Decarbonizing European refineries – significant potential for GHG reductions

Co-processing biogenic feedstocks in existing crude oil refineries offers a promising near-term solution for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transport fuels. A study entitled “Decarbonizing European refineries: GHG accounting framework and potential assessment for co-processed biofuels”, authored by M. Buffi, N. Abdalla, N. Scarlat, T. Schlamp, H. Fehrenbach, A. Bouter and J. Saddler, examines four conversion pathways using used cooking oil (UCO) and pyrolysis oils.

The results demonstrate GHG emission savings of 73–96 percent compared to fossil fuels, exceeding the EU Renewable Energy Directive (RED) minimum requirement of 65 percent. The researchers also estimate a theoretical production potential of up to 13.9 million tonnes of biofuels annually across the EU refining system, assuming a 5 percent biogenic feedstock share at conversion unit inlets.

The findings highlight how existing refinery infrastructure could support the transition towards lower-carbon transport fuels.

The full research paper is available for download here: Link