Industry risks falling behind without flexible steam solutions

A new report from Aggreko has revealed that outdated steam infrastructure and inflexible procurement strategies are placing UK industry at risk of reduced productivity, reduced resilience and higher operating costs. 
Under pressure? Alleviating steam system strain in industry, examines the critical role of steam in industrial operations and highlights the growing challenges faced by engineering, production, and procurement managers. With 73% of the UK’s industrial energy demand used for heat – and steam systems accounting for over a third of this – inefficiencies in steam provision significantly impact operational performance and emissions.

The report identifies key barriers to progress, including reliance on oversized, ageing boilers, lack of resilience, and limited access to modern steam technologies. It also explores why many businesses struggle to navigate commercial pressures amid volatile energy prices and supply chain disruptions.

 “In today’s industrial landscape, flexibility is becoming increasingly vital to minimise downtime and ensure operational efficiency,” said Richard Smith, Steam Product and Application Specialist at Aggreko Europe.

  “Aggreko has observed a growing readiness to adopt rapidly deployable, efficient steam solutions on a modular, temporary basis. However, businesses need the right support to implement these systems. As this report explains, third-party expertise plays a crucial role in providing the flexibility and knowledge required to match the right steam solution to each plant’s unique needs.”

Under pressure? Alleviating steam system strain in industry, suggests that modular, containerised steam systems offer a practical solution to the challenges facing UK industry. These systems can be rapidly deployed and commissioned without complex logistics or installation processes, and their capacity can be easily scaled. They therefore enable businesses to minimise both planned and unplanned downtime, respond swiftly to altered demand, and maintain operational continuity. Additionally, they provide a flexible short- to long-term alternative to costly permanent infrastructure.

“Businesses across Europe are increasingly looking to replace or improve outdated steam infrastructure,” Richard concludes. “But they’re caught in a difficult position, looking to overall improve site efficiency while balancing everyday pressures such as reduced budgets and operational uncertainty,” Smith added.

“The challenge extends beyond simply upgrading equipment – it involves navigating a complex landscape of energy volatility, ageing infrastructure and shifting regulations. That’s why the focus must shift from technology alone to building resilience and strengthening adaptability – through informed planning and strong, ongoing strategic partnerships.”

The report also introduces Aggreko’s latest generation of low-emission steam boilers, designed for rapid deployment, high efficiency, and compatibility with greener fuels such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). These systems are part of Aggreko’s Greener Upgrades™ portfolio and reflect the company’s commitment to making efficient, cleaner technologies, and the expertise to implement them, more accessible.