Number: RL32248
Title: Petroleum Refining: Economic Performance and Challenges for the Future
Authors: Robert L. Pirog, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: As the 110th Congress considers energy legislation, it is likely to be concerned with domestic energy security and market stability, issues linked to the performance of the petroleum refining industry. Increased imports of refined products, particularly motor gasoline, combined with growing imports of crude oil, could make the United States increasingly vulnerable to shocks originating in the world oil market. Importing motor gasoline into the United States in appropriate volumes may become increasingly difficult because of the unavailability of world supplies consistent with U.S. fuel specification requirements.
Pages: 26
Date: June 3, 2008