Moeve and Exolum have successfully completed the modernisation of the Torre Arenillas Quay and its pipeline system to the Port of Huelva, Spain, a project completed over three years without interrupting the activity of the port terminal, and which saw investment totalling over €150 million.
This key piece of infrastructure replaces the original pipe system with 70 kilometres of new pipes, as well as completely upgraded pumping equipment and twelve new marine loading systems.
The commissioning of the south berth this week was the last step for the project to become fully operational. This new facility greatly improves the capacity and security of product loading and unloading operations in the port area. The modular design employed allowed for the reduction of stoppage times while minimising the impact on operations throughout the execution of the works.
For the management of both companies involved, the coordination between Exolum and Moeve has proven key to the success of the project, which required an innovative civil engineering approach due to the limits in terms of space in the area. The project has involved more than 300 professionals from different disciplines and has been characterised by its focus on safety, detailed planning and collaborative work.
Jorge Guillén, director of the Spain and aviation business unit at Exolum says: ‘The commissioning of this infrastructure represents a significant step forward in the modernisation of the Port of Huelva’s energy infrastructure and a clear example of how collaboration between companies is key to promoting the implementation and distribution of sustainable energy products, which are essential in the energy transition process.’
On Moeve’s part, Antonio Joyanes, executive vice-president of energy parks, and Jose Manuel Martínez, director of technology, projects and services, say: ‘The completion of the works on the pipeline, one of two major investments we are conducting with Exolum, represents a giant leap for our strategic projects and one which, undoubtedly, will ostensibly improve the operating efficiency of our facilities at Palos de la Frontera.’
The project saw the collaboration of over 30 public and private entities, setting an example in coordination between industries, contractors and local, regional and port authorities. Moeve led the design and execution of the infrastructure, while Exolum participated as a strategic partner in the project and will be responsible for the operation of the facility.
The new pipeline is fully integrated into the logistics network of the La Rábida Energy Park, consolidating its role as the backbone of the energy export process of the future. This infrastructure reinforces the complex’s capacity as a strategic hub for the production and distribution of energy products, from traditional products to second-generation biofuels and other sustainable solutions, in line with the transformation process driven by Moeve to become a leader of the energy transition.
