A BP refinery in Indiana may be up and running by Wednesday, alleviating potential fuel disruptions, sources say.
The refinery in Whiting, Indiana was shut down after an electrical fire cut power to the cooling water system on August 24th, cutting off 20-25% of the fuel usually received by Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin each day.
As a result of the closure, restrictions on winter-grade gasoline and HOS rules for fuel haulers have been temporarily waived in an attempt to reduce any negative impact on the region. Fuel prices have already risen in the Chicago market as a result of the shutdown, reported Reuters.
“This coordinated effort with our neighboring states will reduce the chance of disruptions and keep the people and businesses of Illinois moving,” said Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker.
Now, BP spokespeople say that refinery repairs appear to be on track for restart on Wednesday, August 31st.
“The team is working diligently to bring back refinery operations in the coming days,” BP spokesperson Christina Audisho wrote in an email on Tuesday. Key utilities are expected to be repaired and running on Tuesday, allowing for a restart of the facility on Wednesday.