Why a Joint Programme on Energy Efficiency in Industrial Processes?
Energy efficiency in industry is rising towards the top of the EU and the Member States/Associated Countries agendas for several compelling reasons. Among others are economic reasons, such as unstable energy prices and reliability of supply; environmental reasons, i.e. the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and intergovernmental reasons, as the industrial sector is becoming a frequent target of recommendations for international action.
Despite relevant efforts in terms of innovative technologies and legislative and regulatory frameworks to enable the transition in the industrial sector, the potential for energy efficiency remains significant. There are many opportunities for energy savings, and thus, reduced environmental impact.
The EU Industrial Strategy of May 2021 sets out an approach to drive the transformation to a more sustainable, digital, resilient, and globally competitive economy in Europe. This strategy includes supporting industries towards climate neutrality, outlining that reducing emissions across the sector will depend on an ‘energy efficiency first’ principle and a secure and sufficient supply of low-carbon energy at competitive prices.
Efficiency in Industrial Processes: Vision and Objectives
1. Assess the existing industrial processes to contribute to the implementation of more efficient technologies and solutions (partially or entirely, depending on the case);
2. Propose advanced concepts and designs to reduce energy consumption, operation, and maintenance costs, to improve the environmental footprint, as well as equal or improve the characteristics and the number of products manufactured;
3. Verify the viability and affordability of the proposed solutions through concrete demonstration projects. A close dialogue and collaboration with industry associations, industrial companies, and technology producers will be crucial within the above stated general objectives.
Main Objective
Since 2015, the activities of the EERA JP EEIP have focused on processes in Energy Intensive Industries.
The main objective of the programme on Energy Intensive Industries is to support the European energy-intensive industry to meet the European reduction target of 40% for greenhouse gases and at least a 27% increase in energy efficiency by 2030. The contribution to a reduction in specific energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions will focus on several targeted sectors (like chemical industry, metal production, pulp and paper, and glass production).
Other JP research activities are targeted to the Manufacturing Industry and Agro-food Industrial Processes.
