OMV Petrom, an integrated energy producer in southeastern Europe, has announced the start of construction for a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), also known as renewable diesel, production unit at the Petrobrazi refinery. This new facility will position OMV Petrom as a producer of sustainable fuels in southeast Europe, with a capacity of 250 000 tpy.
Christina Verchere, CEO of OMV Petrom, said: "investing in sustainable fuel production is part of our Strategy 2030 and reflects OMV Petrom's commitment to energy transition and reducing carbon emissions. Sustainable fuels are essential to decarbonise transportation, especially in sectors where electrification is difficult to implement, such as aviation. Between 2022 and 2030, we are allocating 35% of our investment budget towards projects that support the energy transition, in Romania and the region."
Radu Caprau, member of the OMV Petrom Executive Board, responsible for Refining and Marketing, added: “This investment strengthens the role of the Petrobrazi refinery in providing the necessary fuels for mobility – today and in the future. Building on a long tradition of operational excellence, the refinery is transforming to accommodate the production of sustainable fuels. With the commencement of this very complex project, employing new and innovative technologies, we are proud to lead the way with the first installation of its kind in our operating region. This achievement is made possible by our highly qualified colleagues, whose expertise and dedication are crucial to our success."
The new unit will enable OMV Petrom to integrate the production of SAF and HVO with the existing infrastructure for fuel production, storage, and distribution, thus meeting the region's sustainable mobility needs.
The project entails a total investment of €750 million, of which €560 million are allocated for the construction of the SAF/HVO unit, and €190 million for two green hydrogen production facilities.
How SAF and HVO are produced and their impact on emissions
SAF and HVO are sustainable fuels manufactured by processing renewable raw materials, such as used vegetable oils and animal fats. Through advanced refining processes using green hydrogen, these materials are transformed to have characteristics similar to those of conventional kerosene and diesel. The use of these fuels allows for a significant reduction in CO2 emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels (for example, at least 65% in the case of SAF and HVO).
The flexibility of the new facility allows for the adjustment of the type of raw materials used (used oil, animal fats) and the mix of finished products (SAF and HVO, as well as bionaphtha and bioLPG), depending on market requirements and the availability of feedstock.
Investment in lower-emission transportation
In addition to the development of sustainable fuel production, OMV Petrom is expanding its network of charging points for electric vehicles, aiming for over 5000 units by 2030 in Romania, compared to approximately 900 currently operating.