Mooted WA oil refinery ‘dinosaur technology’ amid clean energy transition, experts say
Climate experts are criticizing a government-funded feasibility study for a new oil refinery in Western Australia, labeling it as an investment in outdated technology. They argue that the project will likely be uneconomic and that funds should be redirected toward renewable energy.
Why it matters
The debate reflects the broader tension between maintaining traditional energy infrastructure and transitioning to a green economy in resource-rich nations.
Six oil refineries in Australia closed between 2003 and 2026, leaving just two operating, including the Ampol Lytton refinery in Queensland. Photograph: Darren England/AAP Six oil refineries in Australia closed between 2003 and 2026, leaving just two operating, including the Ampol Lytton refinery in Queensland. Photograph: Darren England/AAP Western Australia Mooted WA oil refinery ‘dinosaur technology’ amid clean energy transition, experts say A feasibility study for the Western Australian project will show the project is uneconomic and requires government subsidies, experts say
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