Brenntag, the global market leader in chemicals and ingredients distribution, announced the inauguration of the first CO2-emission-free chemical distribution site globally. For this purpose, the site in Traun, Austria, has been comprehensively upgraded in terms of energy efficiency and a redesign of the entire energy system in recent months. The site is now considered a blueprint and global lighthouse project for Brenntag's other around 600 sites in more than 70 countries worldwide.
In total, more than 1.5 million EUR were invested in reducing energy consumption in a very holistic concept through thermal building renovation and control optimization of the heated acid/alkali tanks, converting the heating system to groundwater heat pumps and low-temperature radiators, as well as covering the electricity requirements for the heat pump, site consumers and e-charging stations by installing a photovoltaic system. The total savings amount to around 120 tons of CO2 per year, which is roughly equivalent to the total energy consumption of 50 households per year. The photovoltaic system will generate around 220,000 kWh of electricity per year at 220 kWp and thus cover the annual consumption of the two heat pumps (73 and 110 kW).
Political and public representatives took part in the inauguration and were invited to the Ribbon Cut Ceremony on May 30. They welcomed the investment in sustainability and industrial jobs, showing great interest in details of this modernized site in one of Europe's major industrial regions.
Sustainability is a fundamental part of Brenntag's corporate strategy. It is one key pillar of the ‘Strategy to Win’ and reflects the ambition of Brenntag to shape the future of the industry. The project was co-financed by the Brenntag Carbon Fund, which is supporting this sustainability leap towards a chemical logistics blueprint site for further sites globally. Andreas Kicherer, Vice President Sustainability Brenntag Group, says: "This project is much more than a technical success. It’s a milestone for Brenntag’s strong commitment to deliver on sustainability and climate neutrality by 2045. As a science-based company with a 150-year successful track record, we know exactly what thinking and acting sustainably means - and we deliver on it!"
