NREL says colocating biocrude facilities with existing refineres can cut GHG emissions 150%

In Colorado, NREL says building biocrude facilities next to existing refineries—instead of closer to biomass sources—can lower GHG emissions by as much as 150% depending on the exact infrastructure design. That is a striking reduction in emissions, and the researchers detail how industry engineers might achieve it with smart designs that let the facilities share infrastructure. By doing so, they can prevent biomass carbon and energy from going to waste.

First, companies must strategically use or sell energy byproducts created when making biocrude, like heat and steam. Neighboring refineries can offer infrastructure to transport and use these products. For example, facilities can use steam and heat locally for refinery processes, replacing fossil fuels. 

Companies can also collect low-emission hydrogen released during the process of converting biomass into biocrude. When refineries are next door, no hydrogen trucks or extensive pipelines are needed to move it around—it can be used right on site.

Together, small design steps like these can yield big savings in energy—and subsequently much lower emissions.