World Energy Day: UltraTech’s efforts to build a greener future

October 22th, 2023 : As the world gears up to celebrate World Energy Day on October 22, UltraTech Cement Limited, India's largest cement and ready-mix concrete manufacturer, is taking well-informed and practical steps in energy conservation and sustainability. The company's commitment to reduce its carbon footprint and fostering a greener tomorrow is aligned with its focus of becoming a leader in the energy efficiency arena.

Energy efficiency is a vital aspect of building business efficiency while simultaneously contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. UltraTech has taken a holistic approach to energy conservation across its operations.

One of the significant steps taken by UltraTech is its participation in the EP100 initiative, which brings together energy-conscious businesses dedicated to using energy more effectively and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The company is committed to meeting 100% of its electricity requirements through renewable sources by 2050, aligning with its RE100 commitment. A good example of this commitment is UltraTech's Ratnagiri jetty in Maharashtra, which currently operates solely on 100% renewable energy. This transition alone saves approximately 9,604 kg of monthly CO2 emissions.

Likewise, UltraTech’s integrated unit Reddipalayam Cement Works, in Tamil Nadu, runs a high wind power generating zone, located 300 kms from the unit. This windfarm comprises of five windmills of 225KW capacity each. The power generated is used for cement manufacturing at the unit. In FY23, the farm was responsible for over 1950 tons of CO2 reduction. Similarly, it led to over 1770 tons of CO2 reduction in FY24, as of September 2023.

Transitioning to greener and renewable energy sources is one of the most effective ways to enhance energy efficiency and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. UltraTech aims to increase the green energy mix to 60% of its total electricity needs by FY26. Presently, the company boasts 691 MW of green energy capacity, with 22% of its energy consumption coming from green sources. This commitment involves an emphasis on alternative fuels and the generation of power through waste heat recovery systems.

Furthermore, UltraTech has taken a comprehensive approach to sustainability by incorporating "Green Logistics" into its operations. The company has introduced CNG/LNG vehicles to its logistics fleet to minimize the carbon footprint and contribute to environmental preservation. We are driving a sustainable future through the ‘Green Mobility’ initiative by deploying CNG & LNG powered trucks across both Primary and Secondary Logistics. Under the Government of India's eFAST project, UltraTech is committed to deploying 500 electric trucks and adding 1000 CNG/LNG vehicles in the 40-tonne category by June 2025. Currently, over 300 vehicles have already been put into operation, and this number continues to increase as we expand our fleet.

Collaborations and partnerships are also important in the adoption of cutting-edge technologies for enhancing energy efficiency as well as for increasing share of green energy in our operations. UltraTech understands the value of such partnerships and a notable example is the company's partnership with Coolbrook, a Finland-based technology and engineering company. In a joint venture, UltraTech intends to implement Coolbrook's RotoDynamic HeaterTM (RDH) technology in cement manufacturing, which uses electrification from renewable sources to eliminate the need for fossil fuels, paving the way for the decarbonization of cement production.

UltraTech's efforts in energy conservation and sustainability reflect a persistent commitment to create an effective and sustainable future. With a clear focus on energy management, green energy adoption, innovative partnerships, and environment-friendly logistics, UltraTech is at the forefront of a global movement towards a greener and more sustainable world.