Nexans Launches Major Investment in Copper Production
Nexans has recently announced an ambitious investment plan to enhance its copper production and recycling capacity throughout Europe. With an impressive investment exceeding €90 million, the company is set to establish an innovative new plant at its site in Lens, France, scheduled for completion by 2026.
Transforming Sustainability in Copper Industry
This strategic project is a powerful response to the growing global demand for copper. As a crucial element for electrification, copper is becoming more critical every day. Nexans is collaborating with Continuus Properzi, renowned for its expertise in continuous casting and smelting technologies, to pioneer a recycling facility designed to manage substantial copper volumes efficiently.
Boosting Production and Recycling Capacity
The new Lens plant is designed to increase Nexans' production capacity by over 50%, allowing for the recycling of up to 80,000 metric tons of copper annually. This initiative puts Nexans at the forefront of tackling one of the most pressing challenges in the industry: the persistent threat of copper shortages. By leveraging innovative refining techniques, Nexans aims to use up to 100% recycled metal, significantly reducing environmental impact while optimizing resource utilization.
Commitment to Circular Economy
Nexans is already a participant in the circular economy through its joint venture with Suez, known as Recycâbles, established back in 2008. This upcoming plant represents the next step in solidifying its position as a leader in the copper recycling market, sending a strong message about the importance of reusing resources and reducing waste.
Creating Jobs and Supporting Local Economies
Furthermore, this investment will not only enhance production and recycling capabilities but also create new jobs in the Lens region. The initiative is aligned with broader economic goals, contributing to France's investment strategy and increasing local employment opportunities. It embodies Nexans' commitment to intertwining industrial performance with social responsibility.
Ambitious Sustainability Goals
With an overarching goal to integrate sustainability into every aspect of its operations, Nexans is striving to increase the proportion of recycled copper used in its cables to 30% by 2030. By innovating its processes and enhancing recycling capacity, the company aims not merely for productive growth but for a holistic approach to environmental stewardship.
Vision for the Future
Christopher Guérin, CEO of Nexans, emphasizes the dual nature of this investment: "Recycling preserves biodiversity. By increasing our recycling capacity, we are able to combine industrial performance with environmental preservation." This mindset is critical as Nexans looks to the future, ensuring it is equipped to face potential raw material shortages while remaining a responsible corporate citizen.
About Nexans
For over a century, Nexans has been a key player in global electrification, with a workforce of around 28,500 across 41 countries. In 2023, the company generated €6.5 billion in revenue. With a dedication to innovative and sustainable solutions for cable systems, Nexans focuses on diversified business areas from Power Generation to Industrial Solutions. The company is also actively committed to achieving Net-Zero emissions by 2050, a goal that aligns with its overall strategy of enhancing energy accessibility and sustainability worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nexans' new investment about?
Nexans is investing over €90 million in a new copper production and recycling plant in Lens, France, aimed at boosting its copper production and recycling capacity.
Who is Nexans partnering with for this investment?
Nexans is collaborating with Continuus Properzi, a specialist in copper and aluminum continuous casting technologies, to enhance production efficiency.
How much copper will the new plant manage to recycle?
The Lens plant will have the capacity to recycle up to 80,000 metric tons of copper annually, aiming to significantly reduce reliance on newly mined copper.
What are Nexans' sustainability goals?
Nexans aims to increase the percentage of recycled copper in its cables to 30% by 2030, reflecting its commitment to environmental sustainability.
How will this investment impact local employment?
The establishment of the new plant is expected to create new jobs in the Lens region, contributing positively to the local economy and supporting sustainable industry practices.
