Holcim Alpena Plant Opens New Tire-Derived Fuel Facility, Paving the Way for Sustainable Energy Solutions
The Holcim Alpena plant in Michigan, formerly known as Lafarge, is celebrating a significant milestone with the opening of its new whole-tire, co-processing facility. This $7.4 million initiative, supported by the state, marks a significant step towards cleaner and more sustainable energy generation. By converting 22,000 tons of tires annually into energy, the plant will contribute to fueling one of the largest cement plants in the United States. This achievement reflects Holcim’s ongoing commitment to eco-friendly practices and demonstrates their dedication to reducing emissions and achieving their net-zero goals.
Areal View of Holcim Alpena plant in Michigan, formerly known as Lafarge Plant in Alpena
Investment in Eco-Friendly Technologies
Over the past 15 years, Holcim has invested more than $100 million in eco-friendly technologies at the Alpena plant. This tire-derived fuel facility represents another substantial investment in sustainable practices. Michael Nixon, Senior Vice President of Manufacturing North for Holcim US, emphasized the company’s commitment to reducing emissions and balancing traditional and alternative fuels. The tire-derived fuel facility aligns with Holcim’s long-term vision of achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
A Joint Effort for a Sustainable Future
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the tire-derived fuel facility saw the presence of state and local representatives, alongside Holcim Alpena plant employees. This collaboration symbolizes the strong partnership between Holcim and the State of Michigan in advancing sustainable initiatives. The facility will process approximately 2.2 million automobile tires annually from the Geocycle facility in Coleman, utilizing two of the plant’s five kilns. These tires will be sustainably co-processed to create tire-derived fuel (TDF).
Reducing Reliance on Fossil Fuels
Video from the Courier Journal of a CEMEX Concrete Plant’s tire burning process
With the introduction of tire derived fuel, the Alpena Plant will reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and other natural resources. Approximately 10% of the plant’s thermal needs for operations will be fueled by TDF. This sustainable approach will contribute to a significant decrease in the plant’s carbon footprint and enhance its commitment to environmental stewardship. By embracing alternative fuels, Holcim is leading the way in adopting cleaner energy solutions in the cement industry.
Michigan’s Endorsement of Holcim’s Initiatives
Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan praised Holcim’s investments, highlighting their positive impact on the state’s economy. She expressed confidence that such partnerships would lead to the creation of high-quality jobs and foster economic growth. State Senator Michele Hoitenga and State Representative Cam Cavitt, representing districts including the Alpena plant, also commended Holcim’s tire-derived fuel program. They emphasized the positive environmental outcomes and economic opportunities it brings to the Alpena community and Northeast Michigan.
Promoting a Circular Economy
The construction of the tire-derived fuel facility was made possible, in part, by a $3 million grant from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). Holcim’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Geocycle LLC, plays a vital role by collecting and preprocessing unrecycled tires, ensuring a stable supply for the plant. Geocycle’s commitment to a circular economy aligns with Holcim’s broader vision of turning industrial, agricultural, and municipal byproducts into alternative fuels and raw materials, furthering sustainability goals.
Supporting Sustainable Construction
Holcim Alpena’s cement is widely used in construction projects across Michigan, including prominent structures such as the Gordie Howe Bridge, Comerica Park, Ford Field, and Little Caesars Arena. Additionally, the cement serves customers throughout the Midwest and Ontario, supporting the construction of roads, schools, hospitals, dams, ports, and various decorative applications such as patios, floors, staircases, driveways, and pool decks. Holcim’s commitment to providing sustainable building solutions extends beyond their tire-derived fuel facility. With a global mission to decarbonize building and improve living standards, Holcim empowers customers across all regions to build better with less.
Trench Safety Equipment: Trench Boxes Manhole Boxes, Bedding Boxes, Road Plates
By offering a broad range of low-carbon and circular solutions like ECOPact and ECOPlanet, Holcim enables the construction industry to embrace eco-friendly practices. Their innovative systems, such as Elevate’s roofing and PRB’s insulation, contribute to energy efficiency and promote green retrofitting, making buildings more sustainable throughout their lifecycle. Holcim’s strategy revolves around sustainability, with their net-zero commitment and 1.5°C targets validated by SBTi (Science-Based Targets initiative).
In the United States alone, Holcim operates nearly 350 sites across 43 states, employing 7,000 individuals dedicated to designing and constructing better communities. Their innovative solutions prioritize structural integrity and eco-efficiency, ensuring that buildings not only meet the highest standards but also minimize their environmental impact.
The opening of the tire-derived fuel facility at the Holcim Alpena plant represents a significant milestone for sustainable energy solutions. By converting waste tires into fuel, the plant reduces reliance on fossil fuels, mitigates emissions, and promotes a circular economy. This initiative not only aligns with Holcim’s commitment to reducing their carbon footprint but also showcases their dedication to environmental stewardship and their ongoing investment in eco-friendly technologies.
Through collaborations with the State of Michigan, Holcim has not only contributed to the local economy but also set an example for other industries looking to implement sustainable practices. By championing clean energy, Holcim is leading the way towards a greener future for the cement industry.
As Holcim continues to build progress for people and the planet, their tire-derived fuel facility in Alpena serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that sustainable solutions are within our reach. With their relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to sustainability, Holcim is driving the transformation of the construction industry and inspiring others to join the journey towards a more environmentally friendly future.
To learn more about Holcim’s sustainable building solutions and their efforts to create a net-zero future, visit their website at holcim.us.
