Among the choices for efficient renewable energy technology, manufacturers have centered their attention on a key methods and substitution systems like biomass, solar thermal systems, and electrification.
FREMONT, CA: Renewable energies present the most useful method for reducing energy consumption, and manufacturers across the world are exploring unusual ways of using renewable energy with this goal in mind. Among the choices for efficient renewable energy technology, manufacturers have centered their attention on a key methods and substitution systems like biomass, solar thermal systems, and electrification.
Biomass
Stay ahead of the industry with exclusive feature stories on the top companies, expert insights and the latest news delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe today.
The flexibility and replacement potential of biomass make it the prime option for renewable energy in manufacturing. Biomass can be used as a proper replacement for fossil fuels, fuel for localized energy production, and is a viable producer of a low, medium, and high-temperature heat. Also, high-temperature heat applications make up more than two-thirds of the heat demand for the whole process. Supplementary factors about the economic viability of biomass comprise its reduced production costs, a shorter distance for transportation, high energy density, and increased options for transportation methods.
Solar Thermal Systems
Solar thermal systems have a notable potential for industrial process heating. While the methods are chiefly used for low-temperature applications, new designs have been employed to serve applications requiring up to 400°C. Small scale industries and plants that is less energy-intensive such as food and textile sectors have a significant economic and technical potential for renewable energy through solar thermal systems. Nevertheless, the limitations of high initial capital expenses and low deployment rates have resulted in a vicious cycle, which needs to be broken.
Electrification
At 20% of final energy usage in manufacturing, the need for electricity is only projected to grow. The occurrence is due in part to the electrification of production methods and the production growth of manufacturing industries that are electricity-intensive like non-ferrous metals. The decarburization of the power sector is essential, but other options for increasing the renewable potential of the electricity sector are probable. Two of the top solutions contain on-site renewable energy electricity generation and the relocation of the industries to be close to renewable energy power plants. Technology expansion in the manufacturing industry and power sectors is necessary for the effective deployment of augmented electrification with renewable energy.
Some unique ways of employing the methods in commercial manufacturing contain energy-efficient and self-sustaining facilities along with plants that are entirely powered with renewable energy sources like solar power and wind turbines.
See also: Top Energy Tech Solution Companies
More in News