From coal dependency to renewable opportunity
Steam production is essential to operations in South Africa, but coal-based systems come with significant environmental challenges due to their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. To address this, De Heus has launched a Renewable Energy Biomass project (April–October 2026), replacing one existing coal boiler and installing two new biomass boilers at separate plants. By switching to renewable biomass, such as woodchips and agricultural residues, the company reduces reliance on fossil fuels while ensuring consistent and reliable steam generation.
Cleaner operations, more stable energy supply
The shift to biomass delivers both environmental and operational benefits.
Compared to coal, biomass significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and lowers air pollutants such as sulphur dioxide, particulates, and heavy metals. It also reduces ash waste from production.
Biomass supply is also more stable throughout the year. Unlike coal, which can require stockpiling due to seasonal mine closures, biomass can be sourced continuously. Through long-term supply agreements, De Heus ensures availability, consistent quality, and more predictable pricing. This reduces operational risks while lowering both fuel costs and carbon tax exposure, and supports compliance with South African emissions reporting requirements.
Additionally, biomass is sourced in line with recognised sustainability standards (such as FSC, PEFC, or equivalent certification schemes), helping ensure responsible land use and avoiding sourcing from high conservation value areas.
Measurable impact: cutting emissions at scale
The project is expected to deliver significant greenhouse gas reductions for our plants in Middelburg, Umlaas Rd & Sundra:
- ~1,100 tCO₂e/year reduction from converting one coal boiler
- ~1,500 tCO₂e/year avoided through two new biomass boilers
- ~2,600 tCO₂e/year total reduction across sites
All boilers will operate on 100% renewable biomass fuel, further supporting the transition to lower-carbon energy.
“Transitioning from coal-fired to biomass boilers is a key step in aligning De Heus with its sustainability objectives supporting a more resilient and environmentally responsible production footprint.”
August Lingnau
BU Manager ZA
What’s next
Installation, commissioning, and employee training will take place between August and October 2026, with plans to expand the solution to the Western region after successful implementation. This initiative demonstrates how practical investments in renewable energy can deliver measurable environmental impact while strengthening supply chains, clearly contributing to Nourishing Future Generations.
