New study reveals how oil refineries can slash emissions by 2035

A new study in Nature Chemical Engineering offers the most detailed breakdown yet of how oil refineries can cut emissions. Researchers analysed hundreds of facilities worldwide to map out realistic decarbonisation routes. The findings highlight the need for tailored solutions based on each site’s operations and local energy systems. Oil refineries account for a large share of industrial greenhouse gas emissions. The study combines high-resolution data from global plants to assess costs and technologies required for reductions. Early steps like improving efficiency or switching fuels can make progress, but deeper cuts demand more advanced measures.

The research models four key approaches: carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS), electrification, fuel switching, and operational upgrades. Short-term gains rely on optimising existing processes, but meeting net-zero targets will require scaling up CCUS and electrification over the next decade. The analysis also aligns these efforts with the global carbon budget for limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. By breaking down costs at the plant level, the study helps policymakers prioritise investments. It shows that no single solution fits all refineries—strategies must adapt to regional energy networks and facility-specific conditions.

The findings provide a clear roadmap for refinery decarbonisation, from immediate efficiency gains to long-term tech adoption. Policymakers now have granular data to guide funding and regulation. Without targeted action, the sector risks falling short of climate goals despite available solutions.