On the Path to Low-CO₂ Production

Generating our own solar electricity is central to achieving low-CO₂ manufacturing. By installing photovoltaic systems on our rooftops, we create sustainable energy sources that are decentralised and close to each site. Our first large-scale solar installation was commissioned in 2015 at the ZWILLING logistics centre in Pleasantville, USA. With a peak output of 845 kWp, it produces around 870 MWh of electricity annually across 10,000 square metres—covering more than 80 per cent of the site's energy needs. 

This approach is now being adopted at other locations: In 2020, a high-capacity photovoltaic system was installed at BALLARINI’s production site in Rivarolo Mantovano, northern Italy, generating roughly 840 MWh per year directly for manufacturing. 

More sites are following this example. Since 2024, the ZWILLING factory in Seki, Japan, has been generating solar power with an annual yield of approximately 300 MWh. DEMEYERE in Herentals, Belgium, produces about 125 MWh of clean electricity each year from its own warehouse roof.  

We aim to further improve energy efficiency while meeting rising regulatory standards. To achieve this, we have introduced an ISO 50001-certified energy management system at our Solingen site. This internationally recognised standard provides a proven methodology for making energy flows transparent, identifying savings opportunities, and embedding improvements for the long term. Using modern measurement technology, we first identified the main energy sources. Based on this, we defined key performance indicators to reliably assess and systematically enhance energy efficiency in our operations. 

We have also set out clear guidelines for responsible energy use, clarified responsibilities, and defined the scope of application. All measures, KPIs, and audit results are documented transparently via a central software platform. Crucially, we have raised awareness among our employees—encouraging them to recognise and act on energy-saving opportunities in their daily work. 

On 13 June 2025, our Solingen site was officially certified to ISO 50001—a significant step towards an energy-efficient, climate-conscious, and future-ready production base.  

From heat recovery and lighting to plant technology, we implement targeted efficiency measures at our sites to save energy and reduce our environmental footprint in day-to-day operations. At the Solingen production site and STAUB’s facility in Merville, France, we use waste heat from manufacturing processes to heat water in washrooms. At STAUB’s enamelling line, this heat is fed directly back into the ovens—creating an efficient cycle that greatly reduces the need for external energy. 

At BALLARINI’s production site in northern Italy, we use process heat to warm manufacturing and storage areas—especially in winter, this makes a significant contribution to reducing gas consumption. Additionally, we have gradually converted lighting at our production and logistics sites to energy-saving LED technology. 

These concrete actions show that energy efficiency is not a one-off project, but a continuous process of improvement—locally adapted, results-oriented, and firmly embedded in everyday operations.