CITGO's Lemont Refinery: A Century of Progress and Community Support in Energy

CITGO Celebrates 100 Years of the Lemont Refinery

This year, the CITGO Lemont Refinery proudly marks a significant milestone: its 100th anniversary. Located at the heart of Illinois, this refinery has not only been a vital contributor to the local economy but also a beacon of progress in the energy sector for over a century.

As citizens of Lemont, Romeoville, and Lockport come together, they celebrate decades of hard work, dedication, and community engagement fostered by the refinery's employees, contractors, and partners. Under the leadership of Carlos Jordá, President and CEO of CITGO Petroleum Corporation, the contributions made by many throughout the years are joyously acknowledged. "Reaching 100 years is a unique achievement for any industrial operation," Jordá remarked. "This refinery has played an essential role in meeting the energy demands of our region and continues to strengthen our standing as one of America's leading refiners."

The CITGO Lemont Refinery is strategically situated on a sprawling 1,100 acres and has evolved significantly since its inception. Its processing capabilities have expanded impressively from a crude oil capacity of 25,000 barrels per day (bpd) in 1926 to a staggering 177,000 bpd today. This remarkable growth underscores its pivotal role in transforming crude oil into a variety of essential products, including gasoline, diesel, propane, and jet fuel.

The impact of the refinery extends beyond the products it supplies. With a workforce exceeding 1,000 employees, CITGO Lemont makes substantial economic contributions, injecting nearly $300 million annually into the local community. Its employees are not just producers of energy; they are active members of their communities, dedicating thousands of hours each year to volunteer work and local initiatives.

In honor of its centennial, CITGO will host a series of celebratory activities that spotlight the refinery's rich history and the relationships formed over the last century. This months-long celebration emphasizes the people who have contributed to the refinery's journey. Jim Cristman, Vice President and General Manager of the CITGO Lemont Refinery, expressed, "This anniversary belongs to those whose efforts have provided sustainability and strength to the refinery across generations. It reflects not only in our operations but also in the bonds and shared experiences that have developed around it."

As CITGO Lemont looks ahead, it recognizes the endless possibilities that the next century holds. The commitment to safety, innovation, and community engagement remains unwavering. The company aims to create reliable energy solutions while continuing to champion the communities it serves.

As one of the most complex independent refiners in the United States, CITGO operates three refineries and a considerable transportation and marketing network. This extensive setup ensures that CITGO remains a leader in providing essential products for everyday life.

In conclusion, the CITGO Lemont Refinery's 100-year journey is a testament to the resilience and dedication of its workforce and a promise of its continued importance in the energy landscape. The legacy it has built over a century is not just about numbers but about the people and communities it fuels every day. Here’s to another hundred years of powering progress!