The Lifeblood of Global Energy

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Global energy consumption is at an all time high, and Ergon plays a pivotal role in serving industries essential to global energy security. Read Ergon President & CEO Kris Patrick’s latest LinkedIn article, as shown below, to learn more about our commitment to ensuring the stability of energy supply worldwide.

test

__________

We’ve reached a pivotal point in the world’s energy economy. The level of global energy consumption is unlike any other time in human history. There are many contributing factors, such as technological developments through increased data processing and the introduction of artificial intelligence, globalization and the move to diversified energy grids. In a recent article, Goldman Sachs shares that data center power demands will grow from 1-2% of total power demand to an estimated 3-4% over the next decade. According to Exxon’s most recent Global Outlook, the modernization of developing countries will also play a role in increasing energy demand. All these factors require us to look at energy security and how we can upscale our energy grids in step with this change. Businesses like Ergon, which provide service solutions for global industries, continue to innovate in step with changes in the market while helping customers adapt to this energy transformation.

Energy Consumption
According to a 2021 Energy Information Administration (EIA) report, world energy use is expected to increase by approximately 50% by 2050. A recent Reuters report highlights that in the U.S. alone, energy consumption has risen to over 4,000 billion kilowatt-hours since 2022, with record highs expected in both 2024 and 2025. As energy use increases, so does the need for diverse energy grids to support this uptick in consumption. And as more agencies adapt to the trend of creating more diversified grids, the need for reliable power distribution becomes more evident.

Transformers and Power Distribution
Energy transformers are the vehicles by which energy, generated from power plants, is distributed along these diverse grids to homes and businesses around the world. With such an important role in power distribution, the life cycle and performance of transformers are vital. Transformers must be able to provide the stability needed to manage voltage and maintain optimum performance long term. Simply put, while energy cannot be destroyed, its efficiency in power generation and distribution is heavily dependent on the quality of transformers. So, what keeps this vital equipment operating at optimal efficiency?

Transformer Oils
Transformers are only as good as the oils that sustain them. Transformer oils, also known as insulating oils or dielectric fluids, are responsible for cooling transformers, keeping them from overheating during the energy transmission process. They also prevent transformers from corrosion, extending service life and reducing downtime due to maintenance issues.

According to Technavio, the transformer oil market size is expected to grow by $1.13 billion by 2028. This growth is largely driven by a focus on power generation and strengthening energy grids to meet the demands of a consistent increase in global energy consumption, as well as an enhanced focus on renewable energy sources. Growth in the transformer oil market size has also been spurred by greater energy demand for high-performing data centers and electric vehicles (EVs), heating pumps and even air conditioning. Security and reliability are important factors for each of these growing demands, and transformers must be able to reliably power the processes associated with these demands. Hence, the importance of transformer oils. The cooling properties of these oils are critical to transformers’ capacity to handle multiple power processes.

Dielectric Fluids and Energy Stability
For 70 years, Ergon has provided innovative solutions to serve industries essential to global manufacturing and infrastructure. Part of our service includes the development, production and supply of specialty oils, such as HyVolt dielectric fluids for power transformers. These high-performing specialty oils vastly improve the lives of transformers and support growing energy trends, including clean energy transmission; voltage conversion for data information systems; the cooling of various parts of EVs, from battery systems to vehicle charging components; and more. Properties within our HyVolt solutions provide the stability needed to ensure optimal performance during power transmission and distribution.

Additionally, key to energy security and stable provision of the right energy load is a consistent supply throughout our grids. That’s why we not only provide quality dielectric fluids for transformers but have developed the supply chain infrastructure needed to ensure we can help keep industries, communities and energy moving.

Impact Where It Counts
As a solutions-driven organization, we recognize the significance specialty oils can have on the global marketplace, and we’re glad to make an impact where it counts in today’s need for energy security. Most excitingly, products like HyVolt allow us to help drive sustainability goals worldwide. A great example is our current involvement in Australia’s new EnergyConnect project. EnergyConnect is Australia’s initiative to support a sustainable energy future by integrating a 900-kilomenter transmission line (the largest in the Southern Hemisphere) that allows for the sharing of renewable energy between New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria. Through the Australian specialty oils distributor, Molekulis, Ergon is supplying HyVolt I to support the transformers used for this initiative. This program will not only reduce energy waste but will also reduce utility costs for consumers.

Transformer oils are at the heart of global energy supply, and their role has gained in importance worldwide. Yet, more important than ever is our need to collaborate further to find ways to both secure energy supply as well as contribute to a more sustainable future. Being part of projects like EnergyConnect allows for such collaboration and is at the heart of our focus on meeting needs, supporting families and serving customers.

Learn more about how Ergon’s HyVolt solutions are powering your world for the long term at HyVolt.com.

Ergon Expands Role With Summer Bridge Engineering Program at Mississippi State

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Sponsored by Ergon since 2022, the Summer Bridge Program at Mississippi State University’s Bagley College of Engineering has evolved into an even more transformative initiative for groups of incoming engineering students than it already has been for over 30 years. Initiated as part of a service project under the leadership of Bonnie Chapman, VP – Product Stewardship, Ergon has renewed our commitment to sponsor the program with a substantial pledge of $900,000 over the next three years. This funding supports various initiatives, including interactive workshops, travel to tour Ergon facilities statewide, student housing and the introduction of a full math credit to the curriculum.

test

__________

Transformative Experiences and Growth
The program, which aims to accommodate 35 – 50 participants annually, has made a lasting impact on its participants. Morgan Lounds, an incoming freshman from Oklahoma, shared how the program helped her forge new friendships and build confidence. “The program allowed me to improve my academic preparation and personal development,” Morgan said, emphasizing the program’s role in her growth.

Jordan Gillespie, a senior who participated in the program in 2022, described his experience as “very positive.” He appreciated the chance to connect with “like-minded individuals” and gain practical engineering experience. When asked what he’d say to future Summer Bridge participants, Jordan highlighted the importance of time management and perseverance he learned during his time in the program, stating, “Persevere today for a better tomorrow,” is a mantra he continues to apply in his academic journey.

Anahya Lewis, who recently completed the 2024 program and will be a freshman this fall also praised the program for easing her transition into college life. She appreciated the structure of the program, which included workshops, projects and networking opportunities. “The friendships and support system built during the program were invaluable,” she noted.

test

__________

Program Enhancements and Future Directions
Ergon’s involvement over the past three years has significantly expanded the program. Beyond an increase in the number of participants, the addition of a monthly book club under the guidance of Jamian Rush, Ergon’s Sustainability Specialist within the Product Stewardship Department, has been a standout feature. “It’s not just a summer program where we only engage in the summer; it’s something where we constantly have contact with the students from their first fall semester all the way through to graduation,” Rush explained. The book club, featuring books like Who Moved My Cheese?, aims to foster both personal and professional growth while maintaining the community students build with their fellow participants during their Summer Bridge Program.

Rush emphasized the program’s broader focus, stating, “This year, we really tried to focus on putting the students in that engineering state of mind … but also on general soft skills that the students would need to be successful engineers in any field.” Further success stories from alumni highlight the program’s effectiveness, with many students experiencing academic success and gaining early access to co-ops and internships.

test

__________

Looking Ahead
Looking forward, the program plans to increase engagement with more involvement from Ergon employees. “The goal is to make sure they know they have someone they can lean on and depend on … to develop strong connections before they go into the engineering field,” Rush said, underscoring the commitment of everyone contributing to the program to providing robust support for participants.

The Summer Bridge Program at Mississippi State University has proven to be a vital steppingstone for engineering students. By fostering academic success, personal growth and lasting relationships, the program not only prepares students for the challenges associated with earning an engineering degree, but also ensures they have the support needed to excel beyond their education well into their engineering careers.

Ergon is proud to support these efforts and prepare the next generation of leaders.

Ergon’s HyVolt Is Powering Australia’s Revolutionary Transmission Line Project

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Ergon is proud to supply HyVolt I dielectric fluids for Australia’s new EnergyConnect — the largest transmission line project in the Southern Hemisphere. Through the Australian specialty oils distributor, Molekulis, HyVolt is being used as the insulating oil to support performance of transformers for this project.

test

__________

“Our involvement means contributing to a project that not only enhances the reliability and capacity of the grid but also supports Australia’s transition to a more sustainable energy system,” shared Ergon’s Juan Acosta, Vice President of Sales – Asia.

EnergyConnect is a $1.8 billion project centered on strengthening and expanding Australia’s energy grid through the integration of renewable energy sources and a 900-kilometer transmission line to support a sustainable energy future. The EnergyConnect project will allow energy to be shared between New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria via power generation plants and substations. Sharing renewable energy among regions highlights a unique opportunity of collaboration. Working together in this way not only helps drive greater environmental sustainability but also reduces utility costs for consumers.

This massive energy program requires high-voltage operations, meaning reliable transformers are needed to distribute energy from substations to various destinations along the energy grid. Hyosung Heavy Industries is supplying phase-shifting transformers, which control the flow of power along transmission lines, for this project. Such transformers are important for consumption-based power distribution, ensuring the most efficient use of energy.

With transformers playing such a significant role in this project, optimum long-term performance is key. Insulating oils, or dielectric fluids, are vital to protecting transformers from corrosion and overheating, ensuring consistency in voltage and reducing downtime due to maintenance issues.

“Hyosung selected HyVolt I uninhibited transformer oil for its superior quality and consistent performance, which are essential in ensuring the longevity and reliability of critical assets within Australia’s transmission network.” Said Juan.

Ergon is proud to be a part of this revolutionary project. Learn more about EnergyConnect here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SU54iVwP2Y.

About Ergon
Ergon is a group of privately held companies operating under three primary business segments: Energy & Specialty Solutions, Integrated Services & Logistics, and Pavement & Coating Resources.

M/V Miss Marley Crew Receives First Lampton Honors Award Challenge Coin

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

At Ergon, we take great pride in our core values of Empowered Service, Selfless Leadership, Purposeful Growth and Respectful Relationships. When our Ergon family adheres to these standards and embodies these values, it is important to acknowledge it as an accomplishment. Recently, crew members at Ergon’s Magnolia Marine Transport Company (MMT) exemplified our core value of Selfless Leadership.

__________

Members of MMT’s M/V Miss Marley crew responded to an industry vessel in distress following contact with the Upper Baton Rouge Bridge. Upon arrival, the Marley crew skillfully guided multiple loose barges to the opposite bank and away from docks, fleets and ships in the vicinity. While the crew views their action as nothing more than expected, their immediate reaction to help a fellow crew in their time of need is an honorable feat itself and highlights the comradery and brotherhood shared between all towboaters no matter the company or circumstances. This type of action is the very definition of integrity and is a great representation of the core values of the Ergon family. In recognition of this selfless act, the members of the M/V Miss Marley crew were honored as the first recipients of the Lampton Honors Award Challenge Coin, presented by MMT’s Senior Vice President of Marine Operations, Roger Harris, and the MMT President, Jacob Dykes.

The Lampton Honors Award Challenge Coin was recently developed by the MMT Safety Team in conjunction with the Lamptons (founding family of Ergon) to reflect company values. The purpose of the Lampton Honors Award Challenge Coin is to recognize MMT team members who go above and beyond during a lifesaving or significant safety event or emergency. These coins can also be awarded to recognize special achievements of team members who showcase exemplary performance. This type of coin is deeply rooted in history, as it has been a military tradition since World War I, and must be earned – it is not given freely.

Thank you to M/V Miss Marley crew members Steven Saunders, James Meyers, Clint Davidson and Sam Landry for your service to others during their time of need. Your Ergon family is extremely grateful for your bravery, prompt response and selfless dedication to helping others. You are the embodiment of Ergon’s core value of Selfless Leadership.

Keep up the great work!

Ergon Celebrates Headquarters Expansion With Groundbreaking Ceremony

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Flowood, Miss. — On July 30, 2024, Ergon Inc. hosted a groundbreaking celebration for our headquarters expansion project at Mirror Lake Plaza in Flowood, Mississippi.

Founded by Leslie Lampton Sr. in 1954, the Ergon story began with just two employees, a used fuel transport truck and a one-room building in Jackson, Mississippi. The organization has since grown to include global operations, employing over 4,200 people, with 1,200 working in Mississippi alone. This new expansion will support over 200 new jobs in Mississippi.

Still family owned and operated, the Lampton family and Ergon employees remain committed to the mission that has driven our solutions-focused operations for decades: Meet Needs. Support Families. Serve Customers.

“Ergon has experienced a remarkable season of growth over the past five years, as we’ve expanded our market presence to be able to meet the evolving needs of our customers. However, we do not operate for profit alone. At the heart of what we do is our goal to make a positive difference in countless lives and through countless ways. Our headquarters expansion signifies our continued commitment to this goal and our mission. Ergon is a service company, and we look forward to continuing to serve in exciting, innovative ways moving forward,” said Kris Patrick, Ergon President & CEO.

In attendance at the groundbreaking celebration were several elected officials representing the State of Mississippi, the City of Flowood, Rankin County, the City of Vicksburg, Warren County and more.

“We’re grateful to all the elected officials and government representatives, including Governor Tate Reeves, Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann and the Mayor of Flowood, Gary Rhoads, for being part of this celebration not just for Ergon, but for the state of Mississippi,” said Whit Hughes, Vice President – Public Affairs and Government Relations for Ergon.

To learn more about the Ergon story, including the high-value solutions and specialized services we provide to global manufacturing and infrastructure industries, please visit ergon.com/about.

About Ergon
Ergon is a group of privately held companies operating under three primary business segments: Energy & Specialty Solutions, Integrated Services & Logistics, and Pavement & Coating Resources.

Contact:
Kathy Potts
Vice President – Marketing Communications
601-933-3000
kathy.potts@ergon.com 
ergon.com

Ergon Talks: Our People, Business, Culture and Values

/0 Comments/in , , /by

At Ergon, we prioritize communication and continuous learning through many avenues, including our podcast series, Ergon Talks. This series serves as a valuable resource for our employees, customers and communities, offering insights into our industry and company culture and emphasizing our commitment to employee well-being and Purposeful Growth.

test

__________

Employees benefit from updates on company initiatives, industry trends and professional development opportunities, fostering unity and purpose within our workforce. Our series on Heart Health and Mental Health provides expert advice, reflecting our commitment to employee well-being, while the Safety Summer Series reinforces our dedication to a safe working environment.

Customers gain an insider’s view through Ergon Talks, learning about our operations and our commitment to quality and innovation. Episodes featuring industry experts discussing topics such as emulsified asphalt and infrastructure advancements help customers make informed decisions, fostering trust and contributing to our mutual success.

You can listen to Ergon Talks on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Stay connected with Ergon and join the conversations that shape The Ergon Way. Whether you’re an employee, a customer or a community member, Ergon Talks invites you to explore, learn and engage with us.