Decarbonizing copper production by power-to-hydrogen: A techno-economic analysis

Electrifying energy-intensive processes is currently intensively explored to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through renewable electricity. Electrification particularly challenging if fossil resources are not only used for energy supply but also as feedstock. Copper production such an process consuming large quantities of fuels both reducing agent and supply. Here, we explore the techno-economic potential Power-to-Hydrogen decarbonize copper production. To determine minimal cost on-site retrofit with technology, formulate solve a mixed-integer linear program integrated system. Under current parameters Germany, resulting direct CO2 abatement 201 EUR/t CO2-eq in On-site utilization electrolysis by-product oxygen has substantial economic benefit. While vastly exceeds European emission certificate prices, sensitivity analysis shows that projected future developments technologies can greatly reduce 54 CO2-eq. An total GHG decarbonization reduces global factor electricity lies below 160 g CO2-eq/kWhel. The results suggest by could become economically environmentally beneficial over next decades due cheaper more efficient rising further