Using renewable energy sources as much as possible to reduce CO2 emissions as well as saving energy is a very important step. For example, the possibility of using ‘fossil free’ green gas generated by burning biomass. However, both fossil fuels and green gas release CO2 and NOx when burned. The formation of NOx can be reduced by recirculating relatively cold process air.
Another alternative is the use of green electricity generated from wind, water and solar energy. For example, electrical energy can be used to heat air, steam or thermal oil for processes up to approximately 300°C. However, heating with electricity takes more time than heating by burning gas.
Converting the surplus green energy produced from offshore wind energy into hydrogen, expanding existing hydrogen networks and using parts of the natural gas network for hydrogen, are all initiatives that are currently being developed. As a result, the possibility of using hydrogen as a combustion gas will become an increasingly realistic option in the future.