As the world strives towards a net-zero future, the Grangemouth oil refinery, a cornerstone of Scotland's economy, stands at a critical juncture. While the refinery's current emissions profile presents a challenge, it also presents an opportunity for a just and sustainable transition under public ownership.

While Petroineos has announced plans to reduce emissions by 60% by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2045, critics argue that this plan is inadequate and that public ownership is essential for ensuring a truly equitable transition.

Public Ownership: A Driving Force for Change

Public ownership of the Grangemouth refinery offers several compelling advantages. First, it would place the refinery directly under the control of the Scottish government, enabling it to align the facility's operations with the country's ambitious climate goals.

Second, public ownership would provide the stability and resources necessary to invest in the cutting-edge technologies and infrastructure required to transition the refinery to net zero. This could include carbon capture and storage (CCS), hydrogen production, and renewable energy integration.

Third, public ownership would foster greater transparency and accountability, ensuring that the transition process is fair and equitable for all stakeholders, including the local community, workers, and environmental groups.

Economic Benefits and Community Engagement

Beyond its environmental benefits, public ownership also holds significant economic potential. The Grangemouth refinery employs over 3,000 people directly and indirectly, making it a vital economic driver for the surrounding region. Public ownership would ensure that the economic benefits of the transition remain in Scotland and support the creation of new jobs in the green economy.

Engagement with the local community is crucial for a successful transition. A public ownership model could facilitate open dialogue with residents, addressing concerns and ensuring that the refinery's transformation aligns with the community's vision for the future.

A Model for Sustainable Transformation

The Grangemouth oil refinery has the potential to serve as a model for a just and sustainable transition to a net-zero economy. Under public ownership, the refinery can be transformed into a hub for innovation, clean technologies, and job creation, while simultaneously reducing its environmental impact.

Scotland's commitment to achieving net zero by 2045 provides a clear mandate for change. The Grangemouth refinery, with its strategic location and skilled workforce, is uniquely positioned to play a leading role in this transformation. Public ownership offers a compelling pathway to achieving this vision, ensuring that the refinery's future is one of sustainability, equity, and economic prosperity for all.

EPM Solutions: Supporting Scotland's Transition

As a Paisley-based asset management specialist, EPM Solutions is committed to supporting Scotland's transition to a sustainable future. We believe that public ownership of the Grangemouth oil refinery can be a catalyst for this transformation, and we are ready to contribute our expertise to this important endeavour.

We are confident that by working together, we can create a brighter and more sustainable future for the Grangemouth refinery, the Scottish economy, and the planet as a whole.