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Energy transition in the industrial sector: TRA-C industrie installs solar panels

Energy transition in the industrial sector is at the heart of today’s environmental challenges. Faced with the need to reduce emissions and adopt sustainable practices, many companies are turning to innovative solutions.

In this context, the TRA-C industrie group has made a bold choice in investing in the installation of solar panels. By integrating solar energy into its operations, the company is demonstrating its commitment to a more sustainable future.

On Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024, this metalworking specialist inaugurated a 1,430 m² self-consumption photovoltaic power plant. The plant is located on the company’s Vindry-sur-Turdine site, home to its head office and a large production facility.

But what are the stakes and challenges of the energy transition in the industrial sector? And what are the solutions to these changes? TRA-C industrie, expert in FSW welding, shares its commitment to the environment

The project of solar panel installation at TRA-C industrie

Committed to energy transition in the industrial sector, TRA-C industrie has installed 733 solar panels over a surface area of 1,430 m². These panels, with a total output of 300 kWp, will produce 48% of the electricity consumed by the entire Vindry-sur-Turdine site!

Electricity not used directly on site will be sold by the company and fed into the grid. This strategy not only meets the company’s energy needs, but also generates additional income through energy sales.

The project should pay for itself in just 6 years, with equipment guaranteed for 30 years. It will enable TRA-C industrie to secure its long-term energy supply, while saving more than 1.1 million euros over the same period…

In addition to this initiative, the company plans to install further photovoltaic power plants at its various production sites. This will reinforce the company’s ability to meet energy challenges while reducing its carbon footprint.

Carried out by EDF ENR, this project represents a model for the industrial sector. In addition to contributing to the energy transition, it will enable the 350-strong group to avoid the emission of 315 tons of CO2 over the next 30 years!

What are the challenges of the energy transition in the industrial sector?

Energy transition in the industrial sector is essential if we are to meet the challenges of climate change and ensure the sustainability of our businesses. It implies a profound transformation of production practices as well as the adoption of new technologies to reduce carbon footprints:

  • Reducing greenhouse gas emissions: reducing the environmental impact of industrial activities is first and foremost a way of combating climate change. This means adopting renewable energy sources to limit polluting emissions;
  • Improving energy efficiency: optimizing energy consumption also helps reduce operating costs while minimizing energy losses. This translates into the use of clean technologies that maximize plant performance;
  • Adapting to regulations: companies must also comply with increasingly stringent environmental laws and standards to avoid sanctions. This strategy requires investment in sustainable solutions;
  • Technological innovation: the integration of new technologies, such as automation and artificial intelligence, is transforming production processes. These innovations promote more efficient use of ressources;
  • Enhanced competitiveness: finally, a successful energy transition can improve brand image and open up new business opportunities. It can also attract environmentally conscious customers.

A word from the Chairman of TRA-C industrie and the Sales Director of EDF ENR

“At TRA-C industrie, we firmly believe in our pioneering role in the adoption of sustainable energy solutions. This was the case in the development of friction stir welding, an innovative and environmentally-friendly welding technique on which we have become one of Europe’s benchmarks.

This new initiative testifies to our commitment to protecting our planet while pursuing our mission of industrial innovation.

Bruno VOLAND, CEO of TRA-C industrie and President of UIMM Auvergne Rhône-Alpes

“The industrial sector is at the heart of the country’s energy transition, with a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 81% by 2050. We are proud to support the TRA-C industrie group, which is already deeply committed to the sector’s ecological transition.

This operation is perfectly in line with this dynamic and demonstrates that it is possible to deploy solar self-consumption. Even in the context of energy-intensive industrial activities, with solutions tailored to the specific needs of each company.

Johan Raymond, EDF ENR BtoB Sales Director

EDF ENR, driving the energy transition in the industrial sector

EDF ENR, specialist in turnkey solar installations for private and professional customers, develops innovative decentralized photovoltaic production solutions. These systems, installed on buildings or parking lot shadings, enable decarbonated electricity to be produced, sold or consumed.

The company supports its customers at every stage of their projects. From the definition of needs to financing, installation and follow-up over several decades, EDF ENR offers complete support for the professional market!

With over 80,000 energy-producing customers to its credit, EDF ENR has established itself as a key player in the energy sector. The quality of its services and the commitment of its teams are recognized for their expertise and professionalism.

Thanks to these solutions, private individuals, professionals and local authorities can become fully involved in the industrial sector’s energy transition. They generate their own green electricity, while benefiting from reliable, personalized service…

TRA-C industrie, metalworking expert

The TRA-C industrie group stands out for its global industrial approach. It offers its customers complete solutions, from engineering to subcontracting. Thanks to this multi-faceted expertise, we work with leading companies in a wide range of industrial sectors.

European leader in friction stir welding (FSW), TRA-C industrie has mastered this cutting-edge technology for complex applications. Its expertise is recognized worldwide, with several machines on order for customers in North America and Europe.

Among its prestigious partners, the group works with giants such as KNDS, Dassault Aviation and Stellantis. But also Arquus, Air Liquide, Thales, SAFRAN, Alstom, SNCF, MBDA and Lacroix. These collaborations testify to the confidence placed in TRA-C industrie‘s technical excellence and innovation.

Today, the Group continues its international expansion, while consolidating its position as leader in FSW welding. Its tailor-made solutions enable customers to optimize their production and meet the technological challenges of the future.