German-based Wiegand-Glas has received funding commitment for its hybrid melting pilot furnace.
The ‘Eco2Furnace’ will be built using Oxy-Fuel technology and up to 70% electric power input at the Steinbach am Wald glassworks.
It will be the first one in Europe to combine a melting capacity of over 400 tonnes per day with a recycled glass content of up to 90%.
This will maximise the recycling potential and advance the circular economy in glass production.
Nikolaus Wiegand, owner and CEO of Wiegand-Glas, said: “This hybrid melting furnace is a decisive step toward decarbonising container glass production.
“The public funding emphasizes the central importance of innovative technologies for a climate-friendly industry.
“The project is not only a technological milestone for us, but also a strategic step into the future.
“With Eco2Furnace, we aim to gain first-hand practical experience to subsequently implement further hybrid and fully electric melting furnaces across the company group, thereby establishing a leading role in the climate-friendly production of glass packaging for food and beverages.”
The container glass manufacturer will be supported by federal and state funding under the Federal Fund for Industry and Climate Action program (Bundesförderung Industrie und Klimaschutz (BIK).
The company aims to avoid approximately 17,400 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
The project aims to be completed on June 30, 2029.
