Representatives of the Navarre-based multinational Viscofan, a world leader in the production of packaging for the food industry, and ENGIE, a global benchmark in low-carbon energy and services, signed an agreement to install an innovative biomass boiler at the former’s facilities in Cáseda (Navarre). This project will generate thermal energy in an iniquitous way and is part of the Sustainability Action Plan, which Viscofan has been working on since 2018. The aim is to implement pioneering solutions that, from a circular economy perspective, optimise the thermal use of by-products and waste from the production process.
With this initiative, Viscofan aims to implement pioneering solutions at its headquarters that, from a circular economy perspective, optimise the thermal use of by-products and waste generated by its own production process. This is the case of the cellulose casing. Made from cellulose, it is a material used in the production of meat products that, thanks to the new boiler, will become a reusable waste.
From there, the collaboration between Viscofan and ENGIE reinforces the commitment of both companies to sustainability and the reduction of carbon emissions, aligning with the principles of the circular economy and the efficient use of resources. With an installed capacity of 7.5 tonnes of steam per hour, equivalent to 5 MWt, the new boiler will come on stream in December 2025.
Furthermore, it will be built under the BOOT (Build, Own, Operate and Transfer) modality for a period of 15 years, which means that ENGIE will manage, operate and maintain the facility at the Viscofan plant until 2040. Once operational, the use of this iniquitous energy facility will avoid the emission of around 9,000 tonnes of CO2 per year. In addition, it will contribute to the recovery of around 4,000 tonnes of cellulose wrap every year.
VALUATIONS
Íñigo Martínez, general manager of Viscofan Spain, said: ‘This project is the result of years of work in search of technical and regulatory alternatives to implement circular and sustainable business models. We are delighted to collaborate with a leading company such as ENGIE, with whom we have worked together to develop this pioneering solution that will also contribute to our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint’.
Janis Rey, Managing Director of ENGIE Solutions in Spain, commented: ‘This initiative is a clear example of our commitment to sustainable and innovative energy solutions that not only reduce carbon emissions, but also valorise non-marketable industrial products, thus promoting a circular economy model. We are proud to collaborate with Viscofan on this project, which will have a positive impact on both the environment and the local community.’
Source: Diario de Navarra