A systematic analysis of energy transition pathways towards carbon neutrality (ultimately 2050) at Royal FrieslandCampina’s factories

Abstract

Royal FrieslandCampina (hereafter referred to as RFC) has demonstrated its commitment towards the goal of being carbon neutral by 2050 and thus needs a shared vision among stakeholders to achieve that target. Comparing to other industries, the Dutch dairy sector has several opportunities to do the circular economy transition, considering its position in the supply chain. Unlike heavy industries where alternatives for high-temperature are not yet available, the most challenging for the decarbonisation at RFC is changing fuels for medium-temperature heat (160-220°C) since natural gas burning is the main source of CO2 emissions at their factories. The study helped to demonstrate specific technologies relevant for decarbonisation at RFC. Findings showed that it is technical and economically possible to a chieve carbon neutrality at RFC’s factories, in which improving energy efficiency and electrification is key to meet the target. In practice, it still encounters several related technical, regulatory, and social barriers. The goal of being carbon neutral of RFC will not be able to realize unless energy efficiency and electrification measures are fully explored for business cases. A robust stepwise pathway supporting the adoption of those technologies was also suggested to achieve their goal under any regime change.