-Global propylene supply will increase by 50% by 2030, despite a current shortage driven by an increase in ethane cracking, according to a new study by Wood Mackenzie. Supply growth will be fueled by the adoption of “on-purpose” production methods such as propylene dehydrogenation and methanol-to-olefins/propylene technology. Ethane cracking produces minimal propylene yield, and it has taken a share of propylene capacity away from traditional production methods such as naphtha steam cracking.
-Shell and Motiva have agreed to pay nearly $4.5 million in back pay to current and former refinery employees after the Department of Labor found violations at eight of the companies’ facilities. Via the New Orleans Times-Picayune, regulators found Shell and Motiva failed to pay workers for attending mandatory pre-shift meetings. The companies also agreed to train managers and payroll and HR personnel on federal labor laws.
-The Diamond Green Diesel renewable diesel plant in Norco, La., is expected to return to production next week, the Baton Rouge, La., Advocate reports. The facility, which is a joint venture of Valero and Darling International, was shut down after an Aug. 3 explosion and fire. No injuries were reported in the incident.
-Enbridge will transfer its 66.7% interest in the U.S. segment of the Alberta Clipper pipeline to its affiliate, Enbridge Energy Partners, for $900 million in cash and equity. The latter owns the remaining 33.3% percent interest in the pipeline.
-U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack on Tuesday said the government would assist the ethanol industry in producing 15 billion gallons per year. Via Platts, Vilsack said the Obama Administration would help through military purchases of biofuels, export assistance and financing for blender pumps, among other things. Vilsack also said he is “reasonably sure” the EPA will raise its 2014 Renewable Fuel Standard biofuels target above the 15.21 billion gallons it proposed last November.