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Hydrogen Value Chain Optimization for Decarbonization of the Glass Industry in Europe: A Case Study

Abstract

The European Union's ambitious carbon reduction targets for 2030 demand innovative solutions across energy-intensive sectors. Among these, the glass industry is actively seeking sustainable alternatives to natural gas combustion, a major source of carbon emissions in glass production. This paper investigates the potential of hydrogen as a decarbonization pathway for the glass industry, focusing on a use-case from a glass manufacturing facility in Europe. To address these emissions, this study explores the replacement of conventional fuels with hydrogen, a promising clean fuel alternative. Hydrogen not only offers a pathway to substantial carbon reduction but also aligns well with the glass industry's operational requirements for high temperature processes. However, the transition requires a strategic approach to the hydrogen value chain, ensuring an optimized supply, storage, and distribution network. This paper discusses the techno-economic and environmental aspects of hydrogen integration in glass manufacturing, emphasizing hydrogen production, delivery, and utilization frameworks that enhance cost-effectiveness and sustainability in the value chain. Through this lens, we aim to provide a viable roadmap for hydrogen adoption within the glass industry, offering insights into the broader implications for sectoral decarbonization across Europe.

Category

Lecture

Client

  • ERC-European Research Council / 4101092153

Language

English

Affiliation

  • SINTEF Industry / Sustainable Energy Technology

Presented at

11th IFAC Conference on Manufacturing Modelling, Management and Control (IFAC MIM2025)

Place

Trondheim

Date

30.06.2025 - 03.07.2025

Organizer

IFAC, NTNU

Year

2025

View this publication at Cristin