INA has completed the construction of key systems for the new refinery unit

• The commissioning phase of the entire complex is beginning, with completion expected by the end of the first quarter of 2026.

• The investment, valued at nearly EUR 700 million, represents the largest single investment in INA’s history and one of the most significant industrial projects in the Republic of Croatia, with more than half of the work carried out by domestic contractors

• The modernised refinery will increase diesel production, strengthen Croatia’s energy security and that of neighbouring markets, and enhance the profitability of INA’s refining business

The Rijeka Refinery Upgrade Project has entered its final phase of implementation. Construction works on the key systems of the new processing units (including the Delayed Cocker Unit and the new port) have been completed, and comprehensive inspections and testing activities are currently underway as a prerequisite for hot commissioning and full operational readiness. The entire complex will be ready for commissioning in the first quarter of 2026.

The project includes the construction of a Delayed Coker Unit, modernisation of existing units, as well as the development of a new port, storage silos, an enclosed coke handling and transportation system, and a new high-capacity substation – the largest in the country – ensuring a reliable and secure power supply for the new facility. This extensive scope of technological, logistical and safety solutions represent a comprehensive transformation of the refinery complex into one of the most technologically advanced refining facilities in the region. The present final phase of pre-commissioning testing phase involves thorough technical and safety checks, system testing, and all procedures required to obtain the operating permit and commence regular commercial production at full capacity.

Over the past year and a half, construction activities were carried out alongside uninterrupted operation of existing refinery units at full capacity, marking the longest continuous operating period of the refinery in the past 15 years. During this time, record throughput was achieved, accompanied by stable and positive refining business results. INA has thus simultaneously ensured reliable supply to the domestic market while creating the foundations for long-term energy independence and security of supply.

Once the new Delayed Coker Unit is commissioned, INA will significantly increase production of diesel – by up to 30 percent – as well as other high-value distillates. INA’s continued focus will remain on the secure supply of Croatia and key regional markets (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Slovenia). The new facility at the Rijeka Refinery will substantially contribute to reliable and continuous supply, while significantly reducing the need for imports of petroleum products, primarily diesel, especially during the tourist season when demand peaks.

In addition, the production process will eliminate the need for importing vacuum gas oil (VGO), which on the European market is predominantly of Russian origin. This further strengthens energy security, reduces dependence on imported feedstocks, and enhances the overall resilience of the system.

The Rijeka Refinery Upgrade Project represents the culmination of decade-long efforts of INA, as a MOL Group member, to modernize its refining operations. Over this period, numerous initiatives have been launched, with total investments – including this latest project – exceeding one billion euros in the refining and logistics. As a result of these enhancements, INA’s refining business has become more resilient to macroeconomic pressures and has improved its energy efficiency, ultimately delivering positive operational results.

Key Figures and Facts About the Project

Project Scale

• More than 10,500 workers participated in the project, representing approximately 80 subcontracting companies
• The new facility will employ 60 staff, including engineers and shift operators
• Crude oil processing capacity will increase from just over 3 million tonnes per year to approximately 4 million tonnes in 2027, when the new unit reaches full capacity
• Diesel production will increase by up to 400,000 tonnes per year

Installed Materials and Infrastructure

• 9,400 tonnes of steel
• 581 km of primary cabling
• 37,000 m² of concrete-paved surfaces – equivalent to approximately five football pitches
• 28,335 m³ of concrete foundations and structures – a volume that could fill nearly 11 Olympic-size swimming pools

Health, Safety, Environmental Protection and Training

• A total of 8,900,000 working hours invested, equivalent to 1,016 years and 5 months of continuous work
• More than 40,000 training hours delivered – equivalent to over 4.5 years of continuous learning
• Over 20,000 hours of HSE training – equivalent to 2 years and 3 months of uninterrupted education
• More than 132,000 meeting hours – equivalent to 15 years and 1 month of continuous participation
• Over 221,000 hours of risk assessments – equivalent to 25 years and 3 months of uninterrupted focus on safety and risk management
• 56 evacuation and rescue drills conducted

Engineering and Documentation

• The project documentation system included:
  • 12,700 documents related to project documentation
  • 13,100 documents related to equipment manufacturing
  • INA teams issued 5,100 comments on project documentation and 2,100 responses to equipment suppliers
• Detailed design documentation for all disciplines (civil, mechanical, electrical and instrumentation) has been completed, and amendments to the construction permit are currently being obtained

Equipment and Supply

Equipment was manufactured and delivered to the Rijeka Refinery site from Italy, Spain, Germany, Poland, Turkey, Finland, the United States, South Korea, China and India

Approximately 500 pieces of new process equipment have been installed (columns, heat exchangers, coolers, pumps, compressors, transformers, etc.)