The current situation on CO 2 emissions from the steel industry in Thailand and mitigation options

This study examines the current status of CO2 emissions from the Thai steel industry. In Thailand, the steel industry serves as a foundation for many export industries such as automobiles, appliances, etc. Among different steel products, flat steel is of interest due to its high export volume. Flat steel production in Thailand emitted approximately 1.26 million tonnes of CO2 in 2008. The boundary of analysis covers slab and finished steel production. One of the major emission sources is electricity generation, as all crude steel plants in Thailand are EAF-based. The Power Development Plan (PDP) 2010, emphasizing the use of renewable electricity, would cut 23 percent of CO2 intensity by 2030. In addition, onsite fossil fuel combustion for heat is another important source of CO2 emissions. Switching to natural gas and applying biomass residue are proposed to alleviate the problem. Four percent of CO2 intensity would be reduced by natural gas substitution. Substitution with biomass residue, however, could zero the emissions from fuel combustion. Biomass combustion for heat supply, considered as a carbon neutral measure, appears to be the most attractive option that should be further explored since supply is still abundant in Thailand. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.