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 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.
Owens Corning Hällekis facility
Strategic Partnership Delivers Results
Business Sweden stepped in as a critical partner, leveraging their network and influence to advocate for Owens Corning's project with key stakeholders including Ellevio and Vattenfall. Their involvement went beyond typical consulting by demonstrating the regional importance of Owens Corning's investment.
“Business Sweden contacted 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 Owens Corning. "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 Owens Corning.
With Business Sweden's support in securing the critical electricity contract, Owens Corning was able to proceed with confidence. “To minimize 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.”