Angolan state oil company Sonangol has awarded a contract to KBR to provide project management services for the new Lobito Refinery.

The contract entails overseeing the engineering, procurement and construction phases of the 200,000bopd facility.

The refinery is expected to significantly boost Angola's fuel production capacity.

KBR's prior involvement with the project includes completing the FEED phase in 2023.

KBR sustainable technology solutions president Jay Ibrahim said: “We are excited to be a part of this important project and to continue to grow and maintain a substantial presence in the region.

“This win is indicative of KBR's strategic commitment to offer differentiated technical services that support Angola's sustainable development goals."

The company delivered a cost-effective design that aligns with Sonangol's strategic goals and adheres to stringent industry emission standards.

KBR said the contract further extends its collaboration with Sonangol of more than two decades-long on the development of natural resources in Angola.

In a press statement, KBR said: “In line with our strategy in energy transition to provide more environmentally friendly solutions, KBR's FEED design also meets 2030 African and European Product Specifications with river water consumption and waste-water treatment requirements reduced by 30% as a result of KBR's innovation in the refinery's cooling system design.”

Last year, Sonangol and China National Chemical Engineering Company signed a memorandum of understanding pertaining to the construction of the Lobito Refinery.