Discussions at the Meitingen site on competitiveness, energy supply, and fuel cell technology
Bertram Brossardt, CEO of the Bavarian metal and electrical employers’ associations bayme vbm, visited SGL Carbon in Meitingen. In a discussion with site manager Alexander Miehling, the focus was on the conditions for industrial transformation in Germany and Bavaria.
During a tour, Bertram Brossardt learned about current projects at the site. These include a photovoltaic system and a new nitrogen production plant. The photovoltaic system supports the site’s self-generated power supply. It reduces the site’s CO₂ emissions by approximately 1,670 metric tons per year. The new nitrogen plant is designed to ensure a direct supply at the site. At the same time, it will eliminate the need for approximately 260 truck deliveries of liquid nitrogen per year.
Another focus was the production of gas diffusion layers for fuel cells. SGL Carbon manufactures these components in Meitingen. Gas diffusion layers distribute the reaction gases within the fuel cell and dissipate water and heat. They are used, among other things, in fuel cell systems for vehicles and stationary applications. During the visit, SGL Carbon also demonstrated a specific application in a hydrogen-powered fuel cell truck—the Hyundai.
“At SGL Carbon, transformation isn’t just discussed — it’s put into practice,” said Alexander Miehling. “Projects like our photovoltaic plant or the new cryogenic air separation plant demonstrate how we are collectively advancing security of supply, efficiency, and climate protection. Such investments are an important contribution to the decarbonization of industry and, at the same time, to strengthening our competitiveness. For companies to be able to consistently continue down this path, we need reliable framework conditions, competitive energy costs, and less bureaucracy.”
Bertram Brossardt pointed to the cost pressures facing industrial companies. “SGL Carbon is an excellent example of how companies are managing to actively and successfully shape the transformation despite major challenges facing the economy as a whole. I was able to see this for myself today,” said Bertram Brossardt. He called for lower energy and labor costs as well as a reduction in bureaucratic burdens. Investments by companies alone are not enough to secure the site’s international competitiveness.
The Meitingen site is SGL Carbon’s largest facility worldwide. Approximately 850 employees there develop and produce materials and components for applications in fuel cell technology, the semiconductor industry, and mobility. Meitingen will also become the headquarters of SGL Carbon SE.
