Silicon is a crucial component of modern technology, from solar panels to semiconductors. However, conventional silicon production methods are energy-intensive and emit significant carbon emissions. Stockholm-based GREEN14 aims to address this issue by developing a more sustainable approach using hydrogen plasma technology. The company has now received a €2 million investment from Ingka Investments, the investment arm of Ingka Group, the largest retailer of IKEA products. The funding is expected to accelerate the development of GREEN14’s pilot facility and contribute to securing a more sustainable supply of critical raw materials.
Previous discussions around sustainable silicon production have primarily highlighted the environmental impact of traditional methods. While alternative technologies have been explored, many have struggled to scale effectively due to cost and efficiency challenges. GREEN14’s approach, which claims to reduce emissions by over 95%, aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen Europe’s energy security and decrease reliance on imported raw materials. The European Union has increasingly focused on ensuring supply chain resilience, as nations face stricter export restrictions on critical raw materials like silicon and lithium.
How does GREEN14’s technology work?
GREEN14 utilizes hydrogen plasma technology to manufacture silicon and other essential raw materials. This method is designed to significantly cut carbon emissions compared to conventional processes that rely on carbon-intensive sources. The company believes that its innovation will play a critical role in making the renewable energy sector more sustainable by providing a cleaner alternative for silicon production.
Adam Podgorski, CEO of GREEN14, stated:
“Europe’s ability to secure critical raw materials is vital to achieving its climate ambitions and ensuring independence. GREEN14’s technology represents a step forward in more sustainable silicon production, and the investment supports this ambition.”
How will the funding be used?
The €2 million investment will help GREEN14 scale its hydrogen plasma technology by developing a pilot facility. This will allow the company to refine its production process and demonstrate its feasibility for large-scale adoption. In addition to financial support, Ingka Investments has also secured a potential off-take agreement, enabling it to source silicon produced through GREEN14’s sustainable method for use in solar panel manufacturing.
Frederik de Jong, Head of Renewable Energy at Ingka Investments, commented on the partnership:
“By investing in GREEN14, we are leveraging a royalty-based model with the option to buy more sustainable silicon for our solar panel sourcing at an advantageous rate.”
Ingka Investments is part of Ingka Group’s broader efforts to achieve full renewable energy consumption across its value chain. The company has committed €7.5 billion toward renewable energy projects, with €4.2 billion already allocated to initiatives involving wind, solar, and hydrogen. This investment in GREEN14 aligns with its strategic goal of increasing sustainability across its operations and supply chains.
As global demand for silicon continues to rise, innovations in sustainable production methods are likely to become increasingly important. Traditional silicon manufacturing is heavily dependent on carbon-intensive processes, making it a target for decarbonization efforts. GREEN14’s hydrogen plasma technology could provide an alternative that not only reduces emissions but also bolsters Europe’s access to critical raw materials. However, the success of this method will depend on its scalability, cost-effectiveness, and integration into existing industrial supply chains. The collaboration with Ingka Investments provides financial backing and a potential market for GREEN14’s silicon, which could influence broader adoption of sustainable production techniques.
