Rising global energy demand, fuelled largely by data centres, utilities and other mission-critical infrastructure, is increasing the need for backup power solutions that are reliable, scalable and lower in emissions. In response, Volvo Penta has introduced its new G17 natural gas engine, designed to support these fast-growing sectors with dependable and flexible power generation

The G17 natural gas engine complements Volvo Penta’s established D17 genset platform and marks an important milestone in the company’s broader transformation strategy. It delivers fuel flexibility, scalable output and a clear pathway towards a more resilient and lower-carbon energy system.

“The energy transition isn’t one-size-fits-all. It requires multiple technologies and fuel pathways working in parallel,” said Kristian Vekas, product manager for Industrial Power Generation at Volvo Penta.

“The G17 expands our power generation portfolio with a gas option engineered to meet rising global demand for dependable, lower-emission solutions that are backed by the strength of the Volvo Group and our global support network. It reflects our commitment to providing customers with fit-for-purpose solutions to support their energy objectives as the landscape continues to evolve.”

Developed on the same robust platform as the D17 engine, the G17 is a 17-litre, six-cylinder, spark-ignited unit capable of operating on both conventional pipeline-quality natural gas and renewable natural gas. This dual-fuel capability enables customers to lower carbon intensity today without compromising the performance, reliability or uptime required for critical operations.

Pipeline-ready natural gas capability

The G17’s ability to run directly on pipeline-quality natural gas or renewable natural gas offers a practical, lower-carbon alternative to diesel in applications where continuous availability and environmental performance are essential. Direct connection to existing gas networks simplifies installation and removes the need for additional fuel-conditioning equipment.

“The G17 is engineered to deliver lower emissions without trade-offs,” said Vekas. “Its flexible fuel capability helps reduce carbon intensity while maintaining the power density, responsiveness and durability customers expect from Volvo Penta’s heavy-duty platform.”

Rated at approximately 450 kWe at 1,800 rpm, the engine delivers high output from a compact design. Its smaller enclosure can reduce installation space requirements and housing material costs, while fast load acceptance and rapid power response help ensure stable operation during grid disturbances or peak demand events.

Designed for flexibility and efficiency

The G17 has been developed with emissions performance in mind, targeting reduced NOₓ and particulate matter. Features such as advanced combustion management, low-pressure Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and a high-efficiency three-way catalyst enable compliance with U.S. EPA stationary power application standards. This makes the engine particularly suitable for operators with strong ESG priorities or those working within strict air-quality regulations.

Its compact, stackable architecture makes the G17 well suited for space-constrained environments such as data centres. The engine can also form part of hybrid energy systems that combine internal combustion engines with renewable fuels and battery storage. This modular approach allows power systems to scale and adapt as demand evolves. Lower potential fuel costs compared with diesel and reduced noise levels further improve economic viability and community acceptance.

Leveraging Volvo Group’s proven automotive-scale technology, the G17 is built on platforms trusted worldwide in demanding heavy-duty applications. With the same footprint and cooling configuration as the D16 and D17 engines, it supports straightforward installation and retrofit projects. Delivered as a fully integrated OEM solution, the engine’s simplified component layout and reduced cylinder count enhance serviceability and can help lower total cost of ownership over its operational life.

Wirtgen Group and John Deere are set to make a major impact at Conexpo 2026, unveiling six market premieres and three global firsts alongside a broad portfolio of advanced machines, automation systems and digital solutions

With a total of 24 world and market premieres on display, the joint exhibition will focus on boosting productivity, transparency and profitability across road construction, earthworks and materials processing.

Visitors to the shared stand (Silver Lot SV2415) will experience a construction site-centric showcase, including a dedicated presentation of the John Deere Operations Center located on the ground floor of the Innovation Center. Designed as a central digital hub, the platform consolidates machine, job and performance data in one place. The exhibit will also highlight a comprehensive suite of digital aftermarket solutions on the upper floor.

A total of 14 Wirtgen Group machines will feature the latest automation and data-driven technologies, including the Wirtgen Group Performance Tracker combined with solutions such as AutoPilot 2.0, Smart Level Pro, Smart Pave, Smart Compact Pro and SPECTIVE CONNECT. These technologies automate workflows while capturing and analysing performance data, enabling more efficient, transparent and cost-effective execution across every phase of the construction process.

Global firsts and market premieres

Cold milling specialist Wirtgen will introduce a world premiere that opens up an entirely new application area for customers, with full details to be revealed at the start of the exhibition. Also on display will be the new WR X-Tier generation of wheeled cold recyclers and soil stabilisers. These machines cover applications ranging from structural road rehabilitation to soil stabilisation and material consolidation in road construction.

The WR X-Tier series features an intuitive Human-Machine Interface (HMI) that provides interactive digital guidance to improve mixing quality and productivity. Digital assistants such as MIX ASSIST and Wirtgen Group COPILOT further enhance efficiency while reducing operating costs per square metre.

Vögele will debut the latest Dash 5 paver generation for the North American market, offering improved operator ergonomics, faster setup, higher automation levels and a more efficient drive system. Key highlights include world premieres in the 10 ft class: the SUPER 2000-5 X tracked paver and the SUPER 2003-5 X wheeled paver, both equipped with newly developed screeds. The range is complemented by the SUPER 2100-5 X, featuring a high-compaction screed suited for roller compacted concrete applications.

In the Mini Class segment, Vögele will present the SUPER 800-5 P, the successor to the SUPER 700. This compact Dash 5 paver introduces the ErgoBasic 5 operating concept and a redesigned hopper wall geometry that improves visibility and loading flexibility. All Dash 5-X-Tier pavers can be fitted with the latest digitalisation and automation solutions.

Automation and precision compaction

Hamm will focus on automated compaction technologies, highlighting enhancements to the Smart Compact system. Smart Compact Pro now integrates real-time asphalt density measurement through the new Realtime Density Scan function, enabling automated adjustment of compaction energy and modes on HD+ and HX series tandem rollers. Operators can monitor density development in real time across the entire jobsite, including during static compaction.

This capability supports precise compliance with specifications, reduces the risk of penalties and lowers overall project costs while contributing to longer pavement service life. Hamm will also introduce solutions for earthworks, including automated amplitude adjustment based on new measurement values, and a new compactor model designed specifically for the North American rental market.

Materials processing and digital connectivity

For materials processing, Kleemann will present the MOBISCREEN MSS 1102 PRO scalper, making its North American debut. Designed for quarry applications, the PRO Line screening plant handles throughput of up to 750 t/h and features an intuitive control system that minimises operating errors and training time. Remote operation enhances safety, while the optional Dual Power drive allows for all-electric operation.

Kleemann screening plants can now be equipped with SPECTIVE CONNECT, providing operators with real-time machine data via smartphone. The integrated stockpile monitoring function offers clear visibility of material status, improving productivity and site coordination.

John Deere Operations Center as the digital backbone

At the core of the digital offering is the John Deere Operations Center, which brings together all data required for end-to-end construction site management. Project data can be transferred directly to machines via the integrated Work Planner, enabling partially automated execution. Users gain continuous insight into project progress through performance data generated by Wirtgen Group Performance Tracker solutions covering milling, paving, compacting, crushing and stabilising.

With smart hardware and software, existing machines can be quickly retrofitted to capture and document performance data. These digital solutions help contractors meet reporting requirements with minimal additional effort, reducing administrative burden while streamlining daily operations.

Integrated Pump Technology is recording increased demand for its Grindex submersible dewatering pumps across Zambia’s Copperbelt, where the equipment is delivering reliable performance in some of the region’s most challenging mining environments

Designed for harsh underground environments, the pumps combine rugged construction, operational flexibility and strong local technical support to deliver consistent performance.

According to Alfred Kelsey, sales manager at Integrated Pump Technology, Grindex pumps have demonstrated notable success in specialist applications such as the cleaning of underground dams. One recent project, carried out through the company’s Kitwe based distributor IES, involved the deployment of a 14 kW Grindex Bravo 400 to address severe sludge build up that had compromised dam capacity.

“Our customer faced a serious challenge, with sediment accumulation drastically reducing the capacity of their underground dams,” Kelsey explained.

“Conventional dewatering pumps aren’t designed for handling this slurry density, but the submersible Grindex Bravo 400 proved ideal.”

Built with hard iron components for high abrasion resistance and fitted with an integrated agitator, the Bravo 400 is able to re suspend settled material, enabling efficient removal of dense sludge. The pump is also rated to IP68, allowing safe operation at depths of up to 20 metres.

Kelsey notes that interest in Grindex dewatering pumps is increasing rapidly across the Copperbelt as mines look for reliable long term solutions.

“The reliability and quality of Grindex pumps are major drawcards, complemented by the integrated smart systems on the 2.2 kW to 18 kW models, offering genuine plug-and-play functionality,” Kelsey noted.

“This feature allows for fully automatic operation with comprehensive built-in protections.”

For larger duty requirements, Integrated Pump Technology supplies Grindex pumps in the 25 kW to 90 kW range, supported by external control and monitoring panels. The product range can also be tailored to suit different abrasive conditions through material options.

“Customers can specify nitrile rubber or polyurethane linings to handle highly abrasive environments,” he added. “A popular choice is internal polyurethane inserts paired with a lightweight, corrosion-resistant stainless steel casing.”

The stainless steel design significantly reduces pump weight, an important advantage in underground settings where equipment is frequently moved by hand. A split handle configuration further improves ease of transport, allowing two people to carry the unit safely.

“Our rapid response capability sets us apart in the Copperbelt region,” Kelsey emphasised. “Through our close partnership with IES, we ensure technicians remain highly skilled, aligned with OEM standards and equipped with a first-class workshop.”

This local support model enables quick turnaround on repairs, whether for full overhauls, smaller cable fixes or on site technical assistance. Kelsey adds that carefully managed local stock levels ensure critical spare parts are readily available, helping mines minimise downtime and maintain operational continuity.

AD Ports Group is expanding its strategic footprint in Africa with a new partnership aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s maritime and trade sectors

In a high-level meeting attended by his excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalifa Bin Mohamed Al Nahyan, advisor, UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, managing director and group CEO of AD Ports Group, discussed opportunities to enhance trade, shipping, logistics, and port operations across Nigeria.

Following the discussions, AD Ports Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. The agreement establishes a framework to explore collaborative investment and development initiatives in ports, logistics services, maritime operations, and digital trade platforms, reflecting a shared vision for modernising Nigeria’s maritime ecosystem and boosting regional and international trade connectivity.

The MoU was officially signed by Adegboyega Oyetola, minister of Marine and Blue Economy of Nigeria, and captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi.

Speaking on the occasion, minister Oyetola said, " This MoU represents an important step in advancing Nigeria’s Marine and Blue economy agenda. By partnering with an internationally experienced group such as AD Ports Group, we aim to explore opportunities that can strengthen port efficiency, logistics connectivity, maritime services, and digital trade infrastructure, while supporting sustainable economic growth and positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in Africa. "

" Nigeria is a cornerstone of Africa’s maritime and trade landscape, with significant potential across the ports and logistics sectors," commented captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi.

"This MoU reflects our shared ambition to explore long-term, sustainable development opportunities that support Nigeria’s economic growth, trade competitiveness, and job creation, in line with the directives of our wise leadership. AD Ports Group brings international expertise across integrated ports, logistics, maritime services, and digital trade solutions, and we look forward to working closely with our Nigerian partners as we assess areas of mutual interest. "

The MoU comes at a time of growing significance for Nigeria’s ports and maritime sector. AD Ports Group already maintains investments in Egypt, Tanzania, Angola, and the Republic of the Congo, contributing to trade integration and economic development across Africa.

The agreement also aligns with the recently signed UAE–Nigeria Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which aims to reduce tariffs, remove trade barriers, and encourage investment in sectors such as technology, agriculture, energy, and logistics. Non-oil trade between the UAE and Nigeria reached US$4.3bn in 2024, a 55.3% increase compared to 2023, highlighting the expanding economic ties between the two nations.

According to BMI, Nigeria’s real GDP growth is projected to rise from 4.1% in 2025 to 4.3% in 2026, marking the fastest expansion in four years. This sustained growth reinforces Nigeria’s position as one of sub-Saharan Africa’s fastest-growing economies and underscores the country’s attractiveness for strategic investments in ports, logistics, and maritime infrastructure.

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and Heirs Energies Limited have unveiled a US$750mn financing arrangement aimed at strengthening Heirs Energies’ capital structure and releasing liquidity to meet its working capital needs as it advances an extensive field development programme

The funding is expected to play a key role in boosting Nigeria’s domestic energy supply at a time of rising demand.

The agreement was signed in Abuja by Dr George Elombi, president and chairman of the board of directors of Afreximbank, and Tony O Elumelu CFR, chairman of Heirs Energies Limited. Structured as a dual-tranche, senior secured reserve-based lending facility, the financing is intended to support Heirs Energies’ next phase of expansion as the company seeks to increase and sustain oil and gas production.

Under the transaction, Afreximbank served as Mandated Lead Arranger, Facility Agent, and Security Agent. The deal is viewed as a significant step in the strategic relationship between Afreximbank and Heirs Energies, reflecting deeper collaboration between the two organisations.

Speaking after the signing, Dr Elombi described the partnership as evidence of Afreximbank’s focus on value creation and backing African entrepreneurs.

“Without investments, such as the one being provided to Heirs Energies, many fossil fuel-dependent African economies would face dire economic challenges,” said Dr Elombi. “Our aim, among others, is to empower the African entrepreneur. Our core strength is in the value of the partnerships we continue to forge.”

He also acknowledged Mr. Elumelu’s continued support for Afreximbank, noting that such collaborations have helped position the institution as a key driver of Africa’s economic transformation and broader development objectives.

Dr Elombi reiterated Afreximbank’s commitment to advancing the African Energy Bank initiative, stating, “we should get to higher strides and get the Energy Bank so we can move most of the energy portfolio there. We will put tremendous capital in it to be as bold and as innovative as Afreximbank”.

He further indicated that Afreximbank is open to working with Heirs Holdings and its affiliated businesses as they expand into other West African markets, including Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, as well as across the wider continent. “Our aim is to spread and support the domination of the African brand across Africa.”

Tony O Elumelu, CFR, chairman of Heirs Energies Limited, said, “This transaction is a powerful affirmation of what African enterprise can achieve when backed by disciplined execution and long-term African capital. It reflects the successful journey Heirs Energies has taken – from turnaround to growth – and reinforces our belief in African capital working for African businesses. This is Africa financing Africa’s future.”

Heirs Energies occupies a central position in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, where crude oil continues to hold major national and international significance.

The relationship between Afreximbank and Heirs Energies dates back to 2021, when the company, then operating as Heirs Oil and Gas, completed the acquisition of a 45% participating interest in the OML 17 Joint Venture. The US$1.1bn transaction was financed by a consortium of international and local banks led by Afreximbank and represented one of the largest indigenous energy acquisitions in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

Afreximbank contributed up to US$250mn to that financing, highlighting its commitment to developing Africa’s energy sector and supporting intra-African trade and African-owned businesses.

Following the acquisition, crude oil output increased from around 25,000 barrels per day to an average of 50,000 barrels per day, alongside growth in associated and non-associated gas production. Heirs Energies also achieved first gas from the Agbada Non-Associated Gas Plant on 21 November 2021, only months after assuming control of an asset that had remained under construction for more than a decade under the previous operator.

Today, Heirs Energies is the leading gas supplier within the Eastern Domestic Network and provides gas to three major power plants, together accounting for roughly 15% of Nigeria’s installed electricity generation capacity.

SANY Group has officially begun operations at its first global engineering machinery remanufacturing hub, the SANY Hunan-Hainan Intelligent Manufacturing Industrial Park

The launch marks a major step in SANY’s globalisation and sustainability strategy, with the company securing CNY100 million (US$14.27mn) in orders from clients in Southeast Asia and Africa on the opening day.

The Park represents China’s first industrial facility co-developed by a pilot free trade zone (FTZ) and a pilot free trade port, advancing cross-regional collaboration between Hunan and Hainan provinces. By leveraging both provinces’ industrial strengths and policy incentives, the Park is designed to support Chinese enterprises in expanding their international footprint.

Construction of the Park began in August 2023, covering approximately 10 hectares (150 mu). With a total investment of CNY600 million (US$85.62mn), it is expected to reach an annual output value of CNY750 million (US$107.02mn) when operating at full capacity.

Positioned as a regional remanufacturing hub and resource distribution platform, the Park focuses on the maintenance and remanufacturing of core engineering machinery components as well as second-hand equipment from domestic and international markets. The facility promotes the circular reuse of industrial resources, aligning with SANY’s commitment to sustainability.

Operating under the Hainan FTZ framework, eligible value-added processing activities enjoy tariff preferences, while remanufacturing operations under bonded supervision may qualify for corporate and personal income‑tax incentives. The Park benefits from the “Dual 15%” tax-incentive policy, receiving approval for outsourced processes to enjoy a 15% corporate income-tax reduction.

“The project represents a key strategic initiative for SANY to deepen its globalisation, digitalisation, and low-carbon transformation. Moving forward, SANY will continue to actively explore new models for remanufacturing, promote the circular reuse of industrial resources, and jointly advance the global engineering machinery industry's transition toward a greener, low-carbon future,” said Tang Xiuguo, chairman of SANY.