DREWSEN SPEZIALPAPIERE is determined to continue its course towards CO2-neutral paper production. As part of its multistage transformation concept, the company is aiming to achieve 80% climate neutrality by 2030. The focus here is on expanding renewable energies whilst simultaneously improving energy efficiency.

An important step on this path is the construction of an open-space, east-west facing photovoltaic system. A generation capacity of 24,600 kWp will be installed on a 16-hectare site close to the plant. This project is being realised by the EPC service provider Iqony Solar Energy Solutions GmbH (SENS). The expected annual generation of around 22,000,000 kWh will cover about 22% of the annual electricity requirements for paper production at DREWSEN SPEZIALPAPIERE. The direct connection of the photovoltaic system to the mill grid will also reduce the load on the local power grid. The first energy generation is expected to start in the third quarter of this year.

The plant not only enables local power generation and utilisation, but also takes the local wildlife into account. Wolf-proof animal grazing is possible, but the fence will remain permeable for small mammals. Extensive equalisation and compensation measures are an integral part of the project in constructive cooperation with the authorities. At the beginning of March, the ground-breaking ceremony marked the start of construction.