- BP plans to invest $200 million to upgrade PTA plants in South Carolina and Belgium.
- The upgrades will improve efficiency, reduce costs, and lower emissions.
- Geel's PTA3 unit upgrade will be completed by the end of 2015, with PTA2 following in 2016.
- The Geel upgrade will create around 100 construction jobs at its peak.
Investment Overview
BP announced a $200 million investment to upgrade its purified terephthalic acid (PTA) plants located in Cooper River, South Carolina, and Geel, Belgium. These upgrades aim to position these facilities among the most efficient PTA manufacturing sites globally.
Technological Enhancements
The investment will allow BP to apply its latest proprietary technology and process know-how to existing assets. This will significantly improve cost competitiveness and reduce the environmental footprint of the plants. The upgrades are expected to enhance feedstock and energy efficiency, thereby reducing both variable and fixed costs as well as greenhouse gas emissions.
Production and Environmental Impact
PTA is a key raw material used in the production of polyester, which is found in various consumer goods such as fabrics and food and beverage containers. The Cooper River site is the largest PTA producer in the Americas, while the Geel site holds the same distinction in Europe. The annual greenhouse gas reductions from the Geel upgrade are projected to be equivalent to eliminating the electricity and heating emissions of 1,500 typical Belgian households.
Job Creation and Timeline
The Geel upgrade is expected to create approximately 100 construction jobs at its peak and will indirectly benefit other local businesses. The upgrade of Geel's PTA3 unit is scheduled for completion by the end of 2015, with the PTA2 unit following in 2016.
