Starting January 1, 2025, BASF’s Performance Materials division has transitioned all its European production sites to run entirely on renewable electricity. This move aligns with the company’s broader sustainability commitment to enabling a greener transformation for its customers. “Sustainability begins with us, and this step is a crucial part of #OurPlasticsJourney,” stated Martin Jung, President of BASF’s Performance Materials division. He emphasized that utilizing renewable energy sources such as wind and solar is essential for meeting BASF’s climate targets.

The transition to renewable electricity covers the production of Engineering Plastics, Polyurethanes, Thermoplastic Polyurethanes, and Specialty Polymers. As of the beginning of 2025, nine Performance Materials production sites across Europe have successfully switched to green energy. This shift is not only about powering BASF’s own facilities but extends throughout the supply chain.

One example of this broader impact is BASF Performance Materials’ partnership with 3B Fibreglass, a key supplier of glass fibers used in plastic reinforcement. 3B Fibreglass generates electricity through solar panels, significantly lowering its carbon emissions. This reduction in CO2 emissions is passed on to BASF’s products and ultimately benefits customers seeking more sustainable solutions. The focus on renewable electricity will also influence the production of base polymers and other essential precursors for Engineering Plastics and Polyurethanes, further reducing the environmental footprint of BASF’s entire value chain.

While the transition to renewable energy is advancing, some sites require a gradual approach. Ludwigshafen, the world’s largest integrated chemical complex, cannot immediately switch to 100% renewable electricity due to its vast energy needs. Currently, its combined-cycle gas power plants operate at 95% efficiency, producing electricity and process steam with emissions significantly below the average grid level. “The transition at Ludwigshafen will happen progressively, and our Performance Materials division is at the forefront of this transformation,” explained Alexander Weiser, Senior Vice President, Head of BASF Performance Materials Europe.

BASF’s long-term strategy includes a global shift towards renewable electricity, achieved through large-scale renewable energy projects. A prime example is the Hollandse Kust Zuid offshore wind farm, co-owned by BASF and Vattenfall, which became operational in 2023. This wind farm enables the adoption of emission-free technologies at multiple production sites across Europe. Additionally, BASF’s Schwarzheide site in Germany now integrates 24 megawatts of solar energy capacity into its operations.

Beyond renewable electricity, BASF is leveraging other solutions to further reduce CO2 emissions. The electrification of processes to generate "green steam" and the use of alternative raw materials through the mass balance approach are key elements in driving a more sustainable chemical industry. The company has set ambitious climate targets, aiming to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2030 compared to 2018 levels and achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

To meet these objectives, BASF is prioritizing renewable energy, optimizing production processes, and implementing circular economy principles. These efforts reinforce BASF’s leadership in sustainable chemistry and its commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its operations worldwide.