Electrification of many low- to medium-temperature processes can help manufacturers improve efficiency and stabilize and reduce costs. These benefits are being realized by U.S. manufacturers with their increasing adoption of industrial heat pumps (IHPs) and thermal batteries.
An interactive map prepared by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) shows dozens of installed and planned industrial electrification projects in the U.S., demonstrating growing momentum in sectors including food and beverage manufacturing, chemicals and lumber.
Low spark gaps (the ratio of electricity to natural gas prices). More projects advance in states with spark gaps — the ratio of electricity to natural gas prices — of approximately three to four or lower, or with policies and programs to help address high electricity costs. Regionally, those areas broadly include the Pacific Northwest, Southeast and mid-Atlantic.
IHPs and other electric technologies offer an alternative to often overdesigned boiler systems that can reduce electricity demand and save costs and energy. Additional benefits include more precise controls and modularity, lower insurance and permitting costs, and resource conservation to implementing facilities, which can improve project economics and reduce payback periods.
