LyondellBasell to Lay Off 345 Workers Following Houston Refinery Closure
The century-old refinery permanently ceased operations earlier this month as part of the company's shift toward sustainable energy solutions.
- LyondellBasell Industries will lay off 345 employees at its Houston refinery, starting April 17, 2025, according to a filing with the Texas Workforce Commission.
- The layoffs represent 86% of the refinery's workforce, which included around 400 employees prior to its shutdown.
- The Houston refinery, operational since 1918, was one of North America's largest facilities processing heavy, high-sulfur crude oil, producing gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.
- The closure is part of LyondellBasell's strategic exit from the refining business to focus on low-carbon and circular economy solutions.
- The company had initially planned to close the refinery in 2023 but postponed the decision due to favorable inspections and consistent performance.