Valero Energy Ltd has announced it has submitted plans for a proposed £100 million investment to build a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Cogeneration Unit at Pembroke Refinery.

The 45 megawatt unit under review by Valero will provide power to the refinery, as well as supplement the refinery’s steam demand. With the UK refining industry facing numerous challenges, the project aims to ensure Pembroke Refinery - which is one of the leading employers in south Wales and is one of Europe’s largest and most complex refineries - continues to be successful in the competitive global market.

Ed Tomp, Valero vice-president and general manager, commented: “Valero has submitted plans to the Planning Inspectorate Wales to build a Cogeneration Unit at Pembroke Refinery. This would be a significant investment by Valero in Pembroke, demonstrating a huge vote of confidence in what the workforce has achieved since the company acquired the plant in August 2011.”

Tomp continued: “This project is at the heart of our plans to maintain the refinery’s viability for the long-term and help secure future jobs in the refining sector in Pembrokeshire and West Wales. We are at the early stages with this proposal and won’t make a final decision until next year. We will continue to keep key stakeholders informed as these plans progress.”

AM welcomes proposals

Plaid Cymru Assembly Member Simon Thomas has welcomed plans to protect the future of Valero Pembroke Refinery.

Valero Energy Ltd has submitted plans for a proposed £100 million investment to build a Combined Heat and Power Cogeneration Unit at Pembroke Refinery.

Mid and West AM Simon Thomas said: “These proposals are welcome, particularly if they secure the long-term future of the refinery. The site is large employer for Pembrokeshire. If the scheme gets the go ahead I hope it will help build skills and retain jobs in Pembrokeshire.”