World Petrochemical Conference focuses on future feedstocks

HOUSTON—The 38th annual World Petrochemical Conference will take place in Houston March 20-24, 2023.

The conference, with more than a dozen big-name partners organizing the event, is expected to draw expert speakers covering a range of topics.

Register here for the event.

One of the breakout sessions being highlighted is on feedstocks and refining integration, set to take place March 23 from 8:15 a.m. to 3 p.m.

As the transition to alternate and greener forms of energy takes place, the future of chemical refining and the petrochemical industry worldwide will be affected.

Demand for refinery products in the fuel industry is expected to decrease, while the demand for petrochemicals is expected to increase.

In the future sustainability scenario, chemicals are expected to drive demand over traditional fuel products.

Numerous technological processing configurations will be required in the future, according to partner and organizer IHS Markit, now a part of S&P Global.

"When the two industries are put together, there will be a shortfall in the petrochemical feedstocks depending on which scenario we head toward," conference organizers said. "Energy transition, sustainability and circular plastics will play a significant role moving forward."

Other topics and questions that will be considered include:

• How will geopolitical tensions affect the energy transition? What are the pathways to ensure a secure, sustainable future for the energy sector?
• Can companies achieve net zero by adopting innovative business models, restructuring their operations and aligning their new strategies?
• What are the best ways for global businesses to achieve meaningful, long-term decarbonization while meeting energy demand?
• Will there be sufficient feedstocks to satisfy requirements of all the sectors seeking simultaneous progress toward energy transition goals?

Confirmed speakers include Keith Couch, senior director, technology sales and integrated projects for Honeywell; Timothy Roberts, executive vice president of midstream and chemical, Phillips 66; Kurt Barrow, head of oil markets, midstream and downstream research, S&P Global Commodity Insights; and Jim Burkhard, vice president and head of research for oil markets, energy and mobility, S&P Global Commodity Insights.

View the full agenda here.