Chevron upgrades Pasadena refinery to boost capacity and flexibility

Chevron U.S.A., Inc. (CUSA), a subsidiary of Chevron Corporation, has announced the completion of a major upgrade to its refinery in Pasadena, Texas. The retrofit, part of the Light Tight Oil (LTO) Project, increases processing capacity for lighter crude oils by nearly 15%, enabling the facility to handle up to 125,000 barrels per day. This expansion is set to bolster Chevron’s equity crude production from the Permian Basin and enhance the supply of refined products along the U.S. Gulf Coast.

The project underscores Chevron’s strategic commitment to optimizing its Gulf Coast refining capabilities. By processing more equity crude, the company aims to strengthen synergies with its Pascagoula refinery while contributing to the broader American energy value chain.

Enhanced Flexibility For Feedstocks And Products

With the upgrades, the Pasadena refinery is now equipped to process a wider range of feedstocks and produce diverse outputs, including jet fuel and gas oil for export markets. The retrofit significantly improves the facility’s reliability and safety, ensuring it can adapt to the evolving demands of the energy market. Chevron Manufacturing President Chris Cavote emphasized that the integration of upstream and downstream operations is central to maximizing value across the company’s supply chain.

Commitment To Safety And Community Impact

The LTO Project’s planning phase began in 2019, shortly after Chevron acquired the Pasadena refinery, with construction starting in early 2020. Over 4 million worker hours were logged during the project, underscoring Chevron’s focus on safety. Refinery General Manager Tifanie Steele highlighted the company’s dedication to long-term investment in the facility, which she believes will generate sustained economic benefits for the surrounding community.

A Strategic Milestone For Chevron

The phased start-up of the upgraded refinery is expected to continue through the first quarter of 2025. During this period, Chevron will ensure that all systems operate as intended and that new product specifications are met. The enhanced facility positions Chevron to better serve customers across the U.S. Gulf Coast, aligning with its vision of integrating its upstream production with downstream refining operations for maximum efficiency.

Chevron’s move to enhance its Pasadena refinery reflects a growing trend among energy companies to adapt to market changes by investing in flexibility and capacity. Industry analysts suggest that such upgrades could enable Chevron to better compete in a volatile energy landscape, where efficiency and adaptability are key.