Industries

Pulp and Paper

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Turning Emissions into Sustainable Fuel

Pulp and paper mills have ideal conditions to support sustainable fuel production. With access to biogenic CO₂ and widespread use of biomass-based energy in combined heat and power (CHP) systems, many mills already generate renewable electricity and steam for internal use. By integrating an eFuel facility alongside existing operations, mills can create additional value from what is already in place — using available inputs to produce eFuels like eMethanol.

The eFuel Integration Opportunity

Maximising Value from Existing Resources

By integrating eMethanol production alongside mill operations, pulp and paper facilities can achieve both environmental and economic benefits — managing carbon emissions, making efficient use of renewable electricity, and improving energy self-sufficiency. 

Repurposing Biogenic CO₂ from Combustion Processes

In kraft mills, for example, recovery boilers emit CO₂ from the combustion of black liquor. Capturing and utilising this biogenic CO₂ in eMethanol production transforms what would otherwise be an emission into a valuable fuel input, supporting both sustainability goals and new business opportunities. 

Utilising Power Surplus

When available, surplus renewable electricity can power the electrolysis process to produce green hydrogen. This hydrogen is then combined with captured biogenic CO₂ to create eMethanol — a high-value, sustainable eFuel derived from existing mill resources.

Supporting Mill Sustainability

By using renewable electricity and capturing biogenic CO₂ already available on-site, mills can reduce their carbon footprint, contribute to circular carbon practices, and align with tightening climate regulations.   

Generating Carbon Credits

Through carbon credit schemes, mills can offer credits to companies seeking to offset their emissions — opening an additional revenue stream while supporting broader climate goals.

Industrial Synergies: Smart Use of Resources

Energy Integration

Where feasible, electricity and waste heat from mill operations can support the energy demands of eMethanol production, improving overall system efficiency.

Oxygen Supply

Oxygen, released during the electrolysis step of eMethanol production, can be redirected into the mill processes, reducing reliance on external oxygen sources.

Water Circulation

Water used in eMethanol production can be recycled or reused within the mill, contributing to better water efficiency and resource optimisation.

Shared Infrastructure

Integrated operations can leverage shared logistics, storage, and utility systems, helping reduce overall capital and operational expenditures for both facilities.

Ready to Explore eMethanol Production?

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is eMethanol, and how does it benefit pulp and paper mills?
eMethanol is a sustainable, fossil-free fuel made from green hydrogen and captured CO₂. For pulp and paper mills, integrating eMethanol production offers a way to repurpose biogenic CO₂ from mill processes, turning emissions into a valuable, renewable fuel.
How does eMethanol production help mitigate CO₂ emissions in pulp and paper mills?
By capturing CO₂ from mill operations — such as recovery boilers — and converting it into eMethanol, mills can lower their overall carbon footprint. This avoids releasing CO₂ into the atmosphere and supports climate and sustainability targets.
How can eMethanol production be integrated into existing pulp and paper mill operations?
eMethanol production can be seamlessly integrated with existing mill operations, particularly those with combined heat and power (CHP). Surplus electricity from biomass-based power generation can be used to produce green hydrogen, which is then combined with captured CO₂ to create eMethanol. 
Can surplus electricity from pulp and paper mills be used for eMethanol production?
Yes. Mills with combined heat and power (CHP) systems frequently generate surplus electricity. Instead of exporting it to the grid, this electricity can be used onsite to produce green hydrogen for eMethanol production — adding value and enabling sustainable fuel generation from renewable energy.
How does eMethanol production support the circular economy of pulp and paper mills?
eMethanol plants use captured CO₂ — a byproduct of pulp and paper operations — as a feedstock for the the production of renewable fuel. This supports a circular economy by repurposing process emissions, reducing waste, and minimising environmental impact in line with broader sustainability goals.