[ heat transfer ] as biofuels and green hydrogen , is essential to a successful transition toward sustainability . In those industries that cannot do without fossil fuels , carbon capture technology must be used . So currently , we are indeed on the brink of an energy revolution in both industry and society , moving away from fossil fuels and embracing new environmentally friendly technologies .
Driving innovative technologies forward
Most of the technologies needed to halve emissions by 2030 are already available today . However , achieving the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 , as enshrined in the European Climate Change Act , will be more challenging . According to the IEA , half of the emissions reductions will rely on technologies that are still in the prototype or demonstration phase . Green hydrogen , carbon capture , long-term energy storage – all will require large investments to become reality .
To accelerate decarbonization , a two-pronged strategy is needed . Firstly , more investment must go into deploying the technologies that are already available and commercialized to make industry more sustainable . Simultaneously , efforts must be made to drive the development of new technologies for a long-term energy transition and the establishment of an efficient circular economy . Sustainable partnerships play a crucial
role in achieving these goals . Collaboration across countries , industries , and sectors is essential for making a meaningful impact . It is about rethinking and developing new business models to achieve climate goals while maintaining company visibility .
Energy efficiency as a key factor
The issue of energy efficiency is crucial in achieving the targets set by the Paris Climate Agreement . According to IEA forecasts , 40 % of emissions reductions could be achieved through energy efficiency by 2040 . There is enormous potential . The technology is there , we just need to use it . Energy efficiency should be at the top of the agenda in every context . After all , there is nothing more sustainable than energy that is not consumed in the first place .
One example of collaboration to accelerate the development as well as the implementation of energy-efficient technologies is the Energy Efficiency Movement , launched as an open platform by Swiss technology company ABB and now gaining momentum . Alfa Laval is the first member to join the movement . Together , the participants want to draw attention to the topic of energy efficiency and promote its implementation .
Energy efficiency is not only important for existing industries and applications but also
Gt CO 2
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Current trends
Stated policies scenario Efficiency
Renewables
Fuel switch , CCUS and other Sustainable development scenario
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Transition to clean energy : There is no single or simple solution for achieving decarbonization . Image © Alfa Laval , data according to IEA 1
Hydrogen Tech World | Issue 11 | August 2023 13