Solvay plans to construct a new electric furnace at its Silica Plant in Collonges, France with operations scheduled to start in 2025. This strategic shift towards clean energy sources anticipates a 20% reduction in CO₂ emissions related to Silica production activities.

This initiative marks the first milestone in the plant's roadmap to shift away from fossil fuels towards more environmentally sustainable and economically competitive energy sources. It aligns with Solvay One Planet's overarching objective of achieving carbon neutrality for its silica business by 2040.

"Solvay stands at the global forefront in pioneering highly dispersible silica innovation. With this new investment, we are committed to securing the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of our Collonges facility, delivering enduring advantages to our valued customers," said An Nuyttens, President of Solvay’s Silica business.

"Our Group takes pride in consistently setting new standards for silica producers worldwide. When combined with our circular silica offering, this positions us to provide a unique value proposition to both customers and consumers."

This facility located near Lyon, France, produces silica for market applications such as green tires, battery separators, oral care and animal feed.

The project has received support from ADEME as part of the France 2030 Recovery Plan. This initiative adds to the 59 energy transition projects confirmed since 2019 across the Group, which altogether represent a reduction of 3.4 Mt of CO₂ emissions per year, equivalent to taking nearly 2 million cars off the road.