CARBOWAVE introduces alternative heating methods, such as plasma and microwave heating, to replace conventional processes in energy-intensive industries. Microwave heating depends on a high dielectric loss tangent (DLT), yet many key European industries use raw materials with low DLT. Carbon fibre (CF), a strategic material essential for wind energy, transport, and construction, is produced from poly(acrylonitrile) (PAN), which has a low DLT. Currently, CF production is highly energy-intensive, consuming 100–900 MJ per kilogram, limiting its use to costly applications. CARBOWAVE aims to significantly reduce the energy consumption, carbon footprint, and production costs of CF, unlocking its potential for wider industrial use. By developing an atmospheric plasma for PAN stabilisation and a novel microwave heating technology, CARBOWAVE will enable a continuous CF production process at TRL 6, transforming the sustainability of multiple sectors.

The ModHEATech project is working to reduce the carbon footprint of the steel industry by developing an innovative hybrid heating system for reheating furnaces, a key energy-intensive step in downstream steel production. Currently, these furnaces rely heavily on methane (CH₄) burners, which result in high CO₂ emissions. ModHEATech proposes a new solution: combining traditional gas burners with electrification using induction heating. This “hybrid heating” approach allows the system to optimise energy use, improve efficiency, and significantly cut emissions. The hybrid system will also include a heat recovery component that captures and reuses energy from furnace off-gases. Importantly, the electricity used to power the induction system will come from renewable energy sources, making the process cleaner and more sustainable.

The eLITHE project aims to decarbonise the ceramic industry by demonstrating sustainable and cost-effective ways to electrify high-temperature processes such as melting, calcination, and firing, which currently rely on fossil fuels. eLITHE will pilot three types of electric furnaces, including a hybrid kiln combining electricity and hydrogen. It will also develop new material compositions, circular energy storage solutions, and digital tools for better energy management. By advancing electrification, eLITHE expects to cut over 97,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year, contributing to the EU’s goals for climate neutrality, cleaner industry, and energy independence.

Electrification and energy efficiency are key pillars for creating a sustainable, resilient and competitive European industry. EEETHOS develops and demonstrates highly promising solutions, which will enable heavy industries, such as asphalt, pulp & paper, steel and bricks, making an important step in the green transition. EEETHOS officially started activities in November 2024, is funded under the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme (Grant Agreement No. 101178624) and will run until October 2028