Aiming to do its part to combat climate change, Continental Tyre PJ Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. has launched an ambitious solar energy project. Its factory in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, has installed 2,500 solar panel covering 10,000 square metres as the first phase of the project, generating 2 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of green energy annually.
1,400 tons less carbon emissions
The electricity generated from sunshine will meet about 13% of the factory’s energy needs during daytime production, reducing CO2 emissions by an estimated 1,400 tons annually.
“The solar panel installation project at our tyre plant in Petaling Jaya reflects the dedication to reducing carbon emissions and embracing renewable energy solutions. By investing in sustainable initiatives, we not only support global environmental goals but also ensure a greener future for the communities we serve,” said Andrea Somorova, Managing Director, at Continental Tyre PJ Malaysia.
Following Phase 1 of the solar energy project it is planned to double the total solar power generation capacity at the site to 4 million kWh by the end of 2026. This will further reduce the carbon footprint of the tyremaker’s operations at the factory.
Sustainability targets for all production sites
The ambition of Continental Tires is to reduce its energy consumption by 20% by 2030 compared to 2018. Continental is aiming to achieve climate-neutral production by 2040 at the latest. Since the end of 2020, the electricity that the company purchases for all locations worldwide has already been sourced from renewable energy sources and is climate-neutral. For this purpose, guarantees of origin are obtained in accordance with the criteria of the global RE100 Initiative.
“This solar energy project reflects our commitment to sustainability and supports Malaysia’s net-zero goals at the same time. It ensures energy security for generations to come,” said Flora Hong Xu, Plant Manager at the factory which began operations in 1963.
The factory has undergone numerous transformations since being fully acquired by Continental in 2012. Today, it is a Centre of Innovation and Excellence, specializing in Commercial Specialty Tyres and serving as the only production site for OTR X-Ply tyres within Continental’s global network. It also produces Off-The-Road (OTR) tyres for specialized applications, such as port operations and earthmovers, with the capability to manufacture tyres ranging from 24 inches to 35 inches.
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