Solvay is partnering with ENOWA to build the world’s first carbon-neutral soda ash production facility in Neom, Saudi Arabia by 2030.
The facility will be located off of the Red Sea coast to support access to markets across the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia.
It will convert seawater brine into soda ash and integrate the e.Solvay process for sustainable and carbon-neutral soda ash production.
Solvay and ENOWA aim to start 500,000 tons soda ash nameplate capacity by 2030, which would gradually increase up to 1.5 million tons by 2035, with the potential addition of sodium bicarbonate production.
Philippe Kehren, Solvay CEO, said, "Neom is a fantastic opportunity for Solvay to participate in building this land of the future. The soda ash plant at Neom will be the first of its kind, as it adopts the new e.Solvay process to attain carbon neutrality. This new plant will reinforce Solvay’s global leadership position, ensuring a sustainable supply of carbon-neutral soda ash to our valued customers. This endeavor aligns seamlessly with our sustainability ambitions and complements our unique network of industrial assets worldwide.”
Gavin van Tonder, managing director of water, ENOWA added, "With this partnership, NEOM is poised to become a global blueprint for sustainable development through its investment in responsible waterresource management. Our vision encompasses more than just creating a thriving economic region; it is about building a model that empowers communities to coexist sustainably with the environment. We are thrilled to be working with partners who share the same ambition."
