The Texas Industrial Energy Efficiency Program (TIEEP) hosted its 2024 Energy Forum in Houston, brought together over 100 industry professionals to discuss the critical theme of "Lowering the Cost of Decarbonization." As industries face increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions, experts from DevvStream, RAPID Manufacturing Institute, and KBC (A Yokogawa Company) shared actionable strategies that make decarbonization both feasible and cost-effective, while meeting ambitious environmental goals.
Michiel Spoor, Principal Energy Consultant, presented a comprehensive roadmap for the transition to net-zero emissions, see Figure 1. His presentation outlined actionable steps and advanced technologies that drive both sustainability and profitability in the industrial sector.
Identifying Optimization Opportunities
Michiel emphasized the importance of benchmarking and gap analysis in assessing energy efficiency and emissions. By leveraging real-time data analytics, the energy industry can identify areas for improvement, particularly in reducing carbon footprints and enhancing operational efficiency. KBC's approach ensures that companies not only set ambitious goals but also develop data-driven, actionable plans to achieve them.
Integrated Emissions Management
The presenters also discussed the complexities of managing emissions across all scopes:
Each scope presents its own challenges, ranging from addressing on-site fugitive emissions to optimizing energy consumption from external sources. The panel agreed that a holistic approach - emphasizing cross-sector collaboration and the integration of innovative technologies - is essential for achieving comprehensive emissions reduction.
Harnessing Advanced Technologies for Real-Time Optimization
Using advanced technologies such as Petro-SIM® and Visual MESA® Energy Management System, companies can monitor, simulate, and optimize energy use and emissions in real-time. These tools provide actionable insights for continuous energy efficiency improvements and integrate carbon capture, renewable energy, and process upgrades to enhance emissions reduction, as shown in Figure 2.
Balancing Immediate Action with Long-Term Innovation
Michiel concluded his presentation by highlighting the need for both immediate action and long-term investment. Short-term energy efficiency improvements, such as electrification and carbon capture, deliver immediate results. Simultaneously, investments in emerging technologies like hydrogen production and biofuels will shape the future energy landscape.
Conclusion
As highlighted during the 2024 TIEEP Energy Forum, the path to decarbonization is both challenging and essential. Refiners that embrace these innovative approaches and advanced technologies discussed by the panel will not only stay competitive but also play a key role in Bringing Decarbonization to LifeTM.