ABB, GE & GM Back Electrification to cut Manufacturing CO₂
Electrification is a crucial strategy for reducing carbon emissions in the energy sector, as highlighted by the International Energy Agency (IEA).
It is a key approach in achieving the net zero emissions target by 2050, aligning with the Paris Agreement’s goals.
The IEA indicates that major reductions in emissions through electrification stem from the switch to electric transport and the deployment of heat pumps in industrial operations.
To reach the targeted net zero emissions by 2050, the pace of electrification in manufacturing and other sectors must double by 2030.
Keisuke Sadamori, Director of Energy Markets and Security at IEA says: “The acceleration of global electricity demand highlights the significant changes taking place in energy systems around the world and the approach of a new Age of Electricity.”
Understanding electrification
Electrification involves substituting fossil fuel-powered technologies and processes with electrical alternatives in industrial settings.
According to the IEA, these replacements are generally more efficient, reducing overall energy demand and significantly influencing emissions as electricity production becomes increasingly decarbonised.
For electrification to fully achieve its sustainability potential in the manufacturing sector, power generation must shift to low carbon sources like renewables.
The US Department of Energy points out that within utilities, the advantages of electrification can include enhancing system optimisation, improving efficiency and bolstering resilience, all of which are crucial for manufacturing operations.
Impact on the industrial sector
The industrial sector remains one of the toughest to decarbonise, predominantly powered by fossil fuels and new technologies often face high development costs.
Nevertheless, several companies are focusing on electrification to mitigate industrial CO₂ emissions.
ABB
ABB is committed to delivering electrification solutions that support decarbonisation and boost energy efficiency.
The company produces technologies that electrify industries, homes, cities, and distribution systems.
ABB collaborates with utility, industrial and commercial clients across various sectors to manage energy and electrical infrastructure efficiently.
Massimiliano Cifalitti, Smart Power President, ABB Electrification says: "Critical infrastructure needs resilient electrical systems.
“As demand for advanced electrification solutions continues to grow, the new SACE Emax 3 will help customers stay ahead of changing power requirements and protect business-critical uptime.
“Emax 3 is a breakthrough for energy resilience, helping solve some of the leading causes of power outages. Its built-in intelligence helps customers make their power management and maintenance proactive and predictive.”
GE Vernova
GE Vernova identifies electrification as the primary means of reducing demand-side carbon emissions.
Through Advanced Research, the company is engineering power conversion systems aimed at providing better power quality via motor, drive, and control technologies.
GE Vernova is also developing microgrid concepts and advancing marine electric power systems.
Nicolas Gibergues, Grid Automation Senior Executive & Business Line Leader, at GE Vernova's Grid Solutions, says: "With the ongoing emphasis on climate change, we are witnessing the most significant transformation of the grid in over a century.”
“In response, GE Vernova has rolled out GridBeats, a suite of Grid Automation software solutions designed to assist utilities in adapting to these changes while ensuring their grid operates smoothly."
Transport electrification
The US Department of Energy highlights that electric vehicles (EVs) can enhance fuel efficiency, lower fuel costs and reduce emissions, benefiting public health and the environment when electricity replaces fossil fuels.
Polestar
Focused on vehicle electrification, Polestar aims to lead the way in minimalist design, technological innovations and sustainable solutions without compromises.
The company is researching how to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions throughout its entire value chain.
Notably, the Polestar 3 recently won a range test under harsh conditions, traveling 531 km.
Michael Lohscheller, CEO of Polestar says: "We are proud that Polestar 3 wins another big test! Range is an important criterion for customers – and this result underlines that Polestar 3 is a great choice for everybody seeking a luxury experience in an outstanding SUV.
“We are developing our cars above the Arctic Circle in Sweden, so it’s no surprise for us that Polestar 3 performs better than the competition in challenging conditions.”
GM
GM is actively supporting electrification by partnering with Pilot Travel Center and EVgo to install public chargers where needed.
Additionally, GM has established a million-square-foot EV assembly plant and made advancements in battery technologies.
The company invested US$2.3bn into its second battery cell manufacturing plant as part of its commitment to EVs, notably achieving a world record range for an EV truck.
Kurt Kelty, Vice President, Battery, Propulsion and Sustainability at General Motors, says “Getting this kind of range on a full charge doesn’t happen by accident.
“It takes deep integration across battery chemistry, drive unit efficiency, software and vehicle engineering and that’s exactly what the team delivered.
“This achievement is a great example of how far our EV technology has come, and the kind of innovation we’re building on every day at GM.”
Fortescue Zero
Fortescue Zero is revolutionising the mining industry through electrification.
The company focuses on developing heavy-duty power systems, such as battery-powered haul trucks and graders.
These vehicles are supported by innovative chargers capable of fully charging a 250-ton truck within 30 minutes.
Ellie Coates, CEO at Fortescue Zero, says: “These innovative chargers are designed to be a safe, rugged, high power and scalable fast charging solution for multiple different vehicle applications.
“Leveraging our world-class capability in battery and charging solutions from motorsport, the fast chargers have been developed for the challenging conditions of the Pilbara.
“Equipped with robotic connection options, they will be able to power Fortescue’s future 240-tonne Liebherr T 264 battery electric trucks in just 30 minutes.”
