Second shut down for Sapugaskanda refinery amidst forex crisis

• Energy Ministry says operations will resume soon as long-term Singapore contract comes into effect from 26 Jan.
• Assures fuel supply will not be affected due to temporary closure from 3 Jan.

The Energy Ministry yesterday announced that the Sapugaskanda oil refinery will have to be closed again on 3 January.

The decision was made after considering the difficulties in purchasing crude oil as a result of the foreign reserves scarcity.

However, the Ministry said that the refinery will recommence operations before 30 January, as the supplies from the long-time Singapore contractor will begin on 26 January.

The Ministry assured that the country’s fuel supply will not be affected in any manner by the temporary closure of the refinery.

The 51-year-old Sapugaskanda oil refinery produces 37% of furnace oil and naphtha, 19% jet fuel and kerosene, and 43% for the production of 14% petrol and 29% diesel.

Earlier, the refinery was closed for 50 days from 15 November and resumed operations on 7 December.