Novelis cooperates to build a joint laboratory-developing carbon neutralization solutions for aluminum production

Norvelis has signed long-term cooperation agreements with HES-SO, the EPFL of Energypolis Campus, and OIKEN, the energy distributor, to establish R&D laboratories to promote carbon-neutral solutions in aluminum production.

The R & D laboratory is called Net Zero Lab Valais, which is located at the Novelis factory in Sierre, Switzerland. With renewable energy and strong research institutions, as well as a strong commitment to sustainability, the Sierre region, as well as the wider Valle region and Switzerland itself, are well suited to the planned projects. The lab focuses on identifying and implementing innovative solutions, starting with Sierre, neutralizing Norvelis' manufacturing operations and the carbon footprints of neighboring communities. The goal is to achieve carbon-neutral emissions of ranges 1 and 2 by 2030.

"as an industry leader and the world's largest aluminum recycler, Nobelis is committed to carbon neutralization by 2050 or earlier." Pierre Labat, Senior Vice President and CEO of Norvelis Strategy and Sustainability, said, "this partnership underscores Norvelis's commitment. We hope that this research will lead to greater innovation in our efforts to jointly create a sustainable world. "

In the first few months of the partnership, Valais net Zero will conduct a study to identify decarbonization solutions and will launch an ecosystem through which Norvelis will work with OIKEN to share the energy of its Sierre plant with the surrounding community. This will help to reduce the carbon footprint of the region, as well as the carbon footprint of the production site.

Emilio Braghi, executive vice president and president of Norris Europe, said: "We are working tirelessly to reduce all emissions from our plants, supply chains and energy needs. Valais net Zero Lab is another way to improve energy efficiency, reduce waste and support our community. We will develop innovative solutions that can then be implemented on a large scale in different production sites around the world, while we will continue our efforts to increase the content of recycled aluminum in our products in order to minimize the overall carbon footprint of aluminum plates. We are very proud to have such strong carbon neutralization experience partners HES-Valas-Walls, EPFL and OIKEN, to promote carbon neutrality in aluminum production. "

Fran ç ois Seppey, Director of HES-SO Valais-Wallis, said: "We are pleased to be able to launch this laboratory, carry out applied research activities and find solutions to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the aluminum industry. Sustainable development is the core of HES-SO Valais-Wallis strategy. The capabilities of our Institute of Energy and Environment, as well as our cooperation with Norris, have met the challenge perfectly. Not only are employees aware of and enthusiastic about sustainable development, but the company also includes all production steps and R & D centers in the aluminum production process, which will support meaningful research. This laboratory will be an ideal ecosystem to develop outstanding skills for early professional engineers and to enhance their contribution to decarbonization of the industry in the near future. "

Professor Fran ç ois Marechal, head of EPFL Industrial process and Energy Systems Engineering at Lobsang Federal Institute of Technology, said: "Valais net Zero Lab is a model used to combine research and industry to reduce a region's carbon footprint and to explain the symbiotic relationship between industrial activities and energy systems. At the same time, it will give early professional genius engineers the opportunity to gain valuable insights and knowledge in applied and basic research. "

Fran ç oisFellay, CEO of OIKEN, said: "the Valais net Zero Lab is an important initiative to help decarbonize the region. In addition, by providing waste heat to future community heating systems, Norris's production plant will also become a major contributor to our low-carbon energy system. "