It’s not too late to develop a bright future for Grangemouth

The future of Grangemouth as a crucial manufacturing base for Scotland is still under the spotlight, as Petroineos has made the decision to cease oil refining at the site. The energy giant, which has operated and funded the refinery since 2011, has opted to transition towards investing in a terminal that will import and distribute fuel to meet Scotland’s needs.

One of the primary reasons behind this decision is the gradual ban on petrol and diesel vehicles to reduce carbon emissions. With Scotland implementing this ban starting in 2030, the operation of an oil refinery producing these products becomes increasingly challenging. The Grangemouth refinery has been incurring substantial daily losses, amounting to over £1.2 billion since 2011, with no viable offers received to purchase and sustain its operations.

In response to the impending closure of the refinery and the subsequent job losses for hundreds of workers, there is a call for a more informed and forward-thinking discussion on the future of Grangemouth. Petroineos highlights the lack of government support or intervention to prolong the refinery’s lifespan, emphasizing the need for a strategic transition towards producing low-carbon fuel and generating skilled jobs in the region.

Project Willow has been introduced as a solution to pave the way for a promising future for Grangemouth, backed by both Westminster and Holyrood. This initiative aims to transform the site into a modern manufacturing hub, focusing on cleaner energy production and job creation. The emphasis is on steering the conversation towards opportunities for growth and development, rather than dwelling on the challenges of the past.

Moving forward, a collaborative effort involving stakeholders, policymakers, and industry players is essential to ensure a smooth transition towards sustainable and innovative practices at Grangemouth. By embracing change and exploring new avenues for growth, the potential exists to revitalise Grangemouth as a vibrant centre for manufacturing, setting a positive example for the region’s economic evolution.