IEA – Renewables for Industry – Electrification of Low-Temperature Heat and Steam

The report focuses on the electrification of low-temperature heat and steam in industry using renewable energy sources.

Industry accounts for 30% of global energy consumption, mostly from fossil fuels. Decarbonisation efforts have focused on steel and cement, but significant potential exists in less energy-intensive sectors such as food and beverages, textiles, chemicals, paper, and other manufacturing. These sectors offer immediate and cost-effective opportunities for decarbonisation and energy diversification. Commercially available electric technologies (heat pumps, electric boilers, resistance heaters) can meet most heat demand in these subsectors. Electrification of low-temperature heat and steam, combined with renewable electricity, can reduce fossil fuel use and emissions, improve energy security by reducing exposure to volatile gas and oil prices, and enhance demand flexibility through integration with thermal storage. The report examines the techno-economic potential and policy environments in the European Union, China, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).