In recent years, several energy-saving measures have been implemented at Sobinco. On one hand, various installations have been replaced with newer, more energy-efficient systems. On the other hand, significant investments have been made in software and control components to manage the existing systems more precisely. These combined measures have resulted in a reduction in energy consumption relative to Sobinco’s turnover.
In addition, several studies are currently being conducted to further reduce energy consumption, with the aim of maintaining this downward trend in the future.
New Building, New Opportunities
Sobinco recently completed a major expansion project. This expansion has an impact on overall energy consumption; therefore, energy efficiency was a key consideration already during the design phase.
To ensure optimal energy management, Sobinco continues to focus on efficient control of installations and their associated energy use. This is achieved by collecting data from various energy flows and integrating it into a centralized building management system.
A 564 KVA solar panel system was already operational on the existing buildings. With the expansion, this capacity was increased by an additional 880 KVA. The new installation—comprising 3,456 panels and producing 1,572.48 kWp—was commissioned in 2024. As a result, Sobinco has achieved a reduction of more than 26.55% in total energy consumption.
Energy-Efficient Features of the New Buildings
The new buildings incorporate several features designed to ensure energy-efficient operation:
» They are highly insulated, and the heating and air-handling systems comply with the most recent regulations.
» A heat pump is used to provide heating and cooling for a significant portion of the new facilities. Additional insulation has been applied wherever possible.
» Four dock shelters have been installed in the new warehouse to reduce heat loss during winter.
» LED lighting has been implemented throughout all new units and will also be added during the renovation of older buildings.
» Lighting control has been optimized using timers, photoelectric switches, and presence detection.
» “No-regret” energy measures have been consistently implemented. For example, heat recovery systems have been installed on the compressed air compressors, and annual leak checks on compressed air pipes are carried out. Both the main and backup compressors are frequency-controlled.
The operation of systems and utilities has been optimized, including enhanced control for motors on pumps and fans.
Environmental Focus Areas
Sobinco has also invested in broader environmental themes, such as waste treatment. New waste streams have been introduced to enable more selective sorting, including food scraps, solvents, oil-contaminated textiles, and additional containers for green waste. Employee awareness has been strengthened through internal initiatives promoting proper waste sorting.
Air quality concerns are also being addressed. Studies have been initiated to improve extraction and filtration systems on specific machinery, helping to reduce airborne emissions.
Water management is closely monitored through periodic sampling of wastewater, groundwater, and well water. Efforts are underway to optimize current machinery to minimize their impact on wastewater output. In addition, a new water cistern has been installed for sanitary use. Where feasible, green buffer zones have been created, and hard surfaces reduced to improve rainwater infiltration.
In the area of packaging, Sobinco has worked with external consultants to reduce the amount of cardboard used. Packaging filler material now consists of recycled cardboard, and packaging waste is carefully sorted. A portion of pallets is reused, and additional packaging-related studies are ongoing.
Sobinco is a member of Valipac, the Belgian knowledge center for corporate packaging. Valipac supports several of Sobinco’s packaging improvement projects. One of the key services utilized is the take-back system for packaging materials, ensuring recycling in accordance with environmental standards. As a result, 90% of Sobinco’s packaging in Belgium is recycled.
CSRD and the Future
Over the coming years, Sobinco will place a strong focus on various environmental themes through the implementation of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) analysis. This analysis will serve as the foundation for a pragmatic and efficient approach to addressing environmental challenges. By leveraging the insights gained through the CSRD process, Sobinco aims to implement targeted, effective measures that support long-term sustainability while ensuring compliance with evolving environmental standards.
source: sobinco.com/en/news
