-PBF Energy CEO Thomas O’Malley on Wednesday indicated his company is interested in buying a refinery in California. O’Malley told analysts during a conference call PBF has the experience and the desire to operate in the California market. He noted how major integrated energy companies are reducing their downstream exposure in North America and that independents now control more than half the refining capacity in the U.S.
-An oil field explosion claimed the lives of two workers and injured nine others in Mentone, Texas, on Wednesday. According to the Associated Press, the workers were changing a wellhead when a buildup of pressure triggered the blast. The AP’s report did not specify what company operates the field where the explosion occurred.
-Magnolia LNG filed a formal application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to export natural gas. The facility, proposed by Australian firm Liquefied Natural Gas Ltd., would be built along the Calcasieu River near Lake Charles, La., and would export 8 million tons of natural gas per year if permitted.
-The American Petroleum Institute (API) called on the EPA to consider an adequate margin of safety in developing its final ethanol mandate for 2014. API Downstream Group Director Bob Greco said a 9.7% ethanol mandate represents the “minimum buffer” to protect consumers from safety concerns. Tests have shown that ethanol blends of more than 10% can cause engine and fuel system damage.
-Independent E&P firm WPX Energy named Rick Muncrief as its new president and CEO effective May 15. Muncrief previously served as senior vice president of operations and resource development at Continental Resources. Continental promoted Gary E. Gould, vice president of resource development, to Muncrief’s former position.
