With the construction of the RECOSiC® factory in Frechen-Grefrath, ESK-SIC GmbH is setting a milestone for sustainable and circular industry. The aim of the project is to produce silicon carbide (SiC) in a way that reduces emissions and conserves resources, as well as to establish an industrial recycling process. A total of €105 million is being invested in the site, €91 million of which is for the construction of the new factory. Construction is expected to begin in March 2026, with completion is scheduled for the end of 2027.
30 Millionen Euro in funding from the state North Rhine-Westphalia and the EU
The construction of our new RECOSiC® production facility is being supported by €30 million in funding from the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and the European Union. The funds come from the European Regional Development Fund (EFRE) and the Just Transition Fund (JTF) and support the development and expansion of strategic technologies.
Transforming SiC production sustainably and strenghening the circular economy
Silicon Carbide (SiC) has so far been produced mainly using the energy-intensive Acheson process, which causes high CO₂ emissions and relies on primary raw materials. In addition, there is currently no industrial recycling process for SiC that preserves the material-specific properties. At the same time, the supply of raw materials is heavily dependent on imports from China (approx. 80 % of the world market).
What are the main objectives of the project?
- Reduction of CO₂-emissions by up to 80 % compared to the Acheson process
- Conservation of resources through recycling
- Establishment of an innovative production facitlity for the patented RECOSiC® process
- Securing skilled workers and innovation expertise in North Rhine-Westphalia
- Reduction of dependence on imports
What specific results are expected?
- Construction of a low-emission production plant in Frechen-Grefrath
- Introduction of an industrial recycling process for SiC
- Significant reduction in CO₂ emissions
- Strenghening of the circular economy and raw material supply in Europe
- Creation of new jobs and securing regional competitiveness
