Hydro Begins Onsite Solar Production to Decarbonize German Aluminium Plants

Aluminium and renewable energy company Hydro has launched a new initiative to decarbonize its aluminium plants in Germany by starting local, onsite solar energy production and implementing energy efficiency measures. The first solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in Offenburg have been completed and are now in interim operation.

In addition to Offenburg, Hydro's facilities in Rackwitz and Uphusen, Germany are also installing solar PV rooftops and battery storage systems to transition to locally produced renewable energy. These efforts are part of Hydro's broader strategy to reduce its carbon footprint and enhance energy efficiency at its production sites.

According to Jacques Podszun, Vice President of the Germany, Austria, and Switzerland region for Hydro Extrusions, "We are continuously reducing our own emissions, and these installations are an efficient way to introduce locally produced, renewable energy. To meet the growing demand from customers for products with a lower footprint and to further contribute to local communities, we need to accelerate our efforts. The deployment of solar panels and battery storage systems demonstrates that we are progressing in the right direction."

The rooftop solar panels at the three plants are expected to have a combined annual energy production of 854 MWh, along with 1,500 kW battery packs that will help smooth energy consumption during high-demand hours and reduce overall costs. The project started in 2023, and the first system is already operational, showing promising results. The remaining systems are set for completion by early 2025.

Hydro Rein, a joint venture between Hydro and Macquarie specializing in renewable energy, is leading the project. Marianne Wergeland Jenssen, Head of Energy Solutions at Hydro Rein, stated, "Our goal is to make industries more profitable and sustainable. Self-production and energy flexibility can help cut costs compared to market and grid prices. We are proud to deliver services to Hydro’s plants in Germany and support their journey towards zero emissions. This project not only reduces energy costs and the carbon footprint but also increases flexibility through onsite production and storage."