Published August 2025, Pg. 45-49

Section: Green energy

UOT: 678.742.23.046.3:678.686

DOI: 10.37474/0365-8554/2025-08-45-49

Shaping the future of petrochemistry through green refining technologies

U.M. Jabiyeva PhD in Ch. Sc. - Baku Higher Oil School

G.I. Malikov - Baku Higher Oil School

K.V. Jafarova PhD in Math. Sc. - Baku Higher Oil School

U.V. Alizade - Baku Higher Oil School

K.A. Aliyev - Baku Higher Oil School

M.R. Muradov - Baku Higher Oil School

S.N. Huseynov - Baku Higher Oil School

Although the petrochemical industry continues to be a vital pillar of modern economy and technology, its negative impact on the environment and contribution to climate change are increasing. The article emphasizes the necessity of implementing green refining technologies to ensure sustainable development in the petrochemical sector. Green refining technologies encompass innovative approaches aimed at reducing waste, utilizing resources efficiently, and minimizing environmental harm.
Key technologies include biorefining, carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), and the integration of renewable energy sources. Biorefining enables the production of biofuels and bioplastics from agricultural waste, contributing to the development of a circular economy. CCUS technologies capture CO₂ emissions from industrial processes and either store them in geological formations or use them in the production of synthetic materials. The integration of sources such as solar and wind energy, as well as green hydrogen, allows refineries to meet a significant portion of their energy demands.
The article analyzes the potential impacts of these technologies with specific figures: a 15–25 % reduction in emissions through clean energy, 10–20 % energy savings through process optimization, and the capture of thousands of tons of CO₂ annually. At the same time, it highlights challenges such as high capital costs, technological uncertainty, and regulatory gaps.
The decisions made at the COP29 conference – including green energy corridors, carbon markets, and technology transfer – further underscore the relevance and strategic importance of these technologies. Hosting COP29 strengthens Azerbaijan’s ambitions to lead in the green energy sector.
In conclusion, the implementation of green refining technologies promises long-term environmental, economic, and technological benefits for Azerbaijan. Cooperation between the state, industry, and scientific communities plays a key role in successfully carrying out this transition.

References:

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2. Cherubini F. “The biorefinery concept: Using biomass instead of oil for producing energy and chemicals,” Energy Conversion and Management, 2010, 51(7), 1412–1421.

3. Kamm B., Gruber P.R., & Kamm M. (2006). “Biorefineries–Industrial Processes and Products,” Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH.

4. Statoil (now Equinor). Sleipner CCS Project Overview, 2019.

5. Chevron Australia. Gorgon Project CO₂ Injection, 2022.

6. IRENA. Green Hydrogen: A Guide to Policy Making, International Renewable Energy Agency, 2020.

7. Hydrogen Council. Path to Hydrogen Competitiveness: A Cost Perspective, 2020.