SCAQMD Proposed Rule 1410 Threatens Viability of Two SoCal Refineries

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) mandates a California-only fuel standard that is the strongest in the world to reduce emissions and protect the environment. “Alkylate” is needed in fuel production to meet this standard. Two California refineries (Torrance and Wilmington) and a majority of refineries across the country that make alkylate use Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) alkylation.  The Torrance and Wilmington refineries use a modified type of HF (MHF) that enhances community and worker safety.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) is considering banning oil refineries’ use of MHF via Proposed Rule 1410, which would likely cause the Torrance and Wilmington refineries to cease operations, according to the California Energy Commission.  If this were to happen, it could devastate California’s economy, cause thousands of local jobs to be lost, and increase prices for gasoline and consumer goods for California’s residents and businesses.

Job Loss2,000 Lost Local Jobs

..and 1000’s of indirect jobs.

gas price increase.25 cent per gallon

gasoline price increase.

 of Southern California’s gasoline supply30% loss

of Southern California’s gasoline supply.

30% loss of the jet fuel for LAX 30% loss

of the jet fuel for LAX in Los Angeles.

80% loss of the marine diesel 80% loss

of the marine diesel for ships at SoCal Ports.

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The Facts

  • HF has been used in manufacturing since the 1700’s, more than 250 years.

  • HF alkylation use by California refineries began in 1966.

  • Today, California refineries that operate HF alkylation units use a modified form of HF, known as MHF, which is a newer alkylation technology that enhances community and worker safety.

  • More than half of U.S. refineries (50 out of 89) with an alkylation unit use HF or MHF.

  • The refining industry makes up less than two percent of HF use; many major industries use HF to make common consumer products such as computers, cell phones, and pharmaceuticals.