The electrification and decarbonisation project at the PepsiCo plant in Etxabarri-Ibiña (Álava), recognised as the “Best Engineering Project” at the Basque Country Engineering and Industry Awards, is an example of the energy transition of existing industrial facilities, achieved through the electrification of thermal processes and the incorporation of new energy infrastructure. KREAN has been involved in the development of the project, taking responsibility for the detailed engineering and providing technical support and management services throughout the implementation of the works.
This award from the Basque Council of Industrial Engineering, which brings together the Official Associations of Industrial Engineers of Álava, Bizkaia and Gipuzkoa, highlights the industrial transformation initiative aimed at reducing emissions associated with the plant’s production processes, in line with PepsiCo’s sustainability and decarbonisation objectives.
A transformation of the plant’s energy infrastructure
The project involved the electrification of the factory’s thermal processes, replacing conventional fossil-fuel-based systems with new energy solutions powered by electricity from renewable sources.
Key measures include the installation of a 7 MW electric steam boiler, the deployment of a solar photovoltaic system, the optimisation of the production plant’s energy networks, and the adaptation of the electrical infrastructure and auxiliary facilities required to integrate these new energy systems. These interventions have required the integration of new equipment and systems into an existing industrial facility, adapting the solutions to the plant’s physical and operational conditions.
The transformation represents a step forward in reducing CO₂ emissions associated with industrial activity, contributing to PepsiCo’s decarbonisation targets.
KREAN’s contribution: detailed engineering and project management
KREAN’s involvement has centred on the development of detailed engineering, as well as technical assistance and project management. Its involvement has enabled the technical solutions to be developed to the level required for their construction and implementation, addressing the integration of the new equipment and installations with the existing infrastructure.
KREAN has also been involved in managing and coordinating the execution of the works, helping to resolve the technical and construction-related challenges associated with a project of this nature.
Recognition for engineering applied to industrial decarbonisation
The award presented to PepsiCo recognises the significance of a project that combines technological innovation, energy transition and the application of engineering solutions in a real-world industrial setting.
For KREAN, having participated in this project is a source of particular satisfaction, both for its contribution to the industry’s energy transition and for the recognition given to an initiative in which numerous professionals and companies have been involved.
KREAN congratulates PepsiCo on this recognition and expresses its gratitude for the trust placed in its team to help bring the project to fruition, as well as to the Official Associations of Industrial Engineers for their wisdom in highlighting an initiative that reflects a commitment to technical excellence, innovation and sustainable development.
