ExxonMobil took a Delayed Coker Unit (DCU) into operation at its refinery in Antwerp at the start of April. The unit converts heavy, high-sulphur oil products into cleaner transport fuel like diesel and fuel oil for shipping. The new plant represents an investment of over 1 billion euros.
The DCU has been created ahead of the new shipping regulations, which will come into force on 1 January 2020. From that date, international shipping will not be allowed to use fuel with a sulphur content of more than 0.5%. Thanks to this investment the sulphur emissions of the refinery itself will be reduced by 75%.
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ExxonMobil’s research centres are also analyzing new energy processes, biofuels, Carbon Capture & Storage, natural gas technologies and advanced energy-saving materials.
This investment of 1 billion euros is proof if any is needed that ExxonMobil fully intends to continue playing an important role in Antwerp. With this new plant we are meeting the demand for low-sulphur transport fuel, while creating additional, high-level jobs. Together with our previous investments this makes the Antwerp refinery one of the most modern and efficient in the world
highlighted the CEO of ExxonMobil Benelux.
