Technological stop at Rompetrol Refining

Rompetrol Rafinare will interrupt its activity between July 1 – 15 for performing the scheduled technological works, but also for expanding the company's capacity of producing low-sulfur (10 ppm) Euro 5 gas.

“There are normal operations, specific to refining activities, which will ensure the necessary technological premises for upgrading the quality indicators of the Rompetrol products, as well as continuing the energetic efficiency program and reduction of CO2 emissions. The Company has been producing and selling Euro 5 diesel since 2006, the fuel range aiming at including Euro 5 gas starting with January 1st” states Cosmin Turcu, Rompetrol Rafinare CEO.

The scheduled stop will mainly aim changing the catalysts, maintenance works that can only be performed when installations are at rest, but also other projects. The Rompetrol Group assigned over $164 million for continuing the refining investment program this year.

During this period, Rompetrol Rafinare will ensure product deliveries to its clients from reserves.

For 2008 the Company estimates to process approximately 4.1 million tons of raw material (3.94 million tons crude oil), more than last year when it reached the level of 3.8 million tons. In May this year, the refinery registered the biggest processed crude oil figure in its history, approximately 405,000 tons.

Rompetrol Rafinare registered last year a turnover of approximately 3.3 billion USD*, a 27% boost compared to 2006, while the operating profit (EBITDA) increased by 12%, reaching 136 million USD.

* The results are audited and consolidated, and the report was made according to the International Accounting Standards (IFRS).