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Europe’s ability to compete globally increasingly depends on how effectively it aligns industrial competitiveness with climate and energy objectives, as reflected in initiatives such as the European Green Deal, Fit for 55, REPowerEU and the Clean Industrial Deal.

Within this framework, the role of the refining and fuel manufacturing sector remains debated. While some see it as gradually phasing down as the energy system becomes electrified, others consider it will remain essential for the decarbonisation of heavy duty/long distance transports and many manufacturing processes. The sector is also deeply integrated into Europe’s industrial value chains, supplying not only fuels but also feedstocks and products for chemicals, construction, agriculture, manufacturing, defense and military mobility.

At the same time, EU policies are accelerating the transition while raising questions around costs, investment certainty and global competitiveness. Some stakeholders warn of increasing number of refinery closures and growing reliance on products imports, while others view these developments as part of a broader and inevitable transformation of the energy system.

The conversion of existing refineries into low-carbon and renewable fuel hubs is emerging as a potential pathway to balance these objectives, although challenges remain around scale, financing and regulatory clarity.

Join this Euractiv Hybrid Conference to discuss how Europe can balance decarbonisation, competitiveness and energy security in shaping the future of the sector.

Questions to be addressed include:

- What role should refining and fuel manufacturing play in achieving EU climate and energy objectives?
- How do current EU policies affect the sector’s competitiveness and investment outlook?
- What are the implications of declining refining capacity for energy security and strategic autonomy?
- To what extent can refinery conversion support the transition to low-carbon fuels?
- How can policy frameworks balance industrial transformation with climate ambition?
- What financing conditions are needed to support this transition? And how can Europe stimulate sufficient demand for renewable and low-carbon fuels to support investment in industrial transformation?

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