Essar Stanlow Refinery Achieves Record Domestic Sales
Essar Energy Transition announced a record-breaking year for domestic fuel sales at its Stanlow refinery in northwest England during 2025. This performance marks the strongest results since Essar acquired the facility in 2011, reinforcing its crucial role in the United Kingdom's energy security strategy.
Operational Throughput and Market Growth
Operational throughput at the refinery increased by 8 percent year-on-year, with dispatch volumes from the Stanlow gantry nearing all-time highs. This growth was attributed to strong UK demand for refined products, coupled with an expansive pan-UK supply strategy that successfully widened the company's market share across key sectors. Dispatch volumes successfully navigated the complexities associated with a major infrastructure transition period.
Expansion in Retail and Aviation
Both the retail and aviation fuel businesses experienced substantial gains. Essar expanded its branded retail forecourt network to 58 sites, now supplying fuel to over 100 dealer-owned forecourts nationwide, supported by a December price-reduction campaign. In the aviation sector, the company broadened its reach, establishing direct fuel supply operations at 10 major UK airports.
Investment and Decarbonisation Efforts
A significant refinery turnaround, part of a broader $350 million investment program, was completed during the year. This operation enhanced throughput capacity by approximately 8 percent and saw the installation of the UK's first hydrogen-ready furnace, advancing the site's decarbonisation pathway. Strategic distribution hubs in Kingsbury, Northampton, Grangemouth, Oikos, and Grays were instrumental in ensuring fuel supply resilience, enabling rapid responses to urgent demand, particularly following the closure of two other UK refineries in 2025.
Call for Policy Support
Essar Energy Transition emphasized the importance of a competitive domestic refining industry. The company reiterated its appeal for the UK's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to include the refining sector. This measure, they argue, is vital to protect against the economic impact of high-carbon fuel imports and ensure a level playing field for domestic producers.
Deepak Maheshwari, CEO of EET Fuels, highlighted the strong execution during a challenging transition year. "This record-breaking year is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team," he stated. He reaffirmed Essar's commitment to investing in Stanlow's long-term, sustainable future, noting its continuing importance to the UK economy.