In addition to the massive electrification of its ranges, the Stellantis Group is engaged in a major decarbonisation plan with the aim of becoming carbon neutral by 2038. In this context, the Rennes plant, which produces the Citroën C5 Aircross and the Peugeot 5008, has signed a renewable heat contract with Engie solutions that will come into force in 2024.
Etienne Martin-Commandeur, Director of the Stellantis Rennes site, and Thierry Landais, Director of ENGIE Solutions' Northern Territory, have signed an agreement for the zero-carbon heating network project based on biomass energy to reduce gas consumption by 30% at the "La Janais" factory in Rennes. This event marks a new stage in the transformation of this emblematic industrial site, which has an ambitious and necessary objective: to become a carbon-free factory by 2038. Supplying the site with renewable energy is a key lever in achieving this goal.
The transformation of an automotive flagship in the heart of Rennes
With more than 2,000 employees, Stellantis Rennes is a major economic player in the Rennes area. In operation since 1961, the Stellantis Rennes site ensures the annual production of the Peugeot 5008 and Citroën C5 Aircross thermal and hybrid cars. The vehicles produced are then transported throughout the sales network.
"This zero-carbon heating network project is a new step in our commitment to energy transition. We have a responsibility to minimise the impact of our activities on the environment. Stellantis has set itself ambitious targets for carbon neutrality by 2038, and the Rennes site will be there," says Etienne Martin Commandeur, site manager.
A renewable and local resource to accelerate the decarbonisation of industry
To meet the site's needs, the ENGIE Solutions teams will install a heating network powered by biomass, a local and renewable resource. Once operational in 2024, this virtuous network, adapted to the industrial production of the Stellantis Rennes site, will replace 45% of the gas used to heat the site.
With the support of the ADEME, ENGIE Solutions is investing in the construction of an 8 MW boiler room at the La Janais ZAC. This plant will supply the Stellantis site with renewable heat via a 3 km network. Other buildings on the site will be able to benefit from this carbon-free heat.
In the short term, 30,000 MWh of renewable heat will be distributed each year, equivalent to the energy needed to heat 3,000 homes. This virtuous circle will prevent the emission of 6,650 tonnes of CO2 per year.
An energy solution that benefits the environment and local employment
In addition to the environmental benefits of replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy, this biomass boiler project will mobilise local employment for several years.
The construction phase of the boiler room will be carried out by several trades: navvies, electricians, pipe fitters, welders, etc. The ENGIE Solutions teams will then be present for 15 years to ensure the operation of the facilities. Jobs will also be created in the local supply chain for the preparation and delivery of biomass.
"As a historical partner of Stellantis' Rennes La Janais site, ENGIE Solutions is proud to support this major industrialist in the energy transition of its activities," said Thierry Landais, Director of ENGIE Solutions in the Northern Territory. "Through our expertise and know-how in the design and construction of heating networks and in supporting industrialists in their decarbonisation efforts, the renewed confidence of Stellantis Rennes demonstrates our ability to adapt to the specificities of a strategic player. the French automotive industry, while ensuring continuity of production. The long-term objective of our partnership is to help the Janais site achieve its carbon neutrality targets.
Key figures for the future heating network
6,650 tonnes of CO2 saved per year
3 km of virtuous network
11 connected substations
8 MW of installed renewable energy
30 GWh of carbon-free heat per year
ADEME grant of 3.5 million euros