The Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL) controlled Kochi Refineries (KRL) invited expression of interest (EoI) for consultancy services for the proposed expansion-cum-modernisation project involving an investment of Rs.2,250 crore.

The scope of work covers preparation of detailed feasibility report, environmental impact assessment (EIA), risk analysis reports, hazop and hazan studies. The consultant would also have to select licensors for supply of process packages of licensed and non-licensed units. The company expects to receive the EoIs by May 10 after which the evaluation would commence.

The project involves expansion and modernisation of the existing plant by another 3 million tpa from the existing 7.5 million tpa. The scheme includes installation of two crude distillation units with 4.5 million and 3 million tpa capacity, a fluid catalytic cracking unit of 1.4 million tpa and a diesel hydro desulphurisation (DHDS) unit of 2 million tpa capacity.

KRL had earlier had proposed expansion by 6 million tpa. However, the Centre approved only a 3 million tpa capacity. The expansion project will raise KRL’s overall refining capacity to 10.5 million tpa.

It may be recalled that during fiscal 2001-02, Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL) acquired the controlling stake in KRL following disinvestment by the Government of India. This helped BPCL in setting a foot hold in the southern market.