How China’s Largest PetroChemichal Industrial Base is Setting New Standards for Clean Energy

China’s largest petrochemical industrial base, the Zhenhai Refining and Chemical Base in Ningbo, has reached a remarkable milestone with the completion of its second-phase expansion. Spearheaded by Sinopec, this project has elevated the base’s refining capacity to over 50 million tons annually, making it a key player in the global petrochemical industry. Covering 23 square kilometers, the facility integrates state-of-the-art technologies and smart manufacturing to streamline operations and reduce costs. This ambitious development positions Zhenhai as a vital component of Sinopec's value chain, supporting industries like automotive, textiles, and home appliances with high-end polyolefins and specialty chemicals.

The Zhenhai Refining Base exemplifies green engineering by achieving zero emissions through groundbreaking wastewater recycling and energy-saving measures. The refinery employs advanced filtration techniques to treat oily wastewater with nanometer-level precision, enabling the recycled water to be reused entirely within the facility. Moreover, the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from discarded cooking oil highlights its commitment to circular economy practices. Capable of processing 100,000 tons of SAF annually, the facility sets a benchmark for integrating environmental responsibility with industrial efficiency.

With a total investment of CNY 41.6 billion, the project incorporates 18 cutting-edge production units, such as catalytic cracking and polypropylene systems. Sinopec has localized 10 core technologies and developed an industrial internet platform to optimize operations. Safety was paramount throughout construction, with over 90 million accident-free man-hours recorded. This achievement reflects not only the scale but also the precision and commitment to quality in the project’s execution.

As China advances its green transformation, Zhenhai Refining Base stands as a testament to how engineering innovation can drive sustainability while meeting global industrial demands.