WA Oil Refinery 'Dinosaur Technology' in Clean Energy Shift 2026

Leading experts say a proposed WA oil refinery is 'dinosaur technology' that won't solve fuel security in the clean energy transition. The Albanese government's $4m feasibility study for a Pilbara refinery faces criticism from climate policy leaders who argue public funds should back green alternatives instead.

Why Experts Call the WA Oil Refinery 'Dinosaur Technology'

Greg Bourne, Climate Council councillor and former BP regional president, highlights that any new refinery is unlikely to be economically viable over the next 20-30 years. As Australia accelerates renewables, demand for oil and gas is projected to decline sharply, making long-term refinery investments risky.

Professor Frank Jotzo from ANU's Centre for Climate and Energy Policy warns that investing in oil refining sends 'a big signal against the clean energy transition.' He points out that Australian refineries would struggle to compete with mega-refineries in Singapore and South Asia without significant government subsidies.

Fuel Security vs. Climate Goals

While fuel security is a valid concern, experts argue that relying on imported refined products can be managed through strategic reserves and diversification. The $4m feasibility study could instead fund research into green hydrogen, advanced biofuels, or synthetic fuels that align with net-zero targets.

Bourne adds, 'Australia is beginning to get more into renewables and if you look forward 10 years, you start saying less oil and gas are going to be needed.' This perspective underscores the need to avoid locking in fossil fuel infrastructure for decades.

Comparison: New Oil Refinery vs. Green Fuel Investments

Key Takeaways

• Experts call the proposed WA oil refinery 'dinosaur technology' that is uneconomic without subsidies.
• Government funds would be better spent on green technology to reduce fossil fuel reliance.
• Fuel security can be achieved through strategic reserves and renewable fuels, not new oil refineries.
• The feasibility study may confirm the project's lack of long-term profitability.

FAQ