Exxon Mobil Corporation is a global leader in the energy sector, dedicated to providing reliable and affordable energy while prioritizing environmental stewardship. The company's mission focuses on delivering sustainable energy solutions through innovation and operational excellence. Exxon Mobil's strategy encompasses upstream exploration and production, downstream refining and marketing, and chemical manufacturing. By leveraging advanced technologies and maintaining a strong commitment to safety and efficiency, Exxon Mobil aims to meet the world's growing energy demands while reducing its carbon footprint and supporting the transition to a lower-carbon future.

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ExxonMobil's Joliet refinery in Illinois, which has a capacity of 252,000 barrels per day, remains shut down following severe storm damage and a power outage caused by a tornado that struck the Chicago area on July 15. The facility's closure has led to significant disruptions in gasoline supply across the Upper Midwest, particularly impacting Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. 

As of mid-July, the shutdown triggered an emergency fuel waiver from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), allowing for increased gasoline production by relaxing volatility and emissions regulations until normal operations can resume. This emergency measure aims to mitigate the fuel supply shortages and has resulted in gasoline prices surging in the affected regions, with estimates suggesting prices in Illinois might reach $4 per gallon.

Additionally, wholesale ULSD prices in Chicago saw a rapid increase from $2.39 to $2.59 per gallon shortly after the shutdown, before stabilizing around $2.50. While retail diesel prices have yet to reflect these changes, customers in the Midwest are anticipated to face higher prices in the coming weeks.

ExxonMobil is actively assessing the damage and has started repairs at the Joliet facility. While the company's spokesperson indicated that the refinery now has sufficient power to begin damage assessments, a specific timeline for resuming operations has not been announced. The EPA will continue to monitor the situation closely with further actions considered if necessary, as the waiver remains in effect until August 20 to stabilize fuel supply and pricing in the region.

Tornado Damage at Exxon's Joliet Refinery Triggers Gas Supply Shortages and Price Surge in the Midwest