This move is expected to reduce operational costs, enhance competitiveness, and significantly cut CO2 emissions by approximately 65% at the PP 3 PLN unit.
Global petrochemical giant Braskem has unveiled a strategic initiative at its industrial unit in Paulínia, São Paulo, marking a significant advancement in its decarbonization strategy and a major step toward enhancing industrial competitiveness. The project centers on the installation of a state-of-the-art electric boiler, fueled entirely by renewable electricity, which will replace a portion of the steam generation currently reliant on higher-cost fossil fuels.
Developed in collaboration with ComBio, a specialist in supplying renewable thermal energy through biomass and green electricity, the project is a technological milestone for the petrochemical industry. With a substantial steam production capacity of 12 tons per hour (t/h), this electric boiler offers a more efficient, economically advantageous, and environmentally superior solution compared to its fossil-fuel counterparts.
The switch to the renewable-powered electric boiler is poised to yield dual benefits. Operationally, it is expected to provide greater predictability and competitiveness by reducing the consumption of higher-cost fossil sources. Environmentally, the impact is profound: the initiative is projected to cut approximately 65% of Scope 1 and 2 CO2 emissions at the PP 3 PLN unit. This reduction significantly contributes to Braskem's ambitious corporate goal of reducing its overall carbon emissions by 15% by the year 2030.
Gustavo Checcucci, Braskem's Director of Energy and Industrial Decarbonization, emphasized the strategic importance of the venture. "This project represents another important step toward increasing efficiency and reducing costs in our operations, while advancing the construction of a more sustainable production model," he stated. "With this, we reaffirm our commitment to driving the transition to a low-carbon industry, while boosting productivity and competitiveness in our operations."
The collaboration with ComBio is cemented by a 15-year contract that encompasses the acquisition, implementation, and long-term maintenance of the assets. While Braskem will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the new unit, ComBio will function as the technical and commercial partner, ensuring optimal equipment performance over the contract's duration.
Gustavo Marchezin, ComBio's Commercial Director, highlighted the wider implications for the Brazilian energy landscape. "This partnership with Braskem reinforces our purpose of enabling solutions that combine sustainability, competitiveness, and energy security for the industry, whether through renewable electricity or biomass," he said.
The project is currently progressing through the licensing and implementation phase, with the new electric boiler anticipated to become operational in the second half of 2026.
