Electrification of Heat in Industry as Part of a Carbon Reduction Strategy
In the quest for a more sustainable future, the electrification of the heating sector emerges as a pivotal strategy for reducing carbon emissions, particularly in industrial applications. Ireland's energy transition is well underway with visible progress, however it is not moving fast enough to meet our statutory obligations. We need to reduce our GHG from 69Mt (2021-2023) to 52Mt (2023-2025). In the Industrial & Buildings sector, the acceleration of the electrification of heat is a significant pillar of Ireland's strategy to meet our GHG ceiling of 51% reduction by 2030.
As Ireland Inc is progressing at pace with its decarbonisation strategy, industry is also progressing at an increasing pace due in no small part to significant increases in the cost of energy due to geopolitical events. Stable energy prices are essential for companies to provide a sustainable business model which benefits the company, their customers and ultimately the consumer.
We aim to be at the forefront of integrating advanced technologies such as heat pumps to transform industrial heating systems and assisting our clients on their decarbonisation journey and transition to a more sustainable future. This transition not only aligns with global decarbonisation goals but also enhances the efficiency of industrial processes, ultimately contributing to a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
The graphic below shows the approach that leading industry players are taking to map out stages along their decarbonisation journey. As is always the case, good data is essential to ensure informed decisions are made along the road.
Why Electrification of Heat in Industry?
The industrial sector stands as one of the largest consumers of energy, with a significant portion allocated to heating processes. Traditional heating methods in industries typically rely on fossil fuels, which are not only costly but also environmentally detrimental. Electrification, particularly through the use of heat pumps, offers a cleaner, more efficient alternative. By switching to electricity—especially when sourced from renewable energies—industries can drastically reduce their carbon footprint.
The Role of Heat Pumps in Industrial Applications
Heat pumps are a cornerstone technology in the electrification of industrial heating. Capable of transferring heat from one source to another, they efficiently utilise ambient energy to generate the required heat levels for various industrial processes. In Ireland's industrial sector, the focus has been on using heat pumps to convert low grade waste heat into useful high-quality process heat. The adoption of these systems not only supports environmental objectives but also promotes energy security by reducing reliance on imported fuels.
Impact on Energy Systems and Costs
The shift towards electric heating introduces significant changes to the existing electrical infrastructure. It requires careful planning to manage the increased demand and ensure stability within the power grid. Studies indicate that while initial costs associated with the adoption of heat pumps and necessary infrastructure updates are high, the long-term benefits in terms of reduced energy costs and lower environmental impact are substantial.
Industrial Sectors and Heat Pump use
An increasing number of companies in the Food & Beverage, Pharma, MedTech & Technology sectors are electrifying their heat load as part of their decarbonisation strategy. Use of various types of Heat Pumps, MVR and Direct Electric Technologies are being deployed with onsite generation via roof/ground mounted solar arrays & wind turbines where feasible. Thermal & battery storage solutions are also being deployed in an increasing number of locations in Ireland as large industry players aggressively pursue their decarbonisation goals.
Policy Framework and Incentives
The successful integration of heat pumps into industrial settings is heavily influenced by supportive policies and incentives. In Ireland, initiatives like the European Green Deal provide financial support for companies transitioning to greener technologies.
Furthermore, setting clear targets for renewable energy and low carbon heat generation within the industrial sector can accelerate the adoption of heat pumps, contributing to Irish and European climate goals.
There are a range of grants available from Enterprise Ireland, the IDA, SEAI and Údarás na Gaeltachta ranging from initial GreenStart and GreenPLus schemes. Each of these schemes can assist client companies develop a decarbonisation strategy, implement an environmental management system and train staff, to capital grants for the implementation of significant decarbonisation projects, with grant levels of up to €1m available from Enterprise Ireland for qualifying projects and up to €3m through the SEAI Exceed Scheme for large industry projects.
Conclusion
The electrification of heating in the industrial sector is a viable strategy for reducing carbon emissions, enhancing energy efficiency and transitioning to a more sustainable future for all of us. The adoption of best available technologies and the support of robust policies are essential for achieving a sustainable industrial landscape.
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The PEMCAS team can assist you at all stages along the way on your decarbonisation journey from initial site assessment & strategy development to carrying out feasibility studies on potential projects to assistance with grant application on to detailed design & procurement, oversee installation & commissioning and ongoing assistance with performance monitoring.
If we can be of any assistance please do not hesitate to reach out to us at info@pemcas.ie or by phone to 061-498900