Reduction of Energy Consumption
It is our ambition to be CO₂ neutral from grass to glass by 2050, focusing on energy efficiency, generating our own renewable energy, and using alternative energy sources. We are on track to achieve this goal, having reduced CO₂ emissions in our factories in Scharsterbrug, Putten, and Gorinchem by more than 20% between 2015 and 2024. This reduction was mainly achieved by switching to the purchase of 100% green electricity in 2015, followed by improvements in process efficiency in the years thereafter. We remain committed to further reducing our CO₂ emissions and achieving our targets in line with European climate legislation.
Solar Carport
For several years, our factories and offices have been using exclusively 100% green electricity, partly generated by solar panels on our rooftops. We aim to expand our own energy generation as much as possible. For instance, at the end of 2024, we completed a solar carport above the parking spaces at our headquarters (expected yield: 140 MWh). Similar assessments are underway for other locations, and we continue to explore and update our options.
Solution
Vreugdenhil foresees that the purchase of sustainable energy will only be part of the solution. Therefore, studies have been initiated into in-house energy production or generation to reduce our gas consumption and increase electrification. The goal is not only to eliminate CO₂ emissions but also to ensure flexibility and independence from specific energy sources. These studies focus on wind turbine projects, solar thermal energy, hydrogen, and biogas.