OMV Petrom has announced plans for a new renewable energy initiative at its Petrobrazi refinery in Romania, which will feature a solar power plant designed to meet part of the facility’s electricity requirements. This photovoltaic installation is projected to have a capacity of approximately 7 MW, generating green energy primarily for internal consumption.
The introduction of solar generation on-site aims to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources, enhance operational efficiency, and align with the company’s environmental objectives. This initiative represents a significant move towards achieving long-term decarbonization goals within the refinery’s operations.
The solar facility will occupy around 110,000 square meters within the refinery premises. The comprehensive project encompasses equipment procurement, construction, installation, and full integration into the refinery’s internal electrical grid. The total investment for this venture is estimated at up to nine million euros, inclusive of VAT, with approximately 1.7 million euros being provided as partial funding from the Modernization Fund. Following the awarding of engineering and construction contracts, work on-site is anticipated to commence soon, with an expected completion date before the end of the year; OMV Petrom will manage operations once the plant is commissioned.
This solar power project adds to a series of low-carbon upgrades at Petrobrazi, which include advancements such as a sustainable aviation fuel unit and a hydrotreated vegetable oil unit. Additionally, plans are in place for two hydrogen production units that will generate green hydrogen utilizing renewable electricity, further facilitating the refinery’s transition towards lower carbon emissions.
