Pennzoil-Quaker State Company, a subsidiary of Shell plc, along with Blue Tide, an innovative leader in used motor oil ("UMO") re-refining, has announced the successful completion of Blue Tide’s large-scale re-refining facility in Baytown, Texas. Blue Tide, backed by Tailwater Capital LLC, is dedicated to establishing a network of UMO re-refining facilities across North America.

"This milestone reflects the hard work and vision of our exceptional team," stated Terry McHugh, CEO of Blue Tide. "We are committed to promoting a circular economy by converting used lubricants into high-performance base oils, reducing waste, and enhancing resource efficiency through sustainable solutions."

The fully operational Baytown Facility boasts one of the most advanced hydrotreaters in the re-refining industry. This cutting-edge technology allows Blue Tide to manufacture and distribute premium Group II+ base oils, offering a more sustainable alternative with a lower carbon footprint compared to conventionally produced Group II+ base oils.

"The completion of the Baytown Facility represents a significant step in our mission to deliver superior lubricants with a reduced environmental impact," said Ade Ajala, CEO of Pennzoil-Quaker State Company and Senior Vice President at Shell Lubricants Americas. "Through our collaboration with Blue Tide, we leverage innovative technology to refine and enhance re-refined base oils, integrating them seamlessly into our premium product portfolio and positioning us at the forefront of the lubricants industry’s future."

The Baytown Facility is designed to process 5,000 barrels per day ("BPD") of UMO, yielding high-quality base oils along with valuable byproducts such as gas oil and asphalt modifiers. The addition of the hydrotreater ensures a more efficient refining process by eliminating impurities, thereby enhancing the performance and reliability of re-refined base oils to meet the increasing demand for high-quality, sustainable lubricants.

Strategically situated along Cedar Bayou near the Houston Ship Channel, the Baytown Facility benefits from seamless transportation logistics, with access to truck, rail, and barge networks for efficient distribution of raw materials and finished products.

"Tailwater Capital is excited to see Blue Tide achieve this crucial milestone," remarked David Cecere, Partner at Tailwater Capital and a member of Blue Tide’s Board of Directors. "This facility embodies the future of sustainable innovation in the lubricants sector, and we are eager to witness its role in driving industry growth while reinforcing a circular economy."

With its state-of-the-art capabilities and strategic location, Blue Tide’s Baytown Facility is poised to revolutionize the lubricant industry by offering sustainable, high-performance solutions that align with evolving environmental and market demands.