# How energy and chemistry converge for a fossil-free future

## TL;DR

This paper explores how electrification and sustainable carbon sources can help the chemical industry transition to a fossil-free future.

## Contribution

The paper introduces novel process pathways and infrastructure scenarios for integrating energy and chemistry in a fossil-free transition.

## Key findings

- Biomass, recycled plastics, and CO2 are viable sustainable carbon sources.
- Electrification and low-carbon hydrogen can enable industrial decarbonization.
- Cross-sectoral collaboration is essential for a resilient fossil-free future.

## Abstract

The chemical industry must undergo a dual transformation: electrifying energy use and defossilizing carbon feedstocks. This paper, developed by ENGIEs Scientific Council, examines how energy and chemistry can converge to enable this shift. We assess the roles of biomass, recycled plastics, and CO2 as sustainable carbon sources and explore the enabling potential of electrification, low-carbon hydrogen, and direct air capture. Novel process pathways and infrastructure scenarios are analyzed to highlight strategic opportunities for cross-sectoral collaboration. Our findings underscore the need for coordinated investment, policy support, and alignment with renewable energy geography to achieve a resilient, fossil-free future.

Earth sciences; Energy resources; Energy policy; Energy sustainability; Energy systems