Petrobras has completed the modernization of Train 1 at the Abreu e Lima Refinery (RNEST), located in Ipojuca, Pernambuco. The revamp process, an industry term for refinery upgrades, received an investment of approximately R$ 93 million, increasing the unit’s processing capacity from 115,000 to 130,000 barrels of oil per day.

"Investing in the most modern refinery in Brazil is part of Petrobras' current Business Plan, which projects US$ 19.6 billion in investments in the Refining, Transportation, Marketing, Petrochemicals, and Fertilizers (RTC) segment by 2029. This represents a 17% increase compared to the previous plan. RNEST is strategically significant for Brazil, serving as Petrobras' main hub in the North and Northeast, with easy access to consumer markets via coastal shipping. Now, we will complete Train 2 and double the refinery’s processing capacity—bringing more investment with high returns for society," said Petrobras President Magda Chambriard.

In December 2024, RNEST inaugurated the SNOX unit, the first of its kind in Brazilian refining. This advanced system reduces sulfur oxide (SOx) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions while producing sulfuric acid, a new commercially viable product for the refinery. Sulfuric acid plays a crucial role in water treatment and potable water production, reinforcing Petrobras' commitment to environmental sustainability.

The construction of Train 2 is currently in the contracting phase, with expectations to generate approximately 30,000 direct and indirect jobs. "We are making profitable investments that will enable business integration and diversification while ensuring a fair energy transition. The implementation of Train 2 will expand national refining capacity, increase production of fuels such as gasoline, LPG, and naphtha, and, most importantly, boost low-sulfur diesel (S10) output—reducing reliance on imports. By 2029, all production of S500 diesel will be replaced with S10, and RNEST plays a key role in this transition," explained Renata Baruzzi, Executive Director of Engineering, Technology, and Innovation at Petrobras.

"The Revamp is a significant milestone, marking the completion of the planned capacity expansion for the current Refining Train in operation. It enhances the flow of light products and increases the processing capacity of pre-salt crude oil. Among all Brazilian refineries, RNEST boasts the highest crude oil conversion rate into diesel (70%). With the completion of RNEST’s full scope—SNOX, Revamp Train 1, and Train 2—the refinery will be able to process 260,000 barrels of oil per day, increasing national S-10 diesel production by approximately 13 million liters per day," stated William França, Petrobras' Executive Director of Industrial Processes and Products.

About RNEST – The Abreu e Lima Refinery (RNEST) began operations in 2014 with its first unit set (Train I), marking the first new Petrobras refinery in 34 years. As the most modern refinery in the company, it plays a crucial role in meeting national demand for petroleum derivatives. RNEST is equipped with cutting-edge refining technologies and boasts the highest level of automation among Petrobras refineries. Its design adheres to international standards, incorporating environmentally friendly technologies with a focus on high reliability and performance, product quality compliance, low maintenance costs, energy efficiency, optimized water usage, and maximum operational safety.