#Sustainability #Switzerland #Novelis #Electric Furnace #Sierre

Novelis Takes a Major Step Towards Sustainable Aluminum Production

In a significant development for sustainable manufacturing, Novelis Inc. has officially commissioned its first electric pusher furnace at the Sierre plant in Switzerland. This groundbreaking initiative aligns with the company's commitment to achieving lower-carbon aluminum production, setting a standard for the industry.

The electric pusher furnace marks a transformative shift from traditional gas-fired systems to an eco-friendly electric solution. As explained by Serge Gaudin, the Plant Manager of Sierre and Director of Recycling Plants for Novelis in Europe, this innovation brings the facility closer to its goal of carbon-neutral operations, a vital objective outlined in Novelis's long-term decarbonization strategy known as 3x30.

By utilizing electricity from the local Swiss power mix, the new furnace is projected to cut down emissions by approximately 4,500 tonnes of CO2 equivalent annually, while also achieving about a 25% reduction in energy consumption compared to its gas-fueled predecessor. This remarkable shift in energy sourcing signifies not just an environmental improvement, but an overall decline in total Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions—a welcomed reduction that comes from the lower carbon intensity associated with the electricity used.

The inception of the electric pusher furnace originated from the Net Zero Lab Valais initiative, which Novelis launched in February 2022. This initiative, a collaboration with OIKEN, an energy distributor, and various educational institutions including HES-SO Valais-Wallis and EPFL, aims to create carbon-neutral solutions within the aluminum manufacturing domain.

Beyond the introduction of the electric furnace, Novelis is also pursuing initiatives with OIKEN to enhance the city’s district heating system. This expansion aims to supply around 20%-30% of the total energy requirements for Sierre, thus creating a comprehensive approach to energy efficiency in the community. This follows an earlier success of providing waste heat from Novelis's aluminum casting operations to a nearby building complex, exemplifying how industrial operations can positively impact local energy needs.

Novelis remains dedicated to scaling electrification and integrating low-carbon energy solutions in its Sierre facility. The company is also exploring broader applications of decarbonization strategies across its global manufacturing network, emphasizing a commitment to sustainability at every level of operation.

As a recognized global leader in aluminum products and a pioneer in recycling, Novelis is on a mission to reshape the industry. The ambition to provide low-carbon, sustainable aluminum solutions reflects its dedication to achieving a fully circular economy, engaging partners from various sectors including aerospace, automotive, and beverage industries across North America, Europe, Asia, and South America. In fiscal year 2026, Novelis reported net sales of $18.4 billion, underscoring its influential role in the aluminum market.

In conclusion, the launch of this electric pusher furnace is more than just a notable investment in technology; it represents Novelis's steadfast resolve to lead the transition toward sustainable practices in aluminum production. As companies worldwide grapple with the challenges posed by climate change, Novelis emerges as a beacon of innovation and commitment to a greener future in manufacturing.