A comparative analysis of low-CO2 steam generation technologies

Authored by

Waris Ziarkash, Sven Bünning, Astrid Bensmann, Egbert Baake, Richard Hanke-Rauschenbach

Abstract

Considering Europe's imperative to reduce CO₂ emissions under the Paris Climate Agreement, there is an urgent need to transition to low-CO₂ steam generation in industrial processes. Since steam generation is a major contributor to carbon emissions. This paper presents a comparative analysis across various steam generation technologies, including heat pumps, biogas, biomethane, geothermal, and solar thermal solutions. Employing a multidimensional approach, the study assesses key performance indicators such as steam generation cost, CO₂ emissions, CO₂ abatement costs, and energy demand to unveil viable alternatives to current fossil-based technologies. The findings identify a clear path for transitioning to low-CO₂ steam generation within industrial processes, emphasizing the exploration of high-temperature renewable heat sources, followed by electrification and energy carrier substitution approaches. High-temperature renewable heat sources offer the advantage of achieving an 80–90% reduction in CO₂ emissions, with the potential for net cost savings at current CO₂ pricing. Addressing challenges associated with each steam generation technology is pivotal to finding the perfect fit for each industrial process and ensuring a successful transition to low-CO₂ steam generation.

Details

Organisation(s): Section Electrical Energy Storage Systems
Institute of Electric Power Systems
Institute of Electrothermic Process Engineering
Type: Letter
Journal: Energy Conversion and Management: X
Volume: 26
No. of pages: 21
ISSN: 2590-1745
Publication date: 04.2025
Publication status: Published
Peer reviewed: Yes
ASJC Scopus subject areas: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment, Nuclear Energy and Engineering, Fuel Technology, Energy Engineering and Power Technology
Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy, SDG 13 - Climate Action
Electronic version(s): https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecmx.2025.101013 (Access: Open )