RNEST sets diesel production record in April

The Abreu e Lima Refinery (RNEST), in the state of Pernambuco, set a new S-10 diesel production record in April, reaching 385 million liters and surpassing the previous high of 373 million liters recorded nearly a decade ago, in July 2016. The increase occurs gradually during the month of March, when the plant increased its processing load to help mitigate the impacts of global geopolitical tensions.

The result reflects the implementation of the 2025 Revamp project, which expanded the refinery’s capacity to 130 thousand barrels per day and enabled the highest processing volume in its history. As a result, S-10 diesel production increased by approximately 60% compared to the same period of the previous year, rising from 244 thousand m³ to 385 thousand m³.

"The Revamp project marked an important milestone for the refinery, as it was the first capacity expansion initiative delivered under the 2026–2030 Business Plan. Together with the planned investment in Train II, we are responsible for more than 50% of all refining capacity expansion planned under the Business Plan. This means more fuel supply, greater energy security and more opportunities,” said Márcio da Silva Maia, General Manager of the Abreu e Lima Refinery.

These figures represent an important milestone for the country’s energy security amid global geopolitical instability. It is part of Petrobras’ set of structured measures to mitigate potential impacts arising from tensions in the Middle East. “By expanding diesel production, the company strengthens its ability to meet Brazil’s energy demand while reducing vulnerabilities in the global fuel supply chain,” said William França, Petrobras’ Executive Director for Industrial Processes and Products.

RNEST and Investments

Petrobras is investing approximately R$12 billion in the completion of Train II and maintenance activities at Train I, which will add 130 thousand barrels per day to RNEST’s processing capacity, allowing the refinery to reach 260 thousand barrels per day by the completion of the project in 2029.

The expansion will significantly boost the production of refined products, particularly S-10 diesel, whose output will increase by 88 thousand barrels per day, as well as gasoline, LPG and naphtha. This will help reduce the need for imports of these products and contribute to the country’s energy independence.

Petrobras’ commitment to the Refining, Transportation and Marketing segment remains strong. The 2026–2030 Business Plan includes US$15.8 billion in investments in this segment, aimed at expanding higher value-added and low-carbon products, as well as modernizing the industrial facilities.