INEOS Inovyn’s solar-powered PVC production marks major investment in sustainable industry transition

ENERGY from the sun is now being used to help manufacture some of the PVC at INEOS’ production site in Jemeppe in Belgium. The power comes from a solar farm – one of Belgium’s largest – built by PerPetum Energy & Green4Power for INEOS Inovyn’s use. 

“This project is much more than an investment in sustainable infrastructure,” said Cécile Neven, Walloon Minister for Energy and the AirClimate Plan. “It embodies the determination of INEOS Inovyn, a key player in the chemical industry, to do everything possible to achieve our climate objectives.”

The 90,000 solar panels in Wallonia cover an area the size of 56 football pitches and can produce 60MW of renewable electricity. INEOS Inovyn’s new low-carbon NEOVYN^TM PVC and ultra low carbon chlor-alkali ranges will be produced using solar energy to create PVC products with a 37% lower CO₂  footprint than the EU industry average – rising to 70% for caustic soda.

CEO Geir Tuft said it would not only allow INEOS Inovyn to cut its own annual CO₂ emissions by 14,000 tonnes, but it would enable its customers to meet their greenhouse gas reduction targets because they could offer a low-carbon solution in their markets.

The official opening of the solar farm was attended by more than 100 people, including Sophie Wilmès, Vice-President of the European Parliament.

“Support schemes that stimulate investments in clean, abundant and competitive energy are critical to a sustainable future for European industry,” said Geir.  European plastics currently face a competitiveness gap with the US and China, driven by higher energy costs, less competitive raw materials and a challenging regulatory landscape.

“Measures are needed to safeguard the competitiveness of our industry and avoid Europe becoming dependent on imports from abroad,” said Geir.

He added: “Our new solar farm demonstrates the role partnerships play between the private sector and support from public authorities, to support Europe’s vital net zero transition.”

The new solar farm is fitted with the latest generation panels that are more efficient and an underground power line connects it to Jemeppe’s plant, which means it does not use the public grid system to transmit power.

“With these steps INEOS Inovyn continues to provide strong industry leadership,” said Philippe Taranti, INEOS Inovyn Director at the Jemeppe site.