OMV Petrom, a leading energy company in Southeastern Europe, is accelerating its transformation with a significant investment of nearly €750 million at its Petrobrazi site in Romania.
This ambitious project aims to establish the refinery as the region’s first major producer of sustainable fuels. Christina Verchere, CEO of OMV Petrom, states, “We are taking a decisive step in our transformation towards low-carbon energy.
In addition to our new renewable energy projects, we are making major investments to decarbonize transport in Romania. By 2030, we will invest 11 billion euros to transform our company from a sustainable perspective, in Romania and neighboring countries.”
A State-of-the-Art Biofuels Plant
The core of this massive investment is the construction of a cutting-edge unit dedicated to producing sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and renewable diesel (HVO) at a cost of €560 million.
With an annual production capacity of 250,000 tons, this ultramodern and flexible facility can adjust its production mix based on market demand and raw material availability.
The plant will also generate bio-naphtha and bio-LPG, which are valuable in the chemical industry.
Green Hydrogen at the Heart of the Process
Two green hydrogen production units with a total capacity of 55 MW, representing an investment of approximately €190 million, including €50 million from European funds, will complement the industrial facility.
With an estimated annual production of 8,000 tons, this renewable hydrogen will be integrated into the biofuel manufacturing process, reducing CO2 emissions by at least 70% compared to conventional fuels.
Securing Sustainable Supply
To ensure a sustainable and responsible supply of raw materials, OMV Petrom has acquired a 50% stake in “Respiră Verde,” a Romanian leader in the collection of used cooking oil.
Each year, this company recovers up to 10,000 tons of oils, mainly from restaurants and supermarkets, guaranteeing a local source of biomass.
A Committed Regional Energy Player
As a major contributor to the Romanian state budget, with €42 billion in taxes and dividends paid since 2005, OMV Petrom reaffirms its leading role in the energy transition in the Balkans.
By 2030, the group plans to invest €11 billion in low-carbon energy, aligning with European climate goals. With 43% Romanian shareholders, including the state at 20.7%, OMV Petrom is anchoring its new industrial developments in the heart of the country, creating local jobs and contributing to Romania’s energy sovereignty.
Reducing Imports and Enhancing Energy Security
By integrating a local production of 250,000 tons of sustainable biofuels by 2028, OMV Petrom will significantly reduce petroleum product imports and strengthen the energy security of both Romania and the region.
This is a major strategic issue at a time when geopolitical tensions are disrupting global hydrocarbon markets.