An ambitious joint venture between EMC Cement and HES International aims to revolutionise the cement industry with a groundbreaking all-electric, zero-emissions plant. Set to have an initial capacity of 1.2 million metric tonnes, the plant will drastically reduce CO2 emissions by 1 million metric tonnes annually, utilising less than 10 percent of the energy of a conventional Portland cement plant.
The project will harness industrially-proven EMC technology, leveraging a unique form of’mechanical activation’ to enable the use of abundant all-natural volcanic ash (EMC volcanics) to substitute 70 percent of the Portland cement used in concrete. Additionally, the facility will process end-of-life concrete fines and other minerals, contributing to a sustainable circular economy.
Operating with a commitment to environmental stewardship, the plant will produce no waste or biohazards and will comply with all noise and dust emissions regulations.
Not only will EMC Volcanics meet stringent construction standards in the Netherlands and internationally, but it will also address various concrete durability challenges, including sulphate resistance and chloride attack.
Expected to be operational in Q4 2025/Q1 2026, the plant will be strategically located at HES’ Bulk Terminal at the Port of Amsterdam, providing direct access to multiple transportation systems. This strategic positioning will facilitate broad national and international distribution, supporting markets in Belgium, the U.K., France, Germany, and Scandinavia.
Atle Lygren, CEO and co-founder of EMC, highlighted the project’s significance in driving effective climate action. By replacing a significant portion of Portland cement with EMC Volcanics, the project aligns with global initiatives for carbon reduction without the need for costly CCS technology.
Jeroen van der Neut, COO of HES, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasising its alignment with HES’ strategic goals and dedication to environmental, social, and governance targets.
Roon van Maanen, director of energy and circular industry at the Port of Amsterdam, commended the project’s contribution to the port’s transition to a carbon-neutral future, marking it as a benchmark for future sustainable initiatives.
For more information visit: www.hesinternational.eu
