On August 26th, 2024, Dr. Robert Habeck, Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, visited the Heinz-Glas Group headquarters in Kleintettau, Germany.
The visit marked a significant milestone for the company, as it received a funding notice of €14.6 million (for “Glass4FutureInvest“) and €375,000 (for “Glass4FutureEE“) from the federal government’s “Decarbonization of Industry” program.
This funding will enable Heinz-Glas to build a new production facility and install an innovative, all-electric glass melting tank. This technology is projected to save up to 6,250 tonnes of CO2 annually, playing a crucial role in the decarbonization of the glass industry.
Heinz-Glas’ commitment to sustainability extends beyond reducing emissions. The company has developed a flexible, all-electric melting tank, overcoming previous technical limitations and allowing for a more adaptable production process. The investment project also includes the modernization of existing systems at the Piesau, Thuringia site, further enhancing their efficiency and environmental footprint.
The innovative tank technology is designed to respond to fluctuating production demands. The use of recycled glass shards will be variable, depending on the color of glass being produced, promoting a circular economy within the glass industry.
“We are investing around €50-60 million to convert our oldest site, founded in 1622, from a gas-fired tank to two electric tanks,” explained Carletta Heinz, CEO & owner of the HEINZ-GLAS Group. “This will create the most modern and environmentally friendly glassworks in the world. The federal government’s funding plays a vital role in realizing our project and driving the transformation forward with full force.”
Heinz emphasized the crucial role of affordable and reliable green energy in achieving their sustainability goals. “This biggest step in the targeted CO2 reduction in our group of companies is only possible if we can rely on affordable, green energy that is available 24/7,” she stated. “I am proud of this project, which connects our roots with a sustainable future.”
This project signifies Heinz-Glas’ commitment to a future where environmental responsibility and innovation go hand-in-hand. Their efforts to decarbonize their operations, while simultaneously improving efficiency and flexibility, serve as a model for the glass industry and beyond.
Source:Heinz-Glas with additional information added by GlassBalkan
