Chemical Industry News, Data & Insights

Eni and Q8 to Build Priolo Biorefinery

Key highlights
  • The Priolo biorefinery will produce 500,000 tonnes of biofuels annually.
  • The project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 65%.
  • Completion of the biorefinery is expected by the end of 2028.
  • The facility will produce Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF-Biojet).

Project Overview

Eni and Q8 Italy are collaborating on a strategic investment to construct a biorefinery in Priolo, Sicily. The project has received formal approval from the boards of Eni and Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, following a binding offer from Q8.

Production Capacity and Goals

The Priolo biorefinery will have an annual capacity of 500,000 tonnes, focusing on producing Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF-Biojet). The initiative aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 65% compared to traditional fossil fuels, aligning with EU environmental objectives.

Project Timeline

The engineering phase is complete, and preparatory activities for procurement and construction contracts are underway. Demolition work for new infrastructure is about to start, and the authorization process has been initiated. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2028.

Strategic Importance

This project builds on the long-standing partnership between Eni and Q8, which began with the Milazzo refinery in 1996. It leverages Eni's expertise in Ecofining™ technology to convert waste, residues, and vegetable oils into biofuels. The transformation plan for the Priolo site supports Eni's goal of achieving a biorefining capacity of 5 million tonnes per year by 2030.