This anniversary comes at a special moment for the state-owned company, which is also celebrating 80 years since the discovery of oil.
In 2025, Enap will commemorate 80 years since the discovery of oil in 1945—a journey marked by a commitment to Chile’s energy security, the development of the territories where it operates, and constant evolution in the face of industry and national challenges. In this context, Bío Bío Refinery celebrates its 59th anniversary this July 29, reaffirming its role as a key player in this shared history.
Founded in 1966 in the commune of Hualpén, Bío Bío Refinery was created as part of a state initiative to strengthen the country’s energy capacity. Its construction mobilized labor, technology, and knowledge in an area that, until then, had little exposure to the hydrocarbons industry. Its establishment broadened Enap’s prospects for expansion and growth, solidifying it as a key company for the country's development. Today, it reflects the changes and challenges aimed at modernizing processes, sustained increases in production capacity, the incorporation of high environmental standards, and a closer relationship with its surroundings.
These two anniversaries not only highlight a history but also point toward the future, through a long-term strategy to transform Enap into a multi-energy company—one that ensures a reliable supply of fuels, promotes access to competitive energy, strengthens logistics activity, and mitigates the environmental challenges of its operations, all while maintaining financial sustainability and creating value for Chile through work with local communities.
On this path, the refinery plays a vital role not only as a production center—around 25% of the liquid fuels consumed in Chile are produced in Bío Bío—but also as a living laboratory for innovation and energy efficiency initiatives, and as a development engine for neighboring communities. To make this possible, hundreds of workers from various specialties contribute daily with their effort, professionalism, and commitment.
Enap’s 80th anniversary presents an opportunity to revisit all that has been built, recognize those who have been part of this history, and envision the role the company will play in the decades to come. And in that vision, Bío Bío Refinery—with its 59 years of history, experience, and community connection—is committed to remaining an essential part of the present and future of energy in the region and in Chile.