Decarbonization is a gigaton scale problem which will require a broad array of solutions, including continued deployment of renewable energy, green hydrogen generation, biomass, etc.
Novel synthetic and process engineering approaches are needed to reduce industrial GHG emissions, especially “Big Three” (iron & steel, chemicals & plastics, and cement)
Heat generation accounts for a large portion of industrial CO2 emissions; will require further R&D in electrified heat and heat replacement technologies
Important to consider short and long-term solutions based on “readiness.” Early deployment of nascent tech will benefit from cost reduction determined by learning curves over time
How can Stanford help? 1. Collaborate with industry and national labs in parallel to accelerate innovation and deployment. 2. Develop entrepreneurs who create disruptive green tech companies
In mining industry (~11% of global energy consumption), electricity generally comprises largest energy demand 🡪 need to deploy renewable energy with storage (battery or H2) to mining sites