In a significant stride towards a more sustainable future for the glass industry, French glass manufacturer Pochet du Courval , part of the esteemed Pochet Group, has successfully inaugurated an innovative electric furnace at its Guimerville site in France.
This landmark initiative, a result of a close collaboration with international engineering group Fives , underscores a shared commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of glass production.
The newly commissioned Prium E-Melt furnace, designed and supplied by Fives, represents a revolutionary step away from traditional gas-fired furnaces. This all-electric cold top vertical melter is at the heart of a nearly €40 million investment, with €6 million supported by public funding, demonstrating the strategic importance of this transition. The remaining investment is generously supported by Pochet Group’s private shareholders, highlighting their dedication to environmental responsibility.
This ambitious project aligns seamlessly with the Pochet Group’s overarching strategy to significantly reduce the environmental impact of the glass industry. A key element of this initiative is the commitment to utilize renewable electricity. The power consumed by the new furnace is generated at a photovoltaic plant located in Charente, France, ensuring a truly sustainable energy source for this cutting-edge technology. 
Fives’ Prium E-Melt technology is a game-changer for glass melting. It is specifically designed to deliver the high-quality container glass required for luxury packaging while simultaneously achieving a notable reduction in energy consumption and associated emissions. This innovative approach offers a viable and environmentally conscious alternative to conventional melting processes.
Benoît Marszalek, Director of Operations at Pochet du Courval, emphasized the significance of this development: “The electric furnace is a first in France for luxury glass packaging. It is a major step in our environmental commitment and will have a colossal impact on how the company operates.” He added, “It will allow us to offer highly decarbonised glass packaging for luxury brands and shape the beauty of tomorrow.”
Beyond its environmental benefits, the new furnace also demonstrates enhanced efficiency. It is projected to produce approximately 70 tonnes of Pochet du Courval’s renowned extra-flint glass per day, representing an increase of more than 30% compared to the gas-fired furnace it replaces.
Guillaume Mehlman, President of the Steel & Glass Division at Fives, echoed the sentiment regarding the impact of this collaboration: “This electric furnace represents a significant step forward in the decarbonisation of the glass industry as it offers a sustainable alternative to traditional furnaces.”
The partnership between Pochet Group and Fives exemplifies how collaborative innovation can drive meaningful progress towards sustainability within industrial sectors. The successful implementation of the Prium E-Melt furnace at the Guimerville site sets a compelling precedent for the future of environmentally responsible glass production, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable industry.
Source: Fives with additional information added by GlassBalkan
