in the merger plan or other agreements entered into between the Companies.
additional service to the collection of packages at the Amazon Lockers that Repsol already has installed in most locations. With this new service, both companies make the shopping experience more convenient for customers, taking advantage of the easy access and extended opening hours of Repsol service stations.
For Jorge Escuín, Repsol’s Director of Strategy and Business Development for Mobility, “this new Amazon returns service allows us to continue expanding the reasons why customers visit us. It also reinforces the positioning of our service stations as strategic points for citizens in their daily lives.”
The process for using this service is very simple: Amazon customers who decide to return their eligible purchases must access their orders on the amazon.es app or website, select the Repsol station option as the return point, and they will automatically obtain a QR code both in their email and in the app, which they will have to present to the station employees.
Likewise, Amazon customers will not have to pack the product or attach labels, they will only have to take it to the station in its original condition with the manufacturer’s packaging, as well as any parts, accessories, or manuals that may be included. In addition, thanks to Repsol’s extensive network of stations, it will be possible to cover areas far from urban centers and towns, which will facilitate returns for all citizens.
Repsol continues to evolve and transform the business model at its service stations, providing the best and most complete offer of energy for mobility and all the services that bring value to customers, through innovative alliances with leading partners in their respective sectors.
Repsol Service Stations in Spain become New Amazon Return Points
• Repsol and Amazon are partnering to offer customers the option of returning items conveniently and easily throughout the service station network in Spain.
• More than 700 Repsol service stations already offer the “no labels, no boxes” return service for Amazon customers, with more to come.
After successfully completing a pilot test, Repsol and Amazon have launched a new service for customers to return items at the service stations that the multi-energy company has in Spain. As of today, Repsol already has more than 700 stations that offer customers the possibility of returning items bought through Amazon. In the coming months, the service will be expanded throughout the Repsol network.
This Amazon returns service, which uses the infrastructure of the service stations, is a pioneering service in Europe. It is an
Shell to Temporarily Pause On-Site Construction of European Biofuels Facility
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM, Shell
Nederland Raffinaderij
B.V., a subsidiary of Shell plc, is to temporarily pause onsite construction work at its 820,000 tonnes a year biofuels facility at the Shell Energy and Chemicals Park Rotterdam in the Netherlands to address project delivery and ensure future competitiveness given current market conditions.
As a result, contractor numbers will reduce on site and activity will slow down, helping to control costs and optimise project sequencing.
“Temporarily pausing on-site construction now will allow us to assess the most commercial way forward for the project,” said Huibert Vigeveno, Shell’s Downstream, Renewables and Energy Solutions Director.
“We are committed to our target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with low-carbon fuels as a key part of Shell’s strategy to help us and our customers profitably decarbonise,” added Vigeveno. “And we will continue to use shareholder capital in a measured and disciplined way, delivering more value with less emissions.”
Repsol signs a long-term renewable power purchase agreement with Microsoft
• The companies have signed six 12-year virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) associated with three wind farms and three solar plants in Spain with a total installed capacity of 230 MW that will be operational by December 2025.
• This deal adds to the existing power purchase agreements between the companies which are part of a partnership announced in 2021, now reaching an overall total of 320MW of installed capacity.
Repsol will supply Microsoft renewable electricity after reaching an agreement for a combined six long-term virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs). These 12-year supply agreements are linked to three wind farms and three solar plants in Spain with a total installed capacity of 230 MW that will be operational by December 2025. This deal adds to existing power purchase agreements which are part of a partnership announced in 2021, now reaching an overall total of 320MW of installed capacity.
Microsoft and Repsol share similar ambitions on the importance of reducing carbon emissions. Repsol was the first company in its sector to announce a target to achieve zero net emissions by 2050 and is expanding its renewable power business to reach between 9,000 MW and 10,000 MW of installed capacity by 2027. Microsoft has announced that it will source 100 percent of its energy supply from renewable energy by 2025.
Repsol and Microsoft share a strategic collaboration focused on accelerating Repsol’s digital transformation and the global energy transition. The companies are co-innovating to build new AI-powered digital solutions and, as part of a long-term cooperation, Repsol provides Microsoft with renewable energy in Spain. Additionally, Repsol is expanding its use of Microsoft cloud solutions to power its operations, including recommitting to the Azure cloud platform.
According to João Costeira, Executive Managing Director of Low Carbon Generation at Repsol: “This agreement with Microsoft, a strategic partner, highlights the importance of renewable energy for the digital revolution in which we are deeply involved, and it also demonstrates Repsol’s commitment to decarbonization.”
Repsol will invest between €3 and €4 billion net in the development of its project portfolio through 2027 to achieve its growth objectives. Of the 9,000-10,000 MW installed, 50% will be in the Iberian Peninsula and 30% in the United States, following the consolidation of the pipelines of developers Hecate and ConnectGen. Repsol plans to expand its presence in Chile and Italy, with a combined installed capacity there of 1,500 MW in 2027.
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Equinor Solidifies New York Offtake Contract for Empire
Equinor today announced the execution of the Purchase and Sale Agreement (PSA) with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) for the renewable power generated by the Empire Wind 1 offshore wind project.
This agreement follows NYSERDA’s February announcement that Equinor had been selected as a conditional winner in New York’s fourth offshore wind solicitation.
“We thank NYSERDA and the state of New York for their steadfast commitment to the offshore wind industry and to achieving the state’s broader renewable energy targets,” said Molly Morris, president of Equinor Renewables Americas.
“Empire Wind 1 is a defining project for Equinor and the PSA agreement is an important milestone in de-risking and ensuring a robust path forward as we work toward delivering first power.”Onshore construction activity is under way at the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal. Empire Wind 1 will be America’s first offshore wind project to plug directly into the New York City grid with a target to deliver first power in late 2026.
At a strike price of $155.00 per MW/h Empire Wind 1 is expected to deliver forward looking real base project returns within the guided range for renewable projects. Following a final investment decision, Equinor plans to use project financing, with financial close anticipated by end of 2024. Equinor intends to bring in a partner to reduce financial exposure.
The signing of the offtake agreement further solidifies the considerable progress made by the 810 MW Empire Wind 1 project toward powering 500,000 New York homes with reliable, renewable energy. Empire Wind 1 will generate more than 1,000 union jobs during the construction phase, help build out a domestic supply chain, and provide an economic boost to communities while advancing the offshore wind industry in New York and on the East Coast.
An important feature of Empire Wind 1 is the transformation of the venerable South Brooklyn Marine Terminal (SBMT) in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. SBMT will be rebuilt using union labor and serve as the primary staging and assembly area for Empire Wind 1. Going forward, the port will be positioned as a central hub for future offshore wind projects as the industry grows along the Northeast seaboard in the coming decades.
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “Major renewable energy infrastructure projects such as Empire Wind 1 are a crucial component in reaching toward New York’s climate goals. NYSERDA applauds Equinor for its ongoing commitment to investing in New York’s green economy, including the redevelopment of South Brooklyn Marine Terminal, and helping to stand-up New York’s offshore wind industry one significant milestone at a time.”
As part of this agreement, the project is set to provide a range of economic benefits that will support economic development in New York City and across the state, including increased funding
for workforce and community development, with significant local investments already made in the Offshore Wind Learning Center, the Offshore Wind Innovation Hub and the Offshore Wind Ecosystem Fund. Further, Empire Wind 1 has made a strong commitment to support businesses owned by minorities, women (MWBEs) and service-disabled veterans (SDVOBs), mostly focused on onshore development at South Brooklyn Marine Terminal.
SLB OneSubsea Awarded Contract by Equinor for Groundbreaking All-Electric Subsea Project
SLB has announced a contract award from Equinor for the front-end engineering design (FEED) of a 12-well, all-electric Subsea Production Systems (SPS) project in the Fram Sør field, offshore Norway. The project will fast-track wide-scale global adoption of electric subsea technology, setting new standards for increased operator control, subsea operational efficiency and reduced offshore emissions. As part of the agreement, future engineering, procurement and construction will be directly awarded to SLB OneSubsea conditional on a final investment decision.
This project is the first application to be implemented resulting from a joint industry project, which commenced in 2018 and involved close collaboration across major industry players to accelerate the development of breakthrough electrification technology through a standardized industry solution. Basing the design on an established standard enables efficient and economic scaling of subsea electrification for operators worldwide, bringing associated capex and opex benefits.
“Electrification is vital to the future of subsea operations in the energy transition,” said Mads Hjelmeland, chief executive officer of SLB OneSubsea. “This technology has effectively created the IoT for subsea trees, providing operators with improved control through live performance and condition monitoring. We are grateful for the collaboration with Equinor and the other jointindustry-partners over the past six years that has made this milestone possible.”
The Fram Sør solution will use SLB OneSubsea’s standard subsea tree design, upgraded with a fully electrified power, control and actuation system, while the elimination of high-pressure hydraulic systems will enable operators to go further and deeper, improving production and making even marginal fields more viable.
Energy Exports Conference 2024: Unveiling Global Opportunities and Innovations in Energy Transition
International delegations, major operators, and industry leaders will descend next week on Aberdeen to discuss the future of the global energy sector at the Energy Exports Conference (EEC) 2024.
Scheduled for June 11-12 at P&J Live venue, this flagship event is organised by the Energy Industries Council (EIC) in partnership with key stakeholders and aims to foster international collaboration and highlight emerging opportunities in the energy transition landscape. The event provides a platform for exploring business opportunities across various energy sectors, including oil and gas, offshore wind, hydrogen, carbon capture, and more.
Brazil Expands Utility-Scale Electric Grid with 22 Gigawatts of Renewables in Two Years: EIC Report
Brazil’s power sector has added 22 gigawatts of clean energy to its utility-scale electric grid over the past two years, according to a new report released by the Energy Industries Council (EIC), the world leading trade association for the energy supply chain.
This expansion has boosted Brazil’s overall generating capacity to nearly 204GW, with renewable sources accounting for 171.8GW, according to the report titled “Brazil Operational Renewables”.
Key contributors to this growth include the onshore wind and centralised solar PV sectors, which together added over 18.5GW of new capacity.
The states of Bahia, Rio Grande do Norte, and Minas Gerais led the charge, each incorporating over 3GW of new capacity, predominantly from wind and solar projects, the report shows. The northeastern states of Piauí and Pernambuco also made contributions with combined additions of 3.7GW from wind and solar sources, according to the report.
The report sheds light on Brazil’s long-standing energy diversification policies, which have facilitated the growth of the power sector. The awarding of multiple long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) in both the Regulated Contracting Environment (ACR) and the Free Contracting Environment (ACL) has further stimulated this expansion. The report states: “The onshore wind and solar PV industries have greatly benefitted from a long-lasting national energy diversification policy aimed to redistribute some of the traditional role of preponderance of the hydropower sector by, for instance, subsidising costs associated to the installation of onshore wind farms and solar photovoltaic parks in the country.”
Despite the progress in renewable energy, hydropower remains the dominant force in Brazil’s electric grid. However, the country continues to rely on conventional power sources for stability during periods of water shortage and peak demand, according to the report. •
Mechanical Integrity Training
with reality built in…
Developed and verified ‘for industry, by industry’, EEMUA 231 Mechanical Integrity courses are for industrial engineers at every career stage – to aid efficient hands-on work with primary containment and prevent loss of hazardous substances, including from pressure systems.
• Satisfy industry requirements at each competency level – Awareness, Basic application, Practitioner.
• Certificated up to 5 years.
• CPD-approved.
• Flexible delivery to suit Learners and companies – Blended, Live online, Classroom, E-learning, or In-house.
• Available to all – free or discounted to EEMUA Members.
• Courses throughout each year, including:
Mechanical Integrity Practitioner Certificate (MIPC®) – Blended, live online learning, with 1:1s and Mentor Support – for on-site application of EEMUA 177, 231 and 232 guidance, and PSSR ACOP – certificated for 5 years via exam and portfolio assessment – Continuing Professional Development approval – in-depth learning for 27 weeks, 4 hours per week, flexibly – on-site or on-call. The MIPC course adapts to engineering needs of each Learner their company and site/s via a 2-hour induction (to fit work schedules ahead of the course) – the next course starts 21 October 2024.
EEMUA 231 Mechanical Integrity Basics Blended, online learning – set at Basic application competency level – 4 hours of learning per week for 3 weeks – certificated via exam – next course starts 30 September 2024.
EEMUA 231 Mechanical Integrity e-learning Awareness level – with Continuing Professional Development approval – available – on-demand
EEMUA 231 Mechanical Integrity In-house training – 1 day or 2 half-days – set at the Awareness level – for your choice of time, location , method of learning – by arrangement
Also... External Corrosion Seminar – by EEMUA and AMPP Benelux – Haarlem, NL – 10 October 2024
German Engineering Skills Used Worldwide
Schäfer Pumpen & Hydraulik GmbH is proud of the pump technology, the background from R. Schäfer & Urbach GmbH & Co. KG. having a history of almost 100 years. Pumps that were built and delivered in the first decades are often still in use today. We continue to supply our customers with original spare parts from the history of Schäfer & Urbach. All our pump systems are manufactured in our own workshops to high, internationally recognized standards. They are supplied to all parts of the world for a wide variety of industries, e.g. mining, oil and gas, steel, pipeline, cleaning technology and water treatment.
Oil and gas industry: fuel for the entire world
Oil and gas drilling is at the beginning of the process chain for producing gasoline products. Our reliable, easy-to-maintain mud pumps are ideal for vertical wells, through which the mud fluid is supplied and loose rock is flushed out. At the same time, multi-purpose pumps are used to build up pressure for oil and gas production.
Mining: This keeps the tunnel safe
Our high-pressure pumps are used in mining, for example, to pump water or other liquids at high pressure. Pump systems with our plunger pumps, up to 1000 kW each, are used for the biggest Longwall faces worldwide. For the demanding conditions underground, we have robust and service-friendly high-pressure pumps in the high-performance range. Some pumps are still running after 30.000 hours without main revisions.
Medium: Drilling-Fluids; Bentonit-Suspension, water-oil emulsion, water and sea water.
Another area of application is water-supported coal mining.
The main benefits of using high-pressure pumps in mining are efficiency and application reliability that require high pressure, such
as rock crushing in the mining industry, water pumping, reducing downtime due to water accumulation and improving overall operational efficiency. They can be used in a variety of ways to tackle challenging tasks.
All pumps are adapted to underground requirements and designed to be compact, robust and easy to service.
Into the earth’s interior: heat from far below Geothermal energy is cost-effective, reliable, sustainable and environmentally friendly. As we live in an age where green energy is becoming increasingly important, this industry will continue to grow in the coming years. Pumps are essential for the production of geothermal energy. Schäfer Pumpen & Hydraulik is a leading global supplier of flushing and multipurpose pumps in this field. Schäfer Pumpen & Hydraulik’s customers are spread all over the world. We bring the earth closer - degree by degree.
The mud pumps from Schäfer Pumpen und Hydraulik are specially designed for use in vertical and horizontal drilling, where the pumps are essential to stabilize the drill hole by pumping bentonite solutions into the drill hole. The high-performance triplex mud pumps from Schäfer Pumpen & Hydraulik are designed for continuous load operation. The compact mud pumps from Schäfer Pumpen & Hydraulik are designed for discontinuous operation, are lightweight and easy to transport.
Triplex Mud Pump SSP 700 H
Steel industry - Omnipresent: anything but ordinary
We encounter steel everywhere - in our cars, in our household appliances and as load-bearing parts in our homes. No material is used as frequently as steel, of which 1.5 billion tons are produced worldwide every year.
The importance of the steel industry is so great that it serves as a measure of economic progress. Some of our most important customers are companies in the steel industry, as many of our modern systems are used in steel production and processing. Our descaling systems are designed with Lechler descaling software, our press drives include customized pump systems and we supply our plunger pumps in various sizes and designs.
Descaling - Flawless shine for metal surfaces
Schäfer Pumpen & Hydraulik builds and supplies individual components for descaling systems as well as all spare parts for existing descaling systems for unalloyed, low-alloy and
high-alloy steels, including installation and commissioning. Our descaling systemssupplemented by our plunger high-pressure pumps if required - reliably remove the scale that forms on the surfaces when the slabs and billets are reheated in the furnace and during the subsequent rolling process. Descaling technology from Schäfer Pumpen & Hydraulik is used in hot rolling mills for strip and heavy plate production as well as in billet and section mills and ring rolling mills.
Pipeline industry: Transportation of necessary raw materials: Elementary technology for a wide range of industries
Countless industries, from pipeline construction and salt extraction to natural gas production, use pipelines to transport liquids. This can take place in the Arctic, tundra, in a desert or on the seabed.
The environmental conditions for pipelines are therefore extremely varied. This is where our compact flushing pumps perform particularly well.
Thanks to their lightweight design, pumps from Schäfer Pumpen & Hydraulik can be easily adapted to the conditions of pipeline construction anywhere in the world.
Detergent industry: Keeping everything nice and clean
Our customers include some of the world’s leading manufacturers of laundry detergents, dishwasher solutions, soaps and household cleaners. Their processes require the regular pumping of large quantities of highly viscous and abrasive primary products. Solids pumps from Schäfer Pumpen & Hydraulik have been specially developed for pumping highly viscous substances and liquids containing solids. This makes them ideal for use in the cleaning agent industry.
In good hands with us right from the start
All our products are manufactured in our own assembly halls by our highly qualified employees. The systems are delivered ready for operation, assembled on site at the customer’s premises and put into operation. The range of services offered by Schäfer Pumpen & Hydraulik also includes the repair and modernization of existing hydraulic systems to the current state of the art and in accordance with modern operating standards. This gives our customers a decisive competitive edge at a fair cost.
ADIPEC 2024 Abu Dhabi International Progressive Energy Congress
November 04. – 07. 2024 – Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
You will find us in the German Pavilion.
Please get in touch
Henrichs-Allee 8
D – 45527 Hattingen
Tel: (+49) 23 24 / 43 974 – 0
Fax: (+49) 23 24 / 43 974 – 45
E-Mail: info@schaefer-ph.com
High pressure pumps HDP
Medium: Water; water-oil emulsion
Contributions of UW-ELAST to the Oil and Gas Industry
UW-ELAST, a leading Swedish manufacturer specializing in polyurethane (PUR) and other polymeric materials, plays a crucial role in the oil and gas industry by providing high-quality, durable products designed to meet the unique challenges of marine environments. Polyurethane, known for its exceptional durability and flexibility, is an ideal material for use in offshore applications due to its resistance to extreme weather conditions, mechanical stress, and chemical exposure. These properties are essential for ensuring the longevity and performance of equipment and infrastructure exposed to the demanding marine environment.
UW-ELAST’s expertise in polyurethane production is backed by decades of experience and a commitment to innovation. The company offers a wide range of products and solutions tailored to the specific industrial needs, and has been in the business for almost 50 years. UW-ELAST works closely with clients to develop customized solutions that address their unique challenges. From the initial concept to the final product, the company’s team of experts collaborates with clients to ensure that the products meet their exact specifications and requirements.
Products for the oil and gas industry
Bend stiffeners are critical components used to prevent excessive bending of cables and umbilicals in offshore applications. UWELAST’s dynamic and static bend stiffeners are engineered to meet stringent specifications, ensuring optimal performance and durability. Bend restrictors limit the bending radius of cables and umbilicals, preventing damage and ensuring reliable operation. UW-ELAST’s bend restrictors are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the marine environment, providing long-lasting protection for critical infrastructure. Additionally, UW-ELAST offers a range of cable and flow line protections designed to safeguard these vital components from mechanical damage and environmental exposure, helping to maintain the integrity of
offshore installations and reduce the risk of costly downtime and repairs.
Several case studies highlight UWELAST’s ability to solve complex challenges and provide products that exceed client expectations. For instance, in a recent project, UW-ELAST provided dynamic bend stiffeners for an offshore oil platform, designed to withstand tough mechanical loads and harsh environmental conditions. The project was completed successfully, with significant improvements in the reliability and performance of the client’s offshore operations. Another case involved developing customized cable protection solutions for a major offshore drilling company. These products were engineered to protect cables from mechanical damage and environmental exposure, resulting in durable and effective solutions that have been in operation for several years without issues.
Utilizing advanced production methods, including hot casting,
injection molding and spraying, UW-ELAST creates high-quality polyurethane products that deliver reliable performance in the most demanding environments. The company’s comprehensive range of polyurethane products for the oil and gas industry includes dynamic and static bend stiffeners, bend restrictors, and cable and flow line protections. UW-ELAST is adept at handling large products, with the capability to cast single items weighing over 1000 kg.
Material expertise
UW-ELAST boasts an extensive range of materials and unparalleled material expertise, catering to diverse industrial needs. Specializing in high-quality polyurethane and other elastomers, the company offers solutions designed for durability and performance in demanding environments. UW-ELAST’s knowledge encompasses everything from material with extreme mechanical performance to wear-resistant coatings and advanced sealing solutions, ensuring their clients receive the most effective and innovative materials available in the market. Material knowledge is always crucial to creating a successful product.
One of the significant advantages of polyurethane in marine environments is its superior resistance to harsh conditions. Marine environments are characterized by high salinity, UV exposure, and constant contact with water. Polyurethane’s resistance to these elements ensures that it maintains its integrity and performance over time. This resistance is particularly important in the oil and gas industry, where equipment failure can lead to significant operational and environmental risks.
In conclusion, UW-ELAST’s expertise in polyurethane manufacturing and commitment to innovation make it a valuable partner for the oil and gas industry. The company’s highquality, durable products are designed to meet the challenges of marine environments, ensuring the safety and efficiency of offshore operations.
One of the key strengths of UW-ELAST is its ability to innovate and adapt to the evolving needs of the oil and gas industry. The company invests heavily in research and development, continuously exploring new materials and technologies to enhance the performance of its products. This commitment to innovation is reflected in the development of advanced polyurethane formulations that offer superior performance characteristics, such as enhanced abrasion resistance, improved flexibility, and greater resistance to chemical exposure.
Sustainability
Sustainability and quality are at the core of UW-ELAST’s operations. The company’s products are manufactured with a focus on reducing environmental impact and enhancing the lifespan of equipment. Extending the lifespan of a product is the most efficient way
to reduce the overall carbon footprint. Taking this into consideration, the development of high-end materials for extended durability is inherently connected to environmental sustainability.
The company recognizes the importance of minimizing its environmental impact and has implemented a range of measures to achieve this goal. These include the use of sustainable raw materials, the implementation of energy-efficient production processes, and the adoption of practices that reduce waste and emissions. UW-ELAST’s focus on sustainability is aligned with the broader industry trend towards more environmentally responsible practices and reflects the company’s commitment to playing its part in addressing global environmental challenges. Since 2018 the company’s carbon footprint has been reduced by 26% and will be on-going.
UW-ELAST produces 100% climate-compensated polyurethane, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable production practices. By offsetting the carbon footprint of its products, the company contributes to global efforts to combat climate change. At the moment a program to evaluate bio-based polyurethane is ongoing. Rigorous quality control measures ensure that UW-ELAST’s commitment to environmental solutions never compromises product quality.
Client-Centric Approach
Expanding on the specifics, UWELAST’s proficiency extends beyond product manufacturing to encompass comprehensive service provision. The company prides itself on its ability to offer endto-end solutions, starting from detailed consultations with clients to understand their specific needs and challenges. This client-centric approach ensures that the solutions
provided are not only technically sound but also economically viable and tailored to the unique requirements of each project.
The initial phase of consultation involves a thorough assessment of the client’s operational environment and the specific demands of their application. UW-ELAST’s experts engage with clients to gather detailed information on the operational parameters, environmental conditions, and performance expectations. This collaborative approach allows for the identification of potential challenges and the development of customized solutions that address these issues effectively.
Following the consultation phase, UWELAST leverages its advanced production capabilities to design and manufacture bespoke polyurethane products. The company’s production facilities are equipped with the latest technology, enabling the production of high-precision components that meet the stringent quality standards required in the oil and gas industry.
UW-ELAST’s manufacturing process is characterized by its attention to detail and commitment to quality, ensuring that each product delivered is of the highest standard.
Summary
In summary, UW-ELAST’s contributions to the oil and gas industry are multifaceted and extend beyond the provision of high-quality polyurethane products. The company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer service positions it as a valuable partner for clients in the oil and gas sector. By offering end-to-end solutions that address the unique challenges of marine environments, UW-ELAST helps its clients enhance the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of their operations.
Contact Details:
UW-ELAST AB
W: https://www.uw-elast.com
E: info@uw-elast.se
T: +46 (0)501-27 94 50
C-Kore: Safely Testing Subsea Electrical Systems
Subsea control systems perform a critical role in the offshore oil and gas industry. These systems manage vital components such as manifolds, Xmas trees and process instruments, enabling the management of hydrocarbon flow from below the seabed. In case of anomalies, they provide emergency shutdown functionality by closing safety valves, preventing accidents. Ensuring that these systems are operating within their design limits is paramount not only for the operational efficiency of the offshore field but also for the health and safety of personnel involved in their operation, maintenance and repair.
C-Kore Systems, a UK company celebrating receiving the King’s Award - International Trade 2024, is helping oil and gas operators ensure the subsea electrical testing of their control systems is performed efficiently and safely. C-Kore’s subsea Cable Monitor testing tool uses low voltage technology to test the Insulation Resistance (IR) of subsea electrical control systems quickly and accurately.
Electrical power circuits in subsea control systems are typically designed to be ungrounded in an arrangement referred to as IT (isolé-terre) meaning isolated from earth. The advantage of this configuration in a subsea power circuit, where seawater ingress into electrical components is accepted to be the principal threat to its operation, is that it helps to make the system first fault tolerant. A first fault, whereby seawater ingress has resulted in low IR can often be tolerated and production can continue. The development of a second fault on the opposite side of the electrical load will usually disrupt the system, disabling critical components, affecting well controls, safety valves or communications. The production can be interrupted, resulting in critical safety risks.
Insulation Resistance (IR) testing is critical for ensuring the integrity and safety of subsea electrical control systems. The insulating layer extruded over every electrical wire should prevent electrical current leakage and short circuits. IR testing applies a test voltage to
determine how effective the insulation prevents electric current from escaping. An electrical system requires high values of IR to prevent electrical faults from shorting out the system.
The IR of subsea electrical systems is continuously monitored from the host facility by Line Insulation Monitoring systems. Many factors can affect the IR value of an electrical system. Mechanical damage to the insulating layer can introduce cracks and water trees allowing water to ingress. Over time the insulating material can degrade, which can be accelerated by the harsh environmental conditions subsea, until the IR is no longer high enough for the system to operate safely. This is why the IR of the subsea system is so closely monitored. Once the IR drops below a certain trip threshold, the system is automatically shut down and subsea engineers must plan an intervention to locate the source of the low IR to repair it and render the system safe for operation.
Many steps must be taken before the actual electrical subsea testing can take place
to ensure an efficient and safe operation. The plan for the subsea intervention must be agreed upon. Equipment, personnel and a vessel must be secured. Procedures must be written, and permits granted.
Once everything is ready, the actual electrical subsea testing can take place. The system to be tested is taken offline, isolated and discharged, removing the capacitive buildup in the electrical lines. Testing is then performed by applying a known voltage for a set period of time, accurately measuring the current. The testing time can vary and is dependent on the combination of the capacitance and dielectric absorption of the cable under test with the IR readings often stabilizing after 4 minutes.
Once the test is completed, the line must again be discharged before reconnecting the system to ensure no damage occurs to sensitive electrical equipment from the residual test voltages. With the recommended discharge time being 4x to 5x the holding test time to properly discharge the system, this 16–20-minute wait is often cut short, with possible damage to sensitive electronic equipment as a result.
Before C-Kore’s Cable Monitor unit was available, the test voltage applied was generally 500V. Using this high voltage to perform tests has safety implications for both the personnel
C-Kore Cable Monitor testing tool.
and equipment under test. Personnel exposed to high voltage run the risk of electric shocks or burns. Any sensitive electronic equipment not designed to withstand the high-test voltage runs the risk of irreplaceable damage.
C-Kore’s Cable Monitor test tool was specifically designed with safety in mind, on the premise that low voltage is inherently safer than high voltage. Achieving the same accuracy with its low voltage testing brings up the question, why test with high voltage with all the associated risks to personnel and equipment?
Personnel exposure risk to high voltage is mitigated by strictly following procedures. The area is roped off and the system must be properly discharged before any testing begins. However, umbilicals can still retain a voltage after being discharged. The amount of stored energy is more significant on longer umbilicals as the capacitance and dielectric absorption are both proportional to the length of the umbilical.
The risk to personnel testing longer lengths of cables is thus more significant. Any human error in not following proper procedures can have fatal consequences.
The risk to sensitive electronic equipment is mitigated by isolating any such equipment from the system under test. The system must also be properly discharged once again after IR testing is completed, before re-connecting the entire system. Failure to perform this discharge correctly can result in irreplaceable damage to sensitive electronic equipment, requiring bespoke equipment to be replaced. Long lead times for this equipment along with planning another offshore mobilization to install the replacement equipment can seriously impact the efficiency of the offshore production, sometimes stopping it all together for weeks or even months. Uttermost care must be taken to properly discharge the lines to ensure no damage occurs to this critical
equipment after testing with high voltage.
In 2015 C-Kore engineers started to address these safety challenges when they brought their patented commercial Cable Monitor test tool to the subsea market. The Cable Monitor is battery powered and automatically measures electrical insulation resistance and continuity in one unit. Its use of a very low test voltage make the Cable Monitor the ideal solution for safely measuring the IR of subsea networks. With the Cable Monitor only applying 3V to the line during IR measurements, there are no dangers to personnel who may be in contact with any part of the system. Equipment containing sensitive electronics, such as control modules, are not in danger of being damaged due to high test voltages and do not have to be isolated from the system under test. Upon completion of the IR test using low voltage testing, the voltage in the electrical line will never be hazardous to people or sensitive electronic components even if the system is re-installed without the proper discharge holding time.
When selecting electrical testing equipment to test subsea control systems, engineers must prioritize the safety of personnel and subsea equipment.
C-Kore Systems’ Cable Monitor unit now allows the subsea electrical testing to be conducted safely using low voltage testing technology. Using this technology ensures the safety of personnel and subsea equipment while ensuring production critical systems continue to operate.
For further information on C-Kore innovative subsea testing technology, please visit their website, www.c-kore.com.
C-Kore Cable Monitor on umbilical UTA.
C-Kore subsea with ROV.
Front Line Maintenance (FLM)
Front Line Maintenance (FLM) is the preservation of tools and assets in a company in order to allow operations to continually run smooth transactions and avoidance of major hindrances. FLM is more convoluted than other forms of maintenance since it requires maintenance crews to fix issues whilst the assets are in use (Brightside, 2021).
Front Line Maintenance
General Overview
An example of FLM in application is when trains in metro stations are delayed due to maintenance issues. In order to increase profitability and availability of services with steady operations, workers have to adhere to strict guidelines and training courses for the best FLM practices. For the purposes of this article, Front Line Maintenance (FLM) will be mostly associated to the Oil and Gas industry unless stated otherwise.
Performance Improvement
Narayanan, Wardhaugh and Das (2021) stipulate that the improvement of performance in the realms of maintenance works hangs in the balance between both efficiency and execution. In other words, teams have to plan accordingly under strict timelines and scheduling along with constructive resource administration and allocation. Findings on performance benchmarking of refinery or plant operators conclude that their time is being mismanaged, and around 25% of it should be appointed to maintenance efforts. Workers should be able to find and fix issues like corrosion in equipment as early as possible to increase productivity.
Safety
Safety is usually a top priority for FLM in the Oil and Gas industry – especially in marine and offshore worksites. Frontline workers have to be “responsible for managing process safety and other risks in their hazardous workplaces,” (Lilburne, Lant & Hassall, 2021) with the use of either their own knowledge or others’ in order
to manage critical situations. Aging assets tend to pose as a threat to safety because of the “cumulative degradation” due to corroded machinery that may cause erosion and fatigue in the mechanisms – this eventually causes normalisation of deviance (complying to degraded asset conditions) (Khan, Mad, Osman & Aziz, 2019).
Other safety barriers on assets include structural, mechanical, process and marine integrity, fire and explosions, pipelines, corrosion, human factors and others (Khan, Mad, Osman & Aziz, 2019).
Asset Life
The Oil and Gas (OG) industry requires recurring maintenance of all parts, structures
and engines to ensure optimal performance of assets. Should the performance of assets be reduced, it results in downtimes, high costs and endangerment of labourers. According to Márquez and Papaelias (2020), the three types of maintenance that are undertaken for assets are “corrective”, “preventative” and “predictive” maintenance respectfully. Corrective maintenance is conducted when a failure occurs; Preventative maintenance decreases the likelihood of failure when performed at specific periods according to strict criteria determined through a timeschedule or through system sensors, testing or analytics.
Predictive Maintenance is carried out according to the expected asset condition to avert failures.
Khan, Mad, Osman and Aziz (2019) claim that asset degradation factors include namely corrosion, erosion, fatigue, asset obsolescence and normalizing of substandard conditions/ operations. These issues are exacerbated when there are a large amount of aging assets to maintain. The NOROG (2017) mention that manipulations of fluid composition influence occurrence of corrosion in specific systems.
Hydrocarbon Release Hydrocarbons comprise of various compounds that naturally occur in crude oils like petroleum and natural gas (Clark, 2018). Hydro-carbon releases (HCRs) causes major casualties in off-shore facilities and even though accidents have reduced since 1992,
there are over 140 accidents occurring in a year just in the UK itself (Gilroy, Dumolo & Porter, 2012). HCRs tend to be performance indicators of asset integrity management of offshore installations as they potentially herald severe accidents. (Adejugba, 2013). According to the Hydrocarbon Release Reduction Toolkit, HCR’s do not occur mainly through involuntary lapses in equipment operations, but basic human error instead; in terms of designing, maintaining and operating (Step Change in Safety, 2010). HCR’s are also caused due to corrosion in pipelines or other storage tanks and facilities mainly in the Marine and offshore institutions. In order to keep these HCRs from occurring frequently, rapid action must be taken on-site to mitigate corrosion and strengthen asset integrity.
Addressing Corrosion Issues
Rahuma & M (2014) specify the following; the “economic loss” in the OG industry is “extremely high” and some products used to combat it are corrosion inhibitors since they are very economical (Miksic, Furman & Kharshan, 2009) and are categorized according to their chemical, cathodic, anodic or mixed nature. Inhibitors that are made in the form of coatings extend the life of an asset as they produce a protective thin film that prevents the substrate underneath from corroding. Potential of the substrate is increased when the metal “enters the passivation region” where an oxide film is created and the inhibitor reacts with the corrosive elements and removes them (Popoola, Grema, Latinwo, Gutti & Balogun, 2013).
Compatibility with the environment, economical constraints, providing corrosion protection with minimal side-effects should be the top priority of OG companies that choose to use the coating to mitigate corrosion. In order to save on costs, the selected coating being used must be able to be applied and be used within a short period of time to revive the asset and allow for flawless operations. Application of this
coating should ideally be without the use of large equipment, excessive manpower and tools or equipment and should be applied onsite as opposed to a third-party site.
In order to articulate the entire process of using such a coating (ZINGA) to address and fix corrosion issues on-site, a flowchart has been provided and can be used as a checklist when applying ZINGA onto surfaces that need corrosion protection as a corrective, preventative or predictive maintenance application.
ZINGA has become a staple in the OG Industry for both upstream and downstream in Malaysia and Singapore. It has been tried, tested and proven to meet the stringent requirements to protect and preserve aging assets since 2015. Various trial tests have
been conducted to validate the corrosion protection performance of ZINGA that are now implemented across the board.
Corrosion Protection of ZINGA
ZINGA is a one component zinc rich coating or Film Galvanising System containing 96% zinc (dust) in its dry film. It is a metallic coating and not a paint. The purity of the zinc used, is so high that dry ZINGA does not contain any toxic elements. ZINGA provides active and passive protection and therefore can be applied as a paint. Active protection refers to the Zinc (anode) sacrificing itself in favour of the steel substrate (cathode); where the electron flow in the circuit prevents corrosion from occurring.
As for Passive protection, paints and cladding create a barrier between the steel substrate and the elements that are eventually breached –that allow for corrosion to compromise the substrate beneath the coating. As for ZINGA, the zinc oxide layer and organic binders create an additional impervious barrier by blocking the zinc’s natural porosity with oxide particles. Once the barrier is breached however, the zinc will re-oxidise and will once again to provide anti-corrosive protection.
ZINGA is known to be a standalone system as its protection standard is comparable to that of galvanization without the need for topcoats. ZINGA can be re-applied on itself with minimal surface preparation without compromising its anti-corrosive integrity.
Characteristics of ZINGA ZINGA is known to have record drying times compared to other coatings in the industry. It is touch dry in around 10 minutes at 20°C (40 µm DFT). It can be recoated
with a new layer of ZINGA an hour after being touch dried (other paints 6 to 24 hours after touch dry). Faster system applications allows for shorter application times, less man hours and shorter close down time of assets and structures. Since the cost of equipment, personnel and cost through economical loss due to non-functioning of the structure is the highest of a coating project, this means ZINGA is immensely cost-effective.
ZINGA can be recharged without major surface preparation – only the accumulated zinc salts need to be removed. Depending on the age of the layer of inga, salt removal can be performed through a water wash or steam cleaning at 150 bar at 80°C or by sweep blasting.
Each new layer of ZINGA makes the former layer liquid, ensuring that the layer is homogenous. In the case of drilling or welding surfaces, the first layer of ZINGA acts as a primer and can intercept severe damages. Another ZINGA layer can be reapplies and local damages can be repaired but welding seams need to be cleaned beforehand. If the entire surface need not be coated with ZINGA, it can instead be applied on damaged spots for corrosion protection to maintain structural integrity.
ZINGA happens to be fire retardant as well –which bodes well since most resources in the oil and gas industry are prone to combustion. It does not spread flames or produce toxic flames and his been tested by independent laboratories. A fire test at SGS Yarsley Technical Service (UK) found that ZINGA has a class 0 surface (best ranking) in flame spread ranking.
A reaction to fire test was performed at Efectis (Netherlands) in 2013. ZINGA showed to propagation of the fire, no toxic smoke or droplets.
Conclusion
OG industry organisations are forced to continue operations despite having aging assets and having to deal with the high costs and safety risks that come with it in such a competitive and highly regulated environment.
ZINGA meets these criteria for corrosion protection, safety, and productivity. It is easy
to use, reduces downtime and contains non-toxic elements within the formula that allow for harmless application. This increases its economic value and provides OG companies with a viable and effective solution that can be carried out at flexible time-periods. •
Written by: Aneesha Kaur
Sachdev,
Zingametall, Singapore. Director of Business.
ZINGAMETALL BV
Phone: +32(0)9/385.68.81
Email: info@zinga.eu
Web: https://www.zinga.eu
References
Adejugba, O. (2013). How has industry achieved a significant reduction in Hydrocarbon Releases? (Masters). University of Aberdeen. Brightside. (2021). What is maintenance?. Retrieved 14 October 2021, from https://www. brightknowledge.org/engineering/what-ismaintenance
Lilburne, C., Lant, P., & Hassall, M. (2021). Exploring oil and gas industry workers’ knowledge and information needs. Journal Of Loss Prevention In The Process Industries, 72, 104514. doi: 10.1016/j. jlp.2021.104514
Clark, C. (2018). What are hydrocarbons? - Gulf Coast Environmental Systems. Retrieved 16 October 2021, from http://www.gcesystems.com/what-arehydrocarbons/
Gilroy, J., Dumolo, D., & Porter, D. (2012). IDENTIFYING THE CAUSES OF HYDROCARBON RELEASES ON OFFSHORE PLATFORMS (1st ed., pp. 33-38).
Rugby, Warwickshire: Institution of Chemical Engineers.
Khan, R., Mad, A., Osman, K., & Aziz, M. (2019). Maintenance Management of Aging Oil and Gas Facilities. Maintenance Management. doi: 10.5772/ intechopen.82841
Miksic, B., Furman, A., & Kharshan, M. (2009). EFFECTIVENESS OF THE CORROSION INHIBITORS FOR THE PETROLEUM INDUSTRY UNDER VARIOUS FLOW CONDITIONS (pp. 1-2). NACE International, Corrosion Conference and Expo. Retrieved from https://www.cortecvci.com/Publications/Papers/ Nacereviewed/09573.pdf
Márquez, F., & Papaelias, M. (2020). Introductory Chapter: An Overview to Maintenance Management. Maintenance Management. doi: 10.5772/intechopen.86892
Narayan, V., Wardhaugh, J., & Das, M. (2008). 100 Years of Maintenance & Reliability: Practical Lessons from Three Lifetimes at Process Plants (1st ed.). New York: Industrial Press.
NOROG. (2017). 122–Norwegian Oil and Gas Recommended Guidelines for the Management of Life Extension (2nd ed., pp. 9-12). Stavange: Norwegian Oil and Gas Association.
Popoola, L., Grema, A., Latinwo, G., Gutti, B., & Balogun, A. (2013). Corrosion problems during oil and gas production and its mitigation. International Journal Of Industrial Chemistry, 4(1), 35. doi: 10.1186/2228-5547-4-35
Rahuma, M., & M, B. (2014). Corrosion in Oil and Gas Industry: A Perspective on Corrosion Inhibitors. Journal Of Material Science & Engineering, 03(03). doi: 10.4172/2169- 0022.1000e110
Reliabilityweb. (2021). Operators as a Maintenance Resource - Reliabilityweb. Retrieved 16 October 2021, from https://reliabilityweb.com/articles/entry/ operators_as_a_maintenance_resource
Step Change in Safety. (2010). Hydrocarbon Release Reduction TOOLKIT (1st ed., p. 4).
Aberdeen, UK: Step Change in Safety.
Sub Sea engineering
Blended online learning for all who work on design, specification, commissioning, operation, repair, maintenance, or refurbishment of ageing and new underwater energy production equipment
The EEMUA 194 Subsea Engineering Basics course encompasses the distilled know how of industry captured in the practical, 'how to' guidance of EEMUA Publication 194.
Course Tutors incorporate all this industry know how with decades of their own materials corrosion experience – for effective learning with reality built in.
• Blended online learning combines live classes, 1-1 tutorials, session recordings, e-learning and more
• Real-time interaction with Tutors ensures each Learner's immediate and correct understanding
• In-depth course is structured as manageable sessions over a period of 3 weeks – to fit the busy schedules of Subsea Engineers.
• Enables valuable team members to be where they're needed – on-site using the combined experience of industry to deepen their own understanding of real-world subsea engineering.
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Registration open now for the next course Induction of 2 hours to fit diaries in October 2024. Learning starts 4 November 2024
Find out more at www.eemua.org by contacting online-learning@eemua.org or call the
ADNOC and Partners to Build the Energy Industry’s Largest Private 5G Wireless Network
High-speed network to span 11,000 square kilometers, enabling ADNOC’s AI-driven solutions to reach remote onshore and offshore operations
Network to generate $1.5 billion (AED5.5 billion) in value by 2030 by facilitating autonomous operations, optimizing production and reducing emissions
Strategic partnership ensures a secure and reliable digital infrastructure as ADNOC aims to become the world’s most AI-enabled energy company
ADNOC and e&, the global technology group, announced today a strategic project to build the energy industry’s largest private 5G wireless network, spanning 11,000 square kilometers (sq km). The 5G network will deliver high-bandwidth connectivity across ADNOC’s onshore and offshore operations. This will enable ADNOC to further integrate its advanced artificial intelligence (AI) solutions at its most remote facilities and reduce costs through automation, improve efficiency, minimize emissions and enhance the safety of its people. The project is due to be completed in 2025 and is expected to generate $1.5 billion (AED5.5 billion) in value during its first five years of operation.
His Excellency Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and ADNOC Managing Director and Group CEO, said: “This landmark project with e& is a milestone step in ADNOC’s journey to become the world’s most AI-enabled energy company. Global demand is rising for both energy and AI, so by investing in cutting-edge connectivity
across our operations, we can ensure that we continue providing secure, reliable and responsible energy to our customers. As we grow our diversified energy portfolio, this strategic partnership will generate value and enable us to make faster, smarter decisions, from the control room to the boardroom, future-proof our business and keep our people and the environment safe.”
Once completed, the 5G network will relay information from sensors embedded in more than 12,000 wells and pipelines to autonomous control rooms, to help make real-time recommendations to increase the lifespan of these assets and ensure safety in the field. The network will also allow for the digitalization of wellheads and provide end-to-end visibility over operations, thereby driving productivity across the company’s entire value chain.
H.E. Jassem Mohamed Bu Ataba Alzaabi, Chairman of e&, said: “e&’s collaboration with ADNOC will enable the creation of a cutting-edge private 5G network underscoring our dedication to harnessing technology and powering sustainable and intelligent transformation in the energy sector. With connectivity being the backbone of technological advancements, we’re leveraging our expertise as a pioneer in network and AI innovations to drive breakthroughs in the energy sector and spur progress and success across industries. Beyond this partnership, we continue to work with ADNOC and other major players across multiple sectors to set new industry standards and redefine what’s possible.”
Building on ADNOC’s longstanding strategy to develop and deploy pioneering technologies, the 5G network forms part of a multi-year program to accelerate the deployment of a suite of AI solutions across the company’s value chain and become the world’s most AIenabled energy company.
Citadel Engineering Company: A Pillar of Excellence in the Tic Industry
The Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) sector is a vital industry providing conformity assessment services across diverse sectors, including energy, food, agriculture, and chemicals. These services ensure products, services, and systems consistently meet required or desired characteristics, fostering trust and confidence in areas like public health, safety, environmental protection, and cybersecurity. The global TIC sector is substantial, valued at approximately $200 billion and expected to surpass $260 billion by 2025. The independent TIC sector accounts for 40% of this market, driven by increased outsourcing and diverse regulatory and standard requirements.
Citadel Engineering Company (CEC) is a renowned entity in the TIC sector, distinguished for its unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. As part of its strategic initiatives, CEC is not only expanding its reach but also creating new opportunities in the market. The company’s market strategy encompasses:
1. Establishment of Regional Offices: Regional offices across the globe will be established to efficiently cover a wide geographical area and effectively engage clients.
2. Investment in Infrastructure: Investing in state-of-the-art facilities and technology to support diverse services, including Engineering, Calibration, Inspection, and Certification.
3. Compliance and Accreditation: Emphasizing compliance with international standards and obtaining relevant certifications and accreditations.
4. Local Workforce Development: At CEC, we believe in the power of local talent. We are committed to hiring and developing a skilled local workforce, aligning with our dedication to local employment and community engagement. This is not just a strategy, but a testament to our belief in the potential of our community.
5. Industry Focus: Targeting industries where precision, reliability, and compliance are critical, such as Oil & Gas, Energy, Manufacturing, Aerospace, and Defense.
6. Client-Centric Approach: Developing strong client relationships and delivering exceptional customer service to establish trust and become a valued partner for our clients.
SERVICES AND APPLICATIONS
Citadel Engineering’s services cater to a diverse range of industries, ensuring compliance with safety, quality, and environmental standards. Our expertise spans multiple sectors:
• Energy and Utilities: Ensuring the safety and reliability of energy systems.
• Food and Agriculture: Maintaining food safety and agricultural standards.
• Chemicals: Verifying the safety and compliance of chemical products.
• Cybersecurity: Protecting data privacy and securing information systems.
• Consumer Products: Enhancing consumer safety and product reliability.
BENEFITS TO STAKEHOLDERS
Citadel Engineering’s activities generate significant advantages for various stakeholders, including consumers, businesses, and policymakers:
• Consumers: Products and services are safer, reliable, and of high quality. Consumers benefit from reduced search costs and enhanced competition, leading to potentially lower prices and greater product variety.
• Businesses: Achieve regulatory compliance and cost savings. Trust in certified products enhances market entry and access, driving demand and possibly creating new markets.
• Policymakers: Support in designing regulations and ensuring compliance, potentially reducing taxpayer costs and increasing trade volume.
COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE OFFERINGS
Citadel Engineering Company takes pride in providing a comprehensive range of
cutting-edge products and customized services designed to meet the ever-changing requirements of our clients from around the world.
• ENGINEERING SERVICES: From concept design to project commissioning, CEC provides comprehensive engineering services, ensuring efficiency, safety, and adherence to industry standards.
• INSPECTION AND TESTING: CEC inspects and tests a wide range of equipment and systems, guaranteeing accuracy and reliability, ensuring assets perform optimally and meet regulatory requirements.
• TESTING AND CALIBRATION: State-of-the-art facilities and skilled technicians ensure products meet quality standards and regulatory requirements, providing certification services that validate quality and safety.
• TRAINING AND CONSULTATION: Customized programs to enhance inhouse capabilities, improve operations, and ensure compliance with industry standards.
• VALVE SERVICES: Ensuring reliability through testing, maintenance, and repair of safety valves in critical industries like
Shahriyar Majlesein CITADEL ENGINEERING COMPANY (CEC)
oil and gas and power generation.
• MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR:
Citadel Engineering Company offers comprehensive maintenance and repair services to maximize equipment’s lifespan and effectiveness. These include routine upkeep, emergency repairs, and preventive measures.
• By ensuring equipment reliability and functionality, Citadel contributes to operational efficiency and safety across various industries.
• FLOW METER CALIBRATION: Accurate flow measurements are crucial for decision-making in sectors like oil and gas, manufacturing, and water management.
• Citadel provides flow meter calibration services, guaranteeing precise measurements and reliable data. Calibration ensures compliance with regulatory standards and enhances overall system performance.
• CONSULTING AND COMMISSIONING: Citadel experts streamline processes and operations through consulting and commissioning services. They optimize efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure compliance with industry standards. Whether it’s a new facility or an existing one, Citadel plays a vital role in successful project implementation.
• NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING (NDT): NDT is essential for assessing material and structural integrity without causing damage. Citadel Engineering Company performs NDT using techniques like ultrasonic testing, radiography, magnetic particle testing, and more. It ensures safety, quality, and reliability across critical assets.
• HIGH-PRESSURE CLEANING: Citadel offers high-pressure cleaning services to remove contaminants and buildup from equipment. Clean systems operate more efficiently, reduce downtime, and extend asset life. Citadel’s expertise ensures effective cleaning while maintaining safety protocols.
• LACT SERVICES: In the oil and gas industry, CEC ensures precise measurement of liquid hydrocarbons. Lease Automatic Custody Transfer (LACT) systems play a crucial role in accurate product measurement during oil transportation.
• CONTROL SOLUTIONS: Citadel
provides advanced control solutions, including Wellhead Control Panels and Chemical Injection Systems. These systems enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity in critical processes such as oil production and refining.
ENSURING EXCELLENCE IN ASME CERTIFICATION: CITADEL ENGINEERING COMPANY
In today’s industrial landscape, the importance of compliance, safety, and quality cannot be overstated, especially when it comes to pressure vessels and boilers. Citadel Engineering Company (CEC) stands out as a premier provider of ASME code-stamping services, offering unparalleled expertise and comprehensive inspection solutions across the United States and beyond. Here’s why CEC is your ideal partner for ASME certification. Unmatched Expertise and Experience Citadel Engineering Company is accredited by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NBBI). Our team, consisting of highly qualified Authorized Inspectors (AIs), Supervisors, Code and Standards Managers, and Technical Representatives, has been involved in the ASME certification field since 2007. This extensive experience allows us to provide insightful guidance and meticulous inspections, ensuring that your equipment meets the highest standards.
COMPREHENSIVE ASME INSPECTION SERVICES
At CEC, we offer a full spectrum of ASME inspection and certification services:
• Design Review and Calculations: We
ensure that your design calculations and drawings comply with all relevant international standards.
• Welding Procedure Verification: Our inspectors verify welding procedures, welder qualifications, and material certificates.
• Interim and Final Inspections: Conducted during the construction phase and before the final certification to ensure ongoing compliance.
• Hydrostatic Testing Witnessing: We witness hydrostatic tests to confirm the integrity and safety of your pressure equipment.
• Quality Program Audits: Comprehensive audits of your quality programs to maintain adherence to ASME standards.
• Third-Party Inspections: Independent inspections for repairs and alterations, ensuring compliance with the National Board Inspection Code (NBIC).
GLOBAL PRESENCE AND STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
Citadel Engineering Company (CEC) operates across five business segments spanning four geographical regions. Their substantial presence extends to the US, UK, Netherlands, Lithuania, UAE, China, India, Mozambique, Guyana, and Iraq. Through these strategic locations and partnerships, CEC delivers outstanding engineering, inspection, and calibration solutions on a global scale.
Citadel Engineering Company is dedicated to engineering success and driving innovation, providing essential services that ensure safety, compliance, and quality across various industries. By combining global expertise with a localized approach, CEC supports businesses’ growth, compliance, and success in an ever-evolving landscape. As CEC continues to expand and adapt, it remains committed to excellence and making a lasting impact on industries worldwide.
If you would like to know more, contact us: Citadel Engineering Company
E: info@citadel-engineering.com
W: www.citadel-engineering.com
T: +1 (385) 265 1707
Khaled Bin Mohamed Meets Heads of Global Energy Companies About Joining ADNOCs LNG Project
His Highness emphasised that the UAE continues to make significant strides in addressing energy challenges through investment in clean and lower-carbon intensity projects
bp, Mitsui & Co., Shell and TotalEnergies each to be awarded a 10% stake, with ADNOC retaining a 60% stake, reinforcing UAE’s attractiveness for international investors in the energy sector
New long-term LNG offtake agreements with international partners, including 1mtpa with Shell and 0.6mtpa with Mitsui & Co., takes sales commitments of Ruwais LNG production capacity to 70%
World-class project will more than double ADNOC’s UAE LNG production capacity to around 15mtpa and will be one of world’s lowest-carbon intensity LNG facilities
His
Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has met with the heads of global energy companies to exchange views on the future of the energy sector and the UAE’s commitment to ensuring a sustainable future through adoption and implementation of latest innovations, as well as the pursuit of international collaboration.
His Highness further witnessed the signing ceremony for the same international partners joining ADNOC’s lower-carbon intensity Ruwais liquefied natural gas (LNG) project.
bp, Mitsui & Co., Shell and TotalEnergies are to be awarded a 10 per cent equity stake each in the Ruwais LNG project with ADNOC retaining a 60 per cent majority stake. Separately, ADNOC has signed several new long-term LNG sales commitments with international partners, including for the delivery of 1 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) with Shell and 0.6mtpa with Mitsui & Co., taking the committed Ruwais LNG production capacity to 70 per cent.
The partnership reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a trusted investment destination and builds on the Final Investment Decision (FID) for the Ruwais LNG project, which was endorsed by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in his capacity as Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors of ADNOC last month.
The agreement was signed by His Excellency Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, ADNOC Managing Director and Group CEO; Murray Auchincloss, CEO of bp; Kenichi Hori, President and CEO of Mitsui & Co.; Wael Sawan, CEO of Shell; and Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies.
During the meeting and signing ceremony, His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan highlighted how Abu Dhabi’s attractiveness to international investors operating within the energy sector, coupled with the UAE leadership’s commitment to harnessing innovative technological solutions, is accelerating sustainable economic growth nationwide.
His Highness emphasised that the UAE continues to make significant strides in addressing energy challenges through investment in clean and lower-carbon intensity projects, and by engaging with globally-recognised partners on initiatives that foster long-term growth in critical industries.
His Highness further affirmed the UAE leadership’s focus on driving efficiencies and enhancing workforce capabilities through continued investment in research and development and artificial intelligence (AI), reinforcing the importance of strategic partnerships in sharing knowledge and expertise, and unlocking new avenues of innovation in energy transition.
H.E. Dr. Al Jaber said: “We are delighted to welcome bp, Mitsui & Co., Shell, and TotalEnergies as partners in ADNOC’s Ruwais LNG project, which will be one of the world’s lowest carbon-intensive LNG facilities. As natural gas demand continues to increase, this world-class project will enable us to provide more lower-carbon gas to meet growing demand today while helping the world transition to a cleaner energy future. Additionally, the project will accelerate development in Al Ruwais Industrial City, boost the local industrial ecosystem and create more skilled private sector jobs for UAE
Nationals.”
The Ruwais LNG project, currently under development in Al Ruwais Industrial City, Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi, will be the first LNG export facility in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to run on clean power. It will leverage the latest technologies and AI to minimise emissions and drive efficiency.
The project consists of two 4.8mtpa LNG liquefaction trains with a total capacity of 9.6mtpa. Natural gas is a crucial transitional fuel, generating lower-carbon emissions compared to other fossil fuels, and the facility will more than double ADNOC’s UAE LNG production capacity to around 15mtpa, as the company builds its international LNG portfolio. The participation of bp, Mitsui & Co., Shell and TotalEnergies in the project is subject to customary regulatory clearances.
Murray Auchincloss, bp CEO, said: “bp is proud to be joining ADNOC in its plans for Ruwais LNG, deepening our long-standing strategic partnership. This is a further example of our investment in gas growth in the Middle East as we continue to strengthen our LNG business globally.”
SMART PIPE-SHOP AUTOMATION
Chevron and American Aerospace Technologies to Fly Unmanned Aircraft in San Joaquin Valley
Chevron Pipe Line Company (CPL), a subsidiary of Chevron Corporation, and American Aerospace Technologies, Inc. (AATI) received a first-of-its-kind waiver from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct unmanned aircraft surveillance in the San Joaquin Valley. The AiRanger Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) was designed by AATI a leader in intelligent airborne sensing and surveillance services for energy and other critical infrastructure to support Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) aerial surveillance for Chevron’s pipeline and production facilities.
The Detect and Avoid (DAA) system’s capabilities were demonstrated during flight operations in Buttonwillow, California, in October 2023. Following the demonstration and FAA observed testing, the Agency issued a 91.113 Waiver and granted a 44807 Exemption (“Waiver and Exemption”). The Waiver and Exemption authorizes AATI to utilize the onboard detect and avoid system to comply with aircraft right of way rules when operating BVLOS. The AiRanger is the first UAS to demonstrate compliance with industry consensus standards for the DAA system and reach this milestone.
“CPL and AATI have been on a journey since 2019 to develop an aerial patrol solution with technology that advances safe, reliable, and costeffective routine facility inspections and pipeline system surveillance,” said Stephanie Beveridge, president of CPL. “Through collaboration with the FAA, we are working to do just that in the San Joaquin Valley.”
The AiRanger UAS is a fixed-wing, unmanned aircraft system capable of long-range operations beyond visual line of sight. The aircraft weighs 220 pounds with a wingspan of about 18 feet and can fly over 700 miles and up to 17 hours at
up to 17,000 feet.
“For the first time, an unmanned aircraft weighing more than 55 pounds that flies above 400 feet and beyond visual line of sight has been approved for commercial operations in the U.S. This initial Waiver and Exemption spans over 4,000 square miles at up to 8,000 feet MSL, opening a new era in unmanned aviation in the National Airspace System,” said David Yoel, CEO of American Aerospace Technology, Inc. “The AiRanger is a new type of platform due to its large scale and the range of operations it enables. Its intelligent
sensors and real-time communications deliver actionable data at a scale that was previously unimaginable. With safety as our guiding principle, we look forward to expanding AiRanger operations across the country.”
“CPL operates approximately 3,000 miles of regulated pipelines nationwide. The AiRanger UAS beyond visual line of sight operations will help transform routine oil and gas pipeline surveillance and inspections required by the Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Agency (PHMSA) using automated intelligence solutions,” said Roy Martinez, project manager for the UAS initiative and digital advisor for operations in CPL. “CPL’s coordinated efforts with the FAA and AATI to deploy this program is just one example of how Chevron continues to work with federal agencies to explore and implement emerging technologies to further Chevron’s purpose of developing the affordable, reliable, ever-cleaner energy that enables human progress.”
CPL and AATI have been supported by End State Solutions, LLC, to build collaborative solutions with key regulatory agencies that enable safe operations for emerging technology and new uses for autonomous aerospace technology.
Software and Logistics in Automation
One of the greatest challenges that fabrication shops all over the world, and across all industries, are facing, is a lack of skilled workers, especially welders. While demand is constantly increasing, the available pool of workers continues to shrink, as older workers retire, without enough new workers picking up the trade to replace them.
Inorder to face this challenge, the idea of automation comes easy. Instead of being dependent on a shrinking work force, a onetime investment in machines and robots seems highly promising. After all, robots and machines do not get sick or exhausted, they do not ask for higher wages, and they do not quit and start working for a competitor, who offered slightly better conditions.
However, upon further examination, it soon becomes apparent that automating fabrication may not be as easy as it seems, especially when it comes to welding. In particular the welding of complex pipe geometries, which can make up a major portion of welding works in oil and gas projects, offers significant challenges. And in contrast to for example the automotive industry, where entire factories can be devoted to fabricating only one particular model tens of thousands of times, pipe shops for the oil and gas industry have to be flexible and versatile, in order to fabricate tens of thousands of different geometries, many of them unique. The fact that unlike many other industries the oil and gas industry still mostly rejects several modern processes like pipe bending only exacerbates this problem.
Mechanization is still a viable endeavor of course, as long as it is understood that it is not a miracle cure for all of the shop’s problems. Sophisticated multi-axis plasma-cutting machines can be used for complex saddle,
mitre or offshore cuts, while mechanized and orbital welding systems, operated by skilled personnel, can significantly reduce both welding time and weld defects.
However, even when all of these challenges have been mastered, when the right machines have been selected and installed, and the operators have been trained, new challenges become apparent. Because even the best machines and systems require a proper
support structure before, during, and after the fabrication process. Otherwise they will never be able to realize their full potential and capacities.
Looking at conventional fabrication, most shop managers believe that the bottle-neck in their shop is the welding, but that is because the welding is the final step in the process chain, and it is here that all previous problems and bottle-necks become apparent. For most shops the welders have an arc time of 20 –25%, meaning that they spend the majority of their working day checking drawings, handling material, or in many cases waiting. Mechanization can alleviate this somewhat, but structural inefficiencies in planning and handling will not be removed by replacing a manual welder with a machine or robot.
Instead it becomes important to look at two key aspects of fabrication: logistics and work preparation. Logistics are important in order to get the material to the machines at the right time, and remove the finished parts after processing so they can get to their next destination in time. Work preparation, on the other hand, is important in order to determine which machine or worker will process which piece of pipe, at which time, in order to maximize efficiency.
It is here that a dedicated planning software,
like the RAMP system by 3R solutions becomes important. The RAMP software processes spool data, ideally provided by an application like 3R’s IsoBuilder, which includes all information about pipes, joints, fittings, weld types, etc. It can also interface to warehouse management systems to check on available stock, and with scheduling software to optimize fabrication order.
Based on these data, the software then prepares optimized work packages, which allocate tasks to the various machines and workers in a way that maximizes their available capacities. Screens at each station display the current work order digitally, so the operator / worker does not have to look for the correct drawing, and upon completion the status can be updated in real time, giving full traceability of workshop processes.
The software will ensure that welders only get jobs that they are qualified and certified to perform, and in combination with 3R’s Joint Check application, a comprehensive set of documentation and reports can be generated. With the right machines and the right software, the next step is a streamlined handling system, to reduce the time and man-power required to get the material to the right place. Having machines that can cut for example 1,000 dia inch in one shift, and machines that can weld 1,000 dia inch in the same amount of time, does not help, if all pipes and fittings have to be transported by crane or trolley, and only 500 dia inch worth of material can be moved. In this case shop managers again often look at the output of the welding machines, and conclude that they need more machines to meet their target numbers, rather than look at the logistics, and realize that they need to make improvements there.
While individual machines may already have some infeed and outfeed systems, it is important
to look at the shop as a whole, rather than at individual processes. By connecting the different machines with a system of conveyors and buffer tables, the entire flow of material can be optimized, reducing or even eliminating the need for a lot of crane or forklift operations. As long as a pipe is still straight, it can be moved on conveyors without a problem, which makes it possible to deliver the material directly to the correct stations. In combination with the RAMP software and a sophisticated machine, this can significantly increase your productivity.
In conclusion, it becomes clear that in order to meet the new challenges created by a combination of rising demand and a dwindling work force, automation and mechanization of processes become unavoidable. But simply replacing workers with machines will not help in achieving your goals, if you neglect aspects such as work preparation and logistics. Anybody can put a few machines into a shop and call it automation, but in order to really improve your productivity, you not only need
automation, you need full integration of all aspects of the fabrication cycle, which goes beyond the actual shop activities.
3R solutions has more than 40 years of experience in not only setting up automated pipe-shops, but in providing the customized software solutions required to run these shops at full efficiency. They have realized projects all over the world, including for several high profile companies in the oil and gas and offshore industries. Their clients have achieved significant increases in productivity, with some of them managing to reduce the required man-hours for fabrication by 50% or more, while reducing the time required for work preparation, tracking, and documentation by an even wider margin. •
If you would like to know more about the topics discussed in this article, please contact them at:
3R Solutions GmbH
Web: www.3r.de
YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/3Rsolutions
Valves for the Future
The global need for reliable, clean energy is abundantly clear, yet the debate on what is the best process to produce green energy or even what the definition of green energy is will probably be discussed for decades to come. Yet the requirement is ever present. Global sea temperatures are increasing and we are already seeing more extreme weather conditions around the world.
Green energy projects are gaining momentum. Some pilot schemes are being trialed in order to prove proof of concepts but is this enough and can the planet really wait for the standard committee’s to decide which way to turn?
The task of decarbonizing the complete energy chain is a herculean challenge. Processes that have been refined for several decades can not simply switch to a green equivalent overnight without considerable risk.
One piece of this complex challenge is the development of reliable, cost effective valves because according to the EPA over 60 percent of fugitive emissions come from gas valves. But how do you develop a safe and reliable product in such an emerging market when the standards that govern such products are yet to be written?
British company Oliver Valves have developed a solution with their advanced metal seated pipeline valve range.
Ball valves offer simple quarter turn operation together with an unrestricted flow path. Nonrising stems and compact geometries combine to make them the product of choice for many operators in a wide range of processes.
The metal sealing variant of the ball valve offers enhanced resistance to abrasives, extended reliability and prolonged service life in comparison to the more commonly used soft seat or polymer sealing alternatives. The design of metal seated ball valves also lend themselves to application with temperatures above 200 degrees Celsius.
But creating a metal to metal, gas tight seal is no easy task. It required a complete and full understanding of the topography of the components, the stresses and the relative displacements in order to maintain the necessary contact stress to achieve a gas tight seal.
Fortunately the engineers at Olivers have gained over thirty years of metal-to-metal sealing experience through their sub-sea gate valves, all of which offer this level of performance.
In pipeline ball valves however, special consideration has to be given to the size and geometry of the ball and seat, both of which are complex in shape and their often asymmetrical nature makes the prediction of deflection at pressure difficult to determine.
Unlike a soft, more compliant seat, a metal
seat has to deflect at the exact rate at which the ball deflects when subjected to full working pressure in order to maintain sufficient contact stress to create a seal. These deflections, although microscopic in nature can attribute to a leak in service if not managed correctly.
One solution would be to greatly increase the size and rigidity of the ball and seat in order to minimise any deflection, however the associated costs of the product assembly would increase exponentially. An increase in ball diameter would require a larger cavity size which in turn would increase the pressure boundary between the body and end. This increases the sealing diameter of the end connector which in-turn increases the blow out force of the end connector, resulting in need for larger fasteners or a greater quantity. Such fasteners need to be accessible using conventional tightening equipment which can also add to the overall size and of course cost of the finished product. So to avoid a cascade of increasing sizes and associated costs it is essential that the optimum size of ball is determined if the most cost effective, reliable solution is desired.
Using advanced FEA techniques the optimum size of the ball and geometry of the seat had been derived taking into account the strengths of materials suitable for hydrogen applications. These optimum sizes have then been tested at in-service conditions to validate the products performance at all temperature and pressure combinations.
Michael Oliver, founder and chairman of Oliver Valves is passionate about innovation, investing in the future and can often be found problem solving and brainstorming with his engineers at the Oliver R&D facility in Cheshire. A factory dedicated to the development of their products and it is here that the engineers have derived their own hydrogen test standard. It incorporates the requirements of industry known fugitive emissions tests and enables simulation of in-service conditions including prolonged operations. The qualification focuses on the attributes associated with pipeline valve applications and requires operational and seat leakage tests to be performed at maximum and minimum rated temperatures whilst monitoring for fugitive emissions. However to show case the performance of their zero
leakage metal sealing range the qualification was extended to include 3000 operations after which the valve still remained bubble tight at both working pressure and within acceptable fugitive emissions rates.
Nick Howard, Director of Market Development at Olivers says, “ By harnessing the years of metal sealing experience and combining it with our in depth knowledge of hydrogen applications, we have been able to develop metal-to-metal sealing ball valves that have the reliability and prolonged service life of a metal seated valve but with the sealing performance of a soft sealing valve. This is a real mile stone for the industry.”
Granted, valves are a small piece of a large and complex problem but should further initiatives be offered to companies to accelerate the development of their products? After all is it ideas we are short of or ways to convert our ideas into reality?
For more information, contact Oliver Valves on +44 (0)1565 632 636 or email sales@ valves.co.uk | www.valves.co.uk
Chevron commits $100,000 to New Mexico Wildfire Relief and Recovery Efforts
Chevron U.S.A. Inc. today announced a donation of $100,000 to support relief and recovery efforts in response to the South Fork fire and the Salt fire near the village of Ruidoso and the Mescalero Apache Reservation in south-central New Mexico.
“Through our legacy companies, Chevron has been a proud community partner in New Mexico for more than 100 years,” said Darrell Carriger, manager for Chevron’s Delaware Basin operations in New Mexico. “Chevron is committed to supporting first responders, tribal and local governments, and non-profit organizations as they work to contain these fires and address impacts across Lincoln and Otero counties.”
The Greatest Need Impact Fund for Lincoln and Otero Counties, which is held within the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, will receive a $75,000 donation. The Mescalero Apache Tribe, a federally-recognized tribal government, will receive a $25,000 donation.
“On behalf of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to Chevron for their generous donation. This contribution will directly support our tribe and its members during these challenging times of fires and flooding on the reservation,” said Thora Padilla, President, Mescalero Apache Tribe. “With evacuation shelters set up at the Inn of the Mountain Gods and our local community center and volunteers tirelessly organizing and distributing essential supplies, Chevron’s support is invaluable. Chevron’s assistance helps us maintain our resilience and care for our community despite economic impacts and disruptions. Thank you for standing with us and aiding in our relief efforts.”
“The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico is honored to receive the support of Chevron to care for our friends and neighbors throughout Lincoln and Otero counties,” said Terra V. Winter, President and CEO, Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico. “Funding will aid residents affected by the fires while focusing on emerging and long-term economic revitalization. We are humbled by the support from Chevron and grateful for their incredible generosity.”
STATS Group Make Senior Appointments Ahead of International Expansion
STATS has appointed Andy Norrie as Head of Sales and Business Development for Europe as the pipeline technology specialist expands its sales team capacity in preparation for growth throughout the continent.
STATS has appointed Andy Norrie as Head of Sales and Business Development for Europe as the pipeline technology specialist expands its sales team capacity in preparation for growth throughout the continent.
Since joining UK-based STATS in 2011, Andy has accumulated a comprehensive expertise across the company’s technology
portfolio in various digital marketing, technical and business development positions, playing a pivotal role in securing offshore, onshore and subsea projects in the UK, Europe and Caspian regions.
He also led the expansion of STATS presence in North America where he was Regional Business Development Manager for Canada, which is now one of the company’s largest international markets.
Based in Kintore near Aberdeen, STATS employs more than 400 staff in the UK, North America, the Middle East and Australasia and is a market leader in the supply of pressurised pipeline isolation, hot tapping and plugging services to the energy industry.
A number of promotions designed to position STATS for significant regional expansion and revenue growth have been announced, including Neil Mackay’s appointment as Senior Business Development Manager.
The promotion recognises Chartered Engineer Neil’s sales experience and successes in expanding STATS presence in the UK onshore gas transmission and distribution market, which included the first use of STATS Remote Tecno Plug technology in the isolation of a 48” pipeline on the National Transmission System.
Joanna Mountford has moved from Key Account Manager of the Process Plant Solutions (PPS) division to Business Development Manager, and will be responsible for promoting the company’s isolation, intervention and PPS products and services in the UK and across Europe.
Nick McKay has moved from the company’s Projects team to join the sales team as Business Development Manager, adding extensive Field and Project experience to the expanded sales team, having previously completed isolation, intervention and repair projects in the UK, North America, Middle East and APAC.
Chartered Engineer Paul Davies, who joined STATS in 2010, has been appointed Technical Sales Engineer and will liaise with design and STATS regional leaders to ensure new and existing product developments meets market needs. He will also provide technical support to the sales process and workscope feasibility assessments, by identifying scope methodologies and asset requirements.
bp and Worley Announce Global Strategic Alliance Across Site Projects
bp and Worley have formed a new strategic alliance focused on enhancing efficiency, continuous improvement and value creation across bp’s global Site Projects organization. This alliance builds upon a successful, decade-long collaboration between the two companies.
Thealliance will improve capital efficiency in site projects saving an initial estimated US$40 million over two years in locations where Worley holds a services contract; Gulf of Mexico, Oman, Mauritania and Senegal oil and gas producing regions and the Cherry Point, Whiting, Rotterdam, Gelsenkirchen, and Lingen refineries.
It’s the first time an alliance has been formed with the operations business in bp.
“We remain focused on improving safety, reducing emissions, high value activity, and reducing cost. This alliance increases our operational effectiveness through centralization, standardization and simplification, helping us safely grow the value of bp.”
Niall Maguire, bp’s VP site projects
Together, bp and Worley will deepen collaboration across a portfolio of site projects by leveraging digital capability and global scale to further drive efficiency across engineering, procurement, construction development and management.
“We remain focused on improving safety, reducing emissions, high value activity, and reducing cost. This alliance increases our operational effectiveness through centralization, standardization and simplification, helping us safely grow the value of bp,” said Niall Maguire, VP site projects, bp.
The alliance formalizes a long-standing relationship built on shared objectives, trust and commitment to excellence. It brings together and ringfences world-class technical expertise in a tight resource market.
“This alliance builds on our successful partnership in the Site Projects Efficiency Plan (SPEP) over the past two years where we’ve worked together to drive down costs across bp’s global operations. Our shared history and values position us well to identify and implement solutions as we continue to create value and deliver sustainable change throughout bp’s portfolio of projects,” said Mark Brantley, Group President EMEA and APAC, Worley.
Earlier this year, Worley signed a five-year global framework agreement to provide engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) services covering bp’s global refinery assets and ventures into new energy initiatives. Worley holds EPC contracts across bp’s legacy upstream businesses.
OceanPower
Competition Act Amendments Silence Canadian Businesses Taking Climate Action
CALGARY, Alberta, Cenovus Energy Inc. as a member of Pathways Alliance, issued the following statement with respect to the Canadian government’s Bill C-59.
As one of the largest oil sands companies in Canada, and a member of the Pathways Alliance, we are steadfast in our commitment to environmental performance and operational emissions reduction. To support our commitment, we have strived to be transparent about our actions and plans, which we believe is critical to building trust and driving improvement.
However, our ability to remain transparent has been significantly compromised as a result of Bill C-59, which was recently passed and includes amendments to the Competition Act related to environmental and climate disclosure. With these changes, it is possible that certain public representations by a business about the benefits of the work it is doing to protect or restore the environment or address climate change will violate the Competition Act and subject it to significant financial penalties unless the business can adequately and properly substantiate their claims according to “internationally recognized methodology,” which may or may not exist.
Creating a public disclosure standard that is so vague as to lack meaning and that relies on undefined “internationally recognized methodology” opens the door for frivolous litigation, particularly by private entities who will now be empowered to directly enforce this new provision of the Competition Act. This represents a serious threat to freedom of communication.
These amendments create significant uncertainty and risk for all Canadian companies regardless of sector, that communicate publicly about environmental performance, including actions to address climate change. As a result, we have been forced to remove information on environmental and climate performance, progress, and plans from our website, social media platforms and other communications channels at this time. These actions are a direct consequence of this legislation and are not related to our commitments or belief in the accuracy of our environmental communications.
The result of this legislation, which has been quickly put in place with little or no consultation, is to silence Canadian businesses taking climate action. We will continue to impress on the federal government the need for clarity regarding these new amendments so that we and all other industries can share the important work we are doing to preserve and restore the environment and address climate change.
BOEM Approves Construction and Operations Plan for New England Wind’s Offshore Wind Projects
In support of the Biden-Harris administration’s goal of deploying 30 gigawatts of offshore wind energy capacity by 2030, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) today announced its approval of the New England Wind Construction
and Operations Plan (COP), which authorizes construction and operation of two wind energy projects. This is the final approval of these two projects from BOEM, following the agency’s April 2024 Record of Decision.
“The Biden-Harris administration is committed to advancing offshore wind energy projects like New England Wind to create jobs, drive economic growth, and cut harmful climate pollution” said BOEM Director Elizabeth Klein. “We are proud to announce BOEM’s final approval of the New England Wind projects. They represent a major milestone in our efforts to expand clean energy production and combat climate change.”
The approval will permit the construction and operation of two offshore wind energy facilities, known as New England Wind 1 and New England Wind 2, which together will have a total capacity of up to 2,600 megawatts of clean, renewable energy that could power more than 900,000 homes each year.
The two projects are situated approximately 20 nautical miles (nm) south of Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, and about 24 nm southwest of Nantucket, Massachusetts. The COP for the two projects includes up to 129 wind turbine generators, up to five electric service platforms, and up to five offshore export cables transmitting electricity to onshore transmission systems in the Town of Barnstable and Bristol County, Massachusetts.
BOEM considered valuable feedback from Tribes, other government agencies, ocean users, and others prior to today’s milestone decision. The feedback resulted in required measures to avoid, minimize, or mitigate any potential impacts from the project on marine life and other important ocean uses, such as fishing.
Since the start of the Biden-Harris administration, the Department of the Interior has approved eight commercialscale offshore wind energy projects in federal waters, and BOEM has held four offshore wind lease sales, including offshore New York, New Jersey, the Carolinas, and the first-ever sales offshore the Pacific and Gulf of Mexico coasts. The Department recently announced a schedule of up to 12 additional lease sales through 2028 and continues to take steps to promote union-built projects and a domestic-based supply chain.
Stepan to Announce Second Quarter 2024 Results on July 31, 2024
Stepan Company will issue its second quarter 2024 earnings results on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at approximately 7:00 a.m. ET (6:00 a.m. CT). Supporting slides will be posted at approximately the same time on the Investors/Presentations page at www.stepan.com. The Company will hold a conference call to discuss and answer questions about its financial and operational performance on the same day at 9:00 a.m. ET (8:00 a.m. CT).
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Nigeria’s CNG Journey has Commenced and is Irreversible, says Kyari …As NNPC Plans to Build Three LNG Stations, 100 CNG Sites
The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited Mallam Mele Kyari has declared that the drive to bring Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) closer to Nigerians has since commenced and is irreversible.
Kyari, who disclosed this on Thursday during the simultaneous commissioning of 12 CNG stations in Abuja and Lagos, said in addition to the massive deployment of CNG stations nationwide, the NNPC Ltd and its partners would also build three Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) stations in Ajaokuta.
“There is simply no way to turn back on delivering CNG for all Nigerians. It is the right thing to do. Is it late? Yes, but we will make progress, we will cover the gap in order to ensure that the volatility we see with Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) does not apply to gas,” Kyari stated.
The GCEO commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the needed support to drive domestic gas utilisation aimed at delivering cleaner and cheaper source of energy to Nigerians.
While assuring that the NNPC Ltd will continue to deliver more strategic gas projects for the benefit of Nigerians in line with the Presidential CNG Initiative of bringing prosperity to all Nigerians, Kyari reaffirmed the determination of the NNPC to guarantee the nation’s energy security.
Also speaking at the occasion, the Managing Director, NNPC Retail Limited, Mr. Huub Stokman revealed that in the next one year, NNPC Retail would have launched over 100 CNG sites, including 16 NNPC Gas Marketing and NIPCO Gas JV sites.
“CNG provides Nigeria with affordable alternatives to existing available fuel products. It will be about 40% cheaper than petrol in Nigeria and with continued investments, it will become a significant part of our energy mix,” Stokman added.
In his remarks, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo said the commissioning of the stations will not only provide economic benefits by creating jobs and stimulating local economies, it will also contribute significantly to Nigeria’s national goals of reducing emissions and combating climate change.
On his part, the Chairman of the NNPC Board of Directors, Chief Pius Akinyelure said increased CNG adoption will foster economic benefits by reducing fuel costs for consumers and businesses alike.
Following the removal of fuel subsidy and the declaration of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiatives, NNPC Limited has taken the lead in the deployment of Auto-CNG Stations across Nigeria.
Eni Launches a Major Project to Protect the Great Limpopo Forests in Mozambique
It is the first project ever receiving a REDD+ license from the Mozambican authorities, in a move to boost the preservation of the country’s forests and biodiversity.
Maputo (Mozambique), Eni, in partnership with Biocarbon Partners (BCP), is launching the Great Limpopo project, the largest initiative ever developed in Mozambique to protect forests and counteract deforestation causes in line with the REDD+ framework, defined and promoted by the United Nations.
The program aims to preserve forests within an area up to 4 million hectares across 4 provinces in Mozambique, namely Manica, Sofala, Inhambane, and Gaza. It has been jointly designed with Mozambican institutions at both national and provincial level, as well as with the community leaders and members, and builds on feasibility studies completed by Eni in 2023 involving all the relevant stakeholders to ensure the project’s highest adherence to the area’s specific needs.
In particular, conservation activities aim at reducing forest loss through the active engagement of communities in forestry resources management, coupled with the promotion of climate smart agriculture initiatives and the creation of economic opportunities, involving over 320,000 people. The project will also contribute to the preservation and restoration of biodiversity, by linking major National Parks in Mozambique and South Africa with the communal forest areas to establish natural corridors for wildlife; elephants, lions, cheetahs, and leopards are just some of the endangered species living in the area that will be protected through the project.
Eni will secure a viable, long-term financial flow channeled towards improving livelihoods in the communities by off-taking the carbon credits generated while continuously monitoring the quality and socio-environmental integrity of the Voluntary Carbon Market.
The initiative fits with Mozambique’s national strategy on forestry and is aligned with Eni’s approach to producing countries and its net-zero strategy. Eni aims to be carbon-neutral by 2050 by decarbonizing its activities, its value chain and its products with a mix of different levers and technologies, including Nature and Technology Based projects to offset those residual emissions which cannot be abated through existing technologies. By 2050, carbon credits will account for 5% of all the levers used towards the objective of carbon neutrality.
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President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has commissioned the ANOH Gas Processing Plant, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s energy landscape. The commissioning ceremony which was held May 15, 2024, in Ohaji, Imo State, was well-attended by esteemed representatives from Seplat Energy, the Nigerian government, institutional partners, traditional rulers and industry stakeholders.
Built by the ANOH Gas Processing Plant Company (AGPC), the ANOH plant is a joint venture owned equally by Seplat Energy and the Nigerian Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC), a wholly owned subsidiary of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). The Plant attained mechanical completion in December 2023 without a single recordable Lost Time Incident (LTI) across 12 million man-hours. With a Phase One processing capacity of 300 million standard cubic feet per day, The ANOH Gas Processing Plant Company is expected to deliver dry gas, condensate, and LPG to domestic and international markets.
Speaking at the commissioning occasion, The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, commended Seplat Energy and its partners for their dedication to advancing Nigeria’s energy agenda. He stated, “Today is a great day of achievement demonstrating teamwork, commitment, and dedication to duty. I congratulate you for all you have done for the country and for fulfilling this in only 11 months. This event is highly significant and demonstrates the administration’s determination to accelerate the development of critical gas infrastructure geared at demonstrably enhancing the supply of energy to boost industrial growth and create employment opportunities and further prosperity for the nation.
The project also fully in with the decade of gas initiative and our quest to create value from the nation’s abundant gas asset while eliminating gas flaring and celebrating industrialization”. I wish to assure the Nigerian people that indeed this project represents only the beginning as the Federal government is stepping up its coordination of other landmark projects and initiatives that will ensure the earliest possible realization of gas/ fuel for prosperity in abundance”. In his remarks Mr. Udoma Udo Udoma, Board Chairman, of Seplat Energy, emphasized the strategic importance of the ANOH project, adding that “The ANOH gas project strongly aligns with Seplat Energy’s mission of leading Nigeria’s energy transition with accessible, affordable, and reliable energy that drives social and economic prosperity.
As a testament of our pledge to Nigeria, in partnership with the NNPC Ltd, we have delivered this project that will support the current administration’s drive for industrialization and growth of the economy through low-cost reliable power.
“To put this into context, if all of the gas from this plant went into the power sector, it would produce enough electricity to transform the lives of over 5 million people. Given that Nigeria’s population is growing at a rate of over 5 million per annum, we need one of these plants a year every year just to meet the demand of our new arrivals. We all have work to do. We appreciate the unwavering support of our partner NNPCL, the cordial relationship with our host communities, Imo state government and the support of all stakeholders that are too many to mention.”
Commenting on the commissioning of the ANOH project Mr. Roger Brown, CEO of Seplat Energy, said: “Seplat Energy is pleased with the progressive reforms by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration. In March 2024, the President signed executive orders to enhance investments in greenfield gas development and midstream capital projects. Also, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) recently improved gas prices under the DSO, to trigger further investments to the domestic gas sector - our ANOH gas plant will benefit from these reforms and incentives. “No doubt, the ANOH’s gas will further reduce Nigeria’s carbon intensity and increase energy supplied to the Nigerian domestic market.”
Speaking on the collaborative efforts between Seplat Energy and the Nigerian Gas Infrastructure Company (NGC) in bringing the ANOH Plant to fruition, Mr. Mele Kyari, the Group CEO of NNPC Ltd stated that “The ANOH Gas Processing Plant being commissioned by NNPCL and our partner is in line with Nigeria’s decade 0f gas agenda and particularly consistent with the administration’s efforts to boost gas supply in the domestic market”.
Also speaking at the commissioning, Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Chinyere Ekomaru, congratulated Seplat on the record time completion of the project and expressed his delight at the opportunities that lie ahead of the State on account of the successful completion of the ANOH plant, just as Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, the Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas) remarked that “With a capacity of 600 million standard cubic feet per day, the ANOH Gas Processing Plant is a shining example of advancement. This plant will greatly advance the availability of domestic gas which will boost power generation and hasten industrialization”.
The ANOH Gas Processing Plant, located at Ohaji, in Imo State, is set to become one of Nigeria’s most strategic gas projects. It is poised to pave the way for increased gas production in Nigeria, accelerating the nation’s transition from small-scale diesel generators to cleaner, less expensive fuels such as natural gas for power generation. In February 2021, AGPC, successfully raised $260 million in debt to fund completion of the ANOH project. The project is now fully funded following the completion of equity investments of $210 million by each partner ($420 million combined).
President Bola Tinubu Commissions ANOH Gas Processing Plant
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Sasol Germany Signs Agreement for a ClimateNeutral Industrial State of Schleswig-Holstein
With the aim of becoming a climate-neutral industrial state, Sasol Germany GmbH, alongside with other industrial companies from the chemical, cement and refinery sectors in the northern German state of Schleswig-Holstein, has joined forces with the state government of Schleswig-Holstein. Today they signed an agreement describing the plans and measures of the individual companies to transform the industry on the west coast and the support of the Schleswig-Holstein state government in achieving the targets. This brings Schleswig-Holstein, the northernmost of Germany’s 16 federal states, a big step closer to its target of becoming a climate-neutral industrial state.
“By signing the agreement, Sasol Germany and the German sites are reaffirming their commitment to sustainability as a key corporate target. We are sending a clear signal that we are committed to achieving the climate neutrality targets,” said Judith Hübner, Managing Director of Sasol Germany GmbH, at the press event in Kiel (Germany). The company has a site in Brunsbüttel, Schleswig-Holstein, which employs around 800 people and primarily produces surfactants and specialty chemicals such as carrier materials for catalysts to produce sustainable aviation fuels. In improving their greenhouse gas emissions, the German Sasol sites are pursuing the group-wide goal of reducing them by 30 percent by 2030 compared to 2017, based on emissions from their own production (Scope 1) and from external energy sources (Scope 2). Sasol Germany is pursuing concrete roadmaps and striving to achieve its sustainability targets with further projects.
In addition to the representative of Sasol Germany GmbH, the signatory parties included representatives of the companies Covestro Deutschland AG, Holcim (Germany) GmbH, Linde GmbH, Raffinerie Heide GmbH and YARA Brunsbüttel GmbH, which are also based there, as well as Energy Minister Tobias Goldschmidt. The companies contribute to value creation and employment in Schleswig-Holstein. At the same time, their production leads to the emission of greenhouse gases, together around 3.5 million tons of CO2 in 2022. Decarbonisation projects that have already been planned or implemented alone are expected to reduce emissions by around 1.2 million tons of CO2 per year from 2030 at the latest. In order to be able to leverage further emission reduction potential in the future, the framework conditions must be suitable and company-specific requirements must be met with regard to the technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness and financing of the emission reduction measures. Together with the participating industrial companies and the state government, Sasol Germany GmbH is working on projects, measures and roadmaps to achieve climate neutrality on the west coast of Schleswig-Holstein.
NNPC Ltd Calls for Development of Institutions to Finance Energy Projects ...Says Everyone has Role to Play in Derisking Sector to Attract Investors
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has called for the establishment of more local institutions in Nigeria and Africa with capacity to provide funding for energy projects to tackle energy poverty.
The call was made by the Chief Financial Officer of NNPC Ltd, Mr. Umar Ajiya, at the ongoing 23rd Nigeria Oil Gas Conference and Exhibition (NOG Energy Week) in Abuja on Wednesday.
Speaking at a panel session themed, “Accelerating Investment, Enabling Industry Growth, Meeting Energy Demand”, the CFO argued that in the face of the reluctance by global financial institutions to finance oil and gas projects as a result of environmental concerns, there was need for the development of more institutions like Afreximbank and the proposed Africa Energy Bank to finance energy infrastructure projects.
He further noted that the key to resolving the paradox of endemic energy poverty in the midst of abundant energy resources in Nigeria is to create an enabling environment to aggressively attract investment into the energy sector.
He listed the passage of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and the recent enactment of three Executive Orders in the sector by the President as practical steps by the Federal Government to provide fiscal incentives required to attract investment.
Ajiya also contended that the task of creating an investorfriendly environment was not for government alone, stressing that citizens, right from the Immigration and Customs Officers who welcome would-be investors at entry ports to the driver who conveys them to hotels and meeting places and even the media and the judiciary, by their respective conduct, influence investors’ perception of the country.
“There’s room for everyone to make sure that investment comes back to Nigeria”, he declared.
The CFO listed Gwagwalada, Kaduna, and Kano Independent Power Plants as some of the key energy projects in the stable of the national oil company that investors can take advantage of.
PTTEP Shares Vision and Sustainable Innovation at Future Energy Asia 2024
PTTExploration and Production Public Company Limited (PTTEP) participated in the Future Energy Asia 2024 Exhibition and Summit, held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. At the event, Mr. Nirandorn Rojanasomsith (3rd from left), Executive Vice President (EVP), Engineering, Development, and Maintenance Group; and Mr. Nopasit Chaiwanakupt (far right), EVP, Technology, Carbon Solutions, and Sustainable Growth Group, PTTEP, welcomed Dr. Sompop Pattanariyankool (center), Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Energy; Mr. Sudharma Yoonaidharma (2nd from right), Commissioner, Energy Regulatory Commission; Mr. Tawatchai Sumranwanich (2nd from left), Deputy Governor, Strategy, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT); and Mr. Wuttikorn Stithit (3rd from right), Chief Operating Officer, Upstream Petroleum and Gas Business Group, PTT, upon their visit to PTTEP’s exhibition.
PTTEP top executive also joined a panel discussion, sharing perspectives alongside policymakers and industry counterparts on how Asia should best approach its burgeoning role in global climate pledge leadership. As for the exhibition booth, PTTEP showcased the Eastern Thailand CCS Hub project model, and “Xplorer” – an innovative autonomous underwater vehicle for external pipeline inspection – in support of the company’s goal to become a sustainable organization.
Australian LNG Monthly Report
ONGC proudly announces the appointment of Mr. Vivek Chandrakant Tongaonkar as the new Director (Finance) on 2 July 2024. Shri Tongaonkar is an Industry veteran with over 37 years of professional experience in diverse activities across the Energy value-chain. He brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in financial and managerial leadership, making him a valuable addition to India’s Energy Maharatna.
In his previous role, Mr. Tongaonkar served as Director (Finance) & CFO at Mangalore Refinery & Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) from May 2023 till June 2024. He is also serving as the Chairman of the Board for the Mangalore Special Economic Zone Limited (MSEZL), a key entity within the ONGC group of companies.
Mr. Tongaonkar’s educational background includes an Engineering Degree from the College of Engineering, Pune, and an MBA in Finance from the Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune. He began his illustrious career with ONGC in March 1987 as an Assistant Executive Engineer (Electrical) , where he played a crucial role in the Engineering & Construction Division. His early career was marked by significant contributions to the design, engineering, fabrication, installation, precommissioning, and commissioning of offshore facilities, including well platforms, process platforms, and pipelines. He gained rich technical experience of offshore facilities. Thereafter, he enrolled for full time MBA (Finance) program from the Symbiosis Institute of Business Management by availing leave for higher education. After completion of the program, he laterally shifted to Finance discipline in ONGC.
Mr. Tongaonkar grew up along the hierarchy and held several senior roles at ONGC with diverse geographical exposure in Mumbai, Assam, Baroda and Delhi. His expertise encompasses Project Management, Accounts, Audit, Budgeting, Treasury & Investments, Capital Investments, Commercial & Marketing, Taxation, JV Finance, and Strategy. Notably, he also led the Investor Relations Cell at ONGC, further demonstrating his versatility and leadership capabilities. He was part of the select team of officers who formulated ONGC’s Perspective Plan 2030.
drivEV Adds Four New Exciting Additions to its Electrifying EV Leasing Lineup
Atthe Main Stage of the Malaysia Autoshow 2024, drivEV, a business of Yinson GreenTech for Electric Vehicle leasing, today announced four new additions to its leasing lineup for the Malaysian market to cater for the growing acceptance and demand for EVs from consumers and businesses.
Through strategic partnerships with automobile distributors, customers looking to lease an EV from drivEV will now have more options than ever, with the following new additions:
• 1. GAC AION Y Plus, a compact SUV passenger car from Warisan TC Holdings Berhad. Its entrance to the Malaysian market has been highly anticipated, and drivEV’s leasing solutions will enable customers to be among the first to experience the newly launched model.
• 2. Maxus eDeliver 7 and Maxus eDeliver 3, fully-electric panel vans, and the Maxus T90EV pickup truck from Weststar Maxus. Notably, the Maxus T90EV will be the first fully electric pickup truck available in Malaysia.
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EnergyQuarterly Report
EnergyQuest has just released its June 2024 EnergyQuarterly report with comprehensive analysis and data for the March Quarter, 2024 together with comments and data of breaking news.
Time for a Plan B?
Five years ago, EnergyQuest published its East Coast Gas Outlook 2019. In that report we estimated that there would be a shortfall of gas supply against demand beginning in 2026, and that this would escalate in 2028. More recent reports from AEMO and the Australian Government’s Future Gas Strategy highlight this approaching shortfall.
It is now clear that whatever we have been doing, has not addressed the looming 2028 shortfall. But now we have less than four years to find the answer. Plan A of letting the market work its way through, or waiting for the market and governments to realise they really need more gas, has failed, and we have run out of time.
With four years to go, what are the options for Plan B?
• Develop more gas. This is still a plan, but there are not many fields/discoveries that can be added in time
• Back down gas demand faster
• Divert gas from LNG feedstock
• Contract LNG import terminal(s)
It is likely that a Plan B, with only four years to go (and an even shorter-term risk of unexpected shortfalls) will require all of these options to be pursued.
PETRONAS Collaborates with Sinopec to Explore Future Opportunities
Petroliam
Nasional Berhad has entered into a strategic collaboration with China Petrochemical Corporation (Sinopec) to explore opportunities to drive growth and innovation across the energy value chain.
The MoU signifies the commitment of both companies in ensuring a resilient and affordable energy supply to foster economic growth and development in the Asia Pacific region while accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy.
The collaboration will focus on sustainable growth in the areas of commodity and specialty chemicals, crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) trading, lubricants, and digital solutions as well as drive decarbonisation efforts for various industries such as transportation, shipping, manufacturing, aviation and power, thus enabling them to reduce their carbon footprint while remaining competitive.
PETRONAS and Sinopec have fostered a partnership since 1997, initially established through a production sharing contract in South Sudan to conduct exploration and production work together with other partners. It has since extended across the Gas and Downstream sectors including the delivery of LNG and petrochemical products to support Sinopec’s gas terminal expansion plan as well as sourcing for a wide range of applications to other industries.
Leveraging its capacity as a fully integrated energy provider, PETRONAS, alongside its partners, has been playing its part in providing access to abundant and affordable energy in the region with quality products and solutions. Its expansive portfolio, which includes oil and gas, renewable sources and a ready range of advanced products and adaptive solutions enables the company to deliver energy needs with reduced carbon emissions and at competitive cost.
PTTEP Enters Into a Large Gas Field In The UAE Immediately Increasing Reserves and Expanding Foothold in Strategic Investment Area
PTTEPacquires a 10% participating interest in the Ghasha Concession, one of the largest natural gas fields in the United Arab Emirates which aims to operate with net zero emissions. This strategic investment will immediately add the company’s petroleum reserves.
Mr. Montri Rawanchaikul, Chief Executive Officer of PTT Exploration and Production Public Company Limited (PTTEP), revealed that PTTEP MENA Limited, a subsidiary of PTTEP, has signed a Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with Wintershall DeaMiddle East GmbH, a German energy company to buy a 10% participating interest in the Ghasha Concession, a sizable natural gas field offshore Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This transaction has been approved by the relevant regulatory authorities and will add company’s petroleum proved reserves in line with company’s strategic plan.
“The acquisition of the Ghasha Concession, a significant natural gas field, marks an important step in strengthening PTTEP’s Middle East investment portfolio. Additionally, the proximity of the concession location will pave the way for further collaboration among the joint venture partners that will be beneficial to the project achievement,” said Mr. Montri.
Located offshore in the western part of Abu Dhabi, the Ghasha Concession is set to produce more than 1,500 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCFD) of gas before the end of the decade. Moreover, the project will capture 1.5 million metric tons per annum (MMtpa) of carbon dioxide as it aims to operate with net zero emissions.
The Ghasha Concession Area is situated in the proximity of Offshore Blocks 1, 2 and 3 where PTTEP holds a participating interest in these exploration concessions.
Mubadala Makes First Renewable Energy Investment in Japan
Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala), the Abu Dhabi sovereign investor, has made a cornerstone investment in PAG’s Asia Pacific renewable energy platform (“PAG REN I”), primarily focused on supplying solar power to corporations across Japan.
PAG REN I will leverage PAG’s multi-decade experience in the Japanese real-estate space as well as the expertise of its in-house renewable energy team, PAG Renewables. The platform aims to operate across developed Asia Pacific economies with a strong focus on Japan, and will support Japan’s ambitious solar plans, with the country targeting to install 108GW of solar capacity by 2030.
Hammad Rahman, Head of Asia Pacific – Traditional Infrastructure at Mubadala, said: “Mubadala is excited to extend our presence in Japan and the wider Asia Pacific Region alongside PAG, with our first investment in the country’s rapidly growing clean energy sector. This investment will help reduce carbon emissions and the reliance on imported fuels in line with Japan’s domestic and international emission reduction targets. In particular, the provision of sustainable energy solutions to the corporate and industrial sectors is a key thematic for our infrastructure strategy, and we are pleased to execute on this theme in a major global economy such as Japan.”
PAG REN I will play a critical role in supporting large corporations across Japan as they transition to clean energy, capitalizing on Japan’s corporate power purchase agreement framework to help businesses purchase electricity directly from renewable energy suppliers on a long-term basis. Japan is home to the second highest number of organizations committed to sourcing 100 per cent clean energy after the US, under the RE100 initiative.
“We are pleased to partner with Mubadala on this major investment in renewable energy infrastructure,” said J-P Toppino, Co-Founder and President of PAG.. “Japan has a significant commitment to increasing solar power generation, and we are proud to support the country’s ambitious goals. We look forward to participating in Asia’s energy transition,” said Mr. Toppino.
In addition to accelerating Japan’s decarbonization program, PAG REN I will help achieve the country’s energy security ambitions by shifting the country’s energy supply chain away from imported energy sources and towards domestic sources of energy.
The investment highlights Mubadala’s growing portfolio of renewable and clean energy companies and technologies across Asia, Europe, and North America. In 2022, Mubadala invested in Tata Power’s renewables platform in India to support the company with its target of contributing 30GW, 6 per cent, of India’s total installed renewable energy capacity by 2030. In the same year, Mubadala acquired a stake in Skyborn Renewables, the world’s largest private offshore wind developer.
PETRONAS Unveils “Linundus Do Koubasanan”, a Film Celebrating Kaamatan Values
Incelebration of Kaamatan this year, PETRONAS presents “Linundus Do Koubasanan” (Seindah Tradisi), a film that highlights the role of unity and tradition in fostering community harmony.
Set in the picturesque Kampung Kiau, a village in the valleys of Mount Kinabalu, the film showcases the area’s unique landscape through the lenses of cinematography co-directors Bebbra Mailin and Rewan Ishak, bringing their signature touch to the depiction of the local culture in celebrating Kaamatan.
The film follows the story Fridden, a young boy tasked by his father to help with preparations leading up to the Kaamatan festival. Viewers are introduced to the various aspects of the community’s way of life, from their intricate customs to their everyday challenges and triumphs.
The narrative delves deep into themes of cultural heritage, unity and the timeless values of sacrifice and hard work, featuring the local Dusun dialect, practices and traditions, as well as sharing the joy in celebrating Kaamatan.
Senior General Manager of Strategic Communications, PETRONAS Group Strategic Relations and Communications, Siti Azlina Abdul Latif, said, “Inspired by the spirit of Kaamatan, ‘Linundus Do Koubasanan’ emphasises the importance of preserving our cultural heritage from generation to generation. Through this film, we also want to highlight the crucial role of unity and tradition in maintaining harmony within the community.”
The film was unveiled during an exclusive preview at Imago Shopping Mall, here, today, attended by Deputy President of Kadazandusun Cultural Association Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan as well as members of the media.
Yinson Signs MoU with Malaysia Forest Fund to Explore Naturebased Solutions Projects
Yinson Holdings Berhad signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Malaysia Forest Fund, an agency under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, to explore the development of Nature-based Solutions (“NbS”) projects in Malaysia.
Under the MoU, both parties aim to establish connections and collaborations between landowners, NbS developers, and investors. Yinson and MFF will also be working closely to scale up NbS projects that promote sustainable economic development and land management in Malaysia, encompassing the conservation and management of tropical lands and biodiversity, environmental offsets, and social development initiatives.
NbS involve activities related to the conservation and restoration of natural ecosystems to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, such as restoring native forests to function as carbon sinks, adopting climate-smart agricultural practices to increase carbon retention in fields, and reducing deforestation by offering incentives to farmers to protect forested areas. According to the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), NbS can contribute up to 37% of the emission reductions required by 2030 to meet the targets of the Paris Agreement. These approaches offer immediate, scalable, and costeffective methods for reducing net emissions while providing positive societal impacts such as economic growth and jobs, better accessibility to food and water security, disaster resilience and enhanced well-being and biodiversity.
Lim Chern Yuan, Yinson Group Chief Executive Officer commented, “As a leader in the sustainability space, we are passionate about working with likeminded partners to unlock opportunities in the Malaysian NbS market. We want to create sustainable business value while safeguarding and rejuvenating our natural environment. Our collaboration with MFF paves the way for innovative NbS that not only contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions but also foster economic growth and social development.”
Datuk Hj Jeffri bin Abd Rasid, MFF Chief Executive Officer expressed, “We are thrilled to work together with Yinson to facilitate and explore NbS projects here in Malaysia. MFF has been working diligently to enhance private sector involvement in sustainable forest initiatives and this collaboration marks a
significant milestone for this effort. This auspicious MoU also coincides with the recent launch of our Forest Conservation Certificate, developed to incentivise private sector entities that contribute to forest initiatives. Yinson will be among the pioneer companies to realise this aspiration of public-private partnership and work with us to showcase a successful collaboration model. Together, we can work towards the protection, conservation, and sustainable management of Malaysian forests, bringing hope for a future where our natural ecosystems are preserved and enhanced for future generations.
chargEV and KINETA Enter into a Strategic
Alliance to Accelerate the Growth of Malaysia’s EV Charging Infrastructure
Atthe Malaysia Autoshow 2024, KINETA, a subsidiary of Sime Darby Berhad an end-to-end provider of EV Supply Equipment, today unveiled its strategic collaboration with chargEV, a business of Yinson GreenTech (YGT), which has pioneered EV charging infrastructure in Malaysia’s as a leading Charge Point Operator (CPO). KINETA and chargEV were brought together by their common goal of providing market-leading Electric Vehicle (EV) charging solutions that enable businesses and consumers to recharge seamlessly as they transition from Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) vehicles to EVs
The collaboration between chargEV and KINETA will include:
• Providing KINETA customers with access to chargEV’s extensive EV charging infrastructure network in Malaysia
• Combining their technical, financial and operational strengths to jointly bid for selected large business tender exercises in Malaysia and the region
• Allowing both parties to leverage the business ecosystem of established parent companies by bringing together the network of the Yinson and Sime Darby groups
Bahri Concludes Participation at Posidonia 2024, Showcasing World-Class Capabilities and Solutions
Athens, Greece, 7 June 2024: Bahri, the National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia and a global leader in logistics and shipping, has successfully concluded its participation in Posidonia 2024, one of the world’s biggest shipping exhibitions. Held under the theme “Powering Ahead” from June 3-7, 2024, at the Athens Metropolitan Expo, this biennial event was a convergence point for maritime professionals, renowned shipping companies, innovators, and pioneering industry leaders from around the globe.
Leveraging this pivotal platform, Bahri showcased its extensive capabilities and advanced solutions across six business units: Bahri Oil, Bahri Integrated Logistics, Bahri Chemicals, Bahri Dry Bulk, Bahri Ship Management, and Bahri Marine. The company’s dedicated booth at the exhibition site facilitated networking with global counterparts, exploring partnership and business opportunities, and engaging with other stakeholders.
Bahri’s participation at Posidonia 2024 aimed to tap into Greece’s shipping industry and highlight its technological leadership and exceptional offerings in the shipping and logistics spheres to a global audience. As a hub of the world’s largest shipping community, Greece is also a top ship-owning nation, operating 21 percent of the international and 59 percent of the European capacity, underscoring the significance of this global event.
Organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy, the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, and the Union of Greek Shipowners, with the support of the Municipality of Piraeus and the Greek Shipping Co-operation Committee, Posidonia 2024 attracted over 2,030 exhibitors from 82 countries, showcasing their unique offerings and capabilities.
Aramco Signs Agreement with Pasqal to Deploy First Quantum Computer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Aramco, one of the world’s leading integrated energy and chemicals companies, has signed an agreement with Pasqal, a global leader in neutral atom quantum computing, to install the first quantum computer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The agreement will see Pasqal install, maintain, and operate a 200-qubit quantum computer, which is scheduled for deployment
in the second half of 2025.
The quantum computer will initially use an approach called “analog mode.” Within the following year, the system will be upgraded to a more advanced hybrid “analog-digital mode,” which is more powerful and able to solve even more complex problems.
Ahmad Al-Khowaiter, Aramco EVP of Technology & Innovation, said: “Aramco is delighted to partner with Pasqal to bring cutting-edge, high-performance quantum computing capabilities to the Kingdom. In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, we believe it is crucial to seize opportunities presented by new, impactful technologies and we aim to pioneer the use of quantum computing in the energy sector. Our agreement with Pasqal allows us to harness the expertise of a leading player in this field, as we continue to build state-of-the-art solutions into our business. It is also further evidence of our contribution to the growth of the digital economy in Saudi Arabia.”
Georges-Olivier Reymond, Pasqal CEO & Co-founder, said: “The era of quantum computing is here. No longer confined to theory, it’s transitioning to real-world applications, empowering organisations to solve previously intractable problems at scale. Since launching Pasqal in 2019, we have directed our efforts towards concrete quantum computing algorithms immediately applicable to customer use cases. Through this agreement, we’ll be at the forefront of accelerating commercial adoption of this transformative technology in Saudi Arabia. This isn’t just any quantum computer; it will be the most powerful tool deployed for industrial usages, unlocking a new era of innovation for businesses and society.”
Pasqal and Aramco intend to leverage the quantum computer to identify new use cases, and have an ambitious vision to establish a powerhouse for quantum research within Saudi Arabia. This would involve leading academic institutions with the aim of fostering breakthroughs in quantum algorithm development — a crucial step for unlocking the true potential of quantum computing.
The agreement also accelerates Pasqal’s activity in Saudi Arabia, having established an office in the Kingdom in 2023, and follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the companies in 2022 to collaborate on quantum computing capabilities and applications in the energy sector. In 2023, Aramco’s Wa’ed Ventures also participated in Pasqal’s Series B fundraising round.
ADNOC and JBIC Sign $3 Billion Green Financing Agreement
ADNOC’s first green funding will support its ongoing decarbonization and energy transition initiatives
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) PJSC (ADNOC) has signed a general agreement with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) for a $3 billion (AED11 billion) green financing facility. It follows the signing of a Heads of Agreement (HOA) between ADNOC and JBIC in January this year and builds on their long-standing successful partnership.
The credit facility is part of JBIC’s Global action for Reconciling Economic growth and ENvironmental preservation (GREEN) lending program and is partially supported by Japanese commercial banks.
Khaled Al Zaabi, ADNOC Group Chief Financial Officer, said: “We are very pleased to once again partner with JBIC on ADNOC’s first green funding to accelerate our decarbonization and energy transition initiatives. Proceeds of this credit facility will enable ADNOC’s strategy to support a just, orderly and equitable global energy transition. The agreement also marks the next milestone in the long-standing strategic energy relationship between the UAE and Japan, and we look forward to further collaboration with JBIC as ADNOC delivers against its ambitious growth strategy.”
ADNOC is one of the least carbon-intensive oil and gas producers in the world and is further reducing its carbon intensity by 25% by 2030 while investing $23 billion (AED84.4 billion) to decarbonize its operations and accelerate the growth of the energies of the future, including hydrogen, geothermal, renewables and carbon capture technologies. ADNOC has also set out its ambition to achieve net zero by 2045 and zero methane emissions by 2030. The Company is also a founding member of the Oil and Gas Decarbonization Charter (OGDC), a coalition of International and National Oil Companies that have committed to zero methane emissions by 2030 and net zero by or before 2050.
ahead of the climate change conference COP29 which will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan from 11 to 22 November 2024.
The Dialogue - which was co-chaired by H.E. Mr. Mukhtar Babayev, Minister for Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan and COP29 President-Designate and H.E. Haitham Al Ghais, OPEC Secretary General – brought together highranking officials from OPEC and non-OPEC countries participating in the Charter of Cooperation (CoC) and provided a unique opportunity for both sides to engage in a constructive and inclusive dialogue.
In his welcoming remarks, H.E. Al Ghais showed OPEC’s full support to Azerbaijan in order to ensure a successful outcome at COP29 in Baku. Furthermore, H.E. Al Ghais stated that “at OPEC, we believe there is ‘no one-size-fits-all’ solution to the climate challenge and moving forward, diverse pathways are needed”.
H.E. Al Ghais highlighted the telling significance that three successive COPs take place in countries participating in CoC, namely COP28 in Dubai-UAE, COP29 in Baku-Azerbaijan, and COP30 in Belém-Brazil. “This is an indication that oil producers and the industry must be part of the solutions to the climate challenge”, H.E. the Secretary General added.
During the dialogue, H.E. Mr. Babayev, COP29 PresidentDesignate said that “Azerbaijan, like other countries rich in natural resources, should be at the forefront of addressing climate change. I am grateful for OPEC’s support for the COP29 Presidency’s plan to enhance ambition and enable action and for the opportunity to include all parties as we build fair and shared solutions. Success will require action from everyone, so we are intensifying our political engagements as we seek to go further and faster to invest today to save tomorrow.”
Following a productive exchange of views, both sides: Agreed to cooperate with the aim of achieving successful ambitions and comprehensive outcomes at COP29.
Emphasized the importance of enhancing international cooperation in climate action to advance the objectives, principles, and goals of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and its Paris Agreement, allowing each country to chart its own path based on its national circumstances and approaches through a variety of measures that they can contribute to.
Share common concerns and aspirations regarding ambitious yet balanced and inclusive climate action that takes into account the principles of equity, and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in light of national circumstances.
COP29-OPEC High-Level Energy Dialogue No 07/2024
In a historical joint effort to enhance cooperation and foster inclusivity, the COP29 Presidency and OPEC today held a High-Level Dialogue at the OPEC headquarters in Vienna,
Confidently Converting Power for the Next Phase
of Growth!
In conversation with Benoit Schmitt, Founder and CEO of Watt & Well.
Join us as we sit down with Benoit Schmitt, Founder and CEO of Watt & Well, to discuss their remarkable 15-year journey and their bold plans for the future. From groundbreaking advancements in EV technology to expanding into the US market, discover how Watt & Well is confidently converting power for the next phase of growth.
Watt & Well celebrated its 15-year anniversary in 2023, what have been the key highlights for you?
2023 has been the best year ever for Watt & Well. We’ve seen very strong growth in revenues, up 80%, primarily driven by sales of equipment for EV charge points which have tripled. At the same time, we’ve generated a good level of profitability. This brings great satisfaction for us as a team because my ambition has always been to position the company as a power electronics equipment manufacturer, and I can confidently confirm that we’ve achieved this. Over 80% of our revenue is now generated by sales of equipment.
Since completing our capital fundraising in October 2022, we’ve been structuring our company for the next phase of growth with senior appointments in Finance, Human Resources, and Industrialization. This has facilitated the successful recruitment and integration of over 30 new employees and the implementation of a new industrial enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution. We’ve also extended our R&D site in Massy, so in total we now have close to 90 employees. Our company conference last September was a very special moment, bringing everyone together to celebrate our 15-year anniversary and look ahead for the next five years and beyond.
What are your expectations going forwards?
We expect revenue growth this year to continue at a similar level to 2023 largely driven by the infrastructure build-out for e-mobility. Today in France over 90% of installed charge points are slow charging, but this will change significantly over the next 5 years with strong demand for fast DC charging. In addition, our SECC communication equipment is a bestseller, as it facilitates the exchange of data between the vehicle and the charging station.
Another exciting area of development for us is smart grids coupled with energy storage. As a pioneer in vehicle-to-grid (V2G) bidirectional power converters, we’re developing high performance bidirectional charging modules to manage the flow of energy to and from the grid to deliver the widest range of energy services.
While we benefit from stable, recurrent business for the Energy market, we are proactively developing our technology for renewable energy applications such as wave energy conversion (WEC), geothermal, and hydrogen energy storage solutions. And we are extremely well positioned for the Space market which is on the cusp of major transformation. We’re expanding our
competencies for the New Space sector by creating a standardized design for low-cost, high-power, and high reliability motor controllers, positioning us as a reference equipment provider for the new generation of micro launchers.
And 2024 will be an exciting year as we prepare to set up production facilities in the USA.
Can you tell us about your project to manufacture in the USA?
EVs are forecast to reach nearly 30 million units or 20% of all vehicles sold in the USA over the next 10 years. So, we’re investing now to seize the opportunity of the world’s largest e-mobility market. But we face two challenges before we can sell our equipment: The first is to certify our products according to UL standards for the American market, and we are completing a complex range of tests and making certain product modifications to comply. The second challenge is to manufacture a certain proportion of the equipment locally.
Under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), we need to demonstrate that at least 55% of components are produced locally. We’re currently in discussions with a global partner to be able to subcontract part of the production and assembly of our EV supply equipment, whilst maintaining sales, after-sales service, management, and supply chain coordination within our US subsidiary. Design, conception, and R&D will obviously remain here in France.
ConocoPhillips today announced disaster relief donations of $200,000 to be allocated between the Houston Food Bank, the Salvation Army and the American Red Cross to support relief efforts following Hurricane Beryl. The company will also match donations from ConocoPhillips U.S. employees.
“Houston is our hometown and many of our employees and neighbors have been impacted by Hurricane Beryl,” said Ryan Lance, chairman and chief executive officer. “We are pleased to support the Houston Food Bank, the Salvation Army and the American Red Cross as they mobilize to help our local communities and those in need.”
2024 IMPORTANT EVENTS CALENDAR
Rio Oil & Gas 2024
09.09.2024
Rio de Janeiro
World Hydrogen Week
30.09.2024 - 04.10.2024
Copenhagen https://www.worldhydrogenweek.com
World Hydrogen Mobility
10.12.2024 - 12.12.2024
Stuttgart https://t.ly/Z1xH4
Gastech Exhibition & Conference
Event Location: George R. Brown Convention Center, Houston, Texas, USA
Event Date: September 17-20, 2024
Event Website: https://www.gastechevent.com/
Gas, LNG & The Future of Energy 2024
Event Location: City of London, United Kingdom
Event Date: October 22-23, 2024
YNOW2024
Event Location: Hilton Americas-Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
Event Date: October 28-30, 2024
ADIPEC 2024
Event Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Event Date: November 4-7, 2024
Event Website: https://www.adipec.com/
Global Hydrogen Conference 2024
Event Location: Virtual Conference
Event Date: November 20, 2024
Oil & Gas Asia (OGA) 2024
Event Location: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Event Date: September 25-27, 2024
International Petroleum Technology Conference (IPTC) 2024
Event Location: Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC), Bangkok, Thailand
