Transition from Molecules to Electrons in Industry
The industrial landscape is shifting from reliance on oil, coal, and gas to clean and reliable electricity. Nations transitioning swiftly to electricity, particularly green electrons, will benefit from reduced emissions, improved supply chains, and increased jobs.
China's Strategic Lead
- China is leading in electrification, with nearly half of its industrial energy sourced from electricity.
- China's electricity includes a high share of green electrons compared to other countries like the U.S. and India.
- The country has invested heavily since 2010 in generation, high-voltage transmission, and grid-scale storage.
- In industries like steel and cement, China has significantly adopted electric processes.
Current Status and Challenges in India
- India's industrial energy use is around one-quarter electricity, with green electrons constituting 7%-8%.
- Challenges include legacy reliance on on-site combustion, uneven power quality, and a focus on generation over electrification of industrial processes.
Recommended Pathway for India
- Increase the share of Electric-Arc-Furnaces (EAFs) in steel production.
- Support pilots for electrified kilns and waste-heat recovery in the cement industry.
- Assist MSMEs in transitioning from coal and diesel to electric options.
- Embed digitalization in new industrial clusters to reduce power waste and generate carbon data.
Importance Beyond Climate
- Global competitiveness as buyers demand low-carbon manufacturing processes.
- Security by reducing dependency on imported fuels.
- Sovereignty in industrial location decisions, independent of fuel availability.
Conclusion
The global race is for green electrons. While China has strategically prioritized industrial electrification, India must take bold actions to avoid penalties and seize export opportunities. The focus should be not just on renewable capacity but on actual electrification in industries.
