KUWAIT CITY, Nov 6: The Kuwait Integrated Petroleum Industries Company (KIPIC) announced on Sunday start of commercial operations of the first phase at Al-Zour Refinery project. In a statement to (KUNA), Acting CEO of (KIPIC) Waleed Al-Bader said that the operation is an important historic event and considered a mainstay of the country’s development plan. It provides fuel of high quality and environmental standards to meet the local demand for energy, as it limits emissions of gases polluting the environment and improves air quality, Al-Bader added.

He indicated that it is a vital outlet for the disposal of heavy Kuwaiti oil, and provides other refined products for export in global markets with standard specifications. He praised the exceptional role of the national expertise and the Kuwaiti youth, who were qualified according to the highest professional levels in leading and implementing the operations of the Al-Zour refinery. Al-Bader expressed his thanks and appreciation for all the efforts made in achieving this national achievement. For his part, Executive Vice President of Al-Zour Refinery Khaled Al- Awadhi told (KUNA) that operating the first phase of the refinery would enhance the growth of the national economy, increase the state’s financial revenues and provide more job opportunities for national cadres.

Challenges
Despite the challenges that the project faced, referring to the CORONA pandemic, (KIPIC) fulfilled its commitment to the project’s readiness according to the highest international standards and specifications, meeting all operational needs and observing all environmental requirements. On May 11, (KIPEC) carried out the trial operation of the first crude oil distillation unit, and refined 2.5 million barrels of crude oil, securing the main stock of oil derivatives that contributed to the smooth operation of the rest of the units, he pointed. Al-Awadhi praised the efforts of (KIPIC) employees, its operations and maintenance groups, technical and engineering services, health, safety, environment, security and firefighting. (KUNA)