Energy Independence for Emerging Economies: Turning Local Crude into Local Power
Across Latin America and Africa, a paradox persists: countries with domestic oil production still rely heavily on imported refined fuels. This disconnect drains economic value, exposes national budgets to import volatility, and limits progress toward sustainable energy systems.
The Import Reliance Continues, Even as Production Ramps Up
In Brazil, diesel imports are rising again. Analysts expect a 13% jump in 2024 compared to 2023, totalling around 9.6 million metric tons of diesel imports. S&P Global Domestic refineries are operating, but supply gaps persist, especially during peak agricultural seasons. S&P Global
In Angola, the pressure is different but equally urgent. Fuel subsidies have long consumed a large share of government resources, historically amounting to up to 4% of GDP. (Here) In July 2025, diesel prices were raised by 33%, provoking protests, unrest, and even fatalities when subsidy cuts collided with social strain. (Here)
These cases illustrate a common theme: producing crude is not enough, countries must also capture more value by refining and processing cleaner fuel locally.
Why Traditional Strategies Fall Short
Many governments and energy stakeholders rely on approaches like:
Expanding large conventional refineries (very costly, often decades to build)
Upgrading existing facilities (marginal gains)
Subsidizing fuel imports to maintain stability
These strategies often lag demand or impose massive capital burdens. They also carry environmental costs and may perpetuate reliance on external markets.
A Modular, Clean Fuel Pathway
Here’s where Think Energy’s approach becomes relevant across multiple geographies. Using modular fuel processing, our technology enables conversion of crude oil and condensates into cleaner diesel and bunker fuels on-site, with benefits such as:
Up to 50% CO2 emission reduction per barrel validated through independent assessment
Removal of toxic H2S and sulfur reduction to marine-grade levels (MARPOL 0.5%)
10–15% more energy per gallon compared to standard diesel
Plants deploy in under six months with relatively modest capital compared to traditional refineries
This isn’t theoretical, these systems are already producing millions of gallons in industrial settings in other regions.
By placing modular plants close to feedstock and demand centers, countries can reduce transport and import costs, stabilize supply, and retain more value onshore.
Cases in Point: Why This Matters
In Brazil, such a solution reduces reliance on imported diesel especially in peak months, while complementary increases in refinery output help bridge the gap.
In Angola, modular plants placed near production hubs could mitigate shock from subsidy removal, lessen social upheaval, and free up government resources.
In Ecuador, a modular plant scaled regionally could counter supply risks and reduce dependence on imports.
These deployable systems offer a middle path between large-scale refineries and fuel import dependency.
Toward Sovereign, Cleaner Energy
Emerging economies don’t have to choose between growth, stability, or environmental responsibility. With modular fuel processing, nations can:
Produce cleaner fuels locally
Retain economic value within borders
Respond rapidly to demand shifts
Reduce exposure to global import volatility
Think Energy stands ready to partner with governments, industrial operators, and investors across regions (in Africa, Latin America, and beyond) to convert crude into sovereignty.
