HIRONO STATEMENT ON PAR PETROLEUM PURCHASE OF KAPOLEI TESORO REFINERY

Washington, D.C. - Senator Mazie K. Hirono today released the following statement regarding the announced purchase of the Kapolei Tesoro refinery by Par Petroleum. Par Petroleum Corporation is a Houston-based company that intends to continue Tesoro’s refining, logistics and retail operations.

“Today’s announcement that Par Petroleum intends to continue the refining, logistics and retail operations of the Kapolei refinery is positive news for Hawaii. As Hawaii’s largest refinery, this facility is an important part of Hawaii’s energy landscape and this action will help maintain the stability of the state’s petroleum production market. Throughout the past six months, I have kept in close contact with workers and state and federal officials to find a positive resolution to Tesoro’s announcement to sell its Hawaii operations. I look forward to getting to know Par Petroleum Corporation and their long-term energy delivery plans.”