VoltaSplit™ and Energy Flexibility: Adapting Distillation to Renewables

Introduction

As industries worldwide shift towards renewable energy, the need for flexible and adaptable processes has never been greater. Traditional distillation systems, reliant on constant steam supply from fossil fuels, struggle to keep up with the variable nature of renewables. Sulzer’s VoltaSplit™ technology offers a breakthrough solution, enabling distillation processes to seamlessly integrate with renewable energy sources.

Discover how VoltaSplit™ is paving the way for energy flexibility in modern industry.

The Importance of Energy Flexibility

Energy flexibility refers to the ability of industrial processes to adjust their energy consumption in response to the availability of power especially from intermittent sources like solar and wind. For manufacturers, this flexibility is key to:

• Maximizing the use of low-cost, clean energy

• Reducing dependence on fossil fuels

• Lowering operational costs and carbon emissions

• Enhancing resilience against energy price fluctuations

How VoltaSplit™ Supports Renewable Integration

1. Electrified Energy Supply

VoltaSplit™ uses electricity as the primary energy source to operate the distillation unit (via electrically driven equipment). The process can be supplied from the grid, on-site generation (e.g., solar or wind), or certified renewable electricity—enabling near-zero direct emissions when low-carbon power is used.

2. Stable Operation with Advanced Controls

An advanced control system coordinates the distillation unit together with the rotating equipment to ensure smooth, efficient, and reliable operation across normal process variations and turndown ranges. This delivers a predictable electrical load that is straightforward to supply with renewable electricity.

3. Flexible Power Sourcing (No Special Modes Required)

Because the thermal duty is met electrically, plants can decarbonize by sourcing low-carbon power through their existing energy procurement strategies (grid mix, on-site renewables, or certified green electricity). No “renewable following” control features are required on the unit itself; the emissions outcome depends on the electricity supplied.

Benefits for Industrial Users

• Lower Energy Costs:

  By using electricity when it’s cheapest and cleanest, companies can significantly cut their utility bills.

• Reduced Carbon Footprint:

  Integrating renewables directly into distillation processes slashes emissions and helps meet sustainability targets.

• Future-Proof Operations:

  As the share of renewables in the energy mix grows, VoltaSplit™ ensures your facility remains competitive and compliant with evolving regulations.

Future Perspectives

With the global push for decarbonization, energy flexibility will become a defining feature of successful industrial operations. Technologies like VoltaSplit™ are not just innovations—they are essential tools for building the factories of the future.

Conclusion of VoltaSplit™ energy flexibility

Sulzer’s VoltaSplit™ is more than an energy-saving upgrade; it’s a gateway to true energy flexibility. By adapting distillation processes to work seamlessly with renewables, VoltaSplit™ empowers industries to embrace a cleaner, more resilient energy future.

Ready to make your distillation process renewable-ready? Contact Sulzer Chemtech to learn how VoltaSplit™ can help you achieve energy flexibility.