Eni and Q8 partner to develop new biorefinery in Sicily

Eni and Q8 Italy have confirmed a significant strategic investment in the development of a new biorefinery at the Versalis industrial site in Priolo, Sicily, marking a key milestone in converting the existing facility into a major centre for advanced biofuel production.
The joint project, formally approved by the boards of directors of both Eni and Kuwait Petroleum Corporation following a binding offer from Q8, strengthens a partnership that began more than 30 years ago with the Milazzo refinery.
Leveraging Eni’s technical expertise in its proprietary Ecofining™ technology, the biorefinery will convert waste, residues, and vegetable oils into sustainable fuels.
Once operational, the plant will have a processing capacity of 500,000 tonnes per year, producing hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF-biojet) to serve road, marine, and aviation sectors.
Designed with extensive operational flexibility, the facility is expected to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 65% versus conventional fossil fuels, in line with European Union climate objectives.
Engineering work for the project is complete, and preparatory construction activities are underway, including demolition and procurement planning. Final authorisations and contractual documentation are expected to be completed by the end of 2028.
This initiative supports Eni’s broader ambition to expand its biorefining capacity to 5 million tonnes per year by 2030, further aligning with global energy transition goals and sustainable fuel demand growth.