DecarbTech - Issue 17
ABB Motion
ABB Motion, a global leader in motors and drives, is at the core of accelerating a more productive & sustainable future.
Editor's picks
As we move deeper into 2025, the urgency to tackle industrial decarbonization and resource scarcity is more pressing than ever. This month’s features showcase how technology, partnerships, and bold policy thinking are helping solve two of the world’s greatest challenges: reducing carbon emissions in heavy industry and securing sustainable water supplies.
Our first story explores how heavy industries - often viewed as the hardest to decarbonize - have a clear and actionable path to net-zero using technologies that are already available. A recent report by Fraunhofer IPA and ABB, highlighted during a hosted policy dialogue with Euractiv underscores that sectors like iron and steel, cement, chemicals, and mining can transform their operations through electrification, high-efficiency equipment, and circular practices. However, scaling these solutions will require a combination of innovation, investment, and stronger policy frameworks to accelerate clean energy access and industrial transformation.
Our second feature, penned by Surendra Muppana , Head of Industry Segment Manager, ABB, looks at the challenge of water scarcity in the Middle East, where fast-growing populations and limited natural freshwater are putting immense strain on existing resources. Desalination is a crucial solution, but its high energy footprint demands a shift toward more efficient, sustainable sources. ABB technologies, including energy-efficient drives, motors, and advanced control systems - are already helping to lower emissions and optimize operations in landmark projects like Taweelah in Abu Dhabi. Together with automation and digital monitoring, these innovations are ensuring communities gain reliable, affordable access to clean water while minimizing environmental impact.
From decarbonizing Europe’s industrial backbone to future-proofing water supplies in one of the world’s most water-stressed regions, these stories are a reminder that technology, collaboration, and courage to rethink traditional systems are the building blocks of a leaner and cleaner future. I hope they inspire you to explore new ways to drive change in your daily work.
Claudio Siminelli , Global Sustainability Lead, ABB
Decarbonising Europe’s Heavy Industry: It’s Not ‘Mission Impossible’
Balancing climate ambitions with competitiveness is a challenge for every industrial sector, but especially for heavy industry.
A recent report by Fraunhofer IPA shows that even “hard-to-abate” industries can achieve net zero. The analysis highlights the crucial role of sectors such as iron and steel, cement, chemicals, and mining, not only as providers of essential materials but also as key drivers of European industrial competitiveness.
Despite the environmental challenges these sectors face, the report outlines a clear path toward net zero. To explore this topic further, ABB organized a policy discussion hosted by Euractiv with the presence of Brigitte van den Berg, Renew MEP and Shadow Rapporteur on the Resolution on energy-intensive industries in the European Parliament, Dr. Markus Kröll, Head of Business Division Circular Economy and Carbon Neutral Production, at the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation IPA, and Chris Poynter, Division President Motion High Power, ABB.
The event took place in the context of the European Commission’s proposed Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act, which aims to accelerate the industry’s access to clean energy and reduce emissions.
Chris Poynter emphasized the role of emerging technologies in decarbonizing Europe’s heavy industries and manufacturing.
“Existing technologies are available today to decarbonize certain hard-to-abate industries—we don’t need to wait 10 years,” Poynter said. “Innovating in the decarbonization space is possible, and electrification is key. Technology is either already available or under development. What’s needed now is stronger policy support to scale renewable energy production and reuse the energy saved to drive decarbonization.”
Innovation the key to meeting water scarcity pressure in the Middle East
Water scarcity is a significant global issue, particularly in arid regions like the Middle East, where freshwater resources are severely limited. The MENA region has the lowest annual water availability per person, with only 480 cubic meters in 2023, and is projected to face a 50% population increase by 2050, necessitating an additional 25 billion cubic meters of water annually to meet rising demands.
The consequences of water scarcity are far-reaching, affecting not only drinking and sanitation but also agriculture, industry, and energy production. Insufficient water resources can lead to food insecurity and economic instability, making it essential to find sustainable solutions to these challenges as urban areas expand and populations grow.
Desalination has emerged as a crucial solution to water scarcity in the MENA region, which houses half of the world’s desalination plants, producing approximately 46.17 million cubic meters of water annually. This process converts seawater into fresh water, providing a reliable source in areas lacking natural freshwater resources.
Despite its benefits, desalination is energy-intensive and raises sustainability concerns due to high energy consumption and carbon emissions. The environmental impact, including greenhouse gas emissions and potential harm to marine ecosystems, necessitates the adoption of energy-efficient and sustainable practices in desalination.
To address these issues, the sector must prioritize energy-efficient technologies to reduce energy consumption in desalination plants. For instance, the Taweelah project in Abu Dhabi employs ABB energy-efficient drives and motors to lower energy use while supplying water to over 350,000 households.
Additionally, integrating automation and digitalization is vital for optimizing operations in desalination. Technologies such as advanced control systems and data analytics can enhance efficiency and improve water distribution management, ultimately reducing costs and environmental impact.
Advanced monitoring tools also play a crucial role in maintaining a balanced water supply network, ensuring safe access to clean water while minimizing maintenance needs. Continuous monitoring allows for quick detection and resolution of issues, ensuring a reliable water supply for communities.
By implementing energy-efficient and sustainable desalination solutions, the Middle East can effectively address its water scarcity challenges, paving the way for a more resilient future that supports its growing population.
Thanks to the adoption of efficient desalination technologies, the region can secure its future and provide solutions to a world grappling with water stress.
Electrical Inspector | MEng in power electricity
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