Industrial emissions account for nearly a quarter of global greenhouse gases, presenting hurdles in reaching net zero targets, according to a report.

Long-duration energy storage (LDES) technologies have the potential to reduce industrial emissions by up to 65%.

That’s according to a report by the LDES Council and Roland Berger, which suggests industrial activities contribute about a quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions annually, making it a crucial sector for decarbonisation efforts.

The report identifies four categories of LDES technology – electrochemical, thermal, mechanical, and chemical – as viable and cost-effective options for industrial decarbonisation when paired with renewable energy sources.

Major industrial players, such as Microsoft, Tata Steel and BHP, are already investing in LDES technologies to demonstrate their ability to decarbonise operations.

LDES supports the decarbonisation of high-temperature industrial manufacturing, particularly in sectors like food processing and chemicals, which contribute over 20% of industrial emissions.

However, the report suggests that new policy mechanisms may be needed to bridge current cost gaps and accelerate industrial decarbonisation.

Julia Souder, Chief Executive Officer of the LDES Council, said: “Decarbonising industry is one of the largest challenges we face on our journey to achieve net zero.

“This report finds that there is no time to waste and no reason to delay action. LDES and renewables can be crucial in cost-effectively reducing emissions across key industrial sectors in the short, medium and long term”