Inquiry concerning aluminum.
The Rhine-Kreis Neuss, one of Europe's largest sites for aluminum production and processing, is taking strides towards becoming more energy-efficient and carbon-neutral. This ambitious goal is part of the district's ongoing efforts to modernise its industrial cluster as part of structural change and respond to climate change and the energy transition.
The district's focus is on the "Innovation Center Aluminum and Circular Economy" (IZAK), a project for which it has secured a funding pledge from the project carrier Jülich. A feasibility study for the IZAK, which will cost €150,000, has been initiated with the state of North Rhine-Westphalia covering €135,000 of the total expenses.
The IZAK aligns with the district's overall concept "ALU-Valley 4.0", a vision it has been pursuing since 2019. The solution to energy efficiency and carbon neutrality is sought through close cooperation with regional science, which excels in expertise, and collaboration with companies, research institutions, and other partners.
The production and processing of aluminum is energy-intensive, with 40 percent of the production costs being electricity costs. To make the process more affordable, cheap electricity is needed. Transitioning to renewable electricity sources, investing in energy efficiency measures, implementing digitalization and smart energy management, exploring innovative technologies such as green hydrogen and circular economy approaches, and leveraging EU and national sustainability programs are key strategies for achieving this goal.
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While the district faces challenges, particularly high electricity prices and existing agreements with RWE or E.On, it is optimistic about its future. By focusing on these strategies and fostering strategic partnerships, Neuss aims to achieve energy-efficient and carbon-neutral aluminum production, moving beyond coal mining.
References: [1] Deutsche Nachhaltigkeitspreis [3] Green energy career fairs in Germany
- The district is collaborating with companies, research institutions, and partners in the technology and finance industries to explore innovative technologies, such as green hydrogen, for more efficient and carbon-neutral aluminum manufacturing as part of the ALU-Valley 4.0 vision.
- To reduce the energy-intensive nature of aluminum manufacturing and make the process more affordable, the district plans to transition to renewable electricity sources, implement energy efficiency measures, and digitalize and manage energy smartly, with a focus on sustainable programs like those offered by the EU and national governments.
- In addition to its commitment to the aluminum industry, the Rhine-Kreis Neuss is also dedicated to promoting social developments, culinary arts, art, and culture in Neuss, as evidenced by its informative newsletter.
