Electrification of ceramic industries high temperature heating equipment

ongoing

eLITHE aims to support decarbonisation of the ceramic industry through the demonstration of sustainable and cost-effective pathways to electrify high temperature thermal processes (i.e. melting, calcination and firing). This is crucial for the EU to achieve its 2050 target of climate neutrality as energy-intensive industries (EIIs) are responsible for a large portion of greenhouse gas emissions. eLITHE will demonstrate three different electric furnaces (a frit smelter based electrodes and induction, a microwave-powered alumina calciner and a hybrid brick firing tunnel kiln for combined use of electricity and hydrogen burning) at three pilot sites. Besides, eLITHE will develop novel material compositions compatible with the electric heating, research circular materials for their use high temperature energy storage applications and create digital tools to enhance process energy management and enable a safe and sustainable operation. The project consortium consists of 18 partners from 9 EU countries, with diversified expertise and knowledge in the addressed processes. The project will have a significant impact on the clean energy transition of EIIs and will lead to a reduction of over 97,000 tons of CO2 per year and over 505 GWh/yr of natural gas use for a full-scale unit replaced, contributing to reducing EU dependence on fossil-fuels imports. In addition to the direct impact on the clean energy transition of the ceramic industry, eLITHE will also have broader societal and economic impacts. The project will contribute to the development of a sustainable and circular economy, supporting the creation of green jobs and improving the competitiveness of European industries. The project's focus on electrification technologies and renewable energy integration will also contribute to the development of a more resilient and secure energy system for the EU, reducing its dependence on imported fossil fuels.