- WACKER signed a long-term contract with Aymium for biogenic carbon supply.
- Aymium will build a new plant in the USA to produce biogenic carbon.
- WACKER aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2045.
- Silicon production at Holla uses green electricity and plans for carbon-neutral processes.
Transition to Biogenic Carbon
WACKER is transitioning from coal to biogenic carbon for silicon production at its Holla, Norway site. This shift is part of a long-term supply agreement with Aymium, a Minnesota-based producer of biogenic carbon and biohydrogen products. The contract will commence once specific requirements, including a qualification process, are met. Aymium plans to build a new manufacturing plant in the southeastern USA to produce the biogenic carbon needed for this transition.
Silicon Production Process
At the Holla site, quartz is converted into metallurgical-grade silicon using an electric arc furnace. This process requires carbon as a reducing agent, which has traditionally been sourced from hard coal. The new approach will replace coal with biogenic carbon derived from certified, renewable raw materials. These materials absorb CO2 during growth and release it during production, making the process carbon-neutral.
Environmental Goals
WACKER has set ambitious sustainability targets, aiming to reduce its absolute greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2045. The Holla site plays a crucial role in these plans, with a goal of fully carbon-neutral production. Since 2022, the site has operated on 100% green electricity from sources like hydroelectric power. Successful carbon capture tests have also been conducted to separate CO2 from the production process.
Impact on Silicone Products
The carbon footprint of silicones is significantly influenced by the CO2 released during silicon production. Using carbon-neutral metallurgical-grade silicon from Holla could substantially reduce the carbon footprint of WACKER's silicone products, aligning with the company's broader environmental objectives.
