O-I investing more than €64 million in modernising its French plants
O-I Glass, Inc. a global supplier of glass packaging, has announced that it is investing more than €64 million in the renovation of its French plants: 34 million euros for the Vayres plant (Gironde) and 30 million euros for the Puy-Guillaume plant (Puy-de-Dôme).
"These major investments reflect the importance of and confidence in our facilities in France, our employees, our customers and our institutional partners. Our glassworks are part of the local landscape and heritage. In 2022, the Puy-Guillaume site will celebrate its 120th anniversary! By investing massively in new, more modern, more efficient and less carbon-intensive production units, we are continuing to keep the glassmaking profession alive by equipping it with the most advanced technologies. The Vayres site will be equipped with the new GOAT (Gas Oxy Advanced Technology), which uses oxygen to reduce our CO2 emissions by 20% and our NOX emissions by 60%," says Robert Gachot, O-I's Director for the South West Europe region.
In Puy-Guillaume, the plant will increase its production capacity to 415 tons per day, its efficiency and its energy efficiency.
The project includes the complete renewal of one of the two furnaces and the complete overhaul of one of the attached production lines with new industrial equipment.
This line will be more efficient, less energy consuming and more flexible. The entire project is expected to be completed by mid-2022 and will strengthen O-I's position in the French food market.
In Vayres, the new GOAT furnace will also be equipped with a system for recovering energy from the flue gases to heat the raw materials.
An oxygen production unit will also be built on the site to ensure supply.
The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2022 and will strengthen O-I's position in the French colored glass market.
These investments, as well as the support and training actions, reflect the company's commitment to the territories, its employees, customers and consumers of sustainable and recyclable packaging.
As glass, which is infinitely recyclable, is a main component of the circular economy, O-I's investment in a more energy-efficient furnace and machinery will reduce the company's environmental footprint.
Image: Robert Gachot, O-I's Director for the South West Europe region.
