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Staatsolie Tout Lui Faut Refinery
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The Staatsolie Tout Lui Faut Refinery is located on the banks of the Suriname River south of Paramaribo and serves as the heart of Suriname's petroleum industry. Following a massive expansion in 2014 that cost approximately one billion USD, the facility significantly increased its throughput capacity and now produces high-quality diesel, gasoline, and fuel oil. The refinery primarily processes locally extracted crude oil sourced from the onshore fields in Saramacca. By producing its own fuels, Suriname has been able to drastically reduce its dependence on expensive energy imports and preserve its foreign exchange reserves. The plant adheres to international safety and environmental standards and stands as a symbol of the nation's drive toward technological sovereignty. As a subsidiary of the state-owned Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V., it is an indispensable pillar of the national economy.
- Location: Suriname
- Top sights: Sluis · Koffiefabriek · Plantage Peperpot
- Nearby: Lelydorp (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 142 | 116 | 111 | 194 | 286 | 251 | 190 | 105 | 53 | 51 | 81 | 165 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Staatsolie Tout Lui Faut Refinery is the only oil refinery in Suriname, operated by the state-owned company Staatsolie. It processes crude oil into fuels for the domestic market and for export. The refinery is a strategically important industrial center of the country.
Visiting
The refinery is not open to the public for safety and operational reasons. Visitors can see the facility from the public road, especially the tall distillation towers and tanks. Guided tours are usually not offered.
Where to view it
An excellent viewpoint is the road that passes by the refinery, near the main gate. From here you have a clear view of the processing units and tank farms. The flat coastal landscape allows good long-distance visibility.
Local products
The refinery produces various fuels such as gasoline, diesel, and kerosene for local consumption. In the region, gas stations and markets also offer Surinamese food and drinks. Travelers can taste traditional dishes made with local products.
Active season
The refinery operates at full capacity year-round to ensure Suriname's energy supply. Maintenance shutdowns are typically carried out in the rainy season when demand is slightly lower. The dry season brings higher demand from the construction and transport industries.
Nearby
Combine the visit with a trip to the nearby Tambaredjo Oil Field to see upstream production. Also consider an excursion along the Saramacca coast for natural experiences and insights into the rural economy of the region.
Geography
Facts
- Located about 20 kilometers south of Paramaribo city center.
- The 2014 expansion project required an investment of roughly 1 billion USD.
- The refinery's daily processing capacity is approximately 15,000 barrels.
- Produces high-quality ultra-low sulfur diesel and gasoline for the market.
- Owned and operated by the state-owned oil company Staatsolie.
- Directly linked to the Saramacca oil fields via a dedicated pipeline.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Staatsolie Tout Lui Faut Refinery (3)
Plantage Peperpot
The former Peperpot plantation in Suriname, near the refinery.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Staatsolie refinery?
It is Suriname's central oil refinery, responsible for processing domestic crude oil.
Can you visit the refinery?
No, it is a fenced industrial facility and closed to tours.
What products does it produce?
The refinery mainly produces fuels like gasoline and diesel for the local market.
How important is it for the economy?
It reduces dependence on expensive fuel imports and is a cornerstone of energy supply.
Where is it located?
It is strategically located near Paramaribo.
Staatsolie Tout Lui Faut Refinery: where is it located?
Staatsolie Tout Lui Faut Refinery is located in Suriname.
Staatsolie Tout Lui Faut Refinery: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sluis, Koffiefabriek, Plantage Peperpot.
Staatsolie Tout Lui Faut Refinery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
Staatsolie Tout Lui Faut Refinery: why is it worth visiting?
The Staatsolie Tout Lui Faut Refinery is located on the banks of the Suriname River south of Paramaribo and serves as the heart of Suriname's petroleum industry.
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