A refinery in British Columbia
Hydrocarbon Processing Refining Databook 2025: Americas
The US and Canada are boosting capacity builds for renewable diesel and biofuels, while Central and South American countries are investing heavily to upgrade and expand their domestic refining sectors
At 18.4m b/d, the US has the second-largest refining capacity in the world. Two primary refining trends—related to capex—are ongoing in the region: increased capacity builds for renewable diesel and increased capacity builds for biofuel production, primarily sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). US production of SAF increased from 2,000b/d to nearly 30,000b/d in 2024. Several additional SAF projects are under development. These projects are the result of the US Environmental Protection Agency’s Renewable Fuel Standard, and federal and state tax credits and incentives. The US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), passed in 2022, calls for US SAF production to reach 3b gal/yr by 2030 and up to 35b gal/yr
Also in this section
21 January 2026
Petroleum Economist takes a look at the critical developments that look set to govern the course of the market for this year
20 January 2026
The ripple effects of US refiners switching to Venezuela grades will be felt from Canada to China and everywhere in between
20 January 2026
As the global energy system undergoes its most profound transformation in a century, the need for credible leadership, practical solutions and inclusive dialogue has never been greater. In 2026, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will stand at the centre of this conversation as host of the 25th WPC Energy Congress in Riyadh.
20 January 2026
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the host of the 25th WPC Energy Congress on 26-30 April 2026. The Ministry of Energy spoke with Petroleum Economist about the key messages and opportunities for the global energy community.
