ABB Sets Industry Benchmark with Net Zero Achievement at Historic Niessen Facility
ABB, a global leader in electrification and automation, has made a significant breakthrough by transforming its historic Niessen factory into a model of industrial decarbonization and sustainability.
The Niessen plant, established in 1914 in Oiartzun, Spain, has successfully reduced energy consumption by 42 percent and eliminated CO2 emissions over the past five years, becoming the first ABB facility in Spain to reach Net Zero status. This milestone aligns with the strategy of the company of achieving carbon neutrality across all manufacturing sites by 2050.
This achievement was driven by the Mission to Zero project, which integrates renewable energy sources, digital management tools, energy efficiency measures, and a circular economy approach. ABB's investment and human commitment have been essential to this process, showcasing a strategic focus on sustainability and operational excellence.
Key results include a reduction in energy consumption from 185,127 kWh in 2020 to 481,192 kWh in 2025, along with a 75 percent decrease in emissions slated to reach 100 percent. Renewable energy systems, like over 580 kWp of photovoltaic panels, generate 428 MWh annually, replacing fossil fuels and cutting emissions by 142 tons of CO2 yearly.
Automation and digital platforms such as ABB eLink play a crucial role in this transformation. The platform provides real-time energy performance data, enabling precise decision-making to optimize energy use and reliability. The plant also features EV charging stations, supporting ABB's vision of electrically powered operations and sustainability.
Financial savings also underscore the project's success, with annual energy costs reduced by 80,700 euros and energy efficiency investments totaling nearly 2 million euros. These measures bolster the plant's strategic focus on sustainable innovation and cost reduction.
Recognition for these efforts includes international certifications like EcoDesign and ISO 50001, as well as awards such as the A3E Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Award. The upcoming launch of the Alba series, utilizing recycled materials and achieving a 93 percent reduction in CO2 emissions, exemplifies ongoing product sustainability advancements.
Niessen's commitment extends beyond technological upgrades to fostering collaborations with technology centers, suppliers, and circular economy forums. These partnerships ensure continuous improvement towards zero waste and responsible resource use, emphasizing the company's dedication to environmental stewardship.
As Iñaki Lete, the factory director, states, becoming Mission to Zero is a vital milestone, but not the final goal. It signifies a continuous journey of innovation, teamwork, and corporate responsibility toward building a sustainable future for industry.