Romania set to restart Lukoil’s Petrotel refinery after US waiver, aiming to shore up fuel supply

Romania is preparing to restart Lukoil’s Petrotel refinery after approval from the US Government, a development officials say could materially improve domestic fuel availability amid persistent global uncertainty. The restart is expected within around 45 days, positioning the plant as a near-term lever for supply stability.

US waiver and sanctions-compliant operations

Energy Minister Bogdan Ivan said the waiver allows operations to resume while remaining fully compliant with international sanctions regulations. Under the plan, the refinery will be subject to strict oversight, including crude oil sourced exclusively from non-Russian origins. Officials also described safeguards intended to prevent any financial flows from reaching sanctioned entities.

Impact on gasoline and diesel coverage

Once restarted, Petrotel is expected to play a major role in Romania’s national energy balance by covering a large share of domestic fuel needs. Company and government estimates cited in the report suggest it could supply all gasoline demand and a major portion of diesel consumption, helping stabilize the market through higher overall output.

Resilience amid geopolitical and supply-chain pressures

The timing comes as geopolitical pressures continue to affect energy markets, including disruptions in global supply chains and tensions influencing key transit routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. By expanding refining capacity, Romania aims to reduce reliance on imports and improve resilience against external shocks.

Regional supply potential alongside Petromidia

Beyond meeting domestic demand, increased production could enable Romania to export surplus fuel to neighboring markets. The restart would complement the continued full-capacity operation of the Petromidia refinery, reinforcing Romania’s position as a regional refining hub.