The international IEA IETS TCP Task XV pursues a multi-disciplinary approach to the integrated use of industrial waste heat and aims to optimize energy efficiency in a global context. The focus is on the optimization and (further) development of energy- and cost-efficient technologies for industrial application, taking into account the industrial framework conditions.

Progress in energy-relevant technologies is of great importance for achieving the collective goals of energy security, environmental protection and economic and social developments. Participation in the IEA IETS TCP Task XV enabled Austrian stakeholders to establish international cooperation and to offer R&D services in the field of industrial energy-relevant technologies and systems. In addition, access to valuable know-how was created, which will be distributed to Austrians stakeholders, and increased visibility in the international environment was achieved.

The main objective of the participation in Task XV is to integrate Austrian research institutions into the international network and to participate in a platform for the exchange of information and the initiation of international projects in the field of waste heat utilization in industrial processes.

Subtask 4 of Task XV will improve knowledge on the combination of methods to identify and quantify heat surpluses, generate new knowledge on strategic planning and risk mitigation for heat surplus projects, and explore the impact of future changes in industrial energy systems on heat surpluses. An online database for surplus heat projects will be established that can be efficiently used for future assessments to develop clear, replicable policies and guidelines.

This Subtask will be divided into 3 Activities in terms of content:

• The role of excess heat in industry and industrial symbiosis
• Strategic process integration/intensification for future changes in industrial energy systems
• Ongoing projects at different TRL levels and systematic knowledge transfer