In the heart of the Baltic region, a groundbreaking study is reshaping the future of energy-intensive industries, offering a beacon of hope amidst the challenges of climate change and volatile energy markets. Led by Aurimas Lisauskas from the Laboratory of Combustion Processes at the Lithuanian Energy Institute in Kaunas, this research delves into the viability of lower-carbon substitutes for natural gas, paving the way for a more sustainable industrial landscape.
Lithuania, like many countries, faces significant hurdles in meeting its climate mitigation targets. The transition from fossil fuels to zero-carbon alternatives such as green hydrogen and ammonia is a monumental task, requiring extensive infrastructure and time. However, the interim period demands immediate solutions, and this is where lower-carbon natural gas alternatives come into play.
The study, published in the journal Energies, focuses on Lithuania’s most energy-intensive industrial sectors: food, chemical, and wood-product manufacturing. These sectors are the backbone of the country’s economy, but they also contribute significantly to its carbon footprint. The research identifies synthetic natural gas (SNG) and biomethane as viable substitutes for natural gas, offering a bridge towards a low-carbon future.
Synthetic natural gas, produced from a mixture of gases, can be a direct substitute for natural gas in existing infrastructure. Biomethane, derived from organic waste, presents another promising alternative. According to Lisauskas, “Biomethane and SNG offer a techno-economic viability that can drive the transition to a low-carbon energy future. The key is to leverage existing infrastructure and optimize production costs.”
The economic viability of these alternatives is a crucial factor. The study finds that biomethane becomes competitive given a feedstock price of 21 EUR/MWh in the twelfth year of operation and 24 EUR/MWh in the eighth year. These figures are based on an electricity price of 140 EUR/MWh and a natural gas price of 50 EUR/MWh, providing a realistic benchmark for industrial applications.
However, the path to a hydrogen-based economy is fraught with challenges. Hydrogen production, while scalable, is constrained by its high electricity demand—about 3.8 to 4.4 kWh per cubic meter. This makes it economically viable only at negative electricity prices, a scenario that is currently unrealistic for most industries.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. For energy-intensive industries, the adoption of biomethane and SNG can significantly reduce carbon emissions without requiring a complete overhaul of existing infrastructure. This transitional phase is crucial for meeting short-term climate goals while laying the groundwork for a future powered by zero-carbon fuels.
The study, published in the journal Energies, also highlights the need for policy support and investment in renewable energy sources. As Lisauskas notes, “The transition to a low-carbon economy requires a concerted effort from both the public and private sectors. Policies that incentivize the adoption of renewable energy sources and support the development of new technologies will be key to success.”
As Lithuania and other countries grapple with the challenges of climate change and energy security, this research offers a roadmap for a sustainable future. By embracing lower-carbon natural gas alternatives, industries can reduce their carbon footprint, enhance energy security, and drive economic growth. The journey towards a zero-carbon future is long, but with innovative solutions and strategic investments, it is within reach.