Navigating the transition to renewable energy in the industrial sector

Navigating the transition to renewable energy in the industrial sector

Sustainable or renewable energy is quickly becoming an increasingly important topic in the industrial sector. Companies are looking for ways to reduce their environmental footprint by using clean energy sources to power their operations. 

Navigating the energy transition in the industrial sector is of critical importance today – with the urgent need to reduce emissions and combat climate change, the shift to renewable energy sources is becoming increasingly important. But making this transition can be complicated and daunting for many businesses. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits and challenges for businesses that operate in the industrial sector and want to transition to renewable energy.

Get ready to take the first steps towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future!

What Is Sustainable or Renewable Energy?

Sustainable or renewable energy is energy that comes from sources that are naturally replenished, such as wind, solar, geothermal, and hydropower. These sources provide a reliable, clean, and affordable way to meet energy requirements.
 
Companies looking to make a switch to sustainable or renewable energy can do so in a variety of ways. Solar panels and wind turbines are two of the most commonly used technologies for generating renewable energy. Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity, while wind turbines capture the wind’s kinetic energy and convert it into electricity. Both of these sources can be used to power industrial operations and reduce reliance on traditional forms of energy, such as fossil fuels.
 
In addition to solar and wind energy, industrial companies can look to hydroelectric power as another form of sustainable or renewable energy. This type of energy is generated by using the natural flow of rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water to turn turbines and generate electricity. This energy source is both clean and reliable, and can be used to meet a variety of energy needs.
 
Geothermal energy is yet another form of sustainable or renewable energy that is becoming increasingly popular in the industrial sector. Geothermal energy is generated by utilizing the naturally occurring heat that is found below the Earth’s surface. This energy is then used to generate electricity, as well as to heat or cool buildings, depending on the application.
 
All of these sources of sustainable or renewable energy can be used to reduce reliance on traditional forms of energy and decrease a company’s environmental footprint.

Growth of the renewables industry

The renewables industry in the UK has experienced a significant growth rate in recent years, due in part to government policies and incentives that have encouraged the adoption of clean energy sources. According to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, renewable sources such as wind, solar, and biomass made up a record high of 44% of the UK’s total electricity generation in 2020, up from just 9% in 2010. This growth has been driven by a combination of factors, including the falling cost of renewable technologies, improvements in storage capabilities, and increasing public support for clean energy.
 
The popularisation of renewable power in the energy industry in the UK has also created new economic opportunities, with the sector supporting over 400,000 jobs in 2020. In addition, the expansion of renewables has helped the UK reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and make progress towards its climate change goals. Looking ahead, the UK government has set ambitious targets to further increase the share of renewable energy in the country’s electricity mix, with a goal of reaching at least 50% by 2030.

How Is Renewable Energy Being Used In Manufacturing?

Renewable energy is increasingly being used in manufacturing to help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. One common form of renewable energy used in manufacturing is wind and solar energy, which can be harnessed through the use of wind turbines and solar panels. Hydroelectric power is another renewable energy source that is often used in manufacturing, particularly in industries such as paper and pulp production.
 
Wind farms, which consist of large groups of wind turbines, are also being developed in various parts of the world to help meet the energy needs of industrial sectors. In addition to electricity generation, renewable energy is also being used in manufacturing processes to heat and cool buildings, dry materials, and power machinery.
 
Solid waste is another area where renewable energy is being utilized in manufacturing. For example, waste-to-energy plants can use the methane gas produced by decomposing solid waste to generate electricity, while biomass boilers can burn organic materials such as wood chips or agricultural waste to produce heat and power. By using renewable energy in these ways, manufacturers are able to reduce their environmental impact and improve their energy security.

How is the UK supporting renewables for industry projects

The UK government has made a commitment to transition to a low-carbon economy, and increasing the use of renewable energy sources is a key part of this plan. There are several ways in which the UK is supporting renewables for industry projects:

  1. Financial support: The UK government provides financial incentives to encourage businesses to invest in renewable energy projects. This includes grants, loans, and tax breaks for renewable energy generation and energy efficiency measures.
  2. Legislative support: The UK has introduced laws and regulations to support the use of renewables in industry. For example, the Renewables Obligation requires electricity suppliers to source a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources.
  3. Research and development: The UK government and private companies are investing in research and development to improve the technology and lower the cost of renewable energy. This includes funding for projects such as offshore wind farms and solar panel research.
  4. Education and training: The UK is investing in education and training programs to ensure that there is a skilled workforce available to work in the renewable energy sector. This includes funding for vocational training programs and degree programs in renewable energy-related subjects.
  5. Infrastructure: The UK government is investing in the infrastructure needed to support renewable energy projects, such as grid upgrades and the construction of offshore wind farms.

Overall, the UK is taking a multifaceted approach to supporting renewables for industry projects.

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