Net Zero Lab drives decarbonization of Novelis plant in Switzerland
The process to eliminate fossil energy and use renewable electricity instead began a year ago. This situation has given rise to the heat recycling ecosystem, with a systematic study to better understand the situation.
The first year of joint work between Novelis and Net Zero Lab Valais was a success. In order to enable carbon-free Scope 1 and 2 production, the team implemented several energy projects at the plant located in Sierre, Switzerland.
In the course of the first year of its decarbonization journey at Net Zero Lab Valais, Novelis decided to invest in a new electric furnace to pre-heat sheet metal ingots with renewable energy and thus reduce carbon dioxide emissions. This decision saved around 4,500 tons of CO2eq per year and up to 180,000 tons over the lifetime of the furnace.
The members of the laboratory in charge embarked on a task to transfer the heat resulting from the smelting at Novelis to the Technopôle, a nice set of buildings closer by. Initially this resulted in an output of 200 kilowatt-hours, which contributed one third of the Swiss Digital Center’s energy requirement. In addition, OIKEN – in its role as a local supplier – is working with the laboratory to expand this system, with the goal of meeting a large part of Sierre’s energy consumption by 2030.
“This lighthouse project brings to life our holistic approach to decarbonization toward net-zero production. Moreover, we are proud to see that, beyond this important mission, we are also adding value to our surrounding communities and further expanding our position as a sustainability vanguard and attractive employer.”
Emilio Braghi, Executive Vice President of Novelis Inc. and President of Novelis Europe
The Net Zero Lab Valais project (launched in 2022) aims to create an optimized system for the conversion and reuse of electrical energy. in order to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The first results of this study will be released in May of this year, and aim to offer an efficient alternative for environmentally friendly energy generation.
“Three Net Zero Lab Valais decarbonization projects were rewarded with funding from the Swiss government, allowing us to expand the size of the team. It is amazing to see the extraordinary results of this highly talented interdisciplinary team and to know that this is just the beginning of our journey.”
Serge Gaudin, Plant Manager, Novelis Sierre, and Director of Automotive Operations, Novelis Europe
The research efforts of Net Zero Lab Valais have been directed towards Novelis achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. These initiatives are part of a larger commitment to the environment in which we aim to reduce our carbon footprint by 30% by 2026 and achieve full carbon neutrality by 2050 or sooner. They will continue to improve their energy efficiency and recycling, as well as seek ways to decarbonize their operations by adapting to renewable energy sources.
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