Pulp and Paper
Turning CO₂ Emissions and Power Surplus into Green Fuel
Pulp and paper mills—particularly those using kraft processes—are well-positioned to support sustainable fuel production, especially when operating combined heat and power (CHP) systems that generate renewable electricity from biomass residues like lignin in black liquor.
The eFuel Integration Opportunity
Maximizing Value from Existing Resources: By integrating eMethanol production alongside mill operations, pulp and paper facilities can achieve both environmental and economic benefits—by managing carbon emissions, making efficient use of renewable electricity, and improving energy self-sufficiency.
Biogenic CO₂ from Recovery Boilers: In kraft mills, black liquor recovery boilers emit CO₂ from the combustion of lignin. Capturing and utilizing this biogenic CO₂ in eMethanol production transforms what would be an emission into a valuable fuel input, supporting both sustainability goals and new business opportunities.
Power Surplus Utilization: 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.
By integrating eMethanol production, pulp and paper mills can:
Repurpose biogenic CO₂ from combustion processes to create a fossil-free fuel
Supply eMethanol to hard-to-abate sectors, such as shipping and aviation and the chemical industry
Strengthen sustainability profiles, reducing carbon emissions while diversifying business opportunities
Offer carbon credits to companies looking to offset their emissions
Efficiency Through Synergy
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Energy Integration
Where feasible, electricity and waste heat from mill operations can support the energy demands of eMethanol production, improving overall system efficiency.
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Oxygen Supply
Oxygen, released during the electrolysis step of eMethanol production, can be redirected into the mill processes, reducing reliance on external oxygen sources.
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Water Circulation
Water used in eMethanol production can be recycled or reused within the mill, contributing to better water efficiency and resource optimization.
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Shared Infrastructure
Integrated operations can leverage shared logistics, storage, and utility systems, helping reduce overall capital and operational expenditures for both facilities.
Contact us to explore possibilities.
Would you like to explore the potential of integrating eMethanol production into your mill operations?
Our facilities are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing mill operations, without disrupting core production goals. As a leading eFuel developer, Liquid Wind brings deep expertise, a proven project model, and a strong network of partners to help make your plans a reality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 minimizing environmental impact in line with broader sustainability goals.