Martinez refinery conversion from crude oil to renewable fuels receives county approval

The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the final environmental impact report for the Marathon Martinez Refinery's conversion from crude oil to renewable fuels. The decision followed a contentious history, including a lawsuit from environmental groups that challenged the adequacy of the project's environmental review. A judge upheld most aspects of the environmental impact report but required the county to address odor mitigation. The refinery will produce renewable diesel from sources like rendered fats and vegetable oils. Staff reports indicated that new odor sources would result from the storage of renewable feedstock, prompting the need for mitigation strategies.

Marathon plans to alter existing equipment and install new tanks to facilitate the conversion. Supervisors acknowledged the environmental concerns but prioritized the transition to renewable diesel as a necessary step in reducing fossil fuel reliance. This conversion aligns with California's broader goals of increasing renewable energy sources in the transportation sector.