Massive Citgo refinery slowly works its way back to 100%

LAKE CHARLES, La.
Security remains tight, with few visitors allowed inside the plant. But Citgo gave USA TODAY a glimpse of its early recovery operations.

Enough power surged into the plant two weeks ago to start preliminary operations and produce some gas and fuel. But it’s unclear how long it will take to fire up the plant for 100% production.

Citgo’s measured pace to recovery shows the complexity of oil refineries, and why shutting down one as a hurricane nears is a costly step. The Lake Charles refinery loses $1 million for each day production is down, says Citgo CEO Felix Rodriguez.

USA Today