Baker Hughes Signs Contract for Gas Recovery and H2S Removal System in Azerbaijan
Key Ideas
- Baker Hughes and SOCAR signed a contract for an integrated gas recovery and H2S removal system at SOCAR’s Heydar Aliyev Oil Refinery in Baku.
- The system is expected to recover up to 7 million Nm3 of methane per year and reduce CO2 emissions by 11,000 tons per year, contributing to emissions abatement.
- The recovered flare gas will be used as fuel within the refinery, enhancing efficiency, reducing consumption, and operating costs.
- The project aligns with Azerbaijan’s methane reduction commitments and aims to end routine flaring by 2030, showcasing a joint commitment to sustainability in the energy sector.
Baker Hughes and SOCAR have partnered to implement an integrated gas recovery and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) removal system at SOCAR’s Heydar Aliyev Oil Refinery in Baku, Azerbaijan. The system aims to significantly reduce downstream flaring and enhance environmental sustainability. With a focus on emissions abatement, the project is set to recover 7 million Nm3 of methane annually, leading to a reduction of 11,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year. By utilizing the recovered flare gas as a fuel source within the refinery, the initiative is expected to boost efficiency, cut consumption, and lower operating costs.
The agreement, signed at COP29 in Baku, underscores the commitment of both companies to combat climate change and drive sustainable operations. The collaboration aligns with Azerbaijan’s Global Methane Pledge and the COP28 presidency’s Oil & Gas Decarbonization Charter, demonstrating a proactive approach to mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Lorenzo Simonelli, Chairman and CEO of Baker Hughes, emphasized the urgency for emission reductions, highlighting the role of existing technologies in achieving environmental targets. Rovshan Najaf, President of SOCAR, echoed a similar sentiment, stressing the importance of this project in advancing emission reduction goals and promoting environmental responsibility.
The swift progression of the project, from conception to contract signing in nine months, showcases the dedication of Baker Hughes and SOCAR to prompt action. The timeline for project execution indicates a rapid deployment phase aiming for full commissioning within 24 months. This initiative forms part of Baker Hughes’ broader portfolio of emissions abatement solutions designed to enhance operational efficiency and deliver sustainable value across various industries.
By leveraging innovative technologies and fostering collaboration, Baker Hughes and SOCAR are poised to lead the transition towards cleaner and more efficient energy practices in Azerbaijan's energy sector, setting a precedent for environmental stewardship and climate-conscious operations.