From 19–21 May, Milan transformed into the epicentre of Europe’s energy innovation as PRC Europe 2025 brought together leaders from across the downstream oil and gas sector. Hosted by Eni S.p.A. and supported by key regional partners such as Technip Energies, Sonatrach Raffineria Italiana S.r.l., Wood, and Saras S.p.A., the Congress created a powerful platform for collaboration and progress.
Setting the Tone for Transformation
Angelina Nizamova, Project Department Director at BGS Group, said, “Our industry stands at the crossroads of transformation, and it is our shared commitment to innovation and sustainability that define the next chapter for downstream in Europe.”
A Full House and a Forward-Looking Agenda
More than 400 delegates attended, representing a wide cross-section of the refining and petrochemical value chain. The event’s agenda spanned keynotes, panel discussions, roundtables, and live talks — all centered on the most pressing issues and opportunities in the sector. From decarbonisation and the circular economy to sustainable fuels and advanced production technologies, PRC Europe 2025 provided a roadmap for the future of energy processing.
Day One: Powering Up a Low-Carbon Hydrogen Economy
The first day spotlighted clean hydrogen as a pillar of the energy transition. A dedicated session explored emerging technologies and infrastructure integration — including green hydrogen and carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS).
Key contributors included:
*Salvatore Giammetti (Eni S.p.A.), who shared developments at Eni’s Ravenna site, a leading example of CCUS in action.
*Hammad Chowdhury (Watlow), who unveiled a thermal electric solution for hydrogen production, showcasing electrification’s potential to boost efficiency and sustainability.
Experts from NEUMAN & ESSER, Petrofac, Numaligarh Refinery Limited, and Saipem added further depth to the session.
Day Two: Rethinking Refineries and Fueling the Future
On the second day, attention shifted to refinery innovation. Sessions addressed repurposing traditional feedstocks, charting sustainable transformation pathways, and maximizing the untapped value of petrochemical outputs.
The closing panel looked ahead to the future of sustainable fuels, highlighting biofuel diversification and breakthrough technologies:
- Matthias Franke (Fraunhofer UMSICHT) showcased the use of waste biomass as a feedstock for steam crackers.
- Luigi Crolla (Kent PLC) presented methods for using waste in SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) production.
Raffaella Lucarno (Enilive S.p.A.) emphasized the critical role of biorefineries and international partnerships in driving green innovation.
Day Three: Inside Eni’s Innovation Hub
The final day offered delegates a behind-the-scenes look at Eni’s Bolgiano Research Centre. Participants toured the New Feedstock and Energy Carrier laboratories, witnessing first-hand Eni’s pioneering work in renewables, bio-based products, and circular energy solutions.
Real-World Solutions, Real-Time Impact
With more than 50 case studies and tangible examples, PRC Europe 2025 prioritized practical outcomes and transparent dialogue. The Congress succeeded in not just discussing the future, but actively shaping it through shared learning and partnership.
Looking Ahead: Amsterdam 2026
As per the press release, the next edition of PRC Europe, marking its 10th anniversary, is set to take place on 18–19 May 2026 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Expectations are high as the Congress continues to grow as Europe’s premier platform for downstream innovation.
