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Exploring techno-economic landscapes of abatement options for hard-to-electrify sectors

Author

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  • Clara Bachorz

    (Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research
    Technische Universität Berlin)

  • Philipp C. Verpoort

    (Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research)

  • Gunnar Luderer

    (Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research
    Technische Universität Berlin)

  • Falko Ueckerdt

    (Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research)

Abstract

Approximately 20% of global CO2 emissions originate from sectors often labeled as hard-to-abate, which are challenging or impossible to electrify. Alternative abatement options are necessary for these sectors but face critical bottlenecks, particularly concerning the availability and cost of low-emission hydrogen, carbon capture and storage, and non-fossil CO2 for synthetic fuels or carbon-dioxide removal. In this study, we conduct a broad techno-economic analysis, mapping abatement options and hard-to-electrify sectors while addressing associated technological uncertainties. Our findings reveal a diverse mitigation landscape that can be categorized into three tiers, based on the abatement cost and technologies required. By requiring long-term climate neutrality through simple conditions, the mitigation landscape narrows substantially, with single options dominating each sector. This clarity justifies targeted political support for sector-specific abatement options, increasing investment security for transforming hard-to-electrify sectors.

Suggested Citation

  • Clara Bachorz & Philipp C. Verpoort & Gunnar Luderer & Falko Ueckerdt, 2025. "Exploring techno-economic landscapes of abatement options for hard-to-electrify sectors," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-14, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-59277-1
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-59277-1
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