GE buys small-scale LNG technology company Salof
5/3/2013 12:00:00 AM
Privately-held Salof is known for its cryogenic plant design and fabrication for small LNG and CO2 applications. GE, a leader in large-scale LNG technologies, said it recently launched LNG solutions with a significantly smaller footprint and capacity that are complementary to Salof’s offerings.
Adding Salof to the portfolio will add additional capabilities and manufacturing footprint, according to the company, while Salof can draw upon GE’s breadth and global operations.
The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval.
In North America, the demand for small-scale LNG production is growing as vast new discoveries of natural gas are making it cost-efficient to use cleaner burning natural gas for transportation, fleet management, marine and other industrial uses.
The technologies can encourage the transition of long-haul trucks and locomotives from diesel fuel to LNG, contribute to emissions reduction, capture flare gas at drilling sites and landfills and help eliminate the need for costly pipeline infrastructure in remote areas, according to GE officials.
Additionally, small-scale LNG technology is employed to develop export terminal infrastructure for LNG.
“This move is not only good for GE and Salof, it also will provide more options for customers around the world as they look for new ways to cut both emissions and costs by using cleaner burning natural gas,” said Daniel C. Heintzelman, CEO of GE Oil & Gas.
“Salof has deep small LNG expertise, a strong track record of high-caliber projects and a highly talented workforce," he added. "This acquisition expands our strategic footprint in the US, and Salof’s Texas site has the potential to be a GE Oil & Gas manufacturing and packaging center of excellence for small LNG technologies.”
Small LNG solutions typically offer customers a cost-effective standard or modular, plug-and-play solution. They can be located in remote areas, industrial sites or even highway fueling stations. Depending on the design, they can be moved and redeployed as needed.
“GE is well known for its expertise in managing complex global projects, developing manufacturing efficiency and for having a world-class sales and service team,” said David Gordon, president of Salof Companies. “Joining GE lets Salof focus on what it does best -- developing and producing great LNG technologie -- while simultaneously growing our business globally. It is an exciting move that will have a significant impact on the future of the small-scale LNG industry.”
Salof has nearly 200 employees located at its Schertz manufacturing facility. Together with the US acquisition, GE will acquire a 50% ownership interest in Beijing enCryo Engineering Co., a Beijing-based joint venture with Beijing Maison Engineering Co. that has been a reliable partner with the Salof Companies for projects in China and elsewhere.
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