With the significant increases in energy demand in recent years, U.S. refineries have been running at nearly full capacity. Many refineries are using technological advances to get more out of each barrel of oil processed.

• Refinery automation is integrating process and energy system controls to boost operating efficiency and product yields
• New refinery emissions monitoring technology uses infrared lasers with advanced imaging systems to minimize releases
• Solvent-extraction systems reduce waste using one-third the energy it takes to refine lubricating oil from crude oil
• New process, equipment and catalyst technology advances are being used to meet new regulations requiring very low sulfur levels in gasoline and diesel fuel
• Efficiency improvements at refineries are converting crude oil residue into low-sulfur diesel and jet engine fuel and squeezing extra gallons from every barrel
• Low-sulfur gasoline produced by refineries generates up to 97 percent less emissions in one of today's new cars than in a 1970s vehicle
• Ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel being produced today is making great strides in reducing particulate matter (soot) from diesel exhaust
• Co-generation is helping refineries capture waste heat and use it to produce electricity, which can minimize the need to purchase power and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions