Wired for Change
Handling Intermittency in a Renewable-Energy-Driven Chemical Industry
S.E. Bielefeld (TU Delft - Energy and Industry)
C.A. Ramirez Ramirez – Promotor (TU Delft - ChemE/Chemical Engineering)
M. Cvetkovic – Promotor (TU Delft - Intelligent Electrical Power Grids)
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Abstract
Using fossil fuels for heat and power generation causes about one-third of the chemical industry’s CO2 emissions. To mitigate these emissions, electricity from renewable energy sources could be used instead. However, renewable sources, such as wind or solar power, are intermittent in nature, which will be mayor challenge for the continuous operation of chemical processes. This dissertation explores the conditions for mitigating the impact of intermittency in the chemical industry, specifically by electrifying existing utility systems. It addresses questions concerning potential benefits and limitations of exploiting flexibility in the chemical industry, the circumstances under which flexible utility systems can enhance the electrification of chemical plants, and the impact of changing energy price conditions on cost-optimal technology portfolios. Using utility-system modelling and scenario analysis, the work shows that partial electrification of utility systems is often cost-optimal. However, the potential for electrification cannot be predicted by a single indicator. The results reveal distinct technology preferences under different energy price scenarios and highlight the potential of electrification for the defossilisation of the chemical industry.