ZF, a global technology company, has unveiled its inaugural “zero-emission factory” following a conversion period of nearly one and a half years at its production site for power electronics in Klášterec, Czech Republic. This location, home to the Electrified Powertrain Technology division, is heralded as a blueprint for all ZF plants worldwide.
A fundamental aspect of these “zero-emission factories” is not only to provide the plants with clean electricity but ideally with self-generated electricity as well. In Klášterec, approximately 3,400 solar modules installed on roofs and a green area adjacent to the hall complex generate PV electricity, covering approximately 20% of the plant’s annual electricity requirements. Additionally, all purchased electricity comes from renewable sources, primarily wind and hydroelectric power.
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“Klášterec is our benchmark,” stated Dhanashree Kad, responsible for sustainability in the ZF Electrified Powertrain Technology division. ZF aims to cover the needs of all its locations entirely with green electricity by 2025, five years earlier than initially planned, through supply contracts with renewable energy providers.
The heating system at the Czech e-mobility plant will also operate without fossil fuels, as heat pumps replace the previous gas heating system, reducing the original heating costs by 50%, according to ZF. During winter months, the Klášterec plant utilizes the natural ambient cold to air-condition the plant facilities. The company added, “Various measures for improved thermal insulation and heat recovery round off this local climate concept.”
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With the introduction of “zero-emission factories,” ZF aims to achieve its goal of becoming climate-neutral across all value chains by 2040. These factories are characterized by greater energy efficiency in processes, the electrification of a significant proportion of products, and the use of recycled materials.
