An interesting history of US refining capacity.

[Sal316]

I found this today googling information on the history of US refining capacity.

Some high points include

1) Refining capacity has increased every year to a 2005 level of 17mbpd, equalling US consumption.

2) Oil companies refuse to open new refineries because the profit margin makes it economically unfeasable.

3) Transport by pipeline from Houston to NYC costs $1, or 2.5 cents/gallon at the pump, per barrel.

4) Even though the number of refineries has dropped, the efficiency and capacity have increased while the environmental impact has decreased. (Yes, I know it's not perfect, but you have to admit it's gotten better over the last 30 years.)


So next time someone tells you it's the 'environmentalists' fault, kick them in the goods with something called FACT.

Peace!

Christian


*edited to clarify transportation cost*

[AllegroRondo]

1. And by enlarging old refineries

instead of building new ones, the oil companies avoid having to comply with newer environmental rules. Its much cheaper for them to just expand instead of build new.