Opening of BP Kwinana refinery project resulting in lower lead levels in petrol

2/2/96

Lead levels in petrol have again been reduced significantly as a result of new high-tech upgrades at BP Kwinana's oil refinery.

Resources Development Minister Colin Barnett today officially opened the $230 million 'MoGas' (Motor Gasoline) project at the  Kwinana oil refinery which has enabled BP to fulfil its commitment to significantly lower lead levels in petrol in Western Australia.

As a part of a two-year lead reduction program, the amount of lead in petrol is now down from 0.5 grams per litre in 1993 to 0.2 grams per litre, bringing WA in line with other States.

"BP refinery has lived up to its commitment to lower lead levels progressively in petrol, with the new plant enabling a further reduction in a bid to progressively phase out the use of lead in petrol by the end of the decade," Mr Barnett said. 

The Minister said the key to the continued phasing out of lead in petrol was the Kwinana refinery's new 'continuous catalytic reformer'.

Mr Barnett said the use of lead enhanced the octane levels, or explosive power, in petrol. If lead was not used, hydrocarbons were added to give the required boost.

About 45 per cent of vehicles manufactured before 1986 used super-grade petrol containing lead.

The Minister said this level was expected to reduce to about 35 per cent by the end of 1996 with the release of newer model cars on the road.

The plant would also enable the refinery to increase its production capacity to 20,000 barrels of a high-octane petrol component (naphtha) daily, allowing it to be well placed to capture export opportunities, primarily in Asia.

"The upgrade has the dual benefit of increasing the refinery's production while also helping to save the environment," Mr Barnett said.

He said the Kwinana refinery led the development of Kwinana as an industrial region. It was due to celebrate its 40th birthday this year.

BP supplies 80 per cent of the transport fuel used in WA and 90 per cent of lubricating oils.

The Minister congratulated BP on its response to the widespread environmental and community concerns about lead levels.

He said the current lowering of lead levels would not cause an immediate rise to petrol prices.

Media contact:  Carolyn Vicars 222 9699