power, energy & renewables


sUpporTIng UK ManUFaCTUrIng In THe TransITIon To low-Carbon energy


As manufacturers across the UK begin to take the first steps on their journey towards decarbonisation, the fuels used within their often highly energy-intensive processes will naturally come under the microscope. In the first of its regular features for UK Manufacturing, Adrian Heath, national accounts manager for Industry and Transport at Calor, discusses the main drivers for decarbonising manufacturing in the UK, and how Calor is already supporting manufacturing customers move towards a sustainable future.


SuStainable ambitionS


The UK Government’s Heat and Buildings Strategy, published in October last year, outlined the strategic direction for decarbonising UK homes and businesses over the next decade. Whilst the ambition to decarbonise has been welcomed by many, there are valid questions being raised by those off the mains gas grid about how this will work for them. Furthermore, the off-grid sector has been


identified as the first port-of-call for installing low carbon options, and from the published strategies we have seen so far, the timelines are clear. The installation of new natural gas boilers in on-gas areas will be phased-out from 2035. For those off the main gas grid, an earlier phase out date of 2026 in domestic and small and medium buildings has been proposed; with a target of 2024 in large non-domestic properties. However, while the timescales may be


clear, other factors such as the Medium Combustion Plant Direction (MCPD) and a potential increase in taxation on those not reviewing and improving their heating methods, could create a significant challenge for businesses who are dealing with the responsibilities that come with being off the mains gas grid whilst moving towards a more sustainable way of operation.


a mix of SolutionS


The UK Government, through the Heat and Buildings Strategy and additional consultations, have focused heavily on the use of heat pumps - almost as a ‘silver bullet’ solution to this


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multi-faceted climate change challenge. However, with an earlier phase-out date proposed for homes and businesses off the gas grid, this route has many apparent pitfalls. Heat pumps are not always feasible for


hard-to-treat buildings, and the often complex and energy intensive production processes used within manufacturing and food processing may mean that a heat pump is unsuitable to maintain the necessary power requirements. In addition, the cost of commercial heat pumps can be tens of thousands of pounds – a significant outlay for businesses that are still recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In reality, there must be more options


available to those who want to move away from heavy or solid fuels.


an appetite for change


Recent research from Calor identified 42 per cent of manufacturers stated sustainability was ‘very important’ to their business. And, with a further 40 per cent highlighting their plans to change fuel source in the next four to five years, it makes sense that manufacturers are set to transition to a fuel source that supports their sustainability objectives. In fact, nearly nine out of ten


manufacturers were already reusing resources in a bid to be more sustainable, while three quarters were increasing their energy efficiency and 62 per cent were sourcing sustainable raw materials. However, one in five felt they still needed


further information to be sure they were making the right move and the same number felt a drive to sustainability was still a luxury at present.


Joining the Journey


With an ever-increasing focus on sustainability and carbon emissions, it is critical that manufacturers off the mains gas grid can access alternative fuel options to reduce their carbon emissions whilst future-proofing their business. Calor is on a mission to offer 100 per cent


renewable energy solutions to all its customers by 2040. For businesses unsure of what approach to take, Calor wants to encourage them to take a small step in the right direction. Transitional fuels will likely bring better efficiencies as well as reduce emissions. Reducing carbon footprint whilst remaining


cost-effective and operationally efficient can be a challenge. By working in close partnership with our manufacturing customers and understanding the unique challenges this sector is currently facing, we’re able to deliver an efficient energy solution which supports a sustainable today, and tomorrow. For those looking to move away from oil,


diesel, solid fuel or kerosene, Calor is on hand to guide businesses through the process, provide a straightforward switch and deliver a substantial cut in emissions. Switching to LPG can immediately cut emissions by 17.8 per cent compared to oil and is ideal for rural businesses where electricity is simply not viable due to the processes needed or simply because of limited supply to the location. Looking ahead, as well as Calor’s Futuria


Liquid Gas (previously BioLPG) solution, additional sustainable fuels are in development and the company’s teams are working round the clock to make these available in the foreseeable future.


Calor www.calor.co.uk


Summer 2022 UKManufacturing


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