Global refining and petrochemical news: 2 February 2015

Brazil

Petrobras has said that the delivery of two refineries, which are currently under construction, are going to be delayed due to allegations of inflated contracts. The company is currently in the middle of a large corruption scandal which this is part of. The company had already announced the complete cancellation of two refinery projects in Maranhao and Ceara.

India

Gail India has announced plans to convert its LPG recovery plant to supply feedstock for use at the petrochemical unit of BPCL which is being setup. This is following reports that the plant in Lakwa, Assam was to be shut down completely.

South Africa

From 13 February until March 31 Chevron has announced that it will be shutting down its Cape Town refinery for routine maintenance. Safety inspections will also be carried out at the 100 000 bpd facility during this period. It has been reported that Shell has made contingency plans for any supply constraints that may occur during this down time.

USA

Over 70 people spoke at a hearing last week in Mount Vernon on plans for the construction of a rail yard at the Shell owned Anacortes refinery. The majority of comments were made by environmentalists concerned about a variety of topics from wetlands to traffic and spill risks. A full environmental impact study has been demanded before permits are issued and permission to build the facility is granted.

A hearing is to be held on February 3 on a propane and butane recovery project at a Rodeo petroleum refinery. The hearing is being held by the Contra Costa County Board after several postponements that have lasted over a year. The project has encountered strong opposition from local residents and environmental groups on a national scale. The propane recovery project being pursued by Phillips 66 will require the installation of new equipment to recover and sell propane and butane rather than burning the gas off during flaring.

Sources: Reuters, Columbian, O&G Technology, Fox News Latino, Contra Costa Times.

Edited from various sources by Claira Lloyd

Read the article online at: https://www.hydrocarbonengineering.com/refining/02022015/refining-petchem-news/