The CDI reflects the entire value chain of industrial decarbonisation. We work on and interlink technical, infrastructural, economic and social aspects of industrial transition. In this way, challenges and opportunities of the transformation are captured in their full scope. This actively drives the development of innovative solution strategies.
In the following thematic areas, questions are addressed using an interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral approach, e.g. within the context of CDI working groups and projects:
The introduction of innovative future technologies and alternative production processes is the key to decarbonising industry. Numerous technological approaches exist on the market at various levels of maturity. Some are already being tested on a large scale, whilst other technologies have yet to be put into practice. In addition, the introduction of new production processes often leads to a redesign of entire process chains and thus to the reconstruction of entire production sites. CDI activities such as knowledge transfer in general and, more specifically, the Innovation Group Process Heat support these complex developments.
Many of the new technologies for decarbonising industry require large amounts of electrical energy and hydrogen based on renewable energies. Additional energy infrastructures, transport and storage systems as well as cross-sectoral cooperation are necessary for the efficient use of green electricity and green hydrogen as well as for the further industrial use of process-related CO2 emissions (carbon capture and use, CCU). Therefore, cross-sector technologies and innovative business models will be implemented in collaboration with CDI partners. The Innovation Group Process Heat develops solution approaches for sustainably generated process heat as well as alternatives for fossil fuels.
Political and regulatory decisions are required to enable industries to implement successful strategies for reducing their greenhouse gas emissions. These include measures to provide the necessary quantities of renewable energies, the targeted and effective promotion of new technologies and business models, and the creation and establishment of so-called "green markets". Together with its partners, the CDI identifies needs and concrete steps for these issues and offers suitable formats for exchange.
New technologies as well as infrastructural and regulatory measures result in different reactions in society. A successful industry transition requires broad public acceptance of the various measures. This concerns, for example, the expansion of renewable generation capacities, the construction of a transport infrastructure for hydrogen or the storage of CO2 (Carbon Capture and Storage, CCS). Other societal aspects, such as the availability of qualified skilled workers, are equally crucial for the future of the industry.
Here, the CDI offers opportunities to discuss, develop and participate in concrete measures to promote acceptance, in particular through the work of the Innovation Group Acceptance.
What is decarbonisation?
Decarbonisation is an important step on the path to greenhouse gas neutrality. The term decarbonisation refers to the elimination of carbon dioxide. In the industrial sector, this is understood as the shift to carbon-free or carbon-neutral production processes.
