Chemical Industry News, Data & Insights

INA Completes Rijeka Refinery Upgrade

Key highlights
  • The Rijeka Refinery upgrade involved a EUR 700 million investment.
  • The refinery's capacity will reach up to four million tons of crude oil per year.
  • A green hydrogen plant, costing over EUR 60 million, is planned for completion by 2026.
  • The refinery will no longer need to import vacuum gas oil, enhancing energy security.

Project Completion

INA has completed the Rijeka Refinery Upgrade Project, marking the largest single investment in its history at nearly EUR 700 million. This modernization is also one of the biggest industrial investments in modern Croatia.

Increased Capacity and Efficiency

The upgrade includes the construction of a Delayed Coking Unit, boosting the refinery's processing capacity to up to four million tons of crude oil annually. The facility can now handle a broader range of crude, including heavier grades, optimizing production and increasing high-value product yields. Diesel production is expected to rise by around 30%, crucial for the market, especially during Croatia's peak tourist season.

Energy Security

The refinery will no longer need to import vacuum gas oil, predominantly sourced from Russia, enhancing Croatia's energy security and reducing reliance on imported raw materials.

Future Developments

A Grant agreement was signed for a green hydrogen production plant at the Rijeka Refinery, under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. INA plans to invest over EUR 60 million in this project, which includes a 10 MW electrolyzer and an 11 MW solar power plant. The green hydrogen will primarily serve the transportation market and can be used in the refinery's production processes. Completion is expected by the end of 2026, with production starting in 2027.