Sustainability
TotalEnergies cuts refinery emissions as new BELCO gas cleaning system is online in Antwerp
The system, commissioned by Elessent Clean Technologies, went into service on December 8 and marks the second BELCO SOx scrubber installed at the Antwerp refinery
-
By ICN Bureau | July 17, 2026
TotalEnergies has taken a major step toward reducing refinery emissions.
This, after a new BELCO integrated gas cleaning system began operations at its Antwerp, Belgium, facility, delivering a significant reduction in sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions.
The system, commissioned by Elessent Clean Technologies, went into service on December 8 and marks the second BELCO SOx scrubber installed at the Antwerp refinery. The technology treats flue gases from the refinery’s catalytic cracker, enabling more effective sulfur removal and helping the facility meet regulatory requirements tied to its operating authorization.
The latest installation supports TotalEnergies’ broader sustainability strategy by bringing annual SOx emissions in line with targets established by regulatory authorities.
"In perspective of our long-term ambition, we are taking a giant step in making our Antwerp site more sustainable with this brand-new SOx scrubber,” said Ann Veraverbeke, Managing Director of TotalEnergies Antwerpen.
The project was completed through close cooperation between TotalEnergies and Elessent teams, with construction and commissioning completed safely, on schedule, and to stringent quality standards. The successful startup reinforces confidence in the refinery’s continued development while advancing its environmental performance.
"The successful startup of this second BELCO SOx scrubber at Antwerp reinforces the value our technology continues to provide to refiners around the world," said Samantha Presley, VP Cleaner Refining, Elessent Clean Technologies.
"We appreciate the trust TotalEnergies has placed in Elessent and are proud to support their emissions reduction strategy with proven, high-performance gas cleaning solutions."
