EET strategy shows UK refining shifting to hydrogen, carbon capture, and multi-energy hubs

Essar Energy Transition (EET) released an economic impact report arguing that UK refineries like Stanlow can evolve from fuel suppliers into multi-energy hubs. The report highlights EET's hydrogen hub at the center of the HyNet North-West initiative, carbon capture investments, and sustainable aviation fuel production. It also warns that domestic carbon taxes without a CBAM on refined products put UK refiners at a competitive disadvantage against higher-carbon imports. The article frames this as a test of whether UK policy can support both decarbonisation and industrial survival. With Grangemouth and Prax Lindsey refineries closed, Stanlow now supplies 18% of UK road fuel and 12.5% of jet fuel. EET's strategy suggests that preserving refining sites as platforms for hydrogen, CCS, and renewable fuels could protect jobs and supply chains while cutting emissions. The key question is whether government decisions on CO2 transport networks and hydrogen infrastructure will arrive fast enough to make that transition work.