Shell announced the launch of Torzhok Lubricants Plant expansion project in Tver Region
The announcement was made by Cederic Cremers, Shell Country Chair Russia, during a ceremony held at the plant in the presence of Alexander Novak, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Federation Government, Igor Rudenya, Tver Governor, regional and federal officials, representatives of oil and gas companies, key customers and media.
A decision to increase the Torzhok plant’s capacity was based on the most successful plant operation experience and an outlook for Shell’s products in the Russian market and markets in some FSU countries. Over 80% of Shell lubricants supplied in the Russian market are produced in Torzhok.
The plant’s current product slate offers a wide spectrum of high-quality lubricants, including motor oils, marine engine oils, industrial lubricants, hydraulic and transmission oils.
The plant’s production will be increased from 200 to 300 million litres of lubricants per annum. This will be achieved by boosting the capacity of existing trains and optimizing the manufacturing process. The project provides for the construction of additional storage facilities, expansion of the tank farm and upgrades to the manufacturing facilities. Expansion works will not impact exiting operations.
The project is expected to be completed in 2023.
Shell’s plant in Torzhok was the first plant of such a type to have been built by an international oil and gas company in Russia. From day one, the plant has employed Russian nationals only. Over 95% of its workers are residents of Tver Region and Torzhok municipality.
“Shell’s plant in Torzhok is one of the best in its class in Russia and a leader in terms of operational performance, including safety, among other Shell plants in Europe. Our plant has been repeatedly named the safest operation in the Upper Volga. We hope that the expansion project will give an additional impetus to the economic development in Tver region. We would like to express our gratitude to Tver Administration and Governor Igor Rudenya for their long-lasting cooperation and support to industrial enterprises in the region”, said Sergey Starodubtsev, General Manager of LLC Shell Neft, which owns the plant.