News 35
Europump Maintenance (EPM) has received a glowing health and safety review from Hanson Cement for work carried out at the client’s Ribblesdale site. With the account being a relatively new one for EPM, the team had to go on site to do a PPM (planned preventative maintenance) check. At the same time, a Europump engineer was on site to do a line test. During the visit, Hanson’s team carried out a spot check on EPM’s work.
Europump service engineer, Graham McAlister, said: “Ribblesdale is a big cement plant with a fuel island on site. While undertaking our work we had to ensure that we were protecting ourselves and the working area. Someone from Hanson came out on site with a clipboard to do a spot check and scored us for health and safety measures. They said they were absolutely over the moon with what we were doing and awarded us a gold star, which is their highest rating!”
Steven Bamford, workshop co-ordinator at Hanson UK’s Ribblesdale works, said: “We were very impressed with the Europump engineers, especially with how professional and organised they were with regards to isolating the area and making the work area safe for themselves and others.”
McAlister added: “It’s lovely to get feedback like this but what Hanson thought was impressive was actually normal for us!”
A bill aimed at maintaining fuel supply to customers in the event of disruption has been published. The draft Downstream Oil Resilience Bill, which was introduced last month by energy minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan, sets out how the Government intends to address threats to the security of fuel supply by providing powers to ensure resilience in the downstream oil sector, including companies involved in the refining, importing distribution and marketing of oil products.
Crown Oil has partnered with Kao Data, specialist developer and operator of advanced, carrier neutral data centres for high performance colocation, as the company takes further steps towards its net zero ambitions by becoming the UK’s first data centre to transition all backup generators at its Harlow campus to HVO fuel. This pioneering move, made possible by the partnership, means Kao Data will eliminate up to 90% of net CO2 from their backup generators and significantly reduce nitrogen oxide, particulate matter and carbon monoxide emissions.
“HVO fuel is dramatically better for the environment compared to traditional, mineral diesels. It is 100% renewable, biodegradable, sustainable and non-toxic,” said Simon Lawford, technical sales manager, Crown Oil. “We’re proud to have worked with Kao Data to initiate a first-of-its kind project, which will be transformative for the data centre industry, and help point the way forward for significant reductions in industrial greenhouse gas emissions.”
Today, Kao Data delivers one of the UK’s most sustainable colocation data centre campuses. Its existing initiatives include using 100% renewable energy, utilising 100% refrigerant-free indirect evaporative cooling technologies, and incorporating hyperscale inspired design to deliver a market-leading PUE of <1.2, even at partial loads. In line with its commitments as a signatory of the Climate Neutral Data Centre Pact (CNDCP), the use of Crown Oil HVO fuel marks another significant step in the company’s plans to become a fully carbon neutral data centre operator by 2030. The company will replace an initial 45,000 litres of diesel and switch to an HVO provision of more than 750,000 litres when the campus is fully developed.
Using HVO also offers a number of additional benefits in respect of infrastructure reliability. It eliminates microbial growth, which generates sludge that can contaminate fuel lines and potentially lead to engine shut down. HVO requires no modification to existing infrastructure and can be used as a direct replacement for diesel. It has a storage life that is ten times that of standard diesel and offers resilient year-round performance in both low and high temperatures. It is also easier to maintain, free from aromatics, sulphur and metals, odourless and completely biodegradable.
“This pioneering approach to replace our generator’s diesel provision with HVO fuel, is a key step in the company’s efforts to become net zero, and a further demonstration of our leadership in the international data centre sustainability field,” said Gérard Thibault, chief technology officer at Kao Data. “This move effectively eliminates fossil fuels from our data centre operations and helps us reduce Scope 3 emissions in our customers’ supply chain, while delivering no degradation to the service they receive. Most importantly, it shows how our industry can take a simple and highly beneficial step forward for the good of the environment, ahead of COP26.”
Following a design collaboration with ALMA, MechTronic was delighted to announce OptiControl, a new wireless remote control which supports and enables the complete management of the OptiMate delivery process. Launched as part of the recent industry Expo, run by UKIFDA, the remote control offers enhanced operational capability for the OptiMate metering system which was originally launched 5 years ago at the same event.
OptiControl enables drivers to completely manage the delivery process as well as remaining at the point of delivery without needing to return to the vehicle. This, the latest remote from Mechtronic, shows in real time the delivery flow, compartment, current quantity and preset volumes. Drivers are also able to perform product/compartment line changes and adjust preset deliveries as required.
A range of benefits
It is a lightweight, handheld remote that can be fastened on the arm of the driver, if required, and is ATEX approved. The OptiControl remote is also fully rechargeable in the truck cab, with a dedicated socket. It features a large LCD screen and provides a range of additional benefits.
Recycled vegetable oil is being used for the first time to heat a home in Scotland. The revolutionary renewable fuel has been identified as a key alternative clean energy source in the battle against climate change.
Specialist trade insurance broker, Attis Credit Solutions, has partnered with BondAval to bring MicroBonds to the UK fuel market. This cutting-edge product will provide S&P A-rated certainty to fuel suppliers into forecourts and is instantly accessible to buyers and suppliers who can purchase the security via the BondAval platform to meet their contractual security obligations without requiring any cross collateralisation.
The MicroBond provides 100% cover, on demand with no excess. Claims for non-payment are payable, typically, within days rather than weeks.
Suppliers receive investment-grade certainty that their retail clients will pay for their fuel per the terms of their contracts, while drastically reducing the friction and time involved in the security onboarding and renewal process.
The BondAval platform takes only a matter of minutes to produce a MicroBond, a process that would otherwise take weeks or even months.
Paul Martin, co-founder and co-MD of Attis Credit Solutions said: “Providing certainty to a CFO/FD is a powerful tool. Doing it with no time cost whilst also freeing up tied capital for the buyers is a real game-changer. The BondAval platform is cutting-edge, and we look forward to working with the team to see it deployed across the UK fuel market”.
Tom Powell co-founder and CEO of BondAval said: “Working with Paul and his team is a real pleasure. Their insight, experience and expertise mean they truly understand the challenges in the fuel market, and opportunities which we can bring to market together. We’re excited to start building a long-term partnership”.
The Oil Market Journal has greatly expanded its product offering to help clients to future proof their business for the low carbon economy. In addition to providing oil prices, OMJ now also provides a wide range of prices for sustainable fuels as well as pricing for power, gas and emissions.
The Prax Group has appointed Rob Marrow as interim group chief financial officer (CFO) with immediate effect. The group is continuing its search for a permanent CFO and will update the market on its progress as appropriate.
Rob brings with him a wealth of experience in roles that have included responsibility for strategy, corporate finance, M&A transactions, and investor relations. He was more recently, the commercial and financial lead for the group in the acquisition of Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery.
With over two decades of experience across oil and gas, manufacturing, technology, retail, supply chain and trading, he is an experienced finance leader with a proven track record of delivering growth, championing change and building teams.
Sanjeev Kumar, chief executive officer, said: “Rob’s broad financial experience and comprehensive knowledge of our business make him a strong appointment as our interim group CFO, providing continuity while we continue our search for a permanent CFO.”
Rob will succeed Robin Edwards, who sadly passed away on 30 June 2021.
The Fuellers are very excited to be currently planning the second Earl of Wessex Conference, to be held on 15th November 2021, at the prestigious Royal College of Physicians, Regent’s Park.
Carrie Marsh, Master Elect of the Worshipful Company of Fuellers commented: “Our first conference, held in November 2019, provided an entertaining and informative day, and was very well received. It was one of the highlights of the year for the Fuellers and a great way for Fuellers to interact with both the wider industry and our charity partners. We are hoping to do even better this time around.”
Essar is pleased to announce the further strengthening of its executive leadership team with the appointment of Karunakaran (Karan) Hari as chief commercial officer for Essar Oil UK.
The winner of UKIFDA’s Young Person of the Year Award, which was launched this year to recognise the achievements of rising stars in the industry has been announced.
Cornwall-based liquid fuel distributor for the South-West Mitchell & Webber has won the UKIFDA Innovation Award for being at the forefront of the sector’s Future Fuels campaign and for making a real difference in the industry’s drive to make renewable liquid fuel a viable alternative to heating oil for off the gas grid properties.
Sponsored by industry trade magazine Fuel Oil News, UKIFDA launched the Innovation Award in 2021 to find and commend the one thing that makes the industry stand out – and will always support the most innovative products, services, or initiatives.
The search has begun today (Thursday 8th July) for industry’s brightest stars, mentors, and innovators as nominations open for the 2021 OGUK Awards, sponsored by Shell UK Limited.
The inaugural Innovation and Technology in Transport (ITT Hub) event made its debut last week (30 June-1 July 2021) – the largest show of its kind in 40 years – to spearhead the future of transport and revolutionise the commercial vehicle market as the industry transitions to net zero emissions and strives to reach maximum efficiency.
As the virtual doors open tomorrow – 7th July at UKIFDA EXPO 2021 and Future Fuels Conference, some of the exhibitors at this year’s virtual exhibition have revealed launch plans for products and services during the 2-day event, UKIFDA has announced.
“The excitement levels are definitely rising now we know more details of what the exhibitors have lined up for us all during our first virtual UKIFDA EXPO 2021,” says Ken Cronin, UKIFDA chief executive.
“Visitors to the virtual exhibition hall will be able to see over 45 exhibitors, and many have great plans for unveiling innovative, green and customer-focussed products, technology and services during the virtual event – and some have already shared what they will be doing.
“Some will be holding live demonstrations at the EXPO and all will be engaging positively with delegates, explaining the key features of their products and services and highlighting the benefits for customers too.”
UKIFDA EXPO organiser the UK and Ireland Fuel Distributors Association has confirmed what several of this this year’s exhibitors intend to promote to delegates during the event.
UKIFDA membership and events manager, Dawn Shakespeare comments: “We can’t wait for our first ever online exhibition and Future Fuels conference to get underway – we have lined up so many innovative companies that are bursting to share their new products and demonstrate the appeal to the liquid fuel distribution industry.
“In fitting with the focus of this year’s show – the investment our industry is making in renewable liquid fuels and future plans for decarbonising residential heating – ElimiNox Ltd is exhibiting and has a new product to unveil. This company makes Fuel Conditioner that is used in all carbon-based fuels to reduce harmful emissions from diesel engines and oil burners, by reducing CO2 by 30% and boosting fuel efficiency by 8%.
“The new product ElimiNox will have on display is its Diesel Bug Buster. This emulsifies free water into the fuel to prevent diesel bug from breeding.
“Another product designed to keep consumers’ oil clean and fresh for maximum efficiency, is Centre Tank Services Ltd’s aqua fighter water absorber that removes free and emulsified water from fuel to keep customers’ fuel water free at all times. Unlike other water absorbers, it cuts water content levels down to less than 75ppm – meeting and exceeding the EN590 diesel fuel standards of 200ppm.
“In addition, Commercial Fuel Solutions Ltd will be launching a new solution at EXPO and will hold a live demonstration of their platform during UKIFDA EXPO.
“MechTronic is also launching its latest product at EXPO 2021 and delivering a live demonstration – of its OptiControl, a remote control that supports and enables you to fully manage your OptiMate delivery. OptiMate is an electronic metering system and the new remote features an LCD screen that shows the volume of fuel being delivered, alongside other relevant data.
“Kingspan Energy Management Systems will be displaying their latest generation telemetry monitoring devices. Saying ‘Telemetry devices fitted to customers tanks enables level data to be seamlessly imported via API feed to fuel distributor’s software systems – typically CODAS & Fuelsoft (no need for file sending) – enabling auto-ticket generation.
“Distributors can also view, monitor, and export tank data across their entire population through the Connect Sensor platform, which now comes with the addition of a mapping function.
“Visitors to the Ful Additive Science Technologies Ltd virtual exhibition booth will be able to see their range of fuel additives for use in domestic, off-road, transport and industrial applications and in a range of fuel grades and the company has announced they are now the distributors for the Oil Sponge products of Phaseiii (USA).
“Hazchem Safety Ltd have a variety of new products on display for the first time including the HAZTEC Caravel FR AS Jacket, Triple Stitch Seam Jacket, with EN ISO 20471 Class 1 certification.
“They will also be debuting the HAZTEC FR AS ‘Green’ Coverall constructed in Sustainable and Natural ModacrylicECO™ blend fabric, designed with eco-conscious customers and our planet in mind.
“These are just a few of the launches and demonstrations we have in store for visitors at UKIFDA EXPO this year – there will also be an array of new products and services with industry-wide appeal, and also networking, knowledge sharing and business news, with key topics being debated and important information being relayed through keynote speaker presentations – all via our virtual hub Whova.”
UKIFDA EXPO 2021 will still have sponsors for the two days, with AON Plc and Cobo Tankers and Services sponsoring each day of the conference together with the EXPO headline sponsor Phillips 66 Ltd.
Ken Cronin concludes: “It is exciting to see what exhibitors have planned for the two days.
“Visitors to our online exhibition hall will have easy access to all exhibitors and enjoy the freedom to choose which live launches they engage with as well as which presentation, seminar or networking opportunity they partake in.
“Visitors to the UKIFDA virtual booth will be able to talk through UKIFDA membership packages, learn more about the training we offer including our comprehensive driver training packages and discuss industry plans to introduce renewable liquid fuels and our Future Ready Fuel campaign.”
To find out more about this year’s virtual UKIFDA EXPO visit ukifda.org/ukifda-expo and to sign up to the exhibition visit https://whova.com/portal/registration/uaifd_202006/.
Eurotank Environmental is taking tank cleaning to the next level with the launch of an unmanned service using remote-operated robots.Investment in two Zone 0 robots enables Eurotank to offer an unmanned tank cleaning service for underground and above-ground storage tanks that is every bit as effective as manned entry.
Wrightbus, already leading the world with its pioneering hydrogen technology, today unveiled the latest addition to its zero-emission arsenal – a rapid-charge electric double-deck.
North West fuel supplier Crown Oil is now running its entire fleet on renewable diesel fuel as it commits to reduce its direct CO2 greenhouse gas emissions by 90 per cent.
The Greater Manchester business, part of the £420m-turnover Crown Oil family of companies, believes it is the first supplier in the UK to run all of its oil delivery vehicles on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO).
Crown Oil, based in Bury, has now called on the UK government to introduce tax relief on fuels such as HVO to encourage greater uptake.
The family-owned business predicts a saving of around 3,080 tonnes of CO2 in 12 months from running its 85 delivery vehicles on HVO compared to standard diesel. To put this into context, one tonne of carbon dioxide is the average emission of one passenger on a return flight between Paris and New York.
Crown’s fleet is made up of HGVs, pickups, trailers and vans which are all approved to run on HVO fuel without technical adjustments or any reduction in vehicle performance.
HVO offers a fast and simple step towards net zero without the need for electrification or vehicle modifications, reducing net CO2 emissions by 90 per cent and nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 27 per cent.
Managing director Matthew Greensmith said it was important for Crown Oil to set the standard as it aims to become the UK’s leading alternative fuels supplier. The move showcases the fuel’s ability to perform faultlessly as a diesel alternative, he said, and will enable the business to significantly reduce its direct greenhouse gas emissions.
Matthew said: “We can’t expect others to make a change without leading by example, and we’re proud to run our entire fleet on HVO.
“We believe we’re currently the first and only UK supplier to power our vehicles with the renewable diesel and we hope it encourages businesses to go green with their fleets too.”
Since heavily investing in HVO in 2018, Crown’s customers have saved 18,945 tonnes of CO2 by switching over to the renewable diesel. Crown HVO can be used in vehicles, commercial boilers (running on gas oil), tractors, generators, machinery and inland waterway vessels.
The oil supplier is pioneering change within the industry and has called on the UK government to follow the example of Sweden by introducing duty relief on fuels such as HVO to encourage uptake.
Matthew added: “When it comes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, we hope the government will adopt a multi-point strategy to include the use of high-content renewable fuels in addition to the development of the electric vehicle market.
“In 2017, the Swedish government passed a bill that enabled biofuels to be subject to tax exemption, which led to a 124% increase in HVO sales in October 2017 compared with the previous year.
“The UK government is planning to scrap red diesel duty relief for many sectors from 1 April 2022 to encourage the use of cleaner alternatives and we are calling for duty relief on fuels such as HVO to help encourage uptake.”
In May this year, the Clipper Freeport – a VLGC (Very Large Gas Carrier which can carry approx. 44,000 mts of LPG) carrying LPG from the Phillips 66 Freeport LPG Export Terminal on the Gulf of Mexico, docked at Immingham Port on England’s east coast.
Chartered by Phillips 66 since its maiden voyage in 2017, the Clipper Freeport was the first-ever VLGC to enter Immingham – the largest vessel to enter the Port.
A complex operation made possible by a seamless collaborative effort between London Commercial, Humber caverns and APT/ABP – the two-port schedule saw 25 KMT of refrigerated propane successfully discharged before heading to Europe for its second discharge.
Measuring 230.11 metres in length with a 32-metre breadth and a 11.5 metre draft, the vessel is so vast that Phillips 66 had to have a new gangway constructed.
Paul Turner, Phillips 66 Limited LPG sales manager in the UK made his way to Immingham Caverns to welcome the Clipper Freeport and was invited onboard to check out this monumental supertanker: “The Clipper Freeport really is an immensely impressive vessel and equally so when on board. Apart from the sheer scale, what struck me most about this world-class LPG carrier is how immaculate every part of the ship is – considering the nature of her operations. An extraordinary environment managed and maintained by an expert, dedicated crew. They even have a basketball court on deck!”
Whilst LPG is primarily produced and supplied into the UK market by Phillips 66 Limited’s Humber facility, it is supplemented by imported propane to meet increasing customer demand.
The Tank Storage Association (TSA) has published its 2021 Annual Review of the UK’s bulk liquid storage sector. The review contains key data and information on terminals, process safety, occupational health and safety as well as on the industry’s contribution to the UK economy.
Peter Davidson, executive director of the Tank Storage Association, said: “I am pleased to launch the sixth edition of TSA’s Annual Review. The review continues to provide a comprehensive and timely insight into the bulk liquid storage sector in the UK. In addition to valuable industry data and information, this year’s report shines a light on the sector’s commitment to attract, develop and retain the next generation of talent. As we look ahead, it is clear to us that investing in the next generation today will ensure our sector continues to go from strength to strength.”
For an electronic copy of the 2021 Annual Review, click here.
Employees of Grangemouth based Rix Petroleum will begin the eight-mile-long climb and descent of Ben Nevis on Saturday 3rd July, raising £2000 for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.
The foundation supports people with motor neuron disease (MND) and is named after former Scottish rugby player Doddie Weir, who was himself diagnosed with MND.
Having always wanted to climb the iconic peak, Gail Fawcett, business unit manager at Rix Petroleum, came up with the idea and roped in colleagues Lisa Welsh, Ian Patterson, Ross MacRae, Paul Graham and Connor O’Hagen to join her in the challenge, along with more friends and family members.
Rix Petroleum started supporting the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation earlier this year. The charity’s two main objectives are to raise funds to invest into MND research and support people living with the condition to have as full a life as possible.
Gail said: “Ben Nevis is a true Scottish icon and so is Doddie Weir. They’re both giants in their own right. So, when it came to raising money for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, summiting the UK’s highest peak seemed like the only appropriate thing to do. Plus, I’ve always wanted to climb it, so it was too good an opportunity to miss.
“We’ve all started training and with just a couple of weeks to go, the excitement is building. I think we can do it in around eight hours, but other members of the team are thinking a bit quicker, so there could be a bit of competition on the day.”
UKIFDA has revealed it will be donating £2,000 to National Energy Action (NEA) from the proceeds of this year’s UKIFDA EXPO and Future Fuels conference being held on 7-8 July.
“We are delighted to announce our plans to donate £2,000 to NEA from the profits of our UKIFDA EXPO 2021,” says Ken Cronin, UKIFDA chief executive.
The 2021 winner of the prestigious ‘Driver of the Year’ award will, this year, be presented at a virtual ceremony during UKIFDA EXPO 2021 and Future Fuels on 7-8th July 2021. As well as the coveted title the winner will also receive £1000 prize money and certificate and, most importantly, the recognition of the industry in a year of unprecedented challenges that has seen many of the industry’s drivers go well beyond the ‘extra mile’ on behalf of their customers and colleagues. Sponsored by OAMPS – the specialist insurance advisor to the hazardous fuels and environmental industries – the 2021 Driver of the Year Award will celebrate the best UKIFDA member drivers in the industry.
Redruth-based Mitchell and Webber, the first company in the UK to put HVO fuel to the test during the successful trials started last November, has supplied the renewable hydrotreated vegetable oil to heat a primary school in Gwinear.
Mitchell and Webber director John Weedon commented: “We all appreciate the need to help the environment as a priority and these trials are to ensure the fuel will work well when converting existing set-ups.
“We are pleased that only a low-cost conversion is needed in many cases and so far tests are extremely promising with all boilers performing well.”
Gwinear Community Primary School is the first in the country to use the renewable liquid fuel. Head teacher, Lee Gardiner, said: “Since our school is such a historic building it is extremely difficult to insulate using more modern techniques. Installing a completely new system would likely be disruptive to daily school life and could possibly damage such an important structure.
“So when I saw the success of Mitchell and Webber’s HVO conversions in other settings across Cornwall, I knew I had found the perfect option for Gwinear.”
Local MP and Secretary of State for environment, food and rural affairs, George Eustice, said on visiting the school: “It could be a very important stepping stone on the way to net zero in rural areas like this.
“There are a lot of people still reliant on old oil-fired boilers and this is a more environmentally-friendly fuel.
“They’re getting good results on boilers large and small.”
Fuel Oil News looks forward to seeing more success stories highlighting the positive future for alternative liquid fuels.