INA nears completion of €700-MM Rijeka refinery upgrade project
- 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 modernized refinery will increase diesel production, strengthen Croatia’s energy security and that of neighboring 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 completion of construction of the key units marks another major milestone in the delivery of this strategically important project for INA, Croatia and the wider region. Following the exceptional engagement of our teams and partners during the construction – where more than half of the work was carried out by Croatian companies – we are entering the testing phase, followed by trial operation – one of the most demanding stages of investments in new energy facilities.
During 2026, following the completion of all permitting procedures, we expect the refinery to operate at full capacity. By modernising the Rijeka refining complex, INA is gaining one of the most technologically advanced facilities in the region, delivering higher efficiency, improved profitability, greater energy independence and enhanced security of supply,” said Goran Pleše, Operating Director of Refining and Marketing at INA.
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
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