A global leader in building materials with over 25,000 employees across 31 countries, Ohio-based company Owens Corning, which develops and produces insulation, roofing, and doors products, has reinforced its commitment to sustainability and the Nordic market with a significant investment in its Hällekis facility.
The Midwestern company, formed almost a century ago as a partnership between two major American glassworks, Corning Glass Works and Owens-Illinois, is transforming one of its stone wool insulation plants in Sweden with an electric melting furnace – a move that will dramatically reduce the plant's carbon footprint.
“Investing in the electric melting furnace in Hällekis will make Owens Corning more competitive, both on the market and with new talent, reinforcing the Hällekis plant's reputation as a prominent regional employer and one that values sustainability,” states a representative from Owens Corning.
Power supply challenges
The ambitious expansion project faced a significant obstacle: securing sufficient electricity supply in a region experiencing high demand from multiple large-scale industrial projects. "There were several large projects in the area at the same time as ours, which made it uncertain whether we would be able to get the electricity contract," notes the company representative.
Strategic partnership delivers results
Business Sweden stepped in as a strategic advisor, supporting Owens Corning throughout the process. With deep expertise in stakeholder management and industrial development, Business Sweden and regional partners facilitated discussions with key stakeholders – including Ellevio and Vattenfall – and provided guidance that helped Owens Corning build a strong business case.
“Business Sweden supported the companies involved in a way that we ourselves could not. They helped demonstrate that our project was valuable and important for the region," explains the Owens Corning representative. "Business Sweden included us in their network which enabled important discussions with other companies in the area.”
The collaboration extended to facilitating connections with local authorities. “The fact that Business Sweden knew who we could contact, even at the local level, was very helpful. A local contact person was in contact with the municipality locally.”
Sustainable impact secures future growth
The investment marks a significant step toward Owens Corning’s greenhouse gas emissions goals, with an estimated 80% reduction* in Scope 1+2 emissions at the Hällekis facility. The converted plant will serve customers throughout Scandinavia with lower-carbon-footprint insulation products.
Scope 1 are direct emissions that are owned or controlled by a company, whereas scope 2 and 3 indirect emissions are a consequence of the activities of the company but occur from sources not owned or controlled by it.
“The project has been given a lot of attention, both in the local area and on a national level. Our own communication both in social media and on our own website is working to keep the interest and visibility on a high level,” reports the Owens Corning representative.
With Business Sweden and regional partners’ support in securing the critical electricity contract, Owens Corning was able to proceed with confidence. “To minimise the risks of a low electricity supply, discussions with Business Sweden were helpful. We were informed about the decision early, which allowed us to proceed with certain strategic decisions.”
The collaboration has positioned Owens Corning for continued success in the region. “Sweden is a core region for Owens Corning, and we continue to look at our options to grow and develop in these markets.”
Why Sweden
Sweden, as a country, has a clear commitment to fossil-free industry, access to clean and stable energy, and the availability of skilled labour. The country’s collaborative regional ecosystems and strong public-private partnerships create an attractive environment for long-term industrial investment. Investments like this one also strengthens Sweden’s industrial base and contributes to local job creation – aligning with national sustainability and growth objectives.
Value Impact
Business Sweden’s local connections, strategic advice, and regional partnerships helped Owens Corning navigate Sweden’s energy landscape, make informed planning decisions, and proceed with greater clarity – establishing a foundation for continued growth in the Nordic market.
About Owens Corning
Owens Corning is a residential and commercial building products leader committed to building a sustainable future through material innovation. The company develops and produces insulation, roofing and doors products providing durable, sustainable, energy-efficient solutions that leverage its unique capabilities and market-leading positions to help its customers win and grow. Today, its 25,000+ employees operate in some 31 countries worldwide, generating more than USD 11 billion in sales in 2024.
The Hällekis insulation plant conversion project receives support from the Industrial Leap (Industriklivet), the Swedish Energy Agency’s program to support Swedish industry’s transition to fossil-free.