CO2-Neutrality and Energy Efficiency

Sustainability requirements for automation

Abstract

Various measures are necessary in order to achieve carbon neutrality. Production processes must be revised and electrified. Especially in the transition phase, resource and energy consumption as well as GHG emissions must be measured and recorded correctly so that the new processes can be run automatically at maximum efficiency.  Automation and digitalization, in this case the measuring
of process operating points and the combination of data sources, play a major role in the implementation. This article describes a way to improve energy efficiency, analyse CO2 emissions and, by implementing appropriately prioritised measures, achieve a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The possibilities and requirements for the future automation technology are highlighted in this context. Automation will continue to serve as an enabler for the necessary improvements.