KfW Supports Electrification in Heavy Industry

Fritz Winter Eisengießerei, Germany's largest iron foundry, has commissioned new electric Duomelt melting furnaces, replacing an old coke and natural gas-fired cupola furnace. The investment, exceeding 23 million euros, is unique in Europe and reduces the company's carbon dioxide emissions by 25 percent. KfW is supporting the project with a loan of approximately 16 million euros and a repayment grant of about 3.7 million euros, as part of the German government's energy efficiency program.

The new technology enables a cleaner melting process, particularly suitable for high-strength cast iron alloys. The foundry aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Fritz Winter is also exploring hydrogen production and the utilization of process heat for district heating networks.

According to the company, the change also enhances competitiveness, as customers in the automotive and heavy vehicle manufacturing sectors increasingly demand more environmentally friendly production methods. The company anticipates that the new technology will reduce annual energy costs by nearly 5 million euros.

The investment in the German company, supported by KfW, aims to ensure the country's competitiveness in heavy industry. Fritz Winter states that the green transition secures jobs and long-term planning within the family-owned business.