A fire has broken out at one of Australia's two operating oil refineries in Geelong and the flames could lead to disruptions in gasoline production, Australian television channel ABC reported.
The fire at the Viva Energy refinery in Geelong started on April 15 after 11:00 p.m. local time (4:00 p.m. Bulgarian time). According to Australian Energy Minister Chris Bowen, no suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident have been identified.
According to the Victoria Fire Department, the fire started in the motor gasoline production section, where a leak occurred and several small explosions occurred. The fire covered an area of 30 by 30 meters. After the explosions, the fire became "quite large and intense" and was brought under control.
The Viva Energy refinery produces 50% of Victoria's fuel and 10% of Australia's fuel. It is one of two plants capable of processing fuel for the domestic market.
The Energy Minister acknowledged that the fire could affect petrol production "for some time". He said the plant would continue to produce diesel and jet fuel "at reduced volumes" as a precautionary measure.
In late March, Australia's states and territories agreed with the federal government on a national fuel security plan. According to him, the country halved excise taxes on fuel in three months, as well as the road tax for heavy goods vehicles.