05-06-2025

Irving oil to invest in its Saint John refinery Fluid Catalytic Cracking Unit (FCCU

The Saint John refinery is embarking on a significant, $100-million upgrade to its Fluid Catalytic Cracking Unit (FCCU), a cornerstone of its operation since the refinery's establishment in 1960.

The FCCU is a critical processing unit that produces such products as gasoline and diesel, which are then supplied into markets across Atlantic Canada and the U.S. Northeast. This privately funded modernization project – named the FCCU Revamp Project – will see substantial upgrades made to the unit to maximize performance and enhance efficiency and reliability, and will bring in approximately 675 skilled workers, primarily from New Brunswick and neighbouring provinces.

"As we build for the future, we do so with the knowledge of continued growth in demand for traditional energy products. This FCCU Revamp Project is an essential investment in energy security for all the regions we serve," says Jeff Matthews, Irving Oil President & CEO. "This private investment honours our past and ensures a strong future for Irving Oil and our region, as we continue to operate Canada’s largest refinery and provide a safe and reliable supply of energy in critical markets.”

The $100-million FCCU Revamp Project represents the company’s commitment to job creation, asset integrity and reliability, and economic investment in the region. Work will be completed in a phased approach over the summer and fall, beginning this month. During this time, the additional tradespeople supporting the project at the refinery, including labourers, scaffolders, pipefitters, boilermakers and insulators will generate direct and indirect benefits to the regional economy – an estimated $3.5 million in economic spinoffs in New Brunswick – by providing boosts to accommodations, recreation services, restaurants, as well as retail and other sectors. In addition, the total workforce hours on the project represent the equivalent of more than 140 annualized jobs.

“Being involved in Irving Oil’s FCCU Revamp Project is a tremendous honour for our team and reflects our shared commitment to delivering high-quality, safe and reliable energy products,” says Derek McGraw, Director of Operations with Lorneville Mechanical Contractors, one of a number of contractors and suppliers providing support on the upgrade project. “The FCCU Revamp Project not only helps keep our local staff and skilled tradespeople working here in Saint John, it also contributes to the long-term prosperity of our city and supports Canada’s energy security.”

As Canada’s largest refinery, this investment underscores Irving Oil’s pride in its people, customers and communities, while reaffirming its commitment to providing secure and reliable energy.