Valmet Advances Toward Net-Zero Production with New Electric Boiler Investment in Tampere

Valmet has made an investment in its Yrittäjänkatu fabrics production unit in Tampere to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and improve energy efficiency. A new three-megawatt electric boiler will be installed at the factory and integrated into the power plant’s heat production. The total value of the investment is EUR 2 million, and it is expected to be commissioned by the end of 2026.

“As part of Valmet’s Sustainability Agenda this investment takes a significant step toward net-zero at the Yrittäjänkatu factory. The investment supports our ambitious climate targets aiming to reduce GHG emissions from own operations by further 60 percent by 2030. This is a milestone investment on our decarbonization journey,” says Sami Remmi, Vice President, Fabrics, Valmet.

The electric boiler will produce hot thermal oil, which will be utilized in both production processes and facility heating. It is planned to operate as a base-load unit, while the existing gas and oil boilers will be reserved for peak-load situations. This setup enables the selection of the most cost efficient and low emission energy source at any time: electricity, gas, or light fuel oil.

“The electric boiler enables flexible and optimized energy production while significantly reducing emissions. Investment is important locally as it aligns with the City of Tampere’s climate goals and contributes to a cleaner environment in the surrounding area,” says Petri Naskali, Process Engineer, Valmet.

The investment includes the electric boiler itself, expansion of the electrical grid connection, modifications to the thermal oil pipeline system, and updates to the automation system. The electrical capacity will be increased from 3.5 megawatts to 7 megawatts to ensure safe and efficient operation of the new boiler and future production machinery investments. Valmet’s Yrittäjänkatu unit has purchased fossil-free electricity since 2023, and by replacing the use of fossil fuels this investment will enable a further 25-50% reduction of the factory’s GHG emissions compared to current levels.