Energy saving strategies in the materials sector: The case of aluminum

In this paper we evaluate the energy saving strategies for the materials sector with a focus on the aluminum industry. An interconnected dynamic model is constructed to evaluate the strategies independently as well as in combination, such that the intertemporal effects and different interrelations within the material-energy space are accounted for. Both technical and social levers are considered. Results highlight the challenge of controlling average impact created over the rest of this century at current levels of 2010. Only full implementation of all considered strategies allows us to achieve this target for total energy demand. For other impact parameters of interest like total material or total primary material, even this proves to be inadequate calling for more severe action through either better or more strategies, or stricter rates of deployment. Interestingly results suggest focusing on social levers more than technical levers because of their potential to contribute over 50% of the targeted reductions.