Lenzing signs contract to purchase biomass plant

The Lenzing Group has signed a contract to acquire the 43 MW biomass power plant of Energie 42 Beteiligungs located in the Heiligenkreuz business park (Burgenland). Previously, the site was heavily dependent on natural gas, with less than 10% of its energy coming from renewable sources like biomass and biogas. The location will be able to reduce its annual CO2 emissions from energy use by almost 50,000 tons thanks to the exclusive use of biomass from the neighboring power plant. According to a press release from the company, Lenzing’s specialty fibers considerably reduce CO2 emissions throughout the supply chain and assist its clients, particularly brands and retailers, in achieving their environmental and sustainability objectives.

Christian Skilich, chief pulp officer and chief technology officer of the Lenzing Group, said that with this tactical investment, they are strengthening their selection of environmentally friendly specialty fibers and contributing significantly to site security. In order to meet their ambitious climate target, they will invest even more in sustainable energy ideas in the future.

Lenzing made a strategic commitment in 2019 to cut its CO2 emissions per ton of product by 50% by 2030 in accordance with the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. By 2050, Lenzing also wants to become carbon-neutral. Lenzing became the first producer of wood-based cellulosic fibers with an approved target following validation of the target against scientific standards by the Science Based Target Initiative.

Lenzing is speeding up the switch to renewable energies and, consequently, attaining its climate goals with the purchase of the biomass power plant. This persistent action also creates possibilities for future expanded development of other renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaics.