WILLEMSTAD - The government believes that Refineria di Kòrsou (RdK) could successfully pass the "fair balance" test. This is outlined in a memorandum prepared by the government in response to a previous report. The document provides written answers to questions previously raised in Parliament concerning the draft National Ordinance on Air Quality.
In the Explanatory Memorandum (MvT), the government presented a thorough and well-reasoned balancing of interests. The government asserts that there is no disproportionate disadvantage to RdK in favor of public health and environmental protection.
In response to RdK's objections, a transitional period for the annual emission limit of sulfur dioxide (SO2) was included in the draft ordinance. This was the only change made following RdK's input. However, the government has no further plans to modify the draft air quality law to accommodate the refinery's restart.
RdK had requested an annual SO2 emission limit of 80 micrograms per cubic meter for the first five years. The government ultimately established a five-year transition period with an annual limit of 70 micrograms per cubic meter of SO2 emissions. The request from RdK to also increase the daily limit was denied. The government emphasized that an excessively high daily limit would not align with internationally accepted health standards.
The five-year transition period is intended to allow for the necessary environmental investments in the refinery's facilities. The government also pointed to recent developments, including the contract with Oryx Midstream for managing the refinery facilities and the agreement with Global Oil Management Group for asphalt production.