Port of Brownsville backs new refinery

The proposed facility will be constructed on more than 240 acres (97 ha) within the port and will process 100% domestic shale oil. Using advanced hydrogen-powered systems, the refinery aims to produce ultra-low carbon fuels while strengthening domestic energy supply chains.

Esteban ‘Steve’ Guerra, chair of the Brownsville Navigation District, said the project represents a major economic opportunity for the region.

“This is a defining moment for our region,” he said. “America First Refining chose us because we have the land, the infrastructure, the workforce and the commitment to get it done. This is exactly the kind of transformative investment that strengthens our economy and creates real opportunity for South Texas families.”

The Port of Brownsville offers key infrastructure advantages including deepwater channel access, direct dock and rail connectivity, cargo-handling facilities and foreign trade zone status. These features have helped position the port as one of the fastest-growing industrial corridors along the Gulf Coast.

The refinery will incorporate hydrogen-powered technologies and advanced clean-fuel systems designed to reduce emissions and meet strict federal and state regulatory standards. Project developers are currently working with government agencies to secure environmental permits as planning progresses.

According to the developers, the refinery will create approximately 500 permanent full-time jobs once operational. Thousands of additional indirect jobs are expected during the construction phase and through long-term operations, logistics and supply-chain services.