The Trinidad and Tobago government is advancing plans to resurrect the idled Pointe-a-Pierre oil refinery, with Cabinet expected to review a comprehensive final assessment in early 2026. An interim evaluation submitted to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal has concluded that reactivating the facility remains technically feasible and commercially promising despite its six-year dormancy.
The special committee, chaired by former energy minister Kevin Ramnarine, delivered its preliminary findings following an intensive four-month review process involving eleven sessions. The team conducted physical inspections of infrastructure, consulted technical experts, analyzed historical operational data, and developed sophisticated economic models to evaluate viability.
While noting significant deterioration across multiple processing units due to prolonged inactivity, investigators identified the uncommissioned Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel plant as a particularly valuable asset. The report emphasizes that timing is critical, warning that further delays could accelerate degradation and undermine economic feasibility.
The proposed restart strategy outlines a four-phase approach prioritizing economic returns, repair complexity, resource availability, and capital expenditure requirements. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar has mandated that any operational resumption must comply with rigorous health, safety, and environmental protocols.
Proponents highlight substantial potential benefits including employment generation, foreign exchange earnings, and enhanced regional energy security positioning. The analysis notes that prior to its 2018 closure, the refinery had achieved operational profitability before revenues were diverted to service outstanding debts.
However, former Energy Minister Stuart Young has characterized the initiative as “smoke and mirrors,” raising critical questions about the projected $1 billion restart costs, crude sourcing challenges, and funding mechanisms. Opposition figures have specifically warned against potential privatization of state-owned Paria Fuel Trading Company, emphasizing the need to maintain national control over fuel distribution infrastructure.
Trade union representatives have announced plans to hold a press conference addressing the report’s implications for workers and national energy policy.