European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Total to Invest Over 1 Billion Euros in France for Refining, Petrochemicals, and Solar Energy

At a glance
  • 1 B€ investment in refining, petrochemicals, and solar energy in France from 2009-2011.
  • 770 M€ to reconfigure Normandy refinery, reducing capacity to 12 million tons/year.
  • 230 M€ to upgrade steamcracker and HDPE unit in Gonfreville.
  • Closure of secondary butyl alcohol facility at Notre-Dame-de-Gravenchon.

Investment Overview

Total plans to invest over 1 billion euros in France to enhance its refining, petrochemicals, and solar energy operations. This investment aims to secure the future of its industrial base amidst a challenging economic environment.

Job Creation

The investment will generate an average of over 1,000 jobs annually from 2009 to 2011, significantly impacting regional economic activity and employment.

Solar Energy Expansion

In partnership with GDF Suez, Total will build a plant in the Carling region to manufacture silicon wafers for the photovoltaic industry, with an initial investment of 70 million euros and employment for approximately 100 people.

Refining Base Adaptation

Total's Refining & Marketing division will reconfigure the Normandy refinery, shifting focus to diesel production. The project involves a 770 million euro investment, reducing refining capacity from 16 million to 12 million metric tons annually and increasing diesel output by 10% while cutting surplus gasoline by 60%. This reconfiguration will also reduce carbon emissions by 25%.

Petrochemicals Upgrade

Total Petrochemicals France will invest 230 million euros to enhance the energy efficiency and competitiveness of the steamcracker and HDPE unit in Gonfreville and consolidate polystyrene production at the Carling facility. This includes closing loss-making units and streamlining operations.

Facility Closures

The secondary butyl alcohol facility at Notre-Dame-de-Gravenchon will be closed following the termination of its supply contract. Total is committed to finding internal placement solutions for affected employees, with no planned layoffs.