European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Ercros to Double Sodium Chlorite Production in Sabiñánigo

At a glance
  • New production line to start by Q3 2022, increasing capacity to 11,300 t/y
  • 88% of current sodium chlorite sales are for export markets
  • 3D Plan includes 20 projects with a €92 million investment from 2021-2029
  • Sabiñánigo site employs 218 workers and had a €93 million turnover in 2020

Project Overview

Ercros has initiated a project to build a new sodium chlorite production line at its Sabiñánigo factory in Huesca, Spain. This investment will nearly double the current production capacity from 6,000 t/y to 11,300 t/y. The new plant is expected to be operational by the third quarter of 2022.

Market Focus

The additional sodium chlorite volume will be directed towards new export markets. Currently, 88% of Ercros' sodium chlorite sales are allocated to foreign markets. Sodium chlorite is a key component for making drinkable water in desalination plants, and this expansion will position Ercros as the largest manufacturer of this product in Europe.

Strategic Alignment

This project underscores the importance of the water treatment business within Ercros' portfolio, aligning with the company's 3D Plan. The 3D Plan is Ercros' strategic initiative aimed at transforming the company into a sustainable entity, focusing on Diversification, Digitalisation, and Decarbonisation. The plan includes 20 major projects and spans from 2021 to 2025, with some digitalisation and decarbonisation efforts extending to 2029. Ercros plans to invest a total of €92 million during this period, expecting to generate an additional EBITDA of €194 million.

Site Details

The Sabiñánigo site employs 218 workers and recorded a turnover of €93 million in 2020. The facility focuses on producing chlorine, caustic soda, and various chlorinated derivatives, including sodium hypochlorite, hydrochloric acid, swimming pool water treatment tablets, sodium chlorite, chlorate, hydrogen peroxide, and ammonia. Currently, 58% of its production is destined for export.