Advancing Industrial Decarbonisation with European Solar Heat Technologies and Supportive Policies
The primary focus of this initiative is to leverage European solar heat technologies to significantly reduce energy costs and CO2 emissions in industry.
Heat accounts for approximately 60 per cent of industrial energy consumption with half of that below 400C. Solar thermal technologies present an effective and immediately deployable solution for decarbonising this heat demand.
However, inconsistent policy signals unfair dumping practices by some non-EU industries and limited financial support have hampered the widespread adoption of solar thermal technologies. The realisation of their full potential requires urgent policy consistency and targeted funding to stimulate deployment.
Emphasising the importance of decentralised renewable heat solutions like solar heat is essential for energy diversification and security. These technologies provide industries and urban centres with affordable and predictable energy operate independently from the power grid and efficiently integrate with other energy sources supported by thermal storage. A balanced mix of electrification and direct renewable heat ensures a resilient energy strategy for Europe.
Piero Abbate CEO of TVP Solar highlighted the need for re-allocation of EU resources to prioritise renewable heat solutions that can deliver immediate impacts especially in reducing reliance on natural gas imports. This shift is crucial given the urgency of heat security in Europe and the need for diversified energy sources.
Protecting and promoting European-made solar thermal technologies is fundamental for industry resilience and technological sovereignty. SMEs are central to this ecosystem and effective support from the European Commission through implementation of initiatives like NZIA R&D investments and smart public procurement can foster local job creation across the solar thermal value chain.
Valerie Sejourne Managing Director of Solar Heat Europe stressed the importance of clear demand signals and defining European Made-in-Europe criteria to stabilise the sector amid policy uncertainties and evolving market trends. Strong market demand is critical to ensuring the sectors growth and global competitiveness.
Financial support mechanisms such as green loans Contracts for Difference Heat-as-a-Service and Heat Purchase Agreements are vital for overcoming investment hurdles particularly for capital-intensive solar heat projects. The Industrial Decarbonisation Bank is a positive step although more inclusive criteria are needed to enable a broader range of industries and temperature ranges to benefit from decarbonisation measures.
Removing barriers for deployment is also critical. Facilitating fast-track permitting for solar thermal installations for industry and district heating and enabling the establishment of new manufacturing sites in Europe will accelerate adoption and growth of the sector. Ensuring fair market access and appropriate financial tools for export markets will enhance European competitiveness on the global stage.
At the recent event in Antwerp Solar Heat Europe reinforced the importance of collaboration with industry partners to accelerate the use of solar heat in sectors such as food and beverage chemicals pharmaceuticals and pulp and paper. Strengthening these partnerships through supportive policies and investment is essential to accelerate deployment and realise the full potential of renewable heat in industrial decarbonisation.