What is the CITGO Lake Charles refinery naphtha processing upgrade project, and what is its primary objective?

The CITGO Lake Charles Refinery De-pentanizer Project (LCRDP) is a $310 million investment announced on September 1 to enhance the refinery’s naphtha upgrading capacity, specifically converting low-value fractions into high-value gasoline blending components; the project is scheduled to begin operations in 2029.

Why is the Lake Charles refinery significant to CITGO, and how does this upgrade support U.S. fuel supply reliability?

The Lake Charles refinery, with a daily processing capacity of approximately 479,000 barrels, is CITGO’s largest refinery and has been operational since 1944; the upgrade will improve its adaptability to domestic light crude oil, increase gasoline blending component output, enhance operational flexibility, and strengthen the reliable supply of transportation fuels in the United States.

CITGO Upgrades US Refinery Naphtha Processing Capacity

Sep 8, 2026

CITGO has officially approved a $310 million project at its Lake Charles refinery to boost naphtha processing and gasoline blending components by 2029, enhancing fuel supply security.

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2026-09-08

CITGO Upgrades US Refinery Naphtha Processing Capacity

CITGO Upgrades US Refinery Naphtha Processing Capacity

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