Nexans Signs Strategic Agreement to Enhance Copper Production and Recycling in Europe

Nexans, a global leader in electrification, has forged a significant industrial partnership with Continuus Properzi, a specialist in continuous casting technologies. This collaboration aims to establish an innovative copper production and recycling plant at Nexans' facility in Lens, northern France, scheduled for completion in 2026. With global demand for copper on the rise, recycling has emerged as a crucial strategy to mitigate potential shortages of this essential metal used in electrification. Nexans is proactively addressing this challenge with a project of unprecedented scale.

This strategic initiative leverages the operational expertise of the Nexans Lens site, which has been an industrial hub since its establishment in 1971, alongside the technological capabilities of Continuus Properzi. The partnership focuses on producing electrolytic tough pitch (ETP) and fire refined high conductivity (FRHC) wire rod continuously from recycled copper, utilizing advanced refining methods that can incorporate up to 100% recycled materials while minimizing water and energy consumption.

The Lens facility is the only copper rod foundry in France. With an investment exceeding €90 million, the plant will enhance its wire rod production capacity by over 50% and boost its copper scrap recycling capability to process up to 80,000 metric tons annually. Nexans has been involved in cable recycling through Recycâbles, a joint venture with Suez established in 2008. This new initiative positions Nexans as a pivotal player in the circular economy within the European copper sector. By collecting waste from various industries across France and transforming it into new products, the project aims to create a sustainable circular model.

As a leading global player in the industry, Nexans operates its own copper foundries, ensuring vertical integration and self-sufficiency in copper supplies for its cable production chain. The new plant will further enhance this strategic advantage by increasing the recycling of cables from construction sites, often referred to as "urban mines." Nexans is committed to adapting the lifecycle of its products to reduce carbon emissions and aims to increase the proportion of recycled copper in its cables to 30% by 2030.

This investment will not only strengthen Nexans' presence in Lens but also create new job opportunities and improve the working environment for employees. It aligns with the France 2030 investment plan and supports the company’s E3 performance model, focusing on economic performance, environmental sustainability, and employee engagement.

Christopher Guérin, CEO of Nexans, emphasized the importance of recycling in preserving biodiversity and maintaining industrial performance. He noted that this investment in Lens ensures strategic independence and addresses the raw materials crisis while supporting local employment. Giulio Properzi, President of Continuus Properzi, expressed pride in collaborating with Nexans, highlighting the project's historical significance in enhancing copper rod production technology and its alignment with high standards of industrial performance and environmental responsibility.