• The facility dedicated to e-mobility components harnesses power from 3,400 solar panels
• Innovative heating solution eliminates fossil fuel dependency, slashing heating expenses by half
• Serves as a model for ZF's global manufacturing network enhancement

In Klášterec nad Ohří, Czech Republic, ZF has unveiled its inaugural zero-emission manufacturing site for power electronics, marking a significant milestone in its journey towards climate neutrality by 2040. This initiative is a crucial part of ZF's Electrified Powertrain Technology division's strategy to mitigate environmental impact across its operations. Following an extensive renovation lasting over a year, this facility is now poised to become the standard for future ZF plant transformations globally. The company is on a path to adopt renewable energy sources across its locations, aiming to enhance energy efficiency, electrify its product range significantly, and incorporate recycled materials into its production processes.

A key objective for ZF is the conversion of its existing global plants to operate on climate-neutral energy sources. "This transformative endeavor at Klášterec sets a precedent for our entire manufacturing landscape, enabling us to drastically cut down on greenhouse gas emissions," states Stephan von Schuckmann, a ZF Board of Management member. A foundational aspect of this sustainability drive is the capability for electricity generation on-site. At Klášterec, this goal was achieved by the installation of 3,400 solar panels, which cater to approximately 20% of the plant's yearly electricity demand.

The facility supplements its energy needs with renewable energy purchases, predominantly wind and hydro power. "Klášterec stands as our model," declares Dhanashree Kad, Head of Sustainability at ZF's Electrified Powertrain Technology Division. By 2025, five years ahead of the initial schedule, ZF plans for all its sites to operate entirely on green energy, either produced on-site or sourced through agreements with renewable energy suppliers. Additionally, the plant's transition from a gas heating system reliant on fossil fuels to heat pumps has halved its annual heating expenses. The plant leverages external cold air for internal cooling during the winter, complemented by measures to enhance thermal insulation and heat recovery, completing its comprehensive climate strategy.

Since its establishment in 1992, the Klášterec facility, located about 100 kilometers northwest of Prague, has grown to employ nearly 700 staff, focusing on the production of power electronic components for electric motors used in ZF's German and Serbian plants. The plant caters to a global clientele of automobile manufacturers, reinforcing ZF's commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices.