Neste, the world’s largest producer of renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel, has agreed to sell its proprietary NAPCON technology business to Lummus Technology, a global licensor in hydrocarbon processing.
The NAPCON portfolio comprises advanced solutions for interactive operator training, real-time process optimisation, AI-based predictive systems, and industrial data analytics. Developed to enhance process safety and boost asset profitability, NAPCON has long served critical roles in Neste’s own refinery operations and has been deployed across a wide external client base.
Markku Korvenranta, Executive Vice President and COO of Neste, said the deal would ensure continued competitiveness for the technology: “Lummus brings the scale, expertise and global reach needed to elevate NAPCON and secure support for existing users, including Neste’s own facilities.”
The transaction includes a long-term service agreement under which Lummus Digital, in partnership with Ferroman, will maintain and develop existing NAPCON installations within Neste’s refineries. The agreement also entails the transfer of key personnel to preserve technical continuity and domain expertise.
Lummus CEO Leon de Bruyn welcomed the acquisition, calling it a strategic fit: “Bringing NAPCON into our digital portfolio supports our goal of marrying AI-driven optimisation with world-class process technology.”
Ferroman, which provides automation and AI optimisation services across Europe, the Middle East and the Americas, will play a supporting role alongside Lummus Digital—a joint venture between Lummus Technology and TCG Digital.
The deal is expected to close by the end of May 2025.
