Saint-Gobain UK is investing in low-carbon manufacturing with a new stone wool insulation factory in Leicestershire, England.
Set to be established at the former Holwell Foundry Works in Melton Mowbray, the facility is due to commence production in 2027.
The new manufacturing site will create approximately 250 jobs at full capacity and incorporate all-electric melting technology, powered by renewable electricity.
This technology aligns with the company’s strategy to lower embodied carbon in its construction projects.
It is also a step towards the company’s commitment of reaching a net-zero carbon emissions status by 2050.
The factory will initially make 50,000 tonnes (t) of stone wool insulation products annually under the Saint-Gobain Isover brand, with the potential to double this output annually with further investment.
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By GlobalDataThe products, primarily made from volcanic natural rock, are designed to meet the demand for sustainable construction solutions and enhance the insulation levels of existing buildings in the UK.
The new facility will complement Saint-Gobain’s existing insulation manufacturing operations in Runcorn and will leverage the expertise of Saint-Gobain Isover in stone wool insulation production.
The site selection for the factory continues a legacy of manufacturing in Melton Mowbray that dates back to 1878.
As part of the development, the site will undergo regeneration, with efforts to restore and enhance natural habitats.
More than 100 local jobs are expected to be created in the first phase of the project.
Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions managing director Dean O’Sullivan said: “This is a major investment in new low-carbon stone wool insulation in the UK. Light and sustainable construction solutions are growing in demand – driven by the need to reduce the impact of buildings on the environment and our own goals to meet our business’ target to become a net-zero carbon business.
“Through this investment which we plan to begin production in 2027, we will be able to provide customers with high-performance, very low-embodied carbon stone wool insulation in addition to our existing glass wool insulation. The investment is a strong sign of commitment to delivering low-carbon light and sustainable solutions and meeting our own ambitious sustainability targets.”
In February this year, Saint-Gobain finalised the acquisition of FOSROC, a construction chemicals company.
