For nearly two centuries now, humans have been extracting and refining petroleum for two main purposes. Oil is a conveniently stored and transported source of both energy and raw materials. Most oil companies have enjoyed a diverse portfolio across the entire value chain, but there is an interesting shift on the horizon. To meet energy demands without placing further strain on the planet, many are beginning to pivot their investment toward more renewable sources of energy. However, many of these renewable sources of energy are not ALSO convertible to raw materials and consumer goods the same way a barrel of oil can be. I think "oil companies" may have to make a choice in evolutionary paths, and there will be a dichotomy between the two end products (materials and energy) as they seek to reduce net emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. Cepsa has launched a plan to become an "energy company" encompassing a mix of renewable sources such as hydrogen, while ENI has also announced a pivot plan regarding the "materials company" aspect of their portfolio. It will be interesting to see what is next for the rest of the mega-players in industry! #energy #materials #decarbonisation #strategy
Eni's decision follows the likes of BASF, Sabic, ExxonMobil, LyondellBasell to reduce their European manufacturing footprint while Dow are now also reviewing their assets in the region. At the same time, European governments place punitive windfall taxes on energy companies impacting investment in existing assets and new technologies. Change is being forced on large industrial companies by government through muddled policy vs other global regions and this coupled with high manufacturing costs, it makes them uncompetitive. If things don't change, the de-industrialisation of Europe will continue, something we should all be concerned about.
Great post Brittany making some interesting points, especially about energy and materials and how companies are going to make this pivot
Well said, Britt. Interesting times.
Marketing | Sustainability | Innovation | Chemical Engineer
1mo(Big thanks to Jesús González Castellano for the link to some excellent reading material 😊 )