ZF has revealed its inaugural zero-emission factory located in Klasterec, Czech Republic, marking a significant milestone for the automotive and technology sectors. This unveil follows an intensive renovation period of nearly eighteen months, positioning the plant as a leader in sustainable manufacturing. Integral to ZF’s Electrified Powertrain Technology division, this move plays a crucial role in the company’s ambitious goal to achieve complete climate neutrality across its entire value chain by 2040.
The Klasterec facility, operational since 1992 and situated approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Prague, employs nearly 700 individuals. Specializing in the production of power electronic components for electric motors, it services ZF plants in Germany and Serbia and supplies international car manufacturers. The transformation into a zero-emission site underscores ZF’s commitment to environmental stewardship and innovative sustainability.
ZF’s strategy to revamp its global production network includes making climate-neutral energy foundational. “The sustainable transformation at the Klasterec location is ground-breaking for our entire production network and helps us to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” states Stephan von Schuckmann, a member of the ZF Board of Management.
Central to this transformation is the adoption of sustainably generated energy. The Klasterec plant achieves this through the installation of 3,400 solar modules, supplying around 20% of the plant’s annual electricity needs, with the balance sourced from renewable energy, primarily wind and hydroelectric. This strategy not only demonstrates ZF’s dedication to green energy but also sets Klasterec as a benchmark for future projects.
The plant has made notable advances in sustainability by optimizing energy efficiency and electrifying its product portfolio. The transition from fossil fuel-based gas heating to heat pumps has reduced the facility’s annual heating costs by half. The application of ‘free cooling’ techniques during colder months further exemplifies the innovative methods employed to minimize environmental impact.
Dhanashree Kad, Head of Sustainability at ZF’s Electrified Powertrain Technology Division, highlights Klasterec’s role as a model for the company’s global operations. With an aim to power all ZF locations entirely with green electricity by 2025—five years ahead of the initial schedule, the company is redefining industry standards for environmental responsibility.
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