Our History

The Rhône Energies refinery in Fos-sur-Mer began operations in 1965, built from the ground up on a completely undeveloped site. What was once a bold industrial vision has, over the decades, become a cornerstone of France’s energy landscape — a dynamic and forward-looking facility that continues to evolve with the times.

In 1978, the refinery underwent its first major turnaround, an opportunity to modernize key units and strengthen its production capabilities. From the early 2000s, a series of large-scale projects further transformed the site. These investments modernized infrastructure and significantly improved energy performance. The construction of a new vacuum distillation tower in 2007 reinforced the refinery’s industrial core, while the commissioning of the R1151 unit in 2008 increased both flexibility and efficiency. In 2012, a new LPG pipeline enhanced logistics reliability between Fos-sur-Mer and the underground storage facilities in Lavéra. By 2017, new initiatives once again demonstrated the refinery’s ongoing commitment to innovation and industrial excellence.

For many years, the refinery operated under ExxonMobil’s ownership. In 2024, a new chapter began with its acquisition by a consortium formed by Entara and Trafigura.

Today, under the Rhône Energies name, the company builds on a strong industrial heritage with new governance and a renewed strategic direction while embracing a new sense of purpose — driven by energy, innovation, and determination to meet the challenges of tomorrow. With more than sixty years of expertise, adaptability, and innovation, Rhône Energies continues to write its story with rigor and consistency. Guided by respect for its legacy and a clear ambition for the future, the company is committed to delivering safe, efficient, and reliable energy solutions that serve the communities and industries that trust it every day.