Leonardo Aguilera: “Energy security demands vision, technique, and sovereignty”

Santo Domingo. - Becoming a 100% state-owned company, diversifying its product portfolio, and strengthening logistical capabilities are some of the most transcendental achievements of the efficient and committed management that Dr. Leonardo Aguilera, president of the Board of Directors of the Dominican Petroleum Refinery (Refidomsa), has developed from 2020 to date.
With a current processing capacity of 34 thousand barrels of crude oil per day, Refidomsa continues to take firm steps towards the energy self-sufficiency of the Dominican Republic. In that sense, Aguilera told De Último Minuto that one of his main achievements was increasing the storage capacity of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), going from 140,000 to 380,000 barrels with the installation of four new spheres, which contributes to reducing vulnerability to fluctuations in the international market. At the same time, the country is moving forward in diversifying its energy matrix, approaching the national goal of generation with renewable sources.

"Refidomsa will continue to be a key support on that path, ensuring a reliable and responsibly managed supply," Aguilera affirmed.

Operational challenge in the face of international conflicts

The current landscape, marked by international conflicts, has had an immediate and significant impact on oil prices worldwide. Refidomsa faces the operational challenge of meeting growing demand quickly and with quality amidst complex external circumstances. "To face this, we bet heavily on technological innovation. We incorporate modern automation systems that optimize our processes and allow for agile and efficient decision-making. But technology alone doesn't solve everything; we have trained personnel, which is why we invest heavily in the constant training of our technical team," explained Aguilera. The economic advisor also explained that, although the physical supply has not been interrupted, the current context requires preparation for more volatile scenarios. "That's why we are strengthening our reserves, diversifying suppliers, and constantly evaluating market conditions to anticipate any major impact," he pointed out. Currently, diversification involves a network with more than 60 registered suppliers, including Geogas, Shell, Novum, BB and Valero Energy Corporation, ensuring that the Dominican Republic is well prepared to face any international crisis. Thanks to recent investments and the developmental vision of President Luis Abinader, the country has robust reserves that guarantee 41 days of national consumption, something unprecedented in the history of Refidomsa.

Beyond a traditional refinery

The Refinería Dominicana de Petróleo S.A. began operations in 1973. With more than 52 years of service, it moves forward with the times towards a transformation beyond the traditional model.
"Our goal is to continue strengthening ourselves as a benchmark in the energy sector, significantly expanding our infrastructure, such as with the recent construction of new spheres for fuel storage," Aguilera stated. Breaking with tradition implies exploring cleaner and more sustainable options. In that vein, Refidomsa is committed to biofuels and renewable energies as part of its commitment to a responsible energy future and the environment. Among other concrete actions, they are working on reducing their carbon footprint, aligning with global efforts against climate change, and installed solar panels in their facilities. Aguilera made it clear that sustainability is not just an intention, but a constant practice. Therefore, the company once again obtained the ISO 14001 environmental certification, complying with international standards. One of the most outstanding initiatives of his management has been the renovation of the management team, integrating highly qualified professionals, such as the General Manager, the Financial Manager, the Project Manager, the Marketing and Supply Manager, the Legal Manager, among others.

Economic Stability and Energy Development

From his perspective as an economist, Aguilera highlighted that the Dominican economy has shown resilience and stability, which favors the energy sector. "A solid economy implies more demand for fuels, but also more resources to invest in clean energy and new technologies, something key to our future," he stated. He added that the country must move towards a more sustainable system, where subsidies are specifically directed to those who need them most. This is essential to protect economic stability and look after the pockets of the most vulnerable. He also underscored the role of exchange rate stability as a crucial factor, since fuels are imported and paid for in dollars. A stable exchange rate allows maintaining balance in the final consumer prices. Aguilera believes that the Dominican Republic should explore the possibility of regional energy integration with Caribbean or Central American countries. "I think we should seriously study this option, seeking synergies with our neighbors to ensure more robust energy security," he added.

The first member of the project named Luis Abinader

Leonardo Aguilera's experience also covers the political field. Throughout his career, he has offered economic advice to presidents of different political currents in the country. "Throughout my career, I have tried to maintain a clear line: to provide objective analysis based on evidence, regardless of political sympathies. That stance has allowed me to work with different governments, always prioritizing economic and technical reality," he indicated. Regarding his bond with President Luis Abinader, Aguilera revealed a close relationship that goes beyond the professional. "I met Luis 27 years ago, when he was only 30 years old. That relationship was initially work-related, then friendship, and finally brotherhood. It can be said that after Raquel Arbaje, I have been the first member of that project called Luis Abinader."

A Legacy in the Making

Aguilera remembers the financial crisis of the early 2000s as a key moment in his formation as a leader. He also highlights his time as a university professor, where he learned the importance of listening, teaching with humility, and learning from others. Navigating complex scenarios such as the pandemic and facing challenges like the modernization of the Refidomsa plant have marked his career. "I would like my legacy to be having contributed in a concrete and positive way to the economic and social development of the country," he expressed. At Refidomsa, he hopes to be remembered for a transparent, efficient, and socially committed management. At the Cibao Economic Center, he aspires to have left a culture of technical rigor, objectivity, and credibility. Young economists and consultants are reminded that success depends not only on knowledge, but also on honesty and trust. As an academic with decades of experience, he believes that economic training in the country has advanced, but there is still a long way to go. "We need an education more connected to the real problems we face today, such as sustainability, technology, and globalization. The key is to prepare economists capable of interpreting and responding to current challenges from a practical perspective, not just theoretical." Therefore, he advocates for the constant updating of curricula and greater interaction between academia, the private sector, and the public. Universities, in his opinion, should play a fundamental role in the creation of public policies and energy planning. As an example, he mentioned the alliance with the Pedro Henríquez Ureña University (UNPHU) and the R&D Unit for the Exploration and Exploitation of Oil and Gas, a brilliant initiative by President Luis Abinader, with which four technical reports have been produced on the country's oil potential. 

The first report highlighted promising geological formations. The second, titled Geochemical Modeling in the Azua, San Juan, Cibao and Enriquillo Basins, showed that the rocks in those areas have reached the necessary conditions to generate oil. The third, Volumetric Estimation of Oil, revealed the probable existence of more than 498 million barrels in those basins.

These data allow us to glimpse the potential of the Dominican Republic to transform its energy and economic destiny, in search of greater independence in terms of fuels and a new era of progress for all Dominicans.