Shamrock Technologies, a leading producer of PTFE and specialty wax additives, has installed a new 1-megawatt (1 MW) solar panel array at its manufacturing plant in Tongeren, Belgium. This project supports the country’s ongoing push for solar energy, a national effort that will soon include allowing plug-in solar panel systems for residential use starting in May 2025 (Plug-in Solar Panels Now Allowed in Belgium – pvknowhow.com).
Shamrock Solar Installation: Over 2,000 Panels Installed
The new array, consisting of 2,086 individual solar panels, will generate approximately 1,000 MWh of clean electricity annually—enough to cover 30% of the Tongeren plant’s power needs. This move significantly reduces the facility’s reliance on traditional energy sources and lowers its carbon footprint.
The installation is a key piece of Belgium solar news, contributing to the nation’s ambitious goal of reaching 33.6 GW of solar capacity by 2035 (Belgium solar capacity: Stunning 2035 Goal of 33.6 GW). For more on Belgium’s solar initiatives, see Belgium Solar News Archives – PVknowhow.com.
“This solar installation is a major step towards our goal of carbon neutrality by 2030. By powering a significant portion of our operations with renewable energy, we’re reducing our environmental impact while also cutting energy costs,” said Justin Grethe, Shamrock’s Chief Operating Officer.
A Long-Standing Commitment to Sustainability
This project builds on Shamrock Technologies’ 60-year history of sustainability, which includes recycling polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) to create advanced materials for various industrial applications. The solar installation is a key part of the company’s broader sustainability strategy, which also encompasses energy efficiency improvements, waste reduction initiatives, and the development of sustainable products.
“We’re proud to make this investment in clean energy and lead by example in the chemical industry. This solar project demonstrates Shamrock’s dedication to sustainable growth and environmental stewardship,” said Tim Kappes, CEO of Shamrock Technologies.
Projected Environmental Impact
The 1 MW solar installation is projected to offset over 400 tons of CO2 emissions annually—a reduction equivalent to planting more than 10,000 trees or taking 100 cars off the road each year. This initiative reinforces Shamrock’s leadership in sustainable manufacturing and underscores its commitment to a greener future.
Shamrock Technologies, Inc. is a global leader in PTFE and specialty wax additives, serving a wide range of industries, including coatings, inks, plastics, and lubricants. With over 75 years of innovation, the company is dedicated to developing advanced materials that enhance performance while minimizing environmental impact.
