Magda H. Barecka and Joel W. Ager, researchers from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, have published a perspective in the journal *Energy & Environmental Science* that explores the potential of electrolysis to accelerate the decarbonization of the chemical industry. Their work examines the challenges and opportunities of scaling up electrolysis systems to replace petrochemical feedstocks and reduce CO2 emissions.
The chemical industry currently relies heavily on petrochemical feedstocks, making the transition to carbon-neutral production a significant challenge. Electrolysis-based manufacturing, powered by renewable energy, is a rapidly advancing technology that could drastically cut CO2 emissions from the chemical sector. However, the question remains whether electrolysis systems can be scaled up enough to decarbonize all chemical plants entirely.
Barecka and Ager’s research estimates the energy required to power full-scale electrolysis-based chemical manufacturing by 2050. They identify a substantial gap between the currently planned renewable energy expansion and the energy needed to electrify chemical production. Specifically, the energy required for hydrogen production and CO2 electrolysis would consume more than 50% of all planned renewable energy.
To bridge this gap, the researchers discuss strategies to reduce the energy input to electrolysis. They consider both individual electrolysis systems and integrated electro-plants. Their perspective highlights several scale-up oriented research priorities aimed at supporting the timely development and commercial availability of these technologies. Additionally, they emphasize the need to explore synergies and foster the growth of the renewable energy sector to facilitate this paradigm shift in chemical manufacturing.
The practical applications for the energy sector include the potential to integrate large-scale electrolysis systems with renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, to produce green hydrogen and other chemicals. This could help decarbonize not only the chemical industry but also other sectors that rely on hydrogen, such as refining and ammonia production. Furthermore, the research underscores the importance of investing in renewable energy infrastructure to support the energy demands of a decarbonized chemical industry.
In conclusion, Barecka and Ager’s work provides a forward-looking scenario that highlights the potential and challenges of using electrolysis to decarbonize the chemical industry. Their research offers valuable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers working towards a sustainable energy future. The perspective was published in *Energy & Environmental Science*, a leading journal in the field of energy research.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.