Summary
In iNEW2.0 (Inkubator Nachhaltige Elektrochemische
Wertschöpfungsketten), novel and efficient electrolysis processes are being researched and developed for application in sustainable power-to-X value chains. For the successful transition of the Rhenish lignite mining area to a future region for sustainable business, the regional energy-intensive industries need low-emission and sustainable solutions. The incubator Sustainable Electrochemical Value Chains (iNEW 2.0) focuses on the research and development of novel and efficient electrolysis processes for application in sustainable Power-to-X (P2X) value chains. The P2X approach enables climate-neutral industrial processes using renewably generated electricity and renewable resources based on CO2 as a sustainable raw material. P2X thus represents the key technology for sector coupling and opens up the possibility of a carbon cycle economy. With regard to industrial transformation processes in the context of the energy turnaround and the phase-out of lignite-based power generation, P2X can thus be regarded as a central technology option for structural change and regional development of a sustainable post-mining landscape.If successful, the electrolysis processes developed within the framework of iNEW will enable new types of P2X value chains and thus act as innovation-driving elements that make an essential contribution to the structural transformation of the Rhineland region of the future. In this way, existing employment in the energy-intensive industries in the Rhenish mining area can be secured and new sustainable jobs in plant construction and technology can be created.
