Holcim, E.ON, and Orcan Energy launch joint large-scale project to decarbonise the cement industry

The aim is to efficiently recover previously unused industrial waste heat and make it available for self-supply, local heating networks and electricity generation. The strategic partnership is a prime example of a forward-looking approach to greater energy efficiency and decarbonisation in the energy-intensive cement industry.

Innovative waste heat utilisation for greater energy efficiency in the cement industry

In order to utilise the previously unused waste heat from the exhaust gases of the rotary kiln at the Holcim site in Dotternhausen, around 10 megawatts of thermal power is extracted at a height of around 70 metres via a heat exchanger. Then, it is fed into a high-temperature thermal oil cycle, which transports it to the various heat sinks.

Part of the energy is used for internal processes. In addition, the connection to potential district heating networks is planned.

Power generation from waste heat: Orcan Energy's highly efficient eP1000 system in use

Besides the use in cement production and district heating networks, power generation through Orcan Energy's highly efficient ORC (organic Rankine cycle) technology is a central element of the project. The new high-performance eP1000 system, which was developed specifically for large-scale industrial applications, is applied. The turbine at the heart of the plant remains highly efficient in both full-load and part-load operation, enabling it to respond flexibly to fluctuating heat quantities.

E.ON is responsible for the planning, construction, financing, operation and maintenance of the plant as part of an Energy-as-a-Service model. For Holcim, this means no initial investment, but sustainable energy savings and CO₂ reductions over the entire term.

“This project marks an important milestone on our path to decarbonising cement production. The smart use of industrial waste heat not only reduces our Scope 2 emissions, but also strengthens our role as a pioneer in sustainable building materials,” said Dieter Schillo, Plant Manager at Holcim Southern Germany.

“Together with Holcim and E.ON, we are demonstrating how ORC technology can drive the industrial energy transition – in a scalable, efficient, and economical way,” added Andreas Sichert, CEO of Orcan Energy.

“Our goal for the energy infrastructure is to reduce energy consumption where the greatest potential lies. This is particularly the case in very energy-intensive industries. Projects like this show how industrial waste heat can not only be used efficiently, but also integrated into the regional heating market,” said Marten Bunnemann, CEO of E.ON Energy Infrastructure Solutions (EIS).

The project is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection (BMWK). Further roll-outs are already part of the joint planning.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/europe-cis/21072025/holcim-eon-and-orcan-energy-launch-joint-large-scale-project-to-decarbonise-the-cement-industry/