EPA tentatively settles $4.2M with PES over 2019 refinery explosion leading to permanent closure.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has tentatively settled for $4.2 million with Philadelphia Energy Solutions (PES) over violations related to a 2019 explosion at its East Coast refinery, which resulted in its permanent closure. This settlement, the largest under the Clean Air Act, addresses PES's failure to manage hazardous substances safely. The refinery, operational for 150 years, is now being redeveloped after extensive cleanup. A 30-day public comment period precedes final approval.