INA, a key player in Croatia’s energy sector, has finalized the first phase of its environmental remediation initiative at the Rijeka oil refinery. This project is being executed in partnership with an international consortium that includes Lamor and Litocrean, focusing on addressing historical contamination issues beneath the refinery.
The initial phase concentrated on conducting a thorough subsurface investigation. This involved drilling five exploratory wells and performing extensive geological and hydrological analyses to gain insights into fluid dynamics within the karst terrain underlying the facility. Core samples were meticulously analyzed, and advanced camera systems were employed to inspect boreholes, enabling precise mapping of underground conditions.
Having completed this groundwork, INA has transitioned into the second phase of the project, which commenced in mid-January. This stage entails further drilling activities and the development of technical documentation for a hydraulic barrier system. This system will consist of a series of wells along the Urinj peninsula shoreline, designed to create an artificial underground depression. This depression will serve as the lowest pressure point in the vicinity, effectively collecting and channeling contaminated fluids to prevent their migration towards marine environments. This barrier is integral to INA’s long-term strategy for marine protection.
The third phase will focus on installing treatment equipment and starting pumping operations aimed at managing contaminants effectively. The overall project is projected to cost approximately 6 million euros and is slated for completion by 2027, with the goal of permanently resolving legacy contamination issues beneath the refinery complex.
In addition to these long-term strategies, INA is implementing immediate protective measures. Currently, 33 extraction wells are operational, actively removing residual hydrocarbons from the karst system. Continuous marine monitoring is in place to facilitate quick responses if necessary. Regular inspections of storage tanks, drainage systems, and stormwater infrastructure are ongoing, ensuring that remediation efforts align with established plans. As an added precaution, stronger offshore containment booms are set to be deployed along the coastline once appropriate permits are obtained from relevant authorities.
