Oman’s Duqm refinery, a vital energy infrastructure project, has reached a significant milestone by successfully completing its start-up phase. OQ, the project’s operator, revealed its plans to initiate full commercial operations by the end of this year.
This essential infrastructure project, boasting a crude processing capacity of 230,000 barrels per day, is a 50:50 joint venture between OQ Group and Kuwait Petroleum International.
Duqm Refinery – Exporting high sulphur fuel oil (HSFO) to the US
“Significant progress has been made in the project’s execution, with the start-up phase of the refinery now completed, marked by the production of high sulphur fuel oil (HSFO),” OQ said in a written statement in response to a Reuters email.
During the start-up phase, the refinery achieved the production of high sulphur fuel oil (HSFO), a noteworthy development for the project. As part of the ongoing trial runs, the refinery has already exported its first shipment of HSFO to the United States. This achievement marks a pivotal moment as the plant gears up for full-scale commercial operations. Naphtha production has also been realized, diversifying the refinery’s product offerings.
Successful diesel shipment and crude oil transport
In addition to the HSFO export, the Duqm refinery recorded another milestone in September with its inaugural diesel shipment. In addition, the successful transport of Omani and Kuwaiti crude oil to Ras Markaz, followed by its pipeline transfer to the Duqm refinery complex, showcases the project’s comprehensive capabilities.
Construction and commissioning progress
OQ reports that the Duqm refinery’s construction stands at 99% completion, with an impressive 81% of the commissioning process already accomplished. These commissioning activities span the entire supply chain, encompassing crude storage tanks at Ras Markaz and the product export systems connecting the refinery to the Duqm export terminal jetty.
The successful completion of the start-up phase signifies Oman’s attempts to strengthen its position in the global energy landscape, with the Duqm refinery poised to play a crucial role in the region’s energy infrastructure.
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