ZF has inaugurated its inaugural zero-emission factory at the power electronics production site in Klášterec, Czech Republic, following a renovation period of approximately eighteen months. Part of the Electrified Powertrain Technology division, the facility supports ZF’s mission to achieve climate neutrality across its entire value chain by 2040. Serving as a blueprint for all ZF plants globally, the technology company is progressively transitioning to sustainably sourced energy at all its locations, enhancing process energy efficiency, electrifying a substantial portion of its products, and integrating recycled materials.
A key objective is the conversion of existing ZF plants worldwide to operate with climate-neutral energy. Stephan von Schuckmann, a member of the ZF Board of Management, emphasizes, “The sustainable transformation at the Klášterec location is ground-breaking for our entire production network and helps us to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
Establishing a solid, sustainable foundation involves equipping plants with electricity generation capabilities. In Klášterec, this was achieved by installing 3,400 solar modules on the campus, fulfilling approximately 20% of the plant’s annual electricity needs. Any externally sourced electricity comes from renewable sources, predominantly wind and hydroelectric power. Dhanashree Kad, Head of Sustainability at ZF’s Electrified Powertrain Technology Division, underscores Klášterec as their benchmark.
By 2025, five years ahead of schedule, all ZF locations will be powered entirely by green electricity, generated internally or obtained through agreements with renewable energy providers. Furthermore, the Czech e-mobility plant’s gas heating system, reliant on fossil fuels, has been replaced by heat pumps, halving the plant’s annual heating expenses. During colder seasons, the plant utilizes the natural cold from outside air (free cooling) to cool down its technology. Enhanced thermal insulation and heat recovery measures complement this local climate strategy.
Operating in Klášterec since 1992, the newly renovated plant now employs nearly 700 workers and manufactures power electronic components for electric motors produced by ZF plants in Germany and Serbia, catering to international automotive manufacturers.