OMV Petrom, the largest integrated energy producer in Southeastern Europe, today announced the commencement of construction for a cutting-edge sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel (HVO) production unit at its Petrobrazi refinery. This €560 million investment will establish OMV Petrom as the region's first large-scale producer of these crucial sustainable fuels, with an annual capacity of 250,000 tons.

Source: OMV Petrom

"Investing in sustainable fuel production is a cornerstone of our Strategy 2030 and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to the energy transition and reducing carbon emissions," said Christina Verchere, CEO of the company.

"Sustainable fuels are essential for decarbonizing transportation, particularly in sectors like aviation where electrification presents significant challenges. Between 2022 and 2030, we are dedicating 35% of our investment budget to projects that advance the energy transition, both in Romania and across the region."

The new unit will seamlessly integrate SAF and HVO production with Petrobrazi's existing fuel production, storage, and distribution infrastructure, addressing the growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions in the region.

"This investment reinforces the Petrobrazi refinery's vital role in supplying essential fuels – both today and for the future," stated Radu Căprău, member of the OMV Petrom Executive Board responsible for Refining and Marketing.

"Building on our long-standing operational excellence, the refinery is undergoing a transformation to accommodate the production of sustainable fuels. We are proud to lead the way with this first-of-its-kind installation in our operating region, a complex project utilizing innovative technologies. This achievement is a testament to the expertise and dedication of our highly qualified team."

Project information:

The entire project represents a total investment of €750 million, encompassing the €560 million for the SAF/HVO unit and €190 million for the development of two green hydrogen production facilities. Green hydrogen is a key component in the production of these sustainable fuels.

Learn more about green transition projects in Central and Eastern Europe

Key partners in the project:

• TAROM: The Romanian flag carrier airline has signed a contract with OMV Petrom to receive SAF starting in 2025. This is a crucial partnership as it provides a guaranteed customer for the SAF produced at the Petrobrazi refinery.  
• Airbus: OMV and Airbus have a cooperation agreement to promote the wider adoption of SAF. They will explore solutions to increase access to SAF, stimulate demand, and support investments in SAF production facilities. They will also work together to accelerate the testing and approval of new feedstocks and production pathways for SAF.  
• Honeywell UOP: OMV Petrom is utilizing Honeywell UOP's Ecofining™ process technology in their SAF production. This technology is crucial for converting renewable raw materials into SAF.
• Wood: This global engineering and consultancy company was awarded a significant contract by OMV Petrom for the project. Wood is responsible for delivering engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCm) services to install the new bio-hydrotreater unit and storage facilities at the Petrobrazi refinery.

OMV Petrom’s Broader Commitment to Lower-Emission Transportation:

Beyond sustainable fuel production, OMV Petrom is also expanding its network of electric vehicle charging points, targeting over 5,000 units in Romania by 2030, up from approximately 900 currently.

About OMV Petrom:

OMV Petrom is the largest integrated energy company in Southeast Europe, with activities in Upstream (exploration and production of oil and gas) and Downstream (refining and marketing of fuels and petrochemicals). The company is committed to sustainable energy solutions and is actively investing in projects that support the energy transition.