The Heinz-Glas Group is responding to the energy crisis, which has worsened due to the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, with new plans for the Piesau site. Instead of the initially halted or postponed furnace construction, the company is now planning to invest even more funds in the expansion of the site in Thuringia - while keeping an eye on the CO2 balance.
However, according to the company, some of the required technologies do not even exist yet and still need to be developed. „This has to happen quickly so that we can continue to supply our customers without major interruptions. In order to realise this project, we will have to invest an amount in the mid double-digit million range, which we will not be able to do without funding. We want to avoid a migration from Germany at all costs, but we need rapid support to achieve this,“ says Carletta Heinz, CEO and owner of the Heinz-Glas Group.
Energy prices had initially halted expansion
Originally, a major repair of the existing gas-fuelled tank was due to take place in April this year with various expansion measures costing millions. The repair of the tank was estimated at seven million euros. Due to the explosion in energy prices, this project was cancelled at the end of January and postponed for the time being.
For the time being, the existing tank is to be repaired while it is almost in operation - i.e. when it is hot - so that it can continue to be operated until the second half of 2023. The glass melting technology will then be completely converted from fossil gas to CO2-free electricity according to the plans.
The company anticipates costs in the mid double-digit million euro range to set up the CO2-neutral site and to become independent of the uncertain gas supply situation.
Source: Heinz glass
More news on the subject of glass
Product innovation in glass 2026: Apply now
Companies from the bottling food and beverage industry can now apply with their new products packaged in glass for the industry award „Product Innovation in Glass“.
Read more "
Italian competition authority closes proceedings against Verallia
The proceedings concerned price adjustments since 2022 that affected several market participants, including Verallia Italia.
Read more "
Saxco and Revino expand their glass packaging range
As part of the co-operation, Saxco will be the official distributor of Revino's reusable wine bottles.
Read more "
Top Ten 2025: Gerresheimer spins off its Moulded Glass division
As the year 2025 draws to a close, we take a look back at the topics that have particularly moved the packaging industry. From innovative packaging solutions to trends in sustainability, we take a look at the top ten contributions from 2025 - today with number 7.
Read more "
Top Ten 2025: Austria increases deposit for reusable glass bottles
As the year 2025 draws to a close, we take a look back at the topics that have particularly moved the packaging industry. From innovative packaging solutions to trends in sustainability, we take a look at the top ten contributions from 2025 - today with number 9.
Read more "