The Changing Landscape of Sustainability Considerations

Traditionally, decisions regarding equipment upgrades, like replacing a natural gas-fired heater’s combustion control system, were based on the cost of new hardware and the potential for fuel cost savings.

 

However, Control writes, the long-term return on investment often dampens enthusiasm for such projects. Today, sustainability is increasingly becoming a crucial factor. Control introduces the marginal abatement cost curve (MACC) as a tool for analyzing projects based on the amount of carbon emissions reduced relative to their cost in a recent article.

 

MACC graphs present a visual representation where each project is assessed for its carbon reduction capacity versus the expense incurred. Projects are graphically represented by rectangles, with the width indicating CO₂e reduction and the height showing the cost per ton. Notably, carbon capture and storage (CCS) are highlighted for their relatively low cost and high CO₂e reduction, while projects like green hydrogen production are criticized for high costs and minimal CO₂e reduction.

 

Control underscores the importance of strategic planning and analysis in implementing sustainability initiatives. It emphasizes that a comprehensive list of potential projects must be compiled through brainstorming sessions involving diverse stakeholders.