Dangote Refinery Cuts Gasoline Production Capacity by 34%

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has reduced its gasoline production capacity by 34% as of May 21 due to feedstock constraints and technical issues, according to a report by IIR Energy. The refinery's Residuum Fluid Catalytic Cracking Unit (RFCCU) is operating below its maximum capacity, with expectations to return to full production by mid-June.

The refinery has not responded to requests for comments regarding this matter. Despite the reduced output, the gasoline unit's performance is not expected to impact fuel availability or prices in the domestic market, especially during a period of renewed volatility in the international energy market.

The refinery, which has a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, commenced full operations earlier this year, aiming to reduce Nigeria's long-standing dependence on imported petroleum products. However, gasoline exports from the refinery have significantly declined, dropping to an average of 10,000 barrels per day in June from 17,000 barrels per day in May, compared to a peak of 81,000 barrels per day in April.