Sandhaas & Hartma (2025): Pyrolysis as a strategic element in energy system transformation to achieve net zero emissions

Anna Sandhaas, Niklas Hartmann IN: Energy Conversion and Management: X, DOI: 10.1016/j.ecmx.2025.100970

This study evaluates pyrolysis as a dual-purpose technology for integrating negative emissions and dispatchable electricity into Germany’s power system, supporting climate neutrality by 2045. Using a myopic power system model, the authors assess the role of pyrolysis, which operates solely on residual biomass. By 2050, pyrolysis can reach an installed capacity of 5 GW, supplying 2 % of total electricity generation. Its flexible power output reduces the need for hydrogen storage by 60 %, as it generates electricity during low renewable supply periods and offsets CO₂ emissions from gas-fired power plants through biochar sequestration. This enables continued gas plant operation without new investments while maintaining a net-negative CO₂balance.

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