KUBAL reduces its emissions – LPG replaced by electricity in the anode assembly

At Kubikenborg Aluminium, we have carried out an important transition in the anode assembly by replacing all LPG use with electricity.

This change reduces our carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 300 tonnes of CO₂ per year while also contributing to a better working environment and improved energy efficiency.

The entire heating system in the department has been converted from LPG to electric operation.

The main driver behind the investment has been to reduce our climate impact, but the transition has also brought several positive side effects.

"“By replacing LPG with electricity, we have taken a concrete step to reduce our emissions. At the same time, we have improved both the working environment and production efficiency,” says Mats Swenson, Environmental Manager at KUBAL.", says Mats Swenson, miljöchef at Kubal.

Support from the Swedish Energy Agency

The total investment amounted to approximately SEK 7–8 million, of which around 38 percent was financed through support from the Swedish Energy Agency as part of EU initiatives to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in industry.

The transition also brings long-term financial savings.

Electric heating requires less energy to achieve the same production results compared with LPG, while several manual work steps have also been eliminated.

"We use less energy and have simplified the working methods in the anode assembly. This results in both lower operating costs and a more stable process,” ", says Mats.

Improved working environment

With LPG handling removed, a daily risk factor has also been eliminated.

Previously, regular LPG replacements were required, which is no longer necessary.

In addition, emissions of dust and combustion-related substances in the working environment have decreased.

“This is a change that is noticeable in everyday work for our employees. The working environment has become both safer and cleaner,” Mats explains.

Among the first in the industry

The technology is still uncommon in the aluminium industry, where LPG or natural gas dominates globally.

At KUBAL, we are at the forefront with this solution, showing that even energy-intensive industry can take concrete steps to reduce its emissions.

With the transition in the anode assembly, KUBAL continues its work to reduce its climate footprint and develop more sustainable aluminium production for the future.