Potential for Industrial Energy-Efficiency Improvement in the Long Term

It is essential that we find out what opportunities exist for the improvement of energy efficiency, and their limitations, since this is the most cost-effective way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This study presents a method for identifying potential technologies which can contribute to the long-term improvement of energy efficiency. An objective measurement of maximum improvement is derived by calculating the theoretical minimum specific energy required to perform a task. Next, a list is drawn up of technologies that could conceivably improve efficiency, extending beyond those normally found in literature on the subject. This method is applied to three major energy-consuming branches of industry: paper and board; iron and steel; and nitrogen fertilizer. Each of the studies provides an in-depth analysis of the industry and an extensive survey of possible ways to improve it.