Phillips 66 has announced it will shut down its Los Angeles-area refinery operations by the end of 2025. This decision affects a significant portion of California's crude processing capacity, as the facility currently handles about 8% of the state's crude oil. The Associated Press reported that approximately 600 employees and 300 contractors will be impacted by this closure.
Market dynamics and declining profitability were cited as the primary reasons behind Phillips 66's decision to close the refinery, according to the Houston Chronicle. In response to the impending job losses, Los Angeles County officials are working to provide support for the displaced workers, including job training and placement services, as noted by the Los Angeles Times.
As Phillips 66 navigates these changes, it is also collaborating with land development firms to explore potential future uses for the 650-acre site near the Port of Los Angeles. These developments reflect broader challenges facing the refinery sector in California, driven by shifting market conditions and regulatory landscapes.