BioWanze invests to move closer to carbon neutrality
BioWanze, Belgium’s leading producer of renewable ethanol and a subsidiary of the German group Südzucker, has reached a major milestone in its journey toward carbon neutrality.
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At the beginning of 2024, the bioethanol producer inaugurated its second biomass boiler — a major €54 million investment that strengthens its commitment to environmental sustainability.
The new biomass boiler, an impressive installation measuring 28 metres high and 55 metres wide, is designed to move the Wanze site, in the province of Liège, toward 90% green energy self-sufficiency by 2029.
Built close to the first unit, the new boiler runs on an innovative mix of wood chips, pellets and miscanthus. This diversified fuel approach optimises energy efficiency while reducing the plant’s carbon footprint.
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Significant CO₂ emission reductions
BioWanze’s shift to biomass is part of a broader strategy to replace natural gas with renewable energy sources. This transition enables the plant to cut CO₂ emissions by up to 55,000 tonnes per year, while also improving resilience to gas price fluctuations and supporting long-term financial stability.
The modern technology used in the new boiler produces very high-pressure steam required for the distillation process. This steam is then expanded through a turbine, generating 20 megawatts of electricity, of which 4 megawatts are fed back into the grid as green energy.
Toward full energy autonomy
The wood used is sourced within a radius of less than 350 kilometres from the plant, supporting the local economy while reducing transport-related emissions. Biomass is unloaded behind the new hall, where a large grab crane feeds the boiler directly from storage areas.
With this new biomass boiler, BioWanze aims to increase its share of green energy from 65% to 90%. While this marks major progress, additional projects are underway to address the remaining 10%, including biogas production from residues.
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A model for Walloon industry
As part of the Südzucker group, BioWanze stands out as a model of energy efficiency and sustainability within Walloon industry.
By investing in cutting-edge technology and prioritising local renewable energy sources, BioWanze demonstrates that the energy transition can benefit both the environment and economic prosperity — paving the way for a greener and more sustainable industrial sector.
