ExxonMobil to invest more than $1bn to expand Fawley refinery in UK

ExxonMobil has decided to invest more than $1bn to expand the capacity of the Fawley refinery in the UK.

Along with logistical improvements, tyhe capacity expansion will increase the existing ultra-low-sulphur diesel production by 45%, the equivalent of 38,000 barrels per day (bpd).

The scope of works under the investment includes a hydrotreater unit to remove sulphur from fuel, supported by a hydrogen plant.

When combined, the hydrotreater unit and the hydrogen plant will also help to improve the overall energy-efficiency of the refinery.

ExxonMobil Fuels and Lubricants Company president Bryan Milton said: “ExxonMobil continues to invest in the Fawley refinery and chemical plant, Britain’s largest integrated facility.

“This investment will make Fawley refinery the most efficient in the UK, supporting Esso’s industry-leading logistics and fuels marketing operations.”

Detailed engineering and design works are currently underway with construction scheduled to begin later this year, subject to regulatory approval.

During peak level of construction works, the refinery is expected to support up to 1,000 jobs.

The expanded refinery is expected to commence services in 2021 and reduce the need to import diesel into the UK.

The plant is located on Southampton Water with strategic access to distribution logistics across southern England. It also has export access to other European markets and the Atlantic basin.

ExxonMobil recently made significant investments in its refineries on the US Gulf Coast, Rotterdam, Antwerp and Singapore.

The investments are expected to bolster revenue generated from its downstream business by 2025.