European Commissioner for Climate Action, Net Zero Emissions and Clean Growth, Wopke Hoekstra, recently concluded a productive working visit to Ljubljana, highlighting the growing importance of Slovenia’s role in achieving the EU’s ambitious climate policy objectives.
A key meeting with the Minister for Environment, Climate and Energy, Bojan Kumer, focused on the key challenges and opportunities surrounding Slovenia’s green transition, particularly in the context of EU financing mechanisms and the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).
The discussions underscored the critical role of member states like Slovenia in driving the energy transition forward and achieving the EU’s broader net-zero goals. The focus on EU financing initiatives suggests a commitment to providing the necessary resources to support ambitious decarbonization projects within the country.
A highlight of Commissioner Hoekstra’s visit was a trip to Steklarna Hrastnik, a leading glass manufacturer, where he and Minister Kumer received a briefing on groundbreaking projects funded under the Horizon Europe programme and the EU Innovation Fund. The showcase project, BEAR (hyBrid rEgenerative glAss fuRnace), aims to revolutionize glass production by utilizing clean electricity instead of fossil fuels, offering a significant contribution to the decarbonization of the entire European glass industry.
The BEAR project, Slovenia’s first and only project co-funded by the European Innovation Fund, exemplifies the potential for innovation to drive sustainable development. Peter Čas, Managing Director of HRASTNIK1860, emphasized the company’s commitment to a sustainable future, highlighting their pioneering work with hydrogen and the ongoing development of the hybrid furnace.
HRASTNIK1860’s efforts are not just about technological advancement; they represent a tangible shift towards a more sustainable industrial future. Their commitment to ongoing innovation, as evidenced by their plans for 2025, demonstrates a dedication to continuous improvement and a proactive approach to environmental responsibility.
Ultimately, Commissioner Hoekstra’s visit underscores the EU’s commitment to supporting member states in their green transition efforts. The focus on projects like BEAR highlights the crucial role of innovation, and the success of companies like HRASTNIK1860 serves as a powerful example and incentive for other energy-intensive industries to accelerate their decarbonization strategies across Europe and beyond. The visit signals a positive step towards a greener future for both Slovenia and the wider European community.
Source: Steklarna Hrastnik with additional information added by GlassBalkan
