Context & Objectives
Ethereal, a European manufacturer of cosmetics, specialising in liquid soap and shampoo, operates a facility currently dependent on natural gas for steam generation, propane for forklifts, diesel for safety usages (back-up generator, motor pump), petrol for on-site mobility and electricity for other processes.
In alignment with its commitment to sustainability and the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), the company aims to achieve carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030
Objectives
Astragal was tasked with developing a transition plan to achieve site carbon neutrality by:
- Evaluating alternative energy sources (e.g. biomass, biofuel, biogas, hydrogen).
- Comparing renewable electricity supply solutions with on-site generation options.
- Implementing an energy management system to monitor and optimize energy consumption.
Our Approach
Energy audit
Conducted site visit to evaluate energy savings and better understand the processes.
Technical-economic review of alternative energy sources
TCO calculation and comparison for biomass, biogas, geothermal, heat pump, PV, wind, biodiesel, ethanol, H2. Focused on compatibility with existing infrastructure and production processes. Included review of local initiatives and renewable energy sources.
Transition plan design
Shortlisted low-carbon solutions for heat, electricity, mobility. Estimated site’s production and renewable energy sources by 2030. Designed the trajectories to reach net zero emissions for scope 1 and 2.
Outcomes
- Energy savings: 25% reduction in overall energy consumption by optimising processes and switching from steam to hot water where feasible
- Energy transition: biomethane, wind power and biodiesel chosen to decarbonise heating, electricity, mobility uses.
- Emission reduction: 90% reduction in GHG emissions by 2025 and offsetting of the remaining 10% through certified agroforestry projects.
- Strengthening the site’s regional ties: co-financing of a regional methane plant that recycles sewage sludge from the site and livestock effluent from the surrounding area.
- Communication: Signing of a PPA with the wind farm operator allowing Ethereal to be displayed on the turbines for 10 years.
- Financing opportunities: Obtaining a sustainability-linked loan, enabling a reduction in financing costs.