Fuels Industry UK publishes Fuels Statistics 2026: New figures show rising fuel demand, growing import dependence and continued pressure on domestic refining
Fuels Industry UK publishes Fuels Statistics 2026
New figures show rising fuel demand, growing import dependence and continued pressure on domestic refining
Thursday 10 September, London - Fuels Industry UK today published its 2026 edition of Fuels Statistics, highlighting the growing importance of domestic fuel resilience as UK demand continues to rise while two UK refineries closed in 2025
The report, which draws together a wide range of statistics on the fuels supply sector in the UK, shows that UK demand for petroleum products increased by 1% in 2025 to almost 61 million tonnes, while the closure of the Grangemouth and Lindsey refineries reduced UK refining capacity by almost a quarter. Product imports have therefore increased, meaning a growing dependence on overseas supply.
There has also been progress in delivery of renewable fuels with the industry exceeding the first-year requirements of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel mandate, supplying renewable fuel equivalent to 2.15% of total jet fuel demand.
Elizabeth de Jong, Chief Executive of Fuels Industry UK, said:
"The big event over this past year has of course been the devastating loss of almost a quarter of our refining capacity. The UK's dependence on imported fuel products is increasing, while domestic fuel demand remains buoyant. These closures should serve as a wake-up call that maintaining an investable and competitive refining sector is essential for the UK's resilience, energy security and economic growth."
Given the importance of the sector, the UK Government must now urgently deliver a level playing field or risk further closures and increasing reliance on less certain production from overseas.”
ENDS