PTQ Q4 2025 Issue

The broader concept of Power-to-X (PtX) encompasses e-fuels, referring to processes that convert renewable electricity, CO 2 , and water into various fuels or chemicals. E-fuels, in liquid form, primarily fall under Power-to-Liquid (PtL) technologies. Other PtX technologies, like Power-to- Gas (PtG), produce gaseous fuels (such as hydrogen and synthetic natural gas). These processes create sustainable energy sources, aiding decarbonisation and reducing fossil fuel reliance. This emerging market faces challenges: technical hurdles, ensuring true net-zero emissions, high production costs, energy efficiency, infrastructure development, and scalabil - ity. However, opportunities include utilising existing infra- structure, decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors, providing energy storage, and fostering innovation. Petroleum refiners are uniquely positioned to integrate e-fuel production, leveraging existing infrastructure, refining

Part 2 of this article will discuss decarbonisation and environmental stewardship in refining, and investment and operational flexibility to hedge against uncertainties. Reference 1 Multi-client Strategy Report, Refinery Transformation: Technology-Driven Strategies for Sustainable Profitability in a Changing Business Environment , published by Hydrocarbon Publishing Company in May 2025 (www.hydrocarbonpublishing. com/?topics=reports&pid=C02302) Diana Brown is a Technical Analyst. She holds a BA from Eastern University in Pennsylvania (USA). Thomas Yeung is the Principal and Managing Consultant at Hydrocarbon Publishing Company. He holds a BS in chemical engi- neering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, an MS in chemical engineering from the University of Connecticut-Storrs, and an MBA from New York University. He is also a licensed professional engineer from New York State. Email: tyeung@hydrocarbonpublishing.com

expertise, and distribution net- works. This involves incorporating new units like electrolysers (for green hydrogen), carbon capture facilities (for CO 2 ), and synthe- sis reactors to produce e-crude, which can then be upgraded. Their deep understanding of chemical processes and catalysis is vital for efficient scaling. Global interest is evident through numerous projects. INERATEC secured fund- ing for Europe’s largest com- mercial-scale e-fuel plant in Germany. HIF Global’s Haru Oni project in Chile is produc- ing e-methanol, and its ‘Project Roadrunner’ in Texas targets large-scale e-SAF. Key players like Norsk e-Fuel, Topsoe, Axens, Infinium, and Twelve are actively advancing e-fuel technology. Widespread e-fuel adoption hinges on economic viability. Reducing high production costs through process optimisation and economies of scale, cou- pled with affordable renewable electricity, is crucial. Supportive government policies and stra- tegic partnerships are essential for market entry and growth. Despite challenges in energy intensity and securing sustaina- ble CO 2 /water, strategic utilisa- tion of existing refinery assets, continuous innovation, and col- laboration will be key to scaling e-fuels as a significant and sus - tainable component of the future energy landscape.

PTQ Q4 2025