Exploring the potential of hydrogen for decarbonizing heating processes of the European Aluminium Industry

The decarbonization of heating processes is one of the most significant challenges faced by the energy intensive industry towards the green transition. It can be pursued through two major routes: electrification or used of low-carbon fuel, as green hydrogen. Electrification entails the use of renewable electricity to power heating systems, eliminating the reliance on fossil fuels and significantly reducing carbon emissions. On the other hand, hydrogen represents an innovative and promising alternative for decarbonizing heating processes. Green Hydrogen can be produced through electrolysis using renewable energy sources, resulting in clean, emissions-free fuel. However, the adoption of green hydrogen in heating processes requires overcoming safety, technical and infrastructure challenges, as well as ensuring a sustainable and cost-effective hydrogen supply chain. European Aluminium's Innovation Hub actively engages with stakeholders and the aluminium industry to support and foster the collaboration amongst the players of the entire value chain. The challenges associated with hydrogen, particularly regarding economic and technical feasibility together with the environmental and social impact, have led to the initiation of two EU Horizon Europe projects launched in January 2023

• HyInHeat – Hydrogen technologies for decarbonization of industrial heating processes
• H2Glass – advancing Hydrogen (H2) technologies and smart production systems TO decarbonise the GLass and Aluminium SectorS