Author Archives: Colene Woolcott

  1. Penspen Marks Record-Breaking Year in Middle East & Africa With $400m Project Wins and Investment in Local Talent

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    Global engineering and energy services consultancy Penspen has announced record-breaking performance in the Middle East & Africa, securing project management consultancy and engineering contracts worth more than $400 million so far this year. The business has delivered around 25% annual growth, fuelled by a deliberate strategic focus on the Middle East and growing momentum across Africa.

    The latest contract awards – spanning upstream and midstream oil & gas, greenfield developments, brownfield redevelopments – underline strong regional demand for Penspen’s engineering, project management, and asset integrity expertise. While the vast majority of individual client names remain confidential, the scope includes major national oil companies (NOCs) in the Middle East, with projects covering both onshore and offshore energy infrastructure. 

    Beyond its core services, Penspen is also expanding in two fast-growing areas: 

    In aviation infrastructure, the company is delivering critical fuel systems – from fuel farms and storage facilities to hydrant networks – at airports in Kuwait, Qatar, and Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport, with additional projects under way in Ethiopia and Poland, and a joint bid with Dar Al-Handasah Consultants (Shair and Partners) for the redevelopment of Damascus International Airport. 

    At the same time, Penspen is building a strong track record in energy transition, with contract awards for infrastructure repurposing for hydrogen integration, a long-range CO₂ pipeline linked to the Hail and Ghasha development, and a corrosion assessment for MASDAR’s battery energy storage system in Saudi Arabia. A team of subject matter experts (SMEs) in Abu Dhabi provides local capability, and forms part of Penspen’s global Centre of Engineering Excellence, which shares expertise from landmark hydrogen, CO₂ and green ammonia projects in Europe.

    Emirati Graduate Training Programme: Investing in Emirati talent

    Alongside commercial growth, Penspen is also reinforcing its commitment to local talent development with the relaunch of its Emirati Graduate Training Programme in the UAE.

    Originally launched nearly five years ago, the programme has evolved from a short-term placement scheme into a career development and retention pathway for Emirati engineers. The programme now supports 40+ graduates, with a target of 50+ by year-end, across key engineering and functional disciplines.

    To lead the initiative, Dr. Sameer Jalan, a recognised expert in graduate development, has been appointed as Engineering Graduate Development Manager. The 12-month programme is receiving strong client feedback for the calibre of local engineers being developed. 

    Record year for regional expansion

    Penspen’s UAE office is now its largest worldwide, with more than 850 people – 22% growth in the last year alone. Meanwhile, its Al Khobar and Al Khafji project offices in Saudi Arabia have surpassed 130 staff since opening in 2023. Across Africa, activity has also accelerated with upstream, midstream, downstream, and new energy projects awarded over the past three years.

    Neale Carter, Penspen’s Executive Vice President for Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, said: “Our incredible growth story is a testament to the dedication and focus of our talented employees, who ensure we deliver upon our commitments to our valued clients.”

    “Key to this acceleration has also been collaboration with our fellow Sidara company, Dar Al-Handasah Consultants (Shair and Partners), one of the region’s longest-established engineering consultancies. Dar’s reach and relationships across the region complement our technical capabilities, and together we can deliver best-in-class service for clients. It’s a win-win for both us and the wider Sidara collaborative.”

    Penspen’s long-term growth strategy has a strong focus on the MEA, focusing on digital technology, energy transition, and talent development.

    Carter concluded: “Looking forward, we see huge opportunity in applying digital tools to engineering and project management – improving quality, reducing costs, and raising standards across the board. Combined with our experience in energy transition, and our investment in local talent, Penspen is well placed to continue supporting the region’s energy security and sustainability goals for decades to come.

    “Our strength lies in combining deep regional presence with global expertise. The work we’ve done in Europe – developing and repurposing assets for hydrogen and CO₂ transport – is exactly the type of capability we expect to be in demand across the Middle East and Africa. We are building a bridge between proven heritage and the future of energy.”

    About Penspen 
    Penspen designs, maintains, and optimises global energy infrastructure to improve access to secure and sustainable energy for millions across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, the UK, and the US. With more than 70 years of experience in engineering, project management, asset management, and integrity services, Penspen now employs over 1,200 specialists with offices in the UK, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Latin America, and the US. 

     Penspen is part of Sidara, a global collaborative of 19,000 professionals across 60 countries offering specialist services in design, engineering, project management, sustainability consulting, and energy innovation. 

  2. Hydrogen UK Launch Driving Demand Report at Penspen Headquarters

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    Penspen hosted Hydrogen UK’s Member Briefing at the company’s 150 Holborn headquarters in London this week as the industry body launched their latest report – Driving Demand.

    The front cover of Hydrogen UK's Driving Demand Report, featuring an image of two industrial workersThe report, compiled with contributions from Hydrogen UK members, shows where hydrogen is truly needed, from steel and chemicals to aviation, and sets out the clear policy priorities for government as it works towards refreshing the UK Hydrogen Strategy.

    Though its role in decarbonising some of the hardest to abate sectors of the UK economy is well recognised, hydrogen’s ability to provide flexibility with long-term energy storage and immediate availability for offtake provides the UK with a vital opportunity within energy system resilience and security.

    Brett Ryan, Head of Policy at Hydrogen UK gave an overview of the current barriers facing the development of hydrogen projects in the UK – economics, policy uncertainty, infrastructure and technology – which make up the pillars of the latest report.

    A panel session, featuring Penspen CEO Peter O’Sullivan; Adam Baddeley, Head of Project Development at Progressive Energy; Michael Seager, Economic and Commercial Manager at Storegga, and Marian Garfield, Director of Sustainability at Heidelberg Materials, addressed some of the key topics raised in the report and  provided a key opportunity to share knowledge and experience from live projects.

    Thanks to Hydrogen UK for the opportunity to take a deeper look at the report and to drive these important conversations with industry peers.

    • Discover more about Penspen’s extensive hydrogen experience here.

  3. Penspen and United Living Seminar Delves into CO₂ Pipeline Infrastructure for Net Zero Systems

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    As a leading energy consultancy, we recognise the importance of Penspen’s engagement with industry to share our knowledge and experience from landmark energy transition projects, supporting our mission of improving access to safe and sustainable energy.

    On July 8, 2025, Penspen welcomed customers and industry peers to a technical seminar at our 150 Holborn headquarters focused on our insights and global experience with CO₂ Pipeline Infrastructure for Net Zero Systems. 

    Held in partnership with United Living Infrastructure Services, the event highlighted our companies’ work on the delivery of the first of its kind pipeline for the Liverpool Bay CCS Ltd project in the North West of England and into Wales. 

    Mike Cobble, Director – Major Projects at United Living Infrastructure Services, provided an update on the major pipeline project, highlighting the challenges of engaging more than 90 stakeholders, as well as the opportunities Liverpool Bay presents, including the creation of 300 jobs. 

    Nigel Curson, Penspen Executive Vice President of Technical Excellence then led an in-depth session on the technical and safety considerations of operating with carbon dioxide, including dealing with impurities, venting options, QRA frequencies, and the design lifespan of CO2 pipelines. Mario Karanikis and Dominic Wynne highlighted some of the key lessons learned on CO2 projects delivered by Penspen across the UK, Europe and the Middle East. 

    The event was rounded off with a stimulating Q&A session hosted by Penspen CEO Peter O’Sullivan, with emerging topics including pipeline safety, development consent order considerations, and the actions required to generate confidence for further decarbonisation projects. 

  4. Penspen Strengthens Senior Leadership with Strategic Appointments

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    Penspen has announced a series of senior appointments as part of its strategy to support continued business growth and deliver complex projects across key global markets.

    These hires – including the appointment of a new Chief Financial Officer – will play a pivotal role in enhancing Penspen’s operational capabilities and expanding its presence across the energy sector.

    The announcement comes at a significant point in the company’s growth trajectory, as Penspen delivers on major contracts such as the detailed engineering scope for the HyNet CO₂ transportation pipeline in Liverpool Bay, and a hydrogen gap analysis for the Trans Adriatic Pipeline, part of the EU’s Southern Gas Corridor.

    Penspen also recently marked a major milestone by relocating to new premises in Aberdeen to support several flagship projects.

    New Appointments

    Graeme Maude – Chief Financial Officera photo of a man wearing a suit standing in a corporate environment

    Graeme joins Penspen as CFO, based at the company’s headquarters at 150 Holborn, London.

    A Chartered Accountant, Graeme began his career with Deloitte before holding senior finance roles at multinational firms including Atlas Copco and Fullers. He then spent 25 years in the recruitment sector, starting as European CFO for US-listed staffing firm Spherion, before progressing into operational leadership roles in the UK and internationally including Singapore and Hong Kong.

    In 2019, he joined Dutch-listed energy and engineering recruiter Brunel International as Chief Operating Officer, where he led operations across the Americas, oversaw M&A activity, and shaped group strategy. His experience at Brunel sparked a deep interest in the energy sector – a key driver behind his move to Penspen.

     

     

    A man wearing glasses and a grey blazer with a blue shirt stands in front of a blurred corporate background.Chris Wood – Director of Asset Integrity (Europe)

    Chris Wood joins the Europe Leadership Team as Director of Asset Integrity, based in Penspen’s Newcastle office and reporting directly to CEO Peter O’Sullivan.

    A Chartered Mechanical Engineer with 20 years of experience, Chris has worked across the oil & gas, nuclear, and subsea sectors. His early career focused on product design and development, with a later shift toward asset integrity management, full-scale testing, and R&D.

    He joins Penspen following nine years at Rosen, where he served as Principal Engineer and Lead Process Professional. His previous roles include positions at Technip Umbilicals, FlexLife, and Soil Machine Dynamics.

     

     

    Tim Sell – Manager of Proposals (Europe)A man wearing a suit and glasses smiles at the camera. He's in a corporate environment.

    Tim brings over 25 years of experience in energy and engineering to his new role as Manager of Proposals (Europe), based at 150 Holborn. He will report to the Director of Sales & Marketing (Europe).

    Tim spent the last 12 years at Wood’s offshore and agile projects business, progressing from Information Management Department Manager to senior commercial and business management roles. He led the development and pricing of proposals ranging from £200k to over £50M for both onshore and offshore upstream assets in oil, gas, and renewables.

    Earlier in his career, Tim delivered IT projects across energy, rail, and financial services sectors, with a focus on information and document management systems and associated business change.

     

    Peter O’Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer said: “Graeme, Chris and Tim bring invaluable expertise and insight to our team, reinforcing our commitment to building a strong, forward-focused business. Penspen is delivering technically complex projects around the world and playing a key role in supporting the energy transition, which makes having the right talent, in the right place, more important than ever.

    “We’re proud to be shaping the future of energy access and sustainability for communities worldwide. As we continue to grow our team, we look forward to expanding our impact through our global practice.”

    For media enquiries, please contact: 

  5. Penspen Strengthens North-East Commitment with New Aberdeen Office as Growth Accelerates

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    New Office Investment Boosts 200-Strong Team’s Capacity to Deliver Key Energy Transition Projects

    Two men stand outside an office facility (Darren Bartlett, Penspen’s Director of EPM and Energy Transition and Grant Lunn, CEO of C&I Engineering Solutions)

    International energy consultancy Penspen has underlined its long-term commitment to the north-east of Scotland by opening a new office in Aberdeen. The move to Balmoral Business Park in Altens marks a major milestone in the company’s regional growth and brings together the expertise of Penspen and C&I Engineering Solutions, which it acquired in October 2024.

    The new office at Building One, three miles south of the city centre, provides a modern, well-connected base for more than 200 specialist engineers. It supports Penspen’s growing pipeline of energy security and energy transition projects, while also creating space for future expansion. From the new base, Penspen’s team in the north-east will deliver several flagship projects, including:

    These projects reflect Penspen’s dual focus on energy security and infrastructure repurposing to support hydrogen and CO₂ integration — a strategic priority for many of its global clients.

    Darren Bartlett, Director of Engineering and Energy Transition at Penspen, said: “Aberdeen is a critical hub for us — a region where we have deep roots and long-standing relationships with key clients. This move reflects both our history in the north-east and our ongoing commitment to its future.

    “Bringing the Penspen and C&I Engineering Solutions teams together under one purpose-built roof will strengthen collaboration and further enhance the service we deliver to our clients.”

    The Altens site will also support delivery of Penspen’s new training courses on repurposing infrastructure for hydrogen, as well as CO₂ capture and transmission — key areas of focus as the UK positions itself at the heart of the energy transition.

    “This new base provides a sustainable and flexible working environment that supports innovation and growth. We’re proud to be investing in Aberdeen at a time when high-quality engineering is vital to delivering secure, low-carbon energy systems.”, Bartlett added.

    Milestone Moment for Growing Engineering Consultancy

    While C&I Engineering Solutions had been based in Balmoral Business Park since 2019, this relocation into a larger, shared facility marks a significant step forward for London-headquartered Penspen.

    Penspen has relocated from its long-standing base at Queen’s Gardens, where it had operated from in Aberdeen since 2019.

    Operating for over 70 years, the global organisation has delivered more than 15,000 projects across 100+ countries, including major developments in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America. The company’s presence in Aberdeen dates back to the late 1980s, and its workforce has grown steadily — from around 750 people globally in 2019 to more than 1,200 specialists today, including over 200 engineers based in Aberdeen.

    “It’s an exciting period for Penspen as the demand for quality engineering solutions ramps up to support not only energy security, but the design of both new facilities and the repurposing of critical infrastructure to support hydrogen and CO2 integration,” said Bartlett.

    “Investing in our Aberdeen presence enables us to grow our team and our capabilities to deliver technically challenging projects that support global clients at every stage of the energy project lifecycle. 

    “We’re proud to make a commitment to the city as it positions itself at the heart of the energy transition.” 

    • Penspen’s Aberdeen-based energy transition courses take place on 17-18 June (Repurposing Pipelines for Hydrogen) and 24-25 June (CO2 Capture and Transmission). For more information or to secure a spot on one of the courses, visit www.penspen.com/energy-transition-training, or email contact@penspen.com. The courses will also run in London in September 2025. 

  7. Penspen to Deliver Feasibility Study Revalidation for Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline Project

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    Landmark project would contribute to African energy independence

    Penspen, a leading international energy consultancy, has been awarded a contract to provide a feasibility study update for the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP), a landmark infrastructure project with the potential to transform African energy dynamics, enhance economic integration, and bolster global energy security.

    Spanning more than 4,000 kilometers from Nigeria to Algeria, the pipeline, the TSGP Project is jointly sponsored by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited (Nigeria), SONATRACH (Algeria) and SONIDEP SA (Niger), and would facilitate the transportation of up to 30 billion cubic meters of natural gas across West and North Africa annually, ultimately linking to European markets. This ambitious initiative is poised to unlock new economic opportunities for transit countries, foster regional cooperation, and support Africa’s growing energy demand.

    Arun Behl, Penspen’s Sales & Marketing Director (Middle East & Africa) commented: “The award of the feasibility study of this high-impact project underscores Penspen’s expertise in large-scale energy infrastructure development and our commitment to advancing strategic initiatives that drive economic growth and regional stability.

    “We are proud have been selected to support the next phase of this transformative project, leveraging our extensive experience in cross-country pipeline engineering and development to deliver a sustainable and efficient energy solution.”

    Project Update

    The TSGP Project was initiated by the collaborative efforts of Nigeria and Algeria in 2002, with Niger admitted in 2008 as a co-sponsor. In 2006, Penspen delivered the original feasibility study for the project, finding the pipeline to be technically and economically feasible and reliable.

    Penspen has been engaged to re-validate and update the feasibility study of the pipeline, considering earlier route options. Delivered from Penspen’s offices in the UK and Middle East, and with support from fellow Sidara brand Dar, which is established and active in the three countries, the study will cover analysis of the regional gas market, environmental and social evaluation, economic and financial analysis including cost estimation, legislation and consultation reviews, risk analysis, and development of scope of work for the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED).

    By harnessing the vast gas reserves of Nigeria and neighboring producers, the TSGP aims to significantly contribute to Africa’s energy independence while also serving as a critical supply route for European nations seeking to diversify their energy sources.

    The project aligns with broader efforts to reduce global reliance on single-source energy suppliers, strengthening resilience against supply disruptions and geopolitical uncertainties. Beyond energy security, the TSGP is expected to generate substantial economic benefits, including job creation, infrastructure development, and investment in local industries. It represents a cornerstone for regional development, fostering cross-border collaboration and reinforcing Africa’s role in the global energy transition. By providing access to cleaner-burning natural gas, the project supports efforts to reduce carbon intensity compared to other fossil fuels, contributing to a more sustainable energy future.

    Penspen’s Track Record in Africa

    Penspen has a rich heritage of delivering strategic energy infrastructures projects in Africa. The company executed several studies for large-diameter cross-country pipelines in the region, including the first phase of the FEED of the more than 6,000 km Nigeria – Morocco Gas Pipeline (NMGP), following successful delivery of a feasibility study for the Office National des Hydrocarbures et des Mines (ONHYM) and NNPC Limited.

    For media enquiries, please contact: 

  8. Penspen Reports $120 Million Worth of New Contract Awards Secured in Second Half of 2024

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    Company’s comprehensive engineering expertise helps improve energy access for communities worldwide

    Penspen today announces a positive finish to the fiscal year with $120 million awarded in new contracts during the second half of 2024, a 14% increase on the same period in 2023, taking total 2024 sales to over $225 million.

    Key highlights:

    • Middle East and Africa Region: 26 new contracts with a total value of $98 million including study, FEED, detailed design, integrity assessment, fitness-for-service (FFS) assessment, project management supervision and consultancy services.
    • Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Region: 2 new renewable energy-focused framework agreements covering the provision of study, FEED, detailed design and project management supervision services for hydrogen production, wind and geothermal energy supply.
    • UK and Europe region: 57 new contracts with a total value of $16 million including fuelling terminal operations, pipeline maintenance and inspection, hydrogen repurposing, hydrogen blending, carbon capture studies, gas compression upgrades, and pipeline diversions.
    • North America and Latin America: 18 new contracts with a total value of $5 million including projects for pipeline fitness for service, electrical interference and cathodic protection studies, gas pipeline project management, production operations support, and environmental testing.

    Peter O’Sullivan, Penspen CEO, said: “Penspen has had a strong finish to 2024, in which revenues have grown year-on-year by 20%, driven by strong performance across all our regions. Our strong commitment to client success means we are growing the amount of work we are doing with existing clients.  The recognition we have received for the technical excellence of our work has enabled us to also secure contracts with important, strategic new clients.  As a result, we are heading into 2025 with significant momentum and are excited about continuing our strong growth this year.”

    Continued growth in European energy security and energy transition projects

    Penspen added several energy transition scopes to its European engineering and project management backlog in the second half of 2024, with awards from Latvian gas operator Conexus and Southern Gas Corridor operator Trans Adriatic Pipeline for the hydrogen repurposing and blending assessments.

    In the UK, the consultancy grew its asset management work, with a three-year award from GTC for installation and maintenance of pressure reduction equipment, meter installations, and associated emergency response services building on a 14-year relationship. With significant experience in aviation fuelling design and operations, Penspen also secured a contract with TotalEnergies in the UK, providing operations, maintenance and management services for the Colnbrook Rail Terminal and Colnbrook Pipeline which service Heathrow Airport.

    Additionally, Penspen increased its UK engineering footprint with the acquisition of Aberdeen-based C&I Engineering Solutions in October last year, significantly growing its controls and instrumentation offering for operators in both traditional and new energy.

    O’Sullivan added: “In our Western Hemisphere region, we have built on our reputation as thought leader for the energy transition by supporting a broad range of clients across multiple geographies in establishing how to repurpose their infrastructure for hydrogen and designing new infrastructure for both hydrogen and carbon capture.

     “We also have maintained our commitment to energy security by supporting our clients to operate and maintain existing energy assets safely and sustainably whilst also extending their safe operating lives.”

    Headcount Growth in Eastern Hemisphere

    In the Eastern Hemisphere, Penspen experienced significant growth in 2024, increasing headcount in its Middle East & Africa and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia regions by 12% and 33% respectively, in response to a diverse portfolio of projects. Contracts included the provision of engineering support for the Hail & Ghasha project, a world-first net zero gas development.

    Neale Carter, Executive Vice President – East Region, said: “Penspen’s Eastern Hemisphere regional businesses maintained strong commercial and operational focus during the second half of 2024, delivering on our commitment to support our clients develop new energy assets, improve the productivity and efficiency of existing assets, and ensure maximum returns on their investments.

     “We have grown our workforce significantly in both our United Arab Emirates and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia offices to support increasing demand for our engineering and project management services for our valued clients in the Middle East and Africa.

     “It is clear that our team’s dedication to providing high-quality engineering support to help our clients’ address their most challenging requirements is not only contributing to the successful growth of our business but is also supporting the delivery of secure and sustainable energy to the communities in which we work internationally.”

    For media enquiries, please contact: 

  9. Penspen Shortlisted for 2025 Hydrogen UK Annual Awards

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    International engineering consultancy Penspen has been shortlisted as finalists at the 2025 Hydrogen UK Annual Awards.

    The Hydrogen UK Annual Conference and Awards is the premier event celebrating excellence and innovation in the hydrogen industry, recognising the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and organisations driving the hydrogen sector forward.

    Penspen is shortlisted in the ‘Best Thought Leadership’ category for key contributions to technical research around the development and deployment of hydrogen solutions across the hydrogen economy, providing vital thought leadership to define the pathway to net zero.

    Eve Rea, Hydrogen UK Membership and Conference Co-Ordinator said: “The shortlist reflects the diverse and dynamic nature of the hydrogen sector, highlighting key players and innovative projects that are making significant strides towards a sustainable hydrogen future. From pioneering individuals and future leaders to groundbreaking projects and thought leadership, the nominees represent the cutting edge of the industry. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the shortlisted nominees.”

    36 people and organisations have been named as finalists for the nine award categories ahead of the ceremony on April 1, 2025, at the National Conference Centre (NCC) in Birmingham. Penspen will also participate in the Hydrogen UK Annual Conference on April 2.

    Industry-leading expertise

    From delivering innovative hydrogen repurposing projects across the world, to sharing the groundbreaking hydrogen research produced by our in-house Energy Transition Consultancy, we’re proud to be leveraging over 70 years of engineering heritage to power the transition to lower-carbon fuels. 

    Read the nominated insights & research from our hydrogen specialists here. Want to know more about our Energy Transition Consultancy? Click here.

    Related Hydrogen News

    • Earlier this week, Penspen launched a new Repurposing Pipelines for Hydrogen course, designed for those involved in conceiving, planning, designing, constructing, and commissioning assets repurposed for hydrogen. To view more information on the course modules and secure a place on the course, click here. 
    • In January, Penspen announced it been awarded a contract to provide hydrogen gap analysis services for Trans Adriatic Pipeline AG, one of the most strategic energy transition infrastructure projects in Europe. 
    • In November 2024, Penspen announced it had been selected to provide hydrogen blending assessment services for Conexus Baltic Grid. Under this contract, Penspen’s integrity specialists in the UK will carry out studies to provide recommendations for the introduction of hydrogen into the operator’s network.