By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, Mar. 10 -- Western Refining Co., El Paso, agreed to spend $2.25 million on a catalyst program at refineries in Bloomfield and Gallup, NM, under a settlement with the New Mexico Environment Department.
New Mexico officials said the company violated state and federal air quality regulations by failing to upgrade refinery equipment within time specified in a compliance order.
Western acquired the refineries in 2007 from Giant industries. Officials said the company has since cooperated with the state to address the issues. The program will allow the company to reduce emissions more quickly and in a more cost-effective manner than under the 2005 order revised by the department under the settlement.
A Western Refining representative said the Bloomfield refinery is already meeting all requirements.