An official source at PetroMasila Company stated that the project to expand the two refining units and develop and modernize the facilities for producing diesel fuel represents strategic importance for the state, due to what it will achieve in reducing dependence on importing fuel from abroad, which costs the state huge sums of money. 

He stressed that the company gave this project a top priority, despite the challenges represented by the cessation of export operations since November 2022 and the lack of the necessary operational budget.

He explained that the project requires the implementation of complex engineering and technical modifications within the facilities, especially since the work takes place inside the central processing unit that operates around the clock, as it contains oil tanks and pipelines filled with oil and gas, and to ensure the safety of more than 200 workers working in a confined area, Strict measures are being taken for occupational safety and industrial security.

The source added, “The two refining units were previously designed to produce diesel only, which necessitated making modifications to produce diesel, in addition to constructing dedicated pipelines to transport diesel and installing a platform for injecting the necessary chemicals, which are imported at high costs due to their importance in the production process according to to international standards.

He pointed out that the project includes building a tank with a capacity of 50 thousand barrels to store diesel fuel, equipped with a fire-fighting system and professional safety equipment, in addition to a pumping and distribution station equipped with 2-kilometre-long pipelines, characterized by an electric heating system and thermal insulation to ensure safe and effective transportation of the material. To keep up with the project requirements, an electrical station with a capacity of 28 megawatts is being equipped.

He also pointed out that the tanker loading platform was equipped with a two-arm mechanism, which allows two tankers to be loaded at the same time, with the installation of electronic measuring and control devices for the quantities loaded. The project also included improving the infrastructure, including roads and electricity systems that meet operating requirements.

The source revealed the success of the temporary trial operation of the project, as 5,000 barrels of diesel were produced as a test phase to measure the readiness of the project and evaluate the efficiency of the updated systems, including chemical treatment, pumping and storage.

He stressed that work on the project is still ongoing, and it is expected to be completed in the near future, but the challenges associated with global supply chains and maritime transport, which have been affected by current events, have led to a delay in the arrival of some equipment imported from specialized international companies.

He concluded his statement by emphasizing the importance of the project in reducing the financial burdens on the state and supporting the national economy in a sustainable manner.