Energy storage is important for green ammonia production because renewable energy sources like solar and wind fluctuate. Batteries can be used for short-term energy storage, while power-chemical conversion methods can be used for long-term energy storage.

 Using technology to improve the performance of existing equipment is important, but alone is not sufficient to deliver the emission savings required. The global average energy intensity of ammonia production today is around 41 GJ/t on a net basis, compared with best available technology (BAT) energy performance levels of 28 GJ/t for natural gas-based production and 36 GJ/t for coal-based production. The universal adoption of BAT, in combination with operational improvements and a structural shift in the processes used to produce ammonia, together yield a reduction of around 25% in the average energy intensity of production by 2050 in the Sustainable Development Scenario and the Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario.

Here are some other details about ammonia production:

Energy consumption

Ammonia production consumes around 1.8% of global energy output each year. 

Carbon dioxide emissions

Ammonia production is the largest carbon dioxide emitting chemical industry process, producing about 500 million tonnes of carbon dioxide each year. 

Electrolysis

Electrolysis is a method for producing hydrogen from electricity. Alkaline electrolysis (AEC) is the most developed and mature technology for large-scale green hydrogen production. Solid oxide electrolysis (SOEC) is another option that performs efficiently, especially when heat is integrated between the electrolyzer and HBL. 

Energy storage

Energy storage is important for green ammonia production because renewable energy sources like solar and wind fluctuate. Batteries can be used for short-term energy storage, while power-chemical conversion methods can be used for long-term energy storage.