Research and industry at the Centre's inception

At its launch in 2016, FME HighEFF addressed an industrial sector that faced significant challenges and opportunities in energy efficiency and emissions reduction. Industrial processes were energy-intensive, with energy efficiency often overshadowed by other climate measures. Norwegian industry’s reliance on fossil fuels, combined with increasing international focus on emissions reduction, highlighted the need for transformative change.

The research landscape was fragmented, with limited cross-sectoral collaboration or focus on industrial energy efficiency as a strategic lever for emissions reduction. Partnerships between academia, industry, and technology providers were nascent, and innovative solutions like high-temperature heat pumps, CO₂ capture, and thermal storage were in early conceptual phases.

Development during the Centre period and current status

Over the past eight years, HighEFF has yielded remarkable advancements. The Centre developed cutting-edge technologies like modular thermal energy storage, advanced heat exchangers, and integration of heating and cooling needs in food processing, many of which are now being implemented in pilot projects.

Notably, geopolitical and global events shaped its trajectory. The energy crisis triggered by the Russian invasion of Ukraine underscored the importance of energy independence and efficiency, validating HighEFF's focus. The Centre provided stability and innovation during this crisis, highlighting energy efficiency as a "least controversial" and immediate solution. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated digital transformation within the Centre, enabling effective collaboration through virtual platforms.

Today, Norway’s industry is better positioned, with stronger integration of energy efficiency measures and improved competitiveness globally. HighEFF has supported the shift from fossil fuels to electrification, while educating a new generation of researchers to sustain these advancements.

Norwegian actors' position

Norwegian industry and research institutions have solidified their positions as leaders in energy-efficient industrial processes. Companies like Equinor and Norsk Hydro are implementing HighEFF innovations, while universities and research institutes such as NTNU and SINTEF have strengthened their status as international hubs for expertise. The Centre’s emphasis on cross-pollination among academia, industry, and suppliers has been pivotal in driving systemic innovation.

The role of HighEFF in development

HighEFF has played an instrumental role in advancing systemic change. By building a platform for collaboration among a variety of partners across academia and industry, it has enabled the co-creation of solutions that span multiple sectors. Innovations in thermal energy storage, heat pump technology, and CO₂ emissions reduction have positioned Norwegian industries to meet ambitious EU and national targets for energy and climate.

Moreover, the Centre has significantly contributed to education and workforce development, producing 25 PhD and postdoctoral candidates who now drive energy efficiency in academia and industry. HighEFF has also shaped public discourse, advocating for energy efficiency as a cornerstone of the energy transition and influencing policy through research dissemination, both in the media and at relevant events.