Pilot projects prove H<sub>2</sub> role in cement decarbonisation
Hydrogen can take a relatively limited role in cement manufacturing, to decarbonise the heating component of the industry’s huge CO<sub>2</sub> emissions
The cement industry produces a lot of carbon dioxide emissions—on par with the steel industry at around 8pc of the global total based on some estimates—but is less suitable for using green or blue hydrogen to decarbonise for a simple intrinsic reason. The process of calcination, whereby limestone is heated to break it down into calcium oxide and CO2, causes almost half of the emissions from cement production and can therefore not be avoided. The combustion of fossil fuels to heat the lime and cement kilns account for only about 40pc of total emissions, while electricity use for other parts of the plant makes up the rest. “The fast adoption of this new hydrogen-based technology is a cle
Also in this section
17 January 2025
Bank’s UK arm signs first deal to finance a green hydrogen developer, but cost and offtake pressures mean the sector remains too risky for many lenders
15 January 2025
The country’s technology-neutral position and competitive business environment mean it is looking to be surfing the second wave of the energy transition while others are still grappling with the first
14 January 2025
With abundant wind and sunshine, Africa is poised to lead in green hydrogen production. Yet high costs and financing challenges require global partnerships to unlock the continent's potential
14 January 2025
The continent’s largest economy sees an opportunity to join the global export market, but funding gap and lack of regulatory framework present challenges