Lenzing Powers Up 14 MW Green Heat Facility
Lenzing Group has commissioned a 14-megawatt power-to-heat (P2H) facility at its industrial site, marking a significant step toward climate-neutral production and advanced energy management.
The new installation converts renewable electricity directly into process heat and is fully integrated into the company’s existing heat network. Developed in partnership with VERBUND AG, the facility also plays a role in stabilizing Austria’s power grid by participating in the balancing energy market.
Among the most powerful industrial P2H systems in Austria, the facility is designed to operate during periods of high renewable energy generation particularly from wind and solar, when electricity prices are low. It can ramp up quickly to absorb surplus power and convert it into usable heat, thereby reducing grid congestion, minimizing renewable energy curtailment, and improving overall energy efficiency.
This flexible operation not only strengthens grid stability but also enhances energy security at the Lenzing site. By replacing fossil fuels with renewable electricity, the company can significantly cut CO₂ emissions while optimizing energy costs.
“The new power-to-heat facility demonstrates how industrial decarbonization can be implemented in practice technologically advanced, economically viable and with a clear positive impact,” said Georg Kasperkovitz.
Under the collaboration, Lenzing handled the engineering, construction and integration of the facility into its energy system, while VERBUND is responsible for market integration and operational optimization within the balancing energy framework. The energy company has also been supporting renewable initiatives at the Lenzing site, including photovoltaic installations and EV charging infrastructure.
“Our partnership highlights how close cooperation between industry and the energy sector can unlock the full potential of renewable energy,” said Michael Strugl. “Integrating such facilities into the balancing energy market allows industrial processes to actively contribute to a more flexible and resilient energy system.”
The commissioning of the 14 MW P2H facility strengthens Lenzing’s long-term sustainability strategy by enhancing energy flexibility, improving heat management, and advancing the transition toward fossil-free industrial operations.
