BP has begun a $3.8 billion modernization of its 119-year-old refinery in Whiting, Indiana, U.S. The 'Whiting Refinery Modernization Project' represents the largest private investment ever made in the State of Indiana.

When the project is complete in 2012, the Whiting Refinery will have the capacity to produce an additional 1.7 million gallons of gasoline per day. The project will bring greater energy security to the Midwest and U.S. as conventional supplies of lighter crude oil diminish, and are replaced by heavier feedstock.

The multi-billion dollar project is essential to the long-term viability of the Refinery, and will sustain approximately 1700 full-time jobs in Northwest Indiana over the long-term. The Whiting Modernization Project is also contributing up to an additional 2,000 local contractor jobs during construction.

The BP Whiting Refinery Modernization Project includes the construction of a new coker, crude distillation unit, gas oil hydro treater, and sulfur recovery facilities. The modernization includes a number of environmental improvements such as modernized water treatment facilities.