Read about how Vopak Deer Park and Marathon Petroleum are leading the way in safety practices
TRADE & TARIFFS
How is the new Trump administration impacting the terminals market – and what is the ILTA advocating for?
NDT UPDATES
Stay ahead of the latest inspection techniques, plus a foreword from the president of the ASNT
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CONTENTS
UP FRONT
GLOBAL NEWS UPDATE
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS
29 Building For The Future
Jonathan Feys, chief commercial officer at GTS: speaks to Tank Storage Magazine about what a sustainable future looks like
30 Vopak Deer Park: A Safety First Culture
Gary Jackson, SHEQ director at Vopak North America, speaks to Kate Rainford about the Deer Park Terminal’s safety practices
32 NeuVentus: Alternative Storage
CEO Sam Porter, speaks exclusively to Tank Storage Magazine about the company’s salt caverns storing hydrogen and natural gas in Texas
34 Chemical Bonds: A Supportive Culture
IMTT’S VP for environment, health, safety and sustainability, Traci Johnson, shares her journey from chemical engineering into terminals and leadership
MARKET ANALYSIS
36 Acting on Defence
FETSA’s executive director Ravi Bhatiani responds to the EU’s latest White Paper and what role the terminals industry has to play in defence
38 The US Policy Horizon
Jay Cruz, senior director of government affairs and communications director of communications & policy at the ILTA examines the policy outlook for the terminals industry under the Trump administration
40 UK-EU Reset
Tim Doggett, CEO of the Chemical Business Association, explores how Brexit and other challenges have disrupted the chemical supply chain, and what needs to be done to restore trade between the UK and the EU
42 Power and Potential
Vassia Sourtzi, senior energy transition specialist at Lloyd’s Register, looks at the factors impacting the global fuel mix
44 The Ripple Effect
Giacomo Prandelli unpacks how US volatility is flipping the script for storage terminals worldwide, and how to turn it into an opportunity
46 Texplor: Step Into The Future
How Dow is using big data monitoring to extend tank and basin service life
47 Leading The Way In Non-Destructive Testing
Clyde May, president of ASNT, explains the association’s core mission and looks to the future of NDT
48 In-Depth: Examining NDT
Kate Rainford speaks to a range of non-destructive testing companies about the essential role it plays
52 Embracing The Digital Age
Anamika Talwaria examines the case for going digital, and the barriers terminal CISOs have to overcome
58 Marathon Petroleum: The Journey To Elite Safety manager, Dennis Medenhall, explains the rigorous safety culture in the Terminals organisation
60 Containing AFFF Runoff & PFAS Risk
Stephen Pepper, senior consultant for PFAS programmes at CTEH, explores ways for storage terminals to stay safe and compliant when managing firewater
EVENTS
54 Transforming The Digital Landscape CEO of UAB-Online, Hans Bobeldijk, reflects on the company’s success at the 2025 Global Tank Storage Awards
56 Picture-Perfect Project
Kevin Wheeldon, sales director at Cashco, explains the company’s prize-winning picture after winning the StocExpo 2025 Photography Competition
65 Gastech: Shaping The Future
Enjoy this first look at Gastech 2025 in Milan and how the conference is set to accelerate global energy security and innovation
66 StocExpo Review: 20 Years of Progress Tank Storage Magazine reflects on the key learnings from another hugely successful StocExpo
70 Innovation Zero: A Cleaner Future Tank Storage Magazine reports back from Innovation Zero World 2025
72 IE Week: Shaping Tomorrow’s Energy Tank Storage Magazine looks back at another successful and insightful International Energy Week in London, UK
Global Events 2025
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10 &11 March 2026 | Rotterdam Ahoy
MEET THE TEAM
EDITORIAL
ANAMIKA TALWARIA
Anamika is the editor of Tank Storage Magazine
On page 34 she’s championing Women in Tanks with IMTT’s Traci Johnson. Be sure to catch both of them speaking about being a woman in the industry at this year’s ITLA (June 9-11).
KATE RAINFORD
Kate is Tank Storage Magazine’s junior writer. On page 30, she’s interviewed Gary Jackson, SHEQ director at Vopak North America, about Deer Park Terminal’s safety practices.
T +44 (0)20 3196 9339 anamika@tankstoragemag.com www.tankstorage.com
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Sophie McKimm
+44 (0)20 3196 4356 sophie.mckimm@easyfairs.com
David Kelly
+44 (0)20 3196 4401 david@tankstoragemag.com
Kyle Gullyes
+44 (0)20 3196 4396 kyle.gullyes@easyfairs.com
EDITOR’S NOTE
ENERGY SECURITY has never been higher on the agenda. In the midst of unclear tariffs on goods to and from the USA, increased geopolitical instability and blackouts across the Iberian peninsula, many countries seem to be looking inwards at self-reliance.
But do the last 70+ years of history not tell us that global collaboration is key to a peaceful and economically prosperous world? Well US-China disputes over tariffs appear to be tanking the crude oil market, with prices falling lower than they have for many decades. Meanwhile, OPEC is predicting greater demand, and potentially looking to ramp up oil production – which could dampen the market even further.
Luckily, in this latest edition of Tank StorageMagazine we’ve spoken to industry leading experts on what the global fuel mix might look like – and just how much will be made up of fossil fuels. Lloyd’s Register share their base and high cases up to 2050 on page 42, with a more laser-focused 2025 analysis on page 44 Regardless, the economic landscape is changing across the entire world –and much of it is thanks to geopolitics. Whether that’s volatility in the US markets (and more from the ILTA on what they’re advocating for this congress is on page 38), or developing conflicts across the Middle East and Asia – not to mention the ongoing impact of Russia-Ukraine. We’ll keep you updated on how the markets are being impacted, and this edition we’re bringing you some particularly thoughtful pieces from terminals across the USA and Europe that are pivoting their focuses. On page 29, we hear from Ghent Transport & Logistics about how much they’re investing into green ammonia and SAF, while NeuVentus’ hydrogen salt caverns are looking likely to be filled with LNG instead (page 32).
Even while oil supplies remain high, it’s important that the terminals industry doesn’t turn its back on future fuels. On top of the mandatory targets and changing fuel mix demands, many of our experts featured in this edition mentioned recruitment challenges as one of the biggest impacts to their business at the
WITH US
moment – could the green transition be the way to encourage younger generations in? But be careful – young people are savvy about when a company is greenwashing their messaging, so make sure you can back up any claims of sustainable working practices. Though the terminals landscape looks to be evolving at a rapid pace, safety is still at the core of everything we do. To that end, the ASNT (American Society of Nondestructive Testing) explains the benefits of NDT on page 57, and we speak to Vopak Deer Park (page 30) and Marathon Petroleum (page 58) about the ways their terminals are leading when it comes to safe practices. On page 52, we have an in-depth look at the ways digitalisation can improve efficiency and safety on site, as well as how easy digital tools make it to comply with ever-changing regulations.
So, an industry in flux? Always. But the core values of safety, efficiency and security are always
prevalent. And the best way to stay upto-date?
Well, besides a subscription to Tank Storage Magazine, live events hold the key. Get the inside scoop from the conference stages at our flagship event, StocExpo, on page 66 – and make sure you save the date for next year, 10 & 11 March at the Rotterdam Ahoy.
In the meantime, you can see our team at various events before we break up for Summer. In May, we’ll be in Marseille for the FETSA AGM (15-16), at World Hydrogen Summit in Rotterdam (20-22) and simultaneously on booth M124 at ChemUK (Birmingham, 21-22).
Catch us in America for the long-awaited ILTA on June 9-11 – and come and see me talk about being a woman in the industry during the Women in Terminals Networking (please no hecklers!). Our team will also be present on booth 909 for you to book a complete marketing campaign to boost your brand – or just tell us what’s new in the industry! I can’t wait to catch up with you all!
Best wishes,
Anamika
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GLOBAL NEWS UPDATE
NORTHERN LIGHTS RECEIVES GREEN LIGHT FOR CO2 STORAGE
Northern Lights, a transport and storage service for CO2 , has received confirmation that all the required permits are in place to start injecting and storing CO 2 in the Aurora CCS licence in the North Sea.
The Norway Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Climate and Environment, the Norwegian Environmental Agency (NEA) and Norwegian Ocean Industry Authority (Havtil) have all given their consents for the first phase of Northern Lights.
Tim Heijn, managing director of Northern Lights JV says: ‘This is a major milestone for the carbon capture and storage chain in Norway. The Norwegian authorities have granted the permits required to inject and store CO 2 on the Norwegian continental shelf. With these consents in place, we are on track to safely start CO 2 transport and storage operations in Northern Lights.’
The permit granted is for the injection and storage of 37.5 million tonnes of CO 2 from this year and the next 25 years. This covers the first phase of Northern Lights development with a capacity to transport and store 1.5 million tonnes of CO 2 per year.
CHANE COMPLETES INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADE
Chane terminal Botlek has completed a major upgrade for a leading customer, enhancing the storage, handling, and logistics of base oils.
Chane says: ‘At the heart of this improvement is tank pit 16, designed with a clear focus on speed, safety, and efficiency. With 5 new base oil grades, 6 pipelines to the jetties, additional pumps, and an advanced truck loading station, the infrastructure is now fully modernised and ready for the next step. This is especially clear at loading bay 17: license plate recognition, illuminated smart loading arms, and full data access via our terminal management system enable us to load up to three trucks at once – faster, smarter, and error-free.’
Remy Kostense, senior improvement engineer at Chane adds: ‘The best part of this project is the teamwork – with both the customer and our colleagues. From design to operation, you can immediately see the difference we make. We involve Chane professionals on site from the start, so they can operate and support everything smoothly. Proud of the collaboration and the enthusiastic feedback from both the customer and our operations team.’
HCSS RELEASES NEW REPORT
The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies has released its latest report on Securing European Military Fuels In A Tense Security Environment: Supply, Distribution And Storage.
In summary, the paper investigates the challenges to fuel logistics that NATO could face if forced into a large-scale conflict on its Eastern Flank. It finds that several core features of the European fuel supply system could emerge as serious constraints on military effectiveness:
• European NATO countries remain highly dependent on oil supply lines from unstable or unfriendly countries, raising the possibility of sudden supply constraints under conditions of war instability. Several chokepoints on European oil supply lines are vulnerable to deliberate sabotage by hostile actors.
• European oil refining capacity is concentrated some distance from NATO’s Eastern Flank, with Eastern NATO countries often dependent on imports to fill refining shortfalls during peacetime. Additionally, European refining capacity is declining under pressure from foreign competition and the green transition.
• Military fuel distribution infrastructure has not been extended to the Eastern Flank, leading to dependence on distribution methods that may not be adequate for a war scenario.
• Fuel storage in European NATO members and Eastern members in particular is low relative to both normal civilian consumption and possible military consumption. Policies on emergency storage are not well optimised for a military conflict scenario.
• Increasing decarbonisation in the civilian sector will further degrade the viability of fossil fuel infrastructure, placing increasing pressure on a military that will remain dependent on fossil fuels.
The paper makes several recommendations to address these:
• Coordination should be increased at the European level to identify and address fuel supply bottlenecks.
• Collaboration between military planners and civilian oil logistics companies should be increased to address fuel supply bottlenecks.
• NATO allies should devise a clear policy on emergency oil stocks and their use during wartime.
UNIPER SELECTS ITM POWER FOR HUMBER H2UB PROJECT
ITM Power has been selected by Uniper for the 120MW Humber H2ub (Green) project in Killingholme, UK.
The project was recently shortlisted as part of the UK’s Hydrogen Allocation Round 2 (HAR2). ITM will deploy six 20MW POSEIDON core electrolysis process modules into the project. POSEIDON offers efficiency, rapid response times, and an optimised footprint for large-scale projects.
The Humber H2ub (Green) project is a planned green hydrogen production facility at Uniper’s Killingholme site. Its initial capacity will be 120MW, with the future potential expansion of a further 200MW+. In March 2024, Uniper and Phillips 66 Limited signed a collaboration agreement to work together towards supplying green hydrogen from the Humber H2ub (Green) project to the Phillips 66 Limited Humber Refinery to replace some refinery fuel gas in industrial-scale fired heaters. The project is subject to a final investment decision (FID), which is expected in 2026 and targeted to be operational by 2029.
Dennis Schulz, CEO, says: ‘We are delighted that Uniper has selected us for their large-scale green hydrogen project in the UK, which will contribute to the decarbonisation of the Humber Refinery and create skilled job opportunities at Killingholme and the surrounding area.’
The Excelsior has reached the industrial Port of Wilhelmshaven, Germany, marking the start of the commissioning of another important floating LNG terminal in Germany, according to DET.
The floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) will be extensively tested in the coming weeks and the entire plant will be connected to the gas grid and put into operation. This new terminal is another crucial step towards securing energy supplies and stabilising gas prices in Germany and throughout Europe. With a planned annual capacity of up to 4.6 billion m³ of natural gas, the Wilhelmshaven02 terminal will make a significant contribution to the resilience of the energy supply.
Dr Peter Röttgen, managing director of DET (Deutsche Energy Terminal), says: ‘The floating LNG terminals are a central part of our strategy to make the energy supply of Germany and Europe more resilient and independent. Today’s arrival shows what can be achieved in a short time through close cooperation between numerous partners.’
The Excelsior is 277 metres long, has a storage capacity of 138,000 m³ and a regasification capacity of up to 500 MMSCFD. It was taken over by DET under a five-year charter contract and will soon add further capacity to the first terminal in Wilhelmshaven.
NESTE STARTS ROTTERDAM SAF PRODUCTION
Neste has started producing SAF at its renewable products refinery in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. The refinery has been modified to enable Neste to produce up to 500,000 tonnes of SAF per annum. As a result, Neste’s global SAF production capability has increased to 1.5 million tonnes per annum. ‘It is clear that we need to continue making progress in mitigating climate change and addressing aviation’s climate impact. Neste is fully committed to supporting its customers in the aviation industry to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, and this milestone underlines that commitment. Our SAF production capability, now also in Rotterdam, enables us to significantly contribute to the implementation of the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation and similar SAF mandates. Policies like these are crucial to rampingup SAF production and usage, and we need to keep our ambitions and targets high. At the same time, it requires support and close cooperation across the whole aviation ecosystem to accelerate the energy transition and related emission reductions,’ says Heikki Malinen, president and CEO of Neste.
TOTALENERGIES’ ANTWERP PLATFORM ADAPTS TO ENERGY TRANSITION CHALLENGES
TotalEnergies’ Antwerp, Belgium, platform has announced a plan to reconfigure its petrochemicals operations to strengthen competitiveness.
A key industrial site for TotalEnergies for more than 75 years, the Antwerp platform is based on an integrated business model, which guarantees the resilience of its operations.
Ann Veraverbeke, managing director of TotalEnergies Antwerp says: ‘By adapting and investing regularly in our Antwerp site, we’re securing its long-term future and ensuring that this integrated refining and petrochemicals platform remains TotalEnergies’ most efficient in Europe. Whether the aim is to meet market challenges or contribute to decarbonisation and the energy transition, the platform can be reconfigured so that it remains competitive and continues to provide jobs well into the future.’
The Antwerp platform is also speeding up its own decarbonisation. As part of a 200 MW Air Liquide electrolyser project, TotalEnergies has signed a tolling agreement for 130 MW dedicated to the annual production of 15,000 tonnes of green hydrogen for its Antwerp platform. Upstream of the electrolyser, TotalEnergies will supply green electricity thanks to its OranjeWind offshore wind project. Scheduled for the end of 2027, the project will reduce CO 2 emissions at the Antwerp site by up to 150,000 tonnes per year and contribute to the European targets (RED III) for renewable energy in transport.
WOODSIDE & BP SIGN LNG GAS SUPPLY AGREEMENT
Woodside has signed an agreement with BP for the integrated energy major to supply natural gas to the Louisiana LNG project.
Woodside’s CEO Meg O’Neill says: ‘Louisiana LNG is a compelling investment, expected to deliver significant cash generation and create long term shareholder value. Securing this gas supply agreement is an important step for the project. Woodside has a long history of successful collaboration with BP. By drawing upon BP’s experience with MiQ certificates, we can access verifiably low methane intensity molecules for the Louisiana LNG project. This supports Woodside’s goals as a member in the UN Environment Programme’s OGMP 2.0 initiative.’
Under the agreement, Louisiana LNG Gas (GasCo), a wholly owned subsidiary of Louisiana LNG LLC, has committed to purchase on a long-term basis up to 640 billion m³ of gas from BP for an ultimate delivery to Line 200 beginning in 2029.
MIAMI LNG REBRANDS
Miami LNG has officially rebranded as Sawgrass LNG & Power. The company, active in the Southeastern US and the Caribbean, focuses on LNG supply, but now also has an enhanced focus on energy production.
Sawgrass LNG & Power operates a liquefaction facility in Miami capable of producing over 100,000 gallons of LNG per day, with on-site storage of 270,000
gallons. The company aims to meet the growing needs of its industrial and commercial clients while supporting energy generation and maritime transport sectors.
The company’s new ambitions extend beyond its traditional role as an LNG supplier, with a particular focus on the marine bunkering and aerospace sectors. The company is also strengthening its position in the energy transition by providing efficient gas-to-electricity solutions for its clients, especially in off-grid regions.
CB&I & SHELL DEMONSTRATE LIQUID HYDROGEN STORAGE TANK DESIGN
CB&I, Shell, GenH2 and the University of Houston, have announced the completion of a firstof-its-kind, affordable, large-scale liquid hydrogen (LH2) storage tank concept at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) in Huntsville, Alabama, USA.
Mark Butts, president & CEO of CB&I, says: ‘Our collaboration with this worldclass project team will help provide a path to low-cost, large-scale liquid hydrogen storage.’
The project, which began in 2021 and is supported by the US Department of Energy (DOE), developed a novel nonvacuum tank design concept for largescale (up to 100,000 m³) storage of LH2 that is anticipated to provide a substantial cost advantage over conventional vacuum insulated tanks. This is demonstrated through the construction, start-up and testing of a small-scale LH2 demonstration tank at NASA MSFC.
HONEYWELL & ARGENT LNG TO SUPPORT FACILITY IN LOUISIANA
Honeywell and Argent LNG have signed an agreement to assess the use of Honeywell’s innovative pretreatment solutions at a new liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminal to be constructed in Port Fourchon, Louisiana, USA.
Honeywell’s LNG pretreatment solutions help remove contaminants from natural gas, enabling facility operators to enhance production and operational efficiency. When used together, Honeywell’s modular mercury removal unit (MRU), acid gas removal unit (AGRU) and SeparSIV unit can remove mercury, carbon dioxide, sulphur, water and heavy hydrocarbons to applicable LNG specifications. Additionally, Honeywell UOP SeparSIV can be used with varying feed compositions and can save operators up to 50% of lifecycle cost versus traditional removal processes.
Jonathan Bass, CEO of Argent LNG says: ‘Argent LNG is committed to delivering clean, secure, and cost-effective energy worldwide. In order to do so, we need to leverage innovative technology and effective pretreatment solutions. Honeywell’s proven technology has the potential to help us transform the United States LNG sector and help deliver the LNG the world needs.’
Rajesh Gattupalli, president of Honeywell UOP adds: ‘Honeywell’s innovative LNG technologies will play a pivotal role in addressing energy security by enabling the large-scale production of LNG in countries around the world, including the United States. Honeywell’s LNG portfolio includes end-to-end solutions that can be customised and adapted based on the needs of our customers.’
MITSUI ANNOUNCES FID FOR LOW-CARBON AMMONIA PROJECT
Mitsui is investing in the Blue Point low-carbon ammonia production project in the USA. The final investment decision for the project was made together with CF Industries and JERA.
The project will involve the construction of one of the world’s largest low-carbon ammonia facilities in Louisiana, with an annual production capacity of approximately 1.4 million tonnes. The project will also involve the production and sale of low-carbon ammonia, in collaboration with CF Industries, the world’s largest ammonia producer, and JERA, Japan’s largest power generation operator.
Construction will begin in 2025, and production is planned to begin in 2029. Each shareholder will offtake the produced ammonia. The project plans to use carbon capture and sequestration, and expects to capture and store approximately 2.3 million tonnes of CO2 annually, reducing CO2 emissions during the production process by greater than 95%.
USA
BP & CHEVRON DISCOVER OIL IN THE GULF OF AMERICA
BP has announced an oil discovery at the Far South Prospect in the deepwater US Gulf of America.
BP drilled the exploration well in Green Canyon Block 584, located in western Green Canyon approximately 120 miles off the coast of Louisiana in 4,092 feet of water. The well was drilled to a total depth of 23,830 feet. The Far South co-owners are BP (operator, 57.5%) and Chevron (42.5%).
Both the initial well and a subsequent sidetrack encountered oil in high-quality Miocene reservoirs. Preliminary data supports a potentially commercial volume of hydrocarbons. This discovery in the deepwater Gulf of America underscores how BP is in action to step up investment in exploration and strengthen its upstream portfolio under the strategy reset announced in February 2025.
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TF WARREN GROUP ACQUIRES KEMCO
The TF Warren Group has acquired Krueger Engineering and Manufacturing (KEMCO), a leading manufacturer of shell and tube heat exchangers for more than 70 years.
This acquisition strengthens TF Warren’s position in the petrochemical, refining, and gas processing market, expands its product portfolio, and accelerates its growth strategy.
Krueger president Wendel Kovar comments: ‘This strategic acquisition marks an exciting chapter in our story, one that promises enhanced capabilities, expanded resources, and a wider range
of solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers.’
TF Warren CEO Terry Warren adds: ‘We’re excited to have Krueger join the TF Warren Group family. Krueger is very well respected in the industry and has an extremely strong management team and employees that align well with our mission to support our customers’ needs.’ The addition of the 110,000 SF ASME-certified facility in Houston, Texas, USA, which has extensive capabilities to process plate and weld components will complement and support the many TF Warren companies and customers.
ADVARIO & BRASKEM IDESA INAUGURATE
ETHANE STORAGE TERMINAL
Advario and Braskem Idesa have inaugurated Terminal Química Puerto México (TQPM), a strategic ethane storage terminal located in the Port of Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz.
Developed as a 50-50 partnership between the two companies, the
terminal marks a major milestone in Mexico’s energy and petrochemical infrastructure. It represents a joint investment of $500 million (€443 million) and the creation of over 2,000 jobs during construction.
TQPM will play a critical role in securing the long-term ethane supply for the Braskem Idesa Petrochemical Complex, enabling the facility to reach its full production capacity and supporting future growth plans of up to 25%.
The terminal comprises two 50,000 m³ cryogenic tanks, a dedicated jetty and pipeline infrastructure for the reception, storage and transportation of cryogenic ethane. Its 54,000-tonne storage capacity ensures a stable feedstock supply, helping Braskem Idesa produce up to 1,050,000 tonnes of polyethylene per year, including 750,000 tonnes of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and 300,000 tonnes of low-density polyethylene (LDPE).
Bas Verkooijen, CEO of Advario, says: ‘The inauguration of TQPM is a proud moment for Advario and an important milestone in our global growth journey. This project reflects our strong partnership with Braskem Idesa, and our leading role in the storage and logistics of chemicals in the world. The expansion into Mexico strengthens our global
Mexico
presence into a new, highly dynamic and growing petrochemical region.’
Isabel Figueiredo, CEO of Braskem Idesa, adds: ‘Braskem Idesa reaffirms its commitment to the national petrochemical industry with this project, which will allow us to diversify the supply of raw materials and plan a future expansion of our operations in Mexico. The vast experience of our partner, Advario, was fundamental to the success of this project. We strongly believe in the great contribution that TQPM will make to the development of the Mexican industry, aligned with the strategic vision of the Government of Mexico for selfsufficiency.’
Cleantho Leite, CEO of Terminal Química Puerto México, says: ‘The construction of TQPM generated over 2,000 jobs, contributing to the social, economic, and industrial development of the state of Veracruz as one of the main petrochemical hubs in the country. It is the first private industrial investment in the CIIT-Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec’s area of influence. Its implementation included the development of various community social programs, including improvements in schools and health centers in the region, as well as a robust environmental protection program that carried out the rescue and conservation of native flora and fauna.’
TQPM is located within the Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec (CIIT), a strategic initiative led by the Government of Mexico to accelerate development in the country’s southeastern region.
To support the terminal’s operations, Braskem Group acquired two cryogenic ethane carriers, the Brilliant Future and Brave Future. Each vessel is 188 meters long, with a capacity of 36,000 m 3, and reduces CO2 emissions by 40% compared to the industry average over the past decade. These ships will transport ethane from Texas, USA, to the Port of Coatzacoalcos.
AUMA RETROFIT
DIGITAL FUTURE FIT FOR THE
JERA & EDF EXPAND TO INCLUDE JAPANESE POWER
JERA, EDF Trading (EDFT) and JERA Global Markets (JERAGM) have announced the expansion of JERAGM’s remit by its shareholders to include Japanese power trading.
The respective Japanese power trading businesses of JERA and EDFT will be merged to operate alongside JERAGM’s global trading and optimisation business. JERAGM is a joint venture between shareholders JERA (66.67%) and EDFT (33.33%) and the exclusive fuels optimiser for both shareholders.
The integrated Japanese power trading activities are expected to benefit from JERAGM’s comprehensive trading platform, governance and risk management frameworks. The business will operate out of the Coredo Nihonbashi building in Tokyo with a team of over 50 diverse and experienced professionals driving and supporting the business.
sales by 4-5% per year through to 2030. The integration of Pavilion Energy’s assets into Shell’s global LNG portfolio will commence immediately.
SHELL COMPLETES ACQUISITION OF PAVILION ENERGY
Shell Eastern Trading has completed the previously announced acquisition of 100% of the shares in Pavilion Energy.
Pavilion Energy, headquartered in Singapore, operates a global LNG trading business with contracted supply volume of approximately 6.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa).
The acquisition will be absorbed within Shell’s cash capital expenditure guidance. This acquisition helps to deliver on Shell’s ambition to solidify its leading position in liquified natural gas (LNG) by growing
Aster Chemicals and Energy (Aster) has reached a sales and purchase agreement to acquire Chevron Phillips Singapore Chemicals (CPSC) through its affiliate Chandra Asri Capital.
CPSC owns and operates a polyethylene manufacturing facility on Singapore’s
Jurong Island. CPSC is a joint venture between Chevron Phillips Chemical, EDB Investments and Sumitomo Chemical.
Shareholders of CPSC unanimously agreed to the sale, demonstrating confidence in Aster and enhancing the value chain for its future growth and development. CPSC’s high-density polyethylene manufacturing facility on Jurong Island has an annual production capacity of 400 KTA. China
CHINA’S CNOOC AGREES LNG DEAL WITH ADNOC
China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) has agreed a five-year deal to buy LNG from Abu Dhabi National Oil Corp (ADNOC), the third supply contract the Middle Eastern energy exporter signed with Chinese buyers over the weekend, according to two Chinese trading sources and a state media report, reports Reuters.
Chinese privately controlled ENN Natural Gas (arranging a 15-year deal) and state energy trader Zhenhua Oil have also each signed a term contract to secure the super-chilled gas from ADNOC, Reuters has reported. The latest deal with ADNOC is to begin in 2026, delivering 500,000 tonnes of LNG annually.
A tariff war with the United States has pushed Chinese buyers to resell US-sourced cargoes and secure new supply deals as tit-for-tat tariffs drive up import costs. China imported no US LNG during March, data from Kpler and LSEG show. The US accounted for about 5% of China’s LNG last year, according to Chinese customs data.
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TANK TERMINAL UPDATE
a network extending for approximately 12,000 km, with an annual off-take volume of approximately 21 billion m3 and more than 400 end-customers.
STOLTHAVEN TERMINALS
Product: Polypropylene
Capacity: 472,500 tonnes
Cost: $2 billion (€1.7 billion)
Construction: Stolthaven Terminals is partnering with Rönesans on the development of a new terminal, located in Ceyhan, Adana, Türkiye. The facility is part of a large-scale new development, that also includes a polypropylene (PP) production plant – which Rönesans will develop separately – with an expected annual production capacity of 472,500 tonnes, meeting roughly 17% of Türkiye’s PP demand.
Stolthaven Terminals and Rönesans will jointly develop the terminal, which will include a deep-sea jetty and feedstock storage services for the new plant and incorporate environmentally advanced technology to support efficiency and sustainability.
Comment: Guy Bessant, president Stolthaven Terminals, says: ‘We are pleased to partner with Rönesans Holding on this landmark project. Stolthaven Terminals has more than 50 years’ experience in the safe and efficient handling and storage of bulk liquids and gases, and proven expertise in developing complex and large-scale storage projects. This terminal will not only provide storage for the Ceyhan PP Plant, but is also part of the Ceyhan Energy Specialised Industrial zone which, in future, could provide storage and logistics solutions for local and international companies looking for distribution services in the region.’
The transaction completion is expected within the third quarter of 2025, and is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions.
Comment: ‘Upon completion of this acquisition, Snam will become the first-ever Italian energy player to make a sizeable entry into the German energy infrastructure space. The acquisition strengthens Snam’s position as Europe’s largest gas infrastructure operator and is fully in line with our strategy which focuses on the development of a pan-European, multi-molecule network located along the key European energy corridors, and in particular its most relevant corridor, running from Southern to Northern Europe,’ comments Stefano Venier, Snam CEO.
VOPAK
Product: Ethane
Capacity: 160,000 m³
Cost: €130 million
Construction: Vopak has reached a positive final investment decision in expanding its global industrial terminal footprint by constructing 160,000 m³ tank infrastructure in Map Ta Phut, Rayong, Thailand, to support the import of US ethane into Thailand. Vopak’s joint venture entity Thai Tank Terminal signed a 15-year contract with PTT Global Chemical, a leading global chemicals company, for the storage and handling of ethane in Thailand.
Under this agreement, Thai Tank Terminal will construct a new 160,000 m³ tank infrastructure backed by a long term contract and is expected to be completed in 2029.
and renewable materials.By establishing a presence at Huelva, Tepsa is not only strengthening its logistical capabilities but is also aligning with the region’s drive to innovate in energy and environmental stewardship. This terminal will help meet the growing demand for cleaner energy solutions while creating economic opportunities in Andalusia.
A future capacity of 65,000 m³ for chemical products and biofuels with tanks ranging from 700m³ – 4,400m³.
The new terminal, which will come into operation in the second quarter of 2027, is a step forward in terms of sustainability, supporting innovation, and creating shared value for the communities.
HYDROGENIOUS
Product: Hydrogen
Construction: Hydrogenious LOHC’s Project Hector hydrogenation plant has received the official building and operating permit for an LOHC storage plant in accordance with §4 of the German Federal Emmission Control Act.Hy.
LOHC Industrial Solutions NRW GmbH, a subsidiary of Hydrogenious LOHC Technologies based in Neuss, will be responsible for the project management, the construction and subsequent operation of the plant. Commissioning and starting commercial operations are presently scheduled for the end of 2027 with a plant capacity of approximately 1,800 tonnes of hydrogen per year, which will be safely stored in benzyltoluene.
Product: Gas
Capacity: 21 billion m³
Cost: €920 million
Acquisition: Snam is to acquire Abu Dhabi’s Infinity Investments’ 24.99% stake in the share capital of Vier Gas Holding (VGH) – a Luxembourg-based company, which indirectly owns the entire share capital of Open Grid Europe (OGE) – for an equity value of €920 million.
OGE is Germany’s largest independent gas transmission operator, managing
TEPSA
Product: Biofuels & chemical products
Capacity: 65,000 m³
Construction: Tepsa is taking a step towards sustainability with its first-ever storage terminal in Andalusia, designed to handle a wide variety of bulk liquids including chemical products, biofuels,
SNAM
Türkiye Thailand
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We're thrilled to announce that our Secondary Anti-Rollover Seal is now officially patented across North America!
The Sandborn Anti-Rollover Seal
Sandborn’s Anti-Rollover Seal is clearly built to tackle one of the biggest challenges in floating roof operations — seal rollover. With its patented, fully engineered, and tested design, it stands out as the only antirollover solution available, providing operators with confidence and reliability. Our emphasis on preventing seal rollover is what makes the Sandborn seal system a true game-changer. Sandborn, solutions you can trust.
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We're thrilled to announce that our adjustable floating roof positioners are now officially patented across North America!
The Sandborn Deck Positioner
Sandborn’s patented Deck Positioner is our latest innovation designed to improve the operation and efficiency of your floating roof. Fully adjustable and available in both galvanized and stainless steel configurations, each is custom designed to meet existing rim configurations and tank conditions. Have an out of round tank? The Sandborn Deck Positioner is an effective tool in enhancing seal operation and tank performance!
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TECHNICAL NEWS
SHERWIN-WILLIAMS LAUNCHES HEAT-FLEX FOR CORROSION-FREE INSULATION
Sherwin Williams has launched Heat-Flex Advanced Energy Barrier (AEB) which tackles corrosion under insulation (CUI), effectively eliminating the costly and dangerous phenomenon of steel assets corroding underneath insulation systems.
The coating replaces the bulky mineralbased insulation that’s traditionally used on storage tanks, process vessels and piping to retain process heat. By eliminating the threat of corrosion, the coating offers a solution that is less resource intensive than traditional insulating production systems.
Neil Wilds, global product director, CUI/ testing for Sherwin-Williams protective and marine says: ‘To occur in the first place, corrosion under insulation requires the presence of one of its namesakes –the insulation. By removing this ‘I’ from an asset and applying the thermal insulative coating in its place, there is no longer any physical system under which the ‘C’ – the corrosion – could occur.’
Heat-Flex AEB works by building a thick film of insulative coating material onto assets that are required to maintain operating temperatures up to 350°F (177°C), with excursions to 400°F (204°C). This coating retains process heat inside coated assets, allowing them to continue operating even in extreme environments. It effectively rivals the in-service insulative capabilities of traditional insulation systems due to their tendency to absorb and trap moisture that infiltrates their exterior cladding. This moisture not only dramatically reduces the insulating capacity of the insulation, but also contributes to the acceleration of CUI.
SINOCHEM SELECTS BAKER HUGHES’ CORDANT FOR ASSET MANAGEMENT
Baker Hughes has announced that it has secured an enterprise agreement with Sinochem, a multinational chemical conglomerate, to deploy
MESA ETP INTRODUCES ARMOR FABRIC
Mesa Engineered Tank Products (Mesa ETP), has announced the launch of Armor Fabric, a patent-pending, high-performance engineered vapour barrier fabric designed to revolutionise the durability and reliability of critical floating roof seals in aboveground storage tanks (ASTs).
Armor Fabric represents a breakthrough in protective fabric technology, offering superior resistance to harsh environmental conditions, chemicals, and mechanical stress. This advanced vapour barrier fabric is specifically developed to provide an advanced, longlasting performance in tank sealing applications, ensuring enhanced safety and operational efficiency for AST facilities worldwide.
Adam Vance, general manager of Mesa ETP says: ‘Mesa ETP has always been the industry leader committed to advancing engineered solutions that improve the integrity, longevity, and environmental performance of storage tank systems. Armor Fabric is a testament to our ongoing dedication to developing industryleading products that meet the evolving needs of our customers.’
Key features of Armor Fabric include:
Extreme durability: Engineered for high tensile strength and abrasion resistance
Chemical compatibility: Armor Fabric is compatible with most AST products, and tested competitively against Teflon.
American made: Armor Fabric is made in Cincinnati, OH, removing availability delays, tariffs, and lengthy overseas shipping times.
PFAS-free material: Developed without the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, making it a safer and more environmentally sustainable option.
its Cordant Asset Health across 10 of its chemical production plants in China. The agreement represents the first advanced enterprise-level digital deployment of Cordant in the region and highlights its continued expansion into chemical and industrial segments.
Through the deployment of Cordant Asset Health, Baker Hughes will enable Sinochem to centralise critical rotating equipment data on its cloud infrastructure, improving visibility and collaboration across its enterprise. The solution will help Sinochem’s central diagnostics teams identify potential failures early, reduce unplanned downtime, and minimise production losses across the 10 plants. With a unified view across facilities, Sinochem will scale best practices and operational learnings to improve asset performance and drive efficiency at an enterprise level.
EMERSON RELEASES NEW FIXED POINT GAS DETECTOR
Emerson has announced the release of the Rosemount 625IR Fixed Gas Detector, designed to provide reliable and fast gas detection in all plant environments using advanced optical absorption detection technology.
End users need fast and reliable detection of hydrocarbon gases without false alarms, so gas detectors must be able to operate reliably in hazardous environments and all weather conditions.
The Rosemount 625IR Fixed Gas Detector meets these needs by using specialised, solid-state dual IR sources and dual IR receivers, which combine to provide continual cross checks and internal adjustments that maintain the factory calibration. Heaters on the optical surfaces and a range of optical protection accessories provide continual detection without unexpected downtime.
The detector is simple to install and maintain because it remains factorycalibrated for life due to its advanced drift monitoring technology and health monitoring diagnostics. A range of accessories are available to make
Baker Hughes
Sherwin-Williams
Emerson
function testing fast and easy using either test gas or a gas-free test filter, with the latter option greatly reducing maintenance time and cost.
on settlement assessment and a new chapter on stainless and duplex steel tanks. The guidelines for hydrotest exemption for major repairs and the remaining life calculations for bottom pitting have been updated.