Key facts
- US oil refiners are operating plants at 95% capacity.
- Refinery run rates are at maximum levels.
- There is no significant dent in fuel demand.
- Some refiners are postponing maintenance.
Strong profit margins and consistent demand for gasoline and diesel are incentivizing US oil refiners to push their facilities to near-maximum operational capacity. This trend is exacerbated by a lighter-than-usual maintenance season, suggesting a focus on immediate production over long-term upkeep.