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Estonia Choosing Site For Nuclear Power Plant With Ge Hitachi Reactors

Estonia Choosing Site For Nuclear Power Plant With Ge Hitachi ReactorsEstonia energy company Fermi Energia has begun the site selection process for that country’s first nuclear power plant, more than a decade after government officials initially approved construction of a reactor. Fermi Energia on Jan. 14 announced the company has submitted an application to the Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications to begin the state spatial planning process for a 600-MW nuclear power plant. The power station, which would feature two GE Hitachi BWRX-300 small modular reactors (SMRs), is part of the European country’s plan to develop more energy infrastructure. “A state spatial plan is essential for identifying the optimal nuclear power plant location that aligns with both technical requirements and community interests,” said Fermi Energia CEO Kalev Kallemets. “While initiating this planning process doesn’t guarantee construction, it establishes the foundation for future decision-making. Recent trends in electricity consumption underscore Estonia’s need for reliable, controllable energy capacity to ensure system stability and maintain competitive electricity prices in the coming decades.” Estonia’s government approved an energy development plan in 2009, and officials in 2011 said they wanted a nuclear power plant operating by 2023. The government in 2020 created the Nuclear Energy Program Implementing Organization, NEPIO, a group responsible for assessing the prospects for nuclear power and providing the framework of a nuclear power program by the end of 2023. This is an artist’s rendering of a proposed 600-MW nuclear power plant that would be built by Fermi Energia in Estonia. Construction of the project is expected to be completed no later than 2035. Source: Fermi Energia Much of the country’s current power generation comes from burning oil shale and fuel oils. The country is home to the Narva Power Plants, part of a power generation complex in and near Narva, which is near the Russian border. The complex includes the world’s two largest oil shale-fired thermal power plants, Eesti Power Plant (Eesti Elektrijaam) and Balti Power Plant (Balti Elektrijaam). Fermi Energia on Tuesday said the company has conducted information sessions in at least 15 communities over the past six year to determine the best site for a nuclear power facility. The company said the authorities in the towns of Viru-Nigula and Lüganuse “have formally agreed to participate in the spatial planning process, with decisions made on September 28, 2023, and March 28, 2024, respectively.” GE Hitachi Energy’s 300-MW BWRX small modular reactor features an innovative and simplified configuration, resulting in less concrete and steel needed for construction. The company has said it can be used for power generation for industrial applications, including hydrogen production, desalination, and district heating. Source: GE Hitachi Officials said the nuclear power project would have three phases. Site pre-selection will begin this year, continuing to 2027, and include a “comprehensive evaluation of potential locations,” focusing “on areas near Kunda in Viru-Nigula County and Aa village in Lüganuse County,” and considering “population density and environmental preservation.” Fermi Energia hopes to confirm a site sometime between 2027 and 2029, and submit an application to obtain necessary construction permits in 2029. The current timeline calls for construction to begin in 2031, with the first reactor operational by in the second half of 2035. The two GE Hitachi BWRX-300 SMRs would be “designed to meet Estonia’s minimum base load electricity requirements,” according to Fermi Energia. The company said the nuclear power generation capacity would support the country’s existing and planned renewable energy resources. —Darrell Proctor is a senior editor for POWER.

14 January 2025

Germany: Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners Launches 800Mw Green Hydrogen Project In Northern Germany

Energypedia News

Germany: Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners Launches 800Mw Green Hydrogen Project In Northern GermanyCopenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), through its Energy Transition Fund (CI ETF I), and Friesen Elektra Green Energy have initiated project Anker, a green hydrogen production facility in Sande, Germany. The project is scheduled to have an electrolysis capacity of 400 MW with plans to expand capacity to 800 MW at a later stage. Project Anker is strategically located near Wilhelmshaven, an important energy and industrial hub, and near the future German hydrogen core network. It is projected to produce 80,000 tons of green hydrogen annually which will benefit key German industries, including steel and chemicals, as well as the transport sector. The project will bolster the regional economy in Lower Saxony by creating new jobs, growth and fostering active community engagement. Project Anker will be powered by renewable energy from the grid, supported by offshore and onshore wind, as well as solar energy. By substituting fossil fuels with green hydrogen, the project can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 2.4 million tons annually, equivalent to the emissions of approximately 340,000 households. 'Project Anker has the potential to make an important contribution to Germany’s journey towards a carbon-neutral future. At CIP, we continue to see a large potential in green hydrogen despite slower than expected market development and we remain committed to investments in large-scale renewable infrastructure solutions to decarbonize energy-intensive industries. We look very much forward to bring the project to realization together with our new partners at Friesen Elektra and to a constructive collaboration with the German authorities.' said Felix Pahl, Partner at CIP. 'We are delighted to welcome CIP and its highly skilled, experienced team as a strategic investor and development partner in our Hydrogen Park Friesland. This collaboration is a major step towards creating one of Germany’s premier hydrogen production sites. Together, we aim to accelerate the energy transition and advance decarbonization by leveraging our combined strengths and expertise,' said Christian Gätje, CFO of Friesen Elektra. CIP’s Energy Transition Fund I (CI ETF I) is the largest dedicated greenfield green hydrogen fund worldwide. CI ETF I has built a market leading portfolio of Power-to-X projects, with around 6.5 GW of electrolyser capacity in its development portfolio globally. About Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners Founded in 2012, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners P/S (CIP) today is the world’s largest dedicated fund manager within greenfield renewable energy investments and a global leader in offshore wind. The funds managed by CIP focus on investments in offshore and onshore wind, solar PV, biomass and energy-from-waste, transmission and distribution, reserve capacity, storage, advanced bioenergy, and Power-to-X. Original announcement link Source: CIP

15 January 2025

Kmrl Aims To Replicate Water Metro In 18 Locations Across India.

Kmrl Aims To Replicate Water Metro In 18 Locations Across India.Following the success of the Kochi Water Metro, Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) is working on replicating the eco-friendly water transport system in 18 locations across India. KMRL, which operates and maintains the Kochi Water Metro, has been tasked by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways to conduct a feasibility study for implementing similar systems in various regions. To lead this initiative, KMRL's Board of Directors recently approved the formation of a consultancy wing, and an in-house committee has been set up to guide the preliminary work. External experts will be consulted if necessary, the company said in a statement on Saturday. This expansion of the Water Metro model is seen as a significant recognition of Kerala's innovation and KMRL’s expertise. The Kochi Water Metro, known for its modern facilities and eco-friendly design, has set a new standard for urban water transport, comparable to metro rail systems. The feasibility study will explore the potential for water metro services in areas with rivers, lakes, backwaters, and coastal regions. Possible locations for the service include Guwahati’s Brahmaputra River, Jammu and Kashmir’s Dal Lake, and the island connections in Andaman and Lakshadweep, along with other cities such as Ahmedabad, Surat, Mangaluru, Ayodhya, Dhubri, Goa, Kollam, Kolkata, Patna, Prayagraj, Srinagar, Varanasi, Mumbai, Kochi, and Vasai. Based on the study's outcomes, KMRL will move forward with preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the most suitable locations. The initiative is part of a broader effort to harness water bodies for sustainable urban transport and aims to revolutionize mobility across the country, highlighting Kerala's leadership in sustainable development and modern transport innovation.

13 January 2025

Bhp And Lundin Mining Finalise Key Copper Acquisitions

Australian Mining

Bhp And Lundin Mining Finalise Key Copper AcquisitionsBHP and Lundin Mining have completed their joint $CAD4 billion ($4.48 billion) acquisition of Filo Corp., a Toronto Stock Exchange-listed mining company. The acquisition’s completion means BHP and Lundin Mining now hold a 50 per cent stake in Filo Corp. and its Filo del Sol (FDS) copper project located in the Atacama region of Chile. Before the acquisition was completed, Lundin Mining owned 100 per cent of the Josemaria copper project in the Vicuña district of Argentina. BHP has now acquired a 50 per cent interest in Josemaria from Lundin Mining. The companies will now form a 50:50 joint venture (JV) encompassing the FDS and Josemaria, Vicuña Corp. It will act independently from BHP and Lundin Mining and will be responsible for the management of the projects. “BHP is pleased to be partnering with Lundin Mining in the Vicuña joint venture, an exciting new copper growth opportunity for both companies,” BHP chief executive officer Mike Henry said. “Leveraging the complementary capabilities of Lundin Mining and BHP, the development of Vicuña’s projects aims to deliver substantial value to shareholders, as well as to other stakeholders. The projects will be developed and will operate in line with international industry standards. “BHP is one of the world’s leading producers of copper, a metal essential to global economic growth, the energy transition and to the rapidly growing demand for data centres to support the harnessing of artificial intelligence.” The acquisition was first announced in July 2024. BHP paid $CAD2 billion ($2.24 billion) in cash for the Filo acquisition, or $CAD33 ($37) per Filo Corp. share, and Lundin Mining paid $CAD877.8 million ($983 million) in cash and 94.1 million Lundin Mining shares. BHP paid Lundin Mining $US690 million ($1.1 billion) for its interest in Josemaria. BHP owns and operates many prominent copper mines around the world, chief among them the Escondida mine in Chile, which is the world’s largest producer of copper concentrates and cathodes. BHP owns and operates many prominent copper mines around the world, chief among them the Escondida mine in Chile, which is the world’s largest producer of copper concentrates and cathodes. Escondida helped increase BHP’s copper production by four per cent in the September 2024 quarter. Adding FDS to its Chilean portfolio will allow BHP to grow its presence in the region and further increase its copper production, which it sees as a kingmaker commodity as nations turn to net-zero technology and a green economy. Subscribe to Australian Mining and receive the latest news on product announcements, industry developments, commodities and more.

16 January 2025

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Estonia Choosing Site For Nuclear Power Plant With Ge Hitachi Reactors

Estonia Choosing Site For Nuclear Power Plant With Ge Hitachi ReactorsEstonia energy company Fermi Energia has begun the site selection process for that country’s first nuclear power plant, more than a decade after government officials initially approved construction of a reactor. Fermi Energia on Jan. 14 announced the company has submitted an application to the Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications to begin the state spatial planning process for a 600-MW nuclear power plant. The power station, which would feature two GE Hitachi BWRX-300 small modular reactors (SMRs), is part of the European country’s plan to develop more energy infrastructure. “A state spatial plan is essential for identifying the optimal nuclear power plant location that aligns with both technical requirements and community interests,” said Fermi Energia CEO Kalev Kallemets. “While initiating this planning process doesn’t guarantee construction, it establishes the foundation for future decision-making. Recent trends in electricity consumption underscore Estonia’s need for reliable, controllable energy capacity to ensure system stability and maintain competitive electricity prices in the coming decades.” Estonia’s government approved an energy development plan in 2009, and officials in 2011 said they wanted a nuclear power plant operating by 2023. The government in 2020 created the Nuclear Energy Program Implementing Organization, NEPIO, a group responsible for assessing the prospects for nuclear power and providing the framework of a nuclear power program by the end of 2023. This is an artist’s rendering of a proposed 600-MW nuclear power plant that would be built by Fermi Energia in Estonia. Construction of the project is expected to be completed no later than 2035. Source: Fermi Energia Much of the country’s current power generation comes from burning oil shale and fuel oils. The country is home to the Narva Power Plants, part of a power generation complex in and near Narva, which is near the Russian border. The complex includes the world’s two largest oil shale-fired thermal power plants, Eesti Power Plant (Eesti Elektrijaam) and Balti Power Plant (Balti Elektrijaam). Fermi Energia on Tuesday said the company has conducted information sessions in at least 15 communities over the past six year to determine the best site for a nuclear power facility. The company said the authorities in the towns of Viru-Nigula and Lüganuse “have formally agreed to participate in the spatial planning process, with decisions made on September 28, 2023, and March 28, 2024, respectively.” GE Hitachi Energy’s 300-MW BWRX small modular reactor features an innovative and simplified configuration, resulting in less concrete and steel needed for construction. The company has said it can be used for power generation for industrial applications, including hydrogen production, desalination, and district heating. Source: GE Hitachi Officials said the nuclear power project would have three phases. Site pre-selection will begin this year, continuing to 2027, and include a “comprehensive evaluation of potential locations,” focusing “on areas near Kunda in Viru-Nigula County and Aa village in Lüganuse County,” and considering “population density and environmental preservation.” Fermi Energia hopes to confirm a site sometime between 2027 and 2029, and submit an application to obtain necessary construction permits in 2029. The current timeline calls for construction to begin in 2031, with the first reactor operational by in the second half of 2035. The two GE Hitachi BWRX-300 SMRs would be “designed to meet Estonia’s minimum base load electricity requirements,” according to Fermi Energia. The company said the nuclear power generation capacity would support the country’s existing and planned renewable energy resources. —Darrell Proctor is a senior editor for POWER.

Germany: Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners Launches 800Mw Green Hydrogen Project In Northern Germany

Energypedia News

Germany: Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners Launches 800Mw Green Hydrogen Project In Northern GermanyCopenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), through its Energy Transition Fund (CI ETF I), and Friesen Elektra Green Energy have initiated project Anker, a green hydrogen production facility in Sande, Germany. The project is scheduled to have an electrolysis capacity of 400 MW with plans to expand capacity to 800 MW at a later stage. Project Anker is strategically located near Wilhelmshaven, an important energy and industrial hub, and near the future German hydrogen core network. It is projected to produce 80,000 tons of green hydrogen annually which will benefit key German industries, including steel and chemicals, as well as the transport sector. The project will bolster the regional economy in Lower Saxony by creating new jobs, growth and fostering active community engagement. Project Anker will be powered by renewable energy from the grid, supported by offshore and onshore wind, as well as solar energy. By substituting fossil fuels with green hydrogen, the project can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 2.4 million tons annually, equivalent to the emissions of approximately 340,000 households. 'Project Anker has the potential to make an important contribution to Germany’s journey towards a carbon-neutral future. At CIP, we continue to see a large potential in green hydrogen despite slower than expected market development and we remain committed to investments in large-scale renewable infrastructure solutions to decarbonize energy-intensive industries. We look very much forward to bring the project to realization together with our new partners at Friesen Elektra and to a constructive collaboration with the German authorities.' said Felix Pahl, Partner at CIP. 'We are delighted to welcome CIP and its highly skilled, experienced team as a strategic investor and development partner in our Hydrogen Park Friesland. This collaboration is a major step towards creating one of Germany’s premier hydrogen production sites. Together, we aim to accelerate the energy transition and advance decarbonization by leveraging our combined strengths and expertise,' said Christian Gätje, CFO of Friesen Elektra. CIP’s Energy Transition Fund I (CI ETF I) is the largest dedicated greenfield green hydrogen fund worldwide. CI ETF I has built a market leading portfolio of Power-to-X projects, with around 6.5 GW of electrolyser capacity in its development portfolio globally. About Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners Founded in 2012, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners P/S (CIP) today is the world’s largest dedicated fund manager within greenfield renewable energy investments and a global leader in offshore wind. The funds managed by CIP focus on investments in offshore and onshore wind, solar PV, biomass and energy-from-waste, transmission and distribution, reserve capacity, storage, advanced bioenergy, and Power-to-X. Original announcement link Source: CIP

Kmrl Aims To Replicate Water Metro In 18 Locations Across India.

Kmrl Aims To Replicate Water Metro In 18 Locations Across India.Following the success of the Kochi Water Metro, Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) is working on replicating the eco-friendly water transport system in 18 locations across India. KMRL, which operates and maintains the Kochi Water Metro, has been tasked by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways to conduct a feasibility study for implementing similar systems in various regions. To lead this initiative, KMRL's Board of Directors recently approved the formation of a consultancy wing, and an in-house committee has been set up to guide the preliminary work. External experts will be consulted if necessary, the company said in a statement on Saturday. This expansion of the Water Metro model is seen as a significant recognition of Kerala's innovation and KMRL’s expertise. The Kochi Water Metro, known for its modern facilities and eco-friendly design, has set a new standard for urban water transport, comparable to metro rail systems. The feasibility study will explore the potential for water metro services in areas with rivers, lakes, backwaters, and coastal regions. Possible locations for the service include Guwahati’s Brahmaputra River, Jammu and Kashmir’s Dal Lake, and the island connections in Andaman and Lakshadweep, along with other cities such as Ahmedabad, Surat, Mangaluru, Ayodhya, Dhubri, Goa, Kollam, Kolkata, Patna, Prayagraj, Srinagar, Varanasi, Mumbai, Kochi, and Vasai. Based on the study's outcomes, KMRL will move forward with preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the most suitable locations. The initiative is part of a broader effort to harness water bodies for sustainable urban transport and aims to revolutionize mobility across the country, highlighting Kerala's leadership in sustainable development and modern transport innovation.

Bhp And Lundin Mining Finalise Key Copper Acquisitions

Australian Mining

Bhp And Lundin Mining Finalise Key Copper AcquisitionsBHP and Lundin Mining have completed their joint $CAD4 billion ($4.48 billion) acquisition of Filo Corp., a Toronto Stock Exchange-listed mining company. The acquisition’s completion means BHP and Lundin Mining now hold a 50 per cent stake in Filo Corp. and its Filo del Sol (FDS) copper project located in the Atacama region of Chile. Before the acquisition was completed, Lundin Mining owned 100 per cent of the Josemaria copper project in the Vicuña district of Argentina. BHP has now acquired a 50 per cent interest in Josemaria from Lundin Mining. The companies will now form a 50:50 joint venture (JV) encompassing the FDS and Josemaria, Vicuña Corp. It will act independently from BHP and Lundin Mining and will be responsible for the management of the projects. “BHP is pleased to be partnering with Lundin Mining in the Vicuña joint venture, an exciting new copper growth opportunity for both companies,” BHP chief executive officer Mike Henry said. “Leveraging the complementary capabilities of Lundin Mining and BHP, the development of Vicuña’s projects aims to deliver substantial value to shareholders, as well as to other stakeholders. The projects will be developed and will operate in line with international industry standards. “BHP is one of the world’s leading producers of copper, a metal essential to global economic growth, the energy transition and to the rapidly growing demand for data centres to support the harnessing of artificial intelligence.” The acquisition was first announced in July 2024. BHP paid $CAD2 billion ($2.24 billion) in cash for the Filo acquisition, or $CAD33 ($37) per Filo Corp. share, and Lundin Mining paid $CAD877.8 million ($983 million) in cash and 94.1 million Lundin Mining shares. BHP paid Lundin Mining $US690 million ($1.1 billion) for its interest in Josemaria. BHP owns and operates many prominent copper mines around the world, chief among them the Escondida mine in Chile, which is the world’s largest producer of copper concentrates and cathodes. BHP owns and operates many prominent copper mines around the world, chief among them the Escondida mine in Chile, which is the world’s largest producer of copper concentrates and cathodes. Escondida helped increase BHP’s copper production by four per cent in the September 2024 quarter. Adding FDS to its Chilean portfolio will allow BHP to grow its presence in the region and further increase its copper production, which it sees as a kingmaker commodity as nations turn to net-zero technology and a green economy. Subscribe to Australian Mining and receive the latest news on product announcements, industry developments, commodities and more.

Thane’S Highway Upgrade: A Solution For Bhiwandi’S Congested Roads?

financial express

Thane’S Highway Upgrade: A Solution For Bhiwandi’S Congested Roads?Thane’s traffic woes may soon be alleviated with the ongoing expansion of the Vadpe-Majiwada stretch of the Old Mumbai-Nashik Highway. The project aims to revamp this 23.8 km stretch into a modern eight-lane highway, complete with two-lane service roads on either side, and features ten strategically placed underpasses to ease congestion, reported Indian Express. According to the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), these underpasses are a critical part of the plan to tackle the persistent traffic snarls caused by heavy commercial vehicles from Bhiwandi’s sprawling warehouses. With goods trucks clogging the highway daily, commuters face severe delays and frustration. The ten underpasses, set for completion by May, will be located at key points including Walshin, Sonale, Kharegaon, Yewali Flyover, Saravali, Pimplas, Ovali, Mankoli Motagaon, Dive Gaon near the Petrol Pump, and Dive. These new underpasses, spanning 8 km, are expected to greatly improve traffic flow and reduce the gridlock that often chokes this vital stretch of road. In addition to the underpasses, the project also includes the construction of major bridges and flyovers, including the Kasheli Creek Bridge (817.5 meters), Kalwa Creek Bridge (199 meters), Vadpe Flyover (320 meters), and a Railway Bridge (84.15 meters). This upgrade is complemented by the nearing completion of the Samruddhi Mahamarg expressway, which will connect Igatpuri to Thane. The final 76-km stretch of this 701-km project will include a 4.2-km spur linking to the under-construction Mumbai-Vadodara Expressway. Set to finish by the end of January, this spur will drastically reduce travel time between Mumbai and Nagpur. The Samruddhi Mahamarg’s engineering marvel includes a challenging six-story-high slope, where controlled blasting has been used to level the terrain. With 98% of the work complete, this connection will further enhance connectivity and reduce traffic on the Old Mumbai-Nashik Highway. Both the Samruddhi Mahamarg and the Vadpe-Majiwada highway expansion are expected to not only ease congestion but also boost economic activity. The high-speed design and planned amenities are set to improve commuter convenience while driving economic growth along the corridor. MSRDC officials believe these projects will play a pivotal role in the region’s transportation and economic future.

Lner Unveils ‘Darlington’ Livery As Its Celebrates 200 Years Of The Railway

Rail Business Daily

Lner Unveils ‘Darlington’ Livery As Its Celebrates 200 Years Of The RailwayTo kick off a year of celebrations, LNER has unveiled a commemorative livery on one of its Azuma trains to mark 200 years since the first passenger journey on the world-famous Stockton & Darlington Railway (S&DR). ‘Darlington’ has been designed to hail the town’s world-changing contribution to the railway throughout the years and showcases significant events and landmarks from its history. Included on the striking livery is Locomotion No.1, the first locomotive to haul passengers on the S&DR, the first edition of the Northern Echo, published in Darlington and the UK’s first truly national newspaper, Hopetown, the Darlington railway museum located on the grounds of the former S&DR works; capped off with an LNER Azuma train and the design of the new entrance to the station. In a special event at Darlington station, the train’s livery was unveiled with help from Voices of Darlington Choir and Durham singer-songwriter Sam Slatcher who performed his composition inspired by the Stockton & Darlington Railway. The station, which is managed by LNER, has also been decorated to remind the millions of customers that pass through it each year of this special anniversary. David Horne, Managing Director at LNER, said: “This is an exciting year for the rail industry as we mark the bicentenary of the mammoth impact from the first passenger journey on the Stockton & Darlington Railway. “LNER is delighted to play its own part in celebrating this huge milestone by dedicating the livery of one of our Azuma trains to the town of Darlington, its history and heritage. “200 years ago, this railway line sparked a world-wide change, and we feel proud and privileged that, today, LNER connects millions of customers to Darlington and over 50 other destinations across the East Coast Main Line and beyond.” The S&DR Rail Heritage Partnership Chair, Reuben Kench said: “I’m thrilled that this new livery will be seen by thousands of people as the train passes through many destinations along LNER’s East Coast route, including Darlington. “We are proud to be working with LNER throughout this momentous year and the design on their Azuma train is a great way of highlighting the Stockton & Darlington Railway bicentenary. LNER are a major partner in our 9-month celebration of the role the region played in the birth of modern railways. The new livery has been applied to unit 801207 and will operate its first passenger service from King’s Cross to Edinburgh on Tuesday evening (14 January). S&DR200 Festival runs between March and November 2025 at various locations across County Durham and Tees Valley in 2025. S&DR200 is delivered by Darlington Borough Council, Durham County Council and Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council. www.sdr200.co.uk

Atl Remains World’S Busiest Airport

AIRPORTS INTERNATIONAL

Atl Remains World’S Busiest AirportIn its annual ranking of the world’s busiest airports, OAG revealed that in 2024, four of the busiest airports were in North America, three in Asia, two in Europe and one in the Middle East. The greatest increase in capacity was shown by Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), which recorded 29% year-on-year growth. ATL continues to lead as the world’s busiest global (international and domestic capacity) airport with 62.7 million seats. Capacity at ATL has increased by 2% compared to 2023 but is still 1% below 2019 levels. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is second busiest and also the leader in international capacity, increasing seats by 7% year-on-year to 6.2 million. Tokyo Haneda (HND) is in third place, with 55.2 million seats, a 5% increase on 2023, followed by London Heathrow (LHR). Heathrow had 51.5M seats and is the busiest airport in Europe, followed by Istanbul (IST) and Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG). In the US, Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) and Denver International (DEN) have boosted their capacities by 18% and 24% respectively, putting them in fifth and sixth places. China’s Guangzhou Baiyun International (CAN) and Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) take seventh and ninth positions, as China’s air capacity continues to recover from the impacts of the global pandemic. PVG is the fastest growing Top 10 airport, its capacity growth of 29% propelling it from 15th to 9th position over the year. Istanbul Airport (IST) moves up to eighth place, reflecting its growing importance as a global hub. OAG chief analyst John Grant said of the findings: “With growth across all regions of the world, the ten busiest airports once again reflect the strong recovery in the aviation sector in the last two years. From the successes in Dallas Ft Worth and Guangzhou to the more recent rapid recovery in capacity at Shanghai Pudong, airlines continue to power ahead with new routes and services despite the supply chain challenges of the post pandemic world.”

Safe Sts Drives Safety Step-Change Within Ship-To-Ship Lightering Of Crude Oil

Hellenic shipping news

Safe Sts Drives Safety Step-Change Within Ship-To-Ship Lightering Of Crude Oilin International Shipping News 16/01/2025 As global demand for crude oil continues, ship-to-ship (STS) transfer operations remain an essential link in the energy supply chain and associated industries. These operations do however present unique challenges, including the potential for spills and physical risk to personnel during transfer as well as damage to the transfer equipment itself. Whilst such risks to the crew, environment and equipment assets have always existed and been managed within the framework of OCIMF guidelines, the global STS market has expanded significantly over the course of this century. New offshore locations and new jurisdictions have opened up for this service, and many new entrants have begun to operate within them. Modern offshore STS operations strive for continuous improvement within risk management, looking to deliver tangibly safer and more sustainable practices. This has been the driver of the adaptation by global STS service provider Safe STS of technological capabilities which can typically be seen in such sectors as LNG ship-to-ship operations. Already Adopted and In Service Already successfully integrated into hundreds of offshore STS operations and mandated by a growing number of jurisdictions and oil majors, the Protected Transfer System (PTX) is a joint development between Safe STS and Gall Thomson. Pooling the marine experience of Safe STS across thousands of such operations since 2009 and the engineering expertise of Gall Thomson world-famous for its Field Verified Marine Breakaway Coupling technology, the PTX represents a significant advancement in the safe handling of crude oil transfer at sea. Zero-Spill Design The PTX’s cutting-edge sealing mechanisms instantly close during a breakaway, creating a tight seal to prevent crude oil from escaping. This guarantees a no-spill environment, aligning with stricter global environmental standards and protecting marine ecosystems. Quick and Simple to Integrate At its core, the PTX ensures safe, rapid, on-demand remote disconnection during the side-by-side transfer of crude oil. It is speedily and easily integrated into existing STS systems and processes. The PTX Release is mobilised on its own lightweight skid and installed within a few minutes via straightforward ratchet camlocks between the transfer hose and the vessel manifold. Its transportability significantly enhances ease of cross-operational use, whilst also allowing for permanent deck installation where desired due to its compact on-deck footprint. Speedy and Safe to Activate and Reset In emergency scenarios, the PTX ensures a rapid, on-demand release which is activated remotely through a Reflex High-Pressure Unit (HPU). This deck control minimizes the potential for environmental damage, shortens response times in critical situations, and keeps all personnel at a safe distance. It also prevents hose rupture or manifold damage during unintentional breakaway events. Delivering Commercial Benefits On Top There are not simply safety and environmental benefits here: the PTX also protects high-value transfer assets – equipment which would take considerable trouble and expense to replace, with all the associated operational downtime on top of the intrinsic cost of equipment substitution. The deployment of the PTX allows for the swiftest possible resumption of operations after activation, using all the same equipment. Once activated, the PTX can be reset within around 30 minutes – so well within the time window for restart of operations once separation has been deemed necessary and it has been activated. Whilst the PTX delivers greater operator safety and stakeholder peace of mind from the first day of integration, it will also very likely pay for itself the first time its button is ever pressed. Industry Implications By addressing the three pillars of maximising operational efficiency as well as ensuring personnel safety and environmental protection, the PTX represents a step-change in the risk profile of the STS lightering of crude oil – whilst also delivering commercial return on investment when activated. It uses existing, proven, easily integrated technology to make operations safer. It has already been adopted / mandated by high-profile stakeholders within the industry and is now set to roll out globally via Safe STS. With the development of this failsafe release, Safe STS and Gall Thomson have together not only advanced maritime safety but have also set a Q2 21st century benchmark for the responsible handling at sea of crude oil. Source: Safe STS Ltd.

New Us Manufacturing Lighthouses: So That Happened

New Us Manufacturing Lighthouses: So That HappenedEditor’s note: Welcome to So That Happened, our editors’ takes on things going on in the manufacturing world that deserve some extra attention. This will appear regularly in the Member’s Only section of the site.

Excavations Progress Rapidly At Mukaab, Saudi Arabia'S Monumental Cubed Skyscraper

Excavations Progress Rapidly At Mukaab, Saudi Arabia'S Monumental Cubed SkyscraperSaudi Arabia’s ambitious New Murabba project, announced last year by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), continues its rapid transformation as it moves closer to becoming the world’s largest modern downtown. At the core of megapolis development sits the Mukaab, a cube-shaped skyscraper large enough to fit 20 Empire State Buildings and rising 400 meters high against the skyline. Integrated with immersive digital and virtual technologies, it is slated to become one of the largest built structures in the world upon completion. Recent reports reveal significant progress for the broader masterplan in Riyadh, with 86% of the excavation now complete. Over 10 million cubic meters of earth have been moved in preparation for the monumental structure and its surrounding podium sites. In keeping with the project’s focus on sustainability, the excavation process has been managed with aims to reduce the impact on local infrastructure. A crucial aspect of this effort is the construction of a temporary bridge over King Khalid Road, which is projected to eliminate approximately 800,000 truck movements on public roads, drastically minimizing disruption to the surrounding area. Read designboom’s previous coverage here. recent reports reveal significant progress on-site | all images courtesy of Public Investment Fund Riyadh’s New Murabba mega project was initially announced by HRH Mohammad bin Salman as an initiative of the Saudi Vision 2030 strategy, led by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) authorities. The destination is envisioned to become an iconic global destination while fostering sustainable urban growth. Spanning two million square meters of cultural, commercial, and residential space, the project includes over 104,000 residential units, 620,000 square meters of leisure facilities, and 1.8 million square meters dedicated to community spaces. Anchored by its futuristic vision, New Murabba will create 334,000 jobs and add SAR180 billion (£40 billion) to the country’s non-oil GDP, positioning Riyadh as a leading global hub for innovation and tourism. The anchoring Mukaab skyscraper, architecturally inspired by a modern interpretation of Najdi design elements, will become the world’s first immersive destination offering a futuristic hospitality experience realized with digital and virtual technology. Inside, it will comprise a futuristic amalgamation of modern day luxuries including fine dining restaurants, retail, and residential living, marked by a monumental towering spiral structure composed of stacked organic forms. The outer dome of the atrium encompassing the tower will be fitted with cutting-edge holographics and virtual reality screens, reflecting surreal, scenic vistas to transport visitors and locals into a ‘gateway to another world.’ New Murabba downtown will be ‘the new face of Riyadh’ the Mukaab skyscraper anchors the new modern downtown development New Murabba forms part of the Saudi Vision 2030 strategy

Don’T Look For Work On New Chicago Bears Stadium This Year

football stadium digest

Don’T Look For Work On New Chicago Bears Stadium This YearDon’t look for a finalized plan for a new Chicago Bears stadium in 2025, as the team is facing multiple challenges on the financing front as well as community issues with the proposed location next to Soldier Field. The Bears have been analyzing the stadium issue for years and years, with opening discussions occurring well before 2020’s COVID crisis. Along the way we’ve seen plenty of proposals, including a dome built over Soldier Field as well as proposed locations at the former Arlington International Racetrack (still a contender, apparently, after the city and the team came to an agreement on property tax rates) as well as Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood. The current proposal for a new Chicago Bears stadium calls for a new fixed-roof facility built next to Soldier Field, which would be torn down in favor of 14 acres of athletic fields and recreational park space. The modern design from Manica would feature a translucent roof combined with a climate-controlled interior and an open view to the breathtaking downtown Chicago timeline. According to the team, the plan features a three-acre promenade and plaza area that could include year-round food and beverage outlets, retail shops, a cultural attraction focused on sports and Soldier Field history.  A publicly owned hotel could also be included on the recreation and cultural campus. All in all, 70 acres of public parkland would be diverted to the stadium site, with Soldier Field torn down, with Super Bowls and NCAA Final Fours on the agenda. The Bears say they’ll bear the majority of the cost of a new $5-billion stadium and are asking the state for $1.5-billion in public infrastructure spending. But Lee Bey, architecture columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times, doesn’t see much progress on the project during the 2025 Illinois legislative session: “It’s a bad idea all around. Who, besides the Bears, wants to see public money thrown around like that, especially in these economically lean times for state and local government?” And, inevitably, Chicago lakeshore advocates and the influential Friends of the Parks aren’t thrilled by a football stadium taking up valuable real estate in a congested area. Soldier Field is part of a civic campus that’s mostly occupied by public amenities like the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium and the Adler Planetarium. The Bears share Soldier Field with MLS’s Chicago Fire, and a Bears game day represents huge issues for museum attendees (i.e., lots of families and tourists); the parking ramps and street parking are taken over by Bears fans, leading to some huge traffic jams in the area. “The Bears have been proud to call Chicago home for more than 100 years,” said Bears chairman George McCaskey in a press release. “Perhaps no other sports team embodies the character of the city it represents better than the Bears and Chicago. Our founder, George Halas, emphasized the importance of being a champion for Chicago. This has been part of the foundation of our organization. That is why we are excited to invest in the greatest city in the world through a stadium project and site improvements that will benefit Chicagoans and visitors.” Of course, Halas never embraced Soldier Field: the Bears moved there in 1971 only after the NFL mandated teams play in a stadium holding more than 50,000. (Wrigley Field, the team’s home since the move to Chicago for the 1921 season after playing 1920 as the Decatur Staleys, did not meet the NFL’s new facility guidelines after the NFL-AFL merger.) Soldier Field opened in 1924 as a huge civic facility, able to host over 100,000 fans and featuring a slew of events, including track and field, Chicago Cardinals football and large gatherings of all sorts. We’re not entirely sure Chicagoans want to see such an important part of the city’s history torn down to make way for a new Chicago Bears stadium. RELATED STORIES: Bears sign Arlington Park purchase agreement for new stadium, development; Bears eye Arlington Heights for new stadium site Renderings courtesy Chicago Bears.

Builder Selected To Deliver 25-Story Luxury Residences On The Gold Coast

Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat

Builder Selected To Deliver 25-Story Luxury Residences On The Gold CoastA builder has been selected to deliver the AU$535-million Burly Residences in North Burleigh on the Gold Coast, Australia, a 25-story project featuring 101 apartments, with balconies ranging from 17 to 106 square meters. The development designed by Koichi Takada Architects is situated on a prime double beachfront site along The Esplanade. Inspired by the natural curves of the coastline, the architecture aims to harmonize with its surroundings while promoting a subtropical lifestyle. The project’s scope expanded after DD Living acquired a neighboring site in 2022, merging it with the original lot to create an over 2000-square-meter beachfront property with 40 meters of beach frontage. According to the developer, the site amalgamation enhances the project’s impact, offering benefits to both future residents and the broader Gold Coast community. The development will have six-star amenities, including pools, a gym, a private cinema, dining facilities, and more. Initial site preparations, including groundworks and demolition, have been completed with a scheduled completion date set for 2027. Learn more at The Urban Developer.