Hanwha Power and Pembina Pipeline Forge Partnership for Lower-Carbon Energy Solutions
Hanwha Power and Pembina Pipeline Forge Partnership for Lower-Carbon Energy Solutions
On May 20, 2026, Hanwha Power, led by CEO Rafi Balta, declared a significant step forward in the energy sector by signing a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Pembina Pipeline Corporation, a well-established player in the Canadian energy landscape. This collaboration aims to accelerate the development of lower-carbon power generation technologies, a crucial move for creating a sustainable energy future.
With over 70 years of experience, Pembina is recognized for its extensive infrastructure in energy transportation and midstream services across North America. This partnership will primarily focus on a waste heat recovery (WHR) initiative that harnesses supercritical carbon dioxide technology at Pembina's compressor stations. Such innovation aligns seamlessly with Hanwha Ocean's involvement in the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project, aiming to promote industrial and technological benefits.
The MOU underscores the strategic collaboration between Hanwha Group and Canada's local industrial ecosystem, forging pathways for mutual growth. The two companies plan to launch feasibility studies on WHR power generation systems specifically at Pembina's compressor stations and other gas infrastructure. This initiative stands out not only for its potential environmental benefits but also for its technological sophistication.
The WHR system developed by Hanwha Power leverages an innovative approach using supercritical carbon dioxide, a unique working fluid that combines liquid and gas properties. This technology operates free of water, is efficient in size, and requires no crew for operation, making it particularly attractive in regions where water conservation is a priority. It aims to utilize waste heat generated by existing industrial equipment, thereby producing electricity without additional fuel consumption, significantly enhancing energy efficiency.
Compared to traditional organic Rankine cycle (ORC) systems, this new method presents several advantages, such as superior performance and reduced system footprint. The non-toxic and non-explosive characteristics of the working fluid further its viability within the ambitious lower-carbon agenda of North America's oil and gas sector.
Located in Calgary, Alberta, Pembina's vast network includes vital transportation assets, processing facilities, and export terminals. This collaboration aims to boost the energy efficiency of existing assets while significantly lowering carbon emissions and adopting pioneering green technologies.
The partnership aligns with Hanwha Power's larger strategy of expanding its footprint in the Canadian markets, leveraging its connections through the CPSP-linked ITB program. "This collaboration is a meaningful first step toward expanding our green energy solutions business in the Canadian market," stated Michael Sicker, Hanwha Power's Head of the Americas.
Pembina's Senior Vice President Chris Rousch echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of exploring new efficiencies in their operational assets. The collaborative effort with Hanwha is poised to offer distinctive value propositions, benefiting both their respective customers and broader stakeholders.
In conclusion, this partnership between Hanwha Power and Pembina Pipeline marks a hopeful stride towards sustainable energy practices in North America, establishing a blueprint for future collaborations that prioritize environmental stewardship and technological advancement in the energy sector. By integrating green technology with operational efficiency, both companies are set to make significant contributions to the global goals of reducing carbon footprints while enhancing energy performance.