RES, a leading global renewable energy company, has signed a sales agreement with Prime Capital for the Alby hydrogen plant project in Ånge municipality, Sweden. The project, which will be owned by Prime Energy Infrastructure Fund II, aims to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) through electrolysis, converting water into green hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen will then be combined with captured carbon dioxide and further processed into eSAF, a low-carbon alternative to traditional jet fuel. The Alby plant will be powered by 500MW of renewable energy from the Tovåsen substation. This significant investment will not only contribute to the decarbonization of the aviation sector but also create new jobs and boost the local economy. Chief executive officer of RES in the Nordics Matilda Afzelius said: “This is a great day. 500MW capacity allows for a significant renewable aviation fuel production. “In a broader perspective, it is an important step in the transition to fossil-free fuels. For RES Nordics, this hydrogen development agreement with Prime Capital is a final exam. A final exam which we passed with honours, indicating that RES Nordic develop marketable, attractive and sustainable energy projects that also create positive socio-economic effects in places like Ånge.” Head of infrastructure and managing director…
Botswana Diamonds PLC has received a significant milestone with the granting of environmental authorization for one of its two mining permit applications for the Thorny River project in Limpopo, South Africa. The approval, issued by the South African Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, brings the company closer to resuming mining operations at the project. The company expects to receive the full mining permit within the next six weeks, pending the completion of additional community consultations. The Thorny River project, located 6 kilometers from the Marsfontein diamond mine, encompasses a kimberlite blow on a dyke system. Botswana Diamonds submitted mining permit applications for the project in late 2022, following extensive exploration activities including ground geophysics, drilling, and bulk sampling. Botswana Diamonds chairman John Teeling said: “We are delighted to see that this authorisation has come through and we anticipate that the mining permit will soon be granted. The Thorny River project is well placed to restart and expand mining operations when prices recover.”
Saipem, a leading global provider of engineering, procurement, construction, and installation services for the energy industry, has been awarded a significant EPCI contract by BP Berau for the Tangguh UCC project in Indonesia’s Papua Barat province. Valued at $1.12 billion, the contract encompasses the development of the Ubadari field, the implementation of enhanced gas recovery through carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies, and the construction of onshore compression facilities. The project will involve the fabrication and installation of two new wellhead production platforms at Ubadari, a wellhead platform for CO2 re-injection, and approximately 90 kilometers of subsea pipelines. Saipem’s fabrication yard in Karimun, Indonesia, will play a crucial role in the construction of these offshore platforms. The Tangguh UCC project is a strategic initiative aimed at maximizing gas recovery and reducing carbon emissions. By capturing and re-injecting CO2, the project will contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy future. Saipem’s expertise in offshore engineering and construction will be instrumental in delivering this complex project on time and within budget. The company’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence will ensure the successful execution of the project, benefiting both BP Berau and the Indonesian economy.
The European Association of Research Managers and Administrators (EARMA) has secured EU funding for a new project aimed at developing a standardized approach to training research managers across Europe. The RM Framework project will establish a framework to guide policymakers, training providers, and research organizations in developing effective and sustainable research management training programs. By aligning training standards and practices, the project aims to improve the quality of research management and support the careers of research managers across the continent. The project will involve a consortium of 16 organizations from 10 countries, including Belgium, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Romania, and Spain. Research-performing organizations will also be closely involved to ensure the framework meets the real-world needs of research managers. A key aspect of the project will be the use of design thinking to tailor training programs and accreditation processes to the specific needs of research managers. This human-centered approach will help to ensure that training is effective and relevant. The RM Framework project is expected to start in February 2025 and will run for two years. It has been allocated €1 million in EU funding. EARMA is also leading the ongoing RM Roadmap project, which…
The Greater Norwich Growth Board (GNGB) has announced significant investments in 13 projects across Broadland, Norwich, and South Norfolk. This funding, derived from pooled Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) receipts, aims to enhance local infrastructure and improve the quality of life for residents. Projects include substantial improvements to Sweetbriar Marshes, Wherryman’s Way, and Broadland Country Park, as well as significant investments in local libraries and community spaces. The GNGB is also funding improvements to public parks and green spaces, such as Rothbury Park, Buckenham Ancient Woodland, and Lion Wood. A major investment in Diss will see the development of a new leisure facility and public plaza, enhancing the town center and providing new recreational opportunities for residents. Additionally, the GNGB is supporting improvements to local infrastructure, including road networks and cycle paths. Councillor Sue Holland, Leader of Broadland District Council and Chair of the GNGB said: “This is the latest list of projects we are putting forward to benefit from our unique fund of pooled CIL receipts and is tangible evidence of the benefits that our communities receive from planned growth in the Greater Norwich area. “It’s really exciting to see so many ambitious and forward thinking projects being supported and…
Turkey has announced a significant $19.9 billion investment in Iraq’s Development Road project. This ambitious initiative aims to bolster trade connectivity between Asia and Europe by constructing a 2,094-kilometer railway line within Turkey. The investment will also focus on developing a robust road network, with $2 billion allocated for constructing 331 kilometers of new highways. The Development Road project, which connects Iraq’s Al-Faw Grand Port to Turkey’s border, is expected to significantly reduce travel times and boost regional trade. By fostering closer cooperation with neighboring countries, such as Iraq, the UAE, Qatar, Bulgaria, Hungary, and Serbia, Turkey aims to strengthen its position as a key player in global trade. The project’s impact extends beyond transportation infrastructure. It also includes the development of energy pipelines, creating a multimodal corridor that will facilitate the efficient movement of goods and energy resources. This integrated approach will contribute to economic growth, job creation, and regional prosperity. By investing in this ambitious initiative, Turkey demonstrates its commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, promoting economic development, and shaping the future of transportation and trade in the region.
The Council of Europe has announced the successful completion of a long-term capacity-building program for ten newly established Ukrainian youth organizations. The program, implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine, aimed to enhance the skills of young professionals in financial and project management, as well as in engaging young people in decision-making processes. Through the “Access to Youth Work” initiative, ten CSOs from nine regions of Ukraine received expert support and grants to implement innovative youth work projects. The focus was on open youth work, including outreach, detached, street, mobile, and online approaches, to reach diverse groups of young people, particularly those affected by the ongoing conflict. In addition to the capacity-building program, the Council of Europe’s “Youth for Democracy in Ukraine” project has been conducting research on open youth work practices and developing training programs for youth workers. This research has been particularly valuable in the context of the war in Ukraine, as it has helped to identify the specific needs of young people and develop appropriate interventions. The Council of Europe’s continued commitment to supporting youth work in Ukraine is a testament to the organization’s dedication to promoting human rights, democracy, and youth…
A major milestone has been reached in the construction of a new bus station in Bishop Auckland, County Durham. The installation of over 120 hot-rolled steel girders, weighing a total of 23.49 tonnes, marks a significant step forward in the project. The new bus station, being delivered by Esh Construction on behalf of Durham County Council, is designed to provide modern and accessible facilities for passengers. It will feature eight stands, improved passenger information, a retail kiosk, toilet facilities, a changing places unit, and a parent and child facility. The project also incorporates sustainable technologies, including solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and a green roof, to minimize its environmental impact. Cllr Richard Bell, Deputy Leader of Durham County Council, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “The new bus station is a key part of our regeneration plans for Bishop Auckland to bring new life to the town center and make it a thriving place to live, work, and visit.” Richard Saville, Esh’s Project Manager, added, “We are delighted with the progress on this important project. The next phase will focus on the construction of the external envelope, including the timber beam roof and masonry work.” The bus station is expected to…
Topsoe, a leading global technology provider for the energy industry, has been selected by Hygenco to provide its dynamic ammonia technology for the latter’s green ammonia project in Gopalpur, Odisha, India. The project, which is expected to be operational by 2027, will have an initial capacity of 750 tonnes per day. Topsoe’s technology will enable the plant to adapt to fluctuations in renewable energy supply, ensuring a reliable and sustainable production process. Green ammonia, produced using renewable energy, is a promising solution for decarbonizing various industries, including shipping, power generation, and fertilizer production. By utilizing green ammonia, Hygenco aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to a cleaner energy future. “We are excited to partner with Hygenco on this important project,” said Elena Scaltritti, Chief Commercial Officer at Topsoe. “This collaboration will help accelerate the adoption of green ammonia as a sustainable fuel and energy carrier.” Hygenco’s ambitious plan to invest USD 2.5 billion in green hydrogen projects in India highlights the country’s growing commitment to renewable energy and decarbonization. The company’s partnership with Topsoe will leverage the Danish company’s expertise in green ammonia technology to deliver a successful project.
William Hare, a leading provider of structural steelwork and specialist engineering solutions, has played a pivotal role in the construction of 40 Leadenhall Street, a striking new landmark in the City of London. This iconic skyscraper, nicknamed the “Gotham City” building, presented a number of complex engineering challenges, including the design and fabrication of intricate steelwork elements. To overcome these challenges, William Hare utilized advanced 3D modeling and BIM technologies to facilitate seamless collaboration between various stakeholders. By leveraging 3D models and cloud-based platforms, William Hare was able to visualize and analyze the complex geometry of the structure, identify potential clashes, and optimize the design and fabrication processes. This approach significantly improved efficiency and reduced errors, ensuring that the project remained on schedule. One of the most challenging aspects of the project was the construction of the first-floor walkway areas, which featured curved elements and integrated glazing. William Hare successfully overcame these complexities by utilizing detailed 3D models and close collaboration with other project stakeholders. The successful completion of 40 Leadenhall Street highlights the power of digital technologies in modern construction. By embracing innovative tools and techniques, William Hare has demonstrated its ability to deliver complex projects on time and…
