Hydro Initiates Onsite Renewable Energy Production at Swedish Aluminium Plants
Hydro has commenced onsite renewable energy production at its aluminium plants in Sweden with the integration of battery storage systems. This initiative, executed by Hydro's renewable energy company, Hydro Rein, marks the completion of phase one, featuring rooftop and ground-mounted solar panels to enhance the existing local hydropower plant.
Jacob Reeckmann, Head of Sales and Marketing at Hydro Extrusion, Region North, emphasized the company’s commitment to reducing emissions and increasing recycling. He highlighted the importance of the new solar panels and battery storage systems in meeting customer demands and contributing to the local community.
The technical setup includes seven rooftop installations with a total capacity of 2.1 MWp, a 2 MWp ground-mounted solar PV system, and three battery storage solutions with a total capacity of 4.5 MW. These energy storage systems will offer flexibility in energy management and provide grid support services.
Beyond energy production, the project underscores Hydro's dedication to sustainability, aiming for no net loss of biodiversity. Efforts to increase local biodiversity include planting native trees and bushes and placing dead wood around the area.
Hydro Extrusions has also installed a ground-mounted solar PV system at its aluminium recycler in Sjunnen. Marianne Wergeland Jenssen, Head of Energy Solutions at Hydro Rein, stated that the project is designed to cut energy costs, reduce carbon footprints, and enhance flexibility through onsite energy production and storage.
The project, initiated in 2022, aims to achieve zero CO2 emissions from the extrusion plants in Vetlanda and Finspång by reducing total electricity consumption and producing local renewable energy. Future improvements will focus on energy efficiency and transitioning measures to minimize climate and environmental impact.
Hydro Extrusions, part of the Norway-based Hydro group, operates around 100 production sites in 40 countries and employs 21,000 people. The company offers a range of services from standard profiles to advanced development and manufacturing for various industries, leveraging its local expertise, global network, and R&D capabilities.
Hydro Rein, established in 2021, aims to be the preferred supplier of renewable power and energy solutions for industrial clients. It has a significant pipeline of wind and solar projects in Brazil and the Nordics and is developing energy solutions to optimize energy consumption and storage for industries.
