Improving competitiveness and site viability through renewable energy

Milestones have been reached and forward-thinking projects have been planned: HEIDENHAIN is striving to maximize its energy self-sufficiency based on renewable sources while pursuing measures to save energy, reduce emissions and cut down on waste.

Dependable sources of energy are becoming a strategic factor for companies aiming to maintain competitiveness, ensure production and safeguard site viability. By acquiring a geothermal power plant in the nearby town of St. Georgen in mid-2024, HEIDENHAIN is taking its need for renewable heating into its own hands. Through this acquisition, HEIDENHAIN is also providing district heating to Traunreut, the home town of its main campus, thereby affirming the company’s commitment to this site.

HEIDENHAIN currently meets 100% of its electrical power needs from verifiable renewable sources—not only at its main site in Traunreut but also at all its companies across Germany. More than 60% of this power comes from power purchase agreements that contractually specify the type of power plant used. Hydroelectric power, for example, meets one third of our total electricity needs.

In December 2024, HEIDENHAIN received official approval to build two nearby wind turbines. This project can therefore proceed on schedule. The two wind turbines are expected to start delivering power directly to the HEIDENHAIN grid in 2026, thereby meeting one third of the company’s electricity needs.

Changes in energy sourcing are also being accompanied by energy-saving measures, including switching to LED lighting in production buildings and optimizing the compressed air system. To track the effectiveness of its energy-saving measures while uncovering new ones, HEIDENHAIN is also expanding its energy monitoring capabilities, even down to the level of individual production departments.