Low-carbon industrial hubs are integrated clusters of industrial facilities that prioritise energy efficiency, renewable energy deployment, and resource optimisation. These hubs leverage synergies among co-located industries to maximise energy and resource efficiency while minimising environmental impacts. Four underpinning elements form the foundation on which low-carbon industrial hubs can be developed:-

1. Clean Energy Integration

Low-carbon industrial hubs prioritise the use of renewable energy and other clean energy sources such as solar, wind, biomass, hydro and, possibly even nuclear, to power industrial operations with the aim of  minimising greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing sustainable energy security.

2. Resource Efficiency 

Industrial processes within low-carbon hubs are designed to minimise waste generation and maximise resource utilisation. This includes the adoption of advanced technologies for recycling, reuse, and recovery of materials, as well as implementing circular economy principles.

3. Collaboration and Innovation

Low-carbon industrial hubs need to be designed in a way that fosters collaboration among stakeholders, including government agencies, industry players, research institutions, and local communities. By sharing knowledge, expertise, and resources, these hubs drive innovation and accelerate the adoption of sustainable technologies and practices.

4. Sustainable Infrastructure

Infrastructure within low-carbon industrial hubs is designed to promote sustainability and resilience. This includes the development of green buildings, efficient transportation and logistics networks, and green spaces that enhance the quality of life for both workers and local residents.

Refined and optimised technology forms the basis of each low-carbon industrial hub development project based on four pillars of technology integration:-

1.  Clean Electrons and Electrification: This entails transitioning to cleaner energy sources and increasing electrification across various sectors to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Renewables and other low-carbon energy sources such as hydro and nuclear produce clean electrons. These electrons are either used directly (i.e. electrification), stored for later use (i.e. buy batteries and energy storage), or transformed into clean molecules.

2.  Clean Molecules: The production and utilisation of clean molecules, such as hydrogen and sustainable biofuels, play a pivotal role in decarbonising industries like transportation and manufacturing. Clean electrons are used to make clean molecules (e.g. hydrogen and its derivatives). Additionally, captured carbon can be used for clean molecule production (e.g. for sustainable fuels). These molecules are used either as fuel or feedstocks to decarbonise various end uses.

3.  Carbon Capture and Removal: Implementing effective carbon capture and removal technologies is crucial for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and achieving carbon neutrality. CCUS technologies are utilised to capture CO2 from industrial production processes or the atmosphere. This CO2 is either used to produce clean molecules or sequestered via storage or other natural climate solutions.

4.  Circularity and Resource Efficiency: Embracing circular economy principles and enhancing resource efficiency are essential for minimising waste and maximising the sustainable use of both materials and resources. Circular technologies aim to optimise materials and processes to recycle products. Agricultural technologies decarbonise emissions from food production by producing animal protein alternatives.