Rolls-Royce’s Strategy for Net-Zero Emissions by 2050
Rolls-Royce has laid out an ambitious strategy to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, a plan that is in line with the industry’s push towards carbon neutrality. The strategy involves significant investment in decarbonizing technologies, with an immediate focus on adopting Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) that are expected to substantially reduce carbon emissions. Rolls-Royce is also exploring futuristic options like hybrid, electric, and hydrogen technologies.
A significant part of Rolls-Royce’s strategy revolves around SAF, which is made from non-fossil sources and can reduce carbon emissions by up to 70%. The company plans to introduce jet engines compatible with SAF in 2023 and aims for all its commercial engines to run on 100% SAF by 2023.
In the long term, Rolls-Royce is exploring less carbon-intensive options like hybrid, electric, or hydrogen-powered engines. They are currently in discussions with Airbus about hydrogen technologies and may use small modular reactors to produce e-fuel, potentially replacing SAF in the future.
Rolls-Royce has set several targets for 2023, including making its in-production commercial aero engine types and defense aero-engines compatible with SAFs. They are also working on integrating hydrogen fuel cells into microgrid demonstrations and enhancing the efficiency of their engine portfolio.
By 2030, the goal is for all new products to be net-zero compatible. The company is also working towards eliminating emissions from its own operations by 2030, a crucial step in its broader commitment to environmental sustainability. This comprehensive approach positions Rolls-Royce as a leader in the push for a more sustainable future in the aviation and energy sectors.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, dezeen.com, esgtoday.com