Yeup, but, and this is the kicker, you've shown no evidence that there are substantially fewer refineries than before. |
http://www.eia.doe.gov/pub/oil_gas/petroleum/data_publications/petroleum_supply_annual/psa_volume1/historical/1998/pdf/table_36.pdf
http://www.eia.doe.gov/pub/oil_gas/petroleum/data_publications/petroleum_supply_annual/psa_volume1/historical/2002/pdf/table_36.pdf
1999 = 159 US refineries with 155 functioning
2003 = 149 US refineries with 145 functioning
10 refineries in 4 year is substantial.
However, since they have upped their manufacturing to maximum capacity, they are almost able to keep up with demand. However, this causes a strain, and will cause a volatile market if more close due to EPA standards or mechanical breakdown. Also, as the need increases, the plants will not be able to cover the need. As stated before, there is a California refinery that is most likely going to close. This is going to have a bad effect on the current gas crisis that California is already experiencing.
We have 145 (as of 2003 - is probably less now) refineries trying to meet the approximate 9 million + barrels a day demand (for car gasoline only). That is a high demand per refinery.