Conversion of Conventional Refinery to Full Renewables

A U.S. refinery facing low margins and long-term viability challenges sought to explore an alternate renewable fuel configuration to strengthen their future business prospects.

Objective

The refinery wanted to understand whether a renewables business model could work for their operation by determining if existing assets could be repurposed, identifying viable feedstock and product markets, and evaluating the potential credits and overall economics.

Becht Approach

Becht assembled a multi-disciplinary team of subject matter experts in hydroprocessing, renewable pretreatment, and market analysis to work closely with the refinery on an accelerated schedule. The team assessed the technical feasibility of repurposing the refinery’s hydroprocessing assets, identified suitable feedstock sources, determined pretreatment and hydrotreatment requirements, and evaluated potential product outlet opportunities in multiple global regions. They also reviewed and rationalized available “green” incentives to support the economic modeling.

Solution

Becht delivered a comprehensive technical and economic analysis confirming the viability of the renewable configuration. The team provided clear recommendations on optimal feedstocks and target markets, along with market forecasts and a detailed risk assessment.

Client Value

The findings gave the refinery confidence in the feasibility of the alternate business model, enabling them to move forward with near-term coprocessing plans while simultaneously scoping their next turnaround.