Conference Proceedings NEFI NEW ENERGY FOR INDUSTRY 2024

The path to achieving a climate neutral industry in Austria by 2040 is ambitious: it necessitates a transformative approach to the industrial energy system, interdisciplinary research & technology development and innovative policies aligned with both national and European climate objectives. Reaching this transition presents significant challenges, particularly given the limited timeframe to implement the necessary societal, political, and technological changes. However, these challenges also present a unique opportunity to reshape the industrial energy landscape of the future.

In this context, the 3rd NEFI Conference serves as a vital platform for dialogue and exchange among stakeholders from academia, research, industry, policy and politics. This year’s conference not only showcases recent advancements in the transformation of the industrial energy system, but also addresses the critical societal, political, and technological challenges – both nationally and internationally – that must be addressed to realise our shared vision of a climate neutral future. Consequently, the thematic priority of the conference and the proceedings will be Circular Economy, CCU/S, CO₂ neutral gases & green hydrogen, Electrification, Flexibilisation, Industrial symbiosis and energy efficiency, Legislation, Policy & Business Models.

The innovation network NEFI New Energy for Industry, funded by the Austrian Climate and Energy Fund in collaboration with the regions of Styria and Upper Austria, stands as a beacon of applied research and development of practical solutions in addressing the complexities of realizing climate neutrality within the industrial sector. By providing practical and scalable solutions, NEFI demonstrates how climate action can not only reinforce Austria's long-term position as a robust industrial location, but also demonstrate the global applicability of comprehensive technologies developed under the “Made in Austria” brand.