We recently commissioned the renewed combined heat and power (CHP) installations at Kaneka Belgium’s site in Oevel. This successful continuation of our collaboration with the chemical company proves that CHP technology remains a logical and cost-effective choice for energy-intensive companies that are committed to efficiency and sustainability—even in a changing subsidy landscape.
Our partnership with Kaneka began over ten years ago with an initial feasibility study and the realization of a twin CHP installation of 2 x 2 MWe with steam generator. Since its commissioning in 2015, we have also provided full maintenance services. The system has consistently delivered excellent performance, with an electrical efficiency of 43%, thermal efficiency of 33%, and steam efficiency of 16%.
When the original CHP units began to reach the end of their technical lifespan, Kaneka turned to Luminus Solutions once again for a full renewal. Their renewed trust is a clear sign of the mutual confidence we’ve built over the years in this long-term partnership.
CHP remains a smart investment
Although the Flemish support scheme for major modifications to CHP units was recently discontinued, there are still compelling reasons to invest in this technology. CHP continues to offer significant primary energy savings—over 25% compared to separate production of electricity and heat—and thus a substantial reduction in CO₂ emissions. In Kaneka’s case, the original energy certificates remain valid until the end of the initial 10-year support period.
For Kaneka, this translates into an expected annual CO₂ reduction of around 1,500 tonnes. Combined with rising energy prices, lower investment costs thanks to the reuse of existing infrastructure, and the company’s broader climate ambitions, the decision was an easy one.
Smart renewal with reuse of valuable infrastructure
The project involved the complete replacement of both CHP engines with new 2,004 kWe models. In addition, we renewed or overhauled:
- The gas supply line, control cabinets, and starter batteries
- Ventilation fans for technical rooms
- Heat exchangers, flue gas coolers, catalysts, and dry coolers
- Instrumentation and electrical connections
Several components, such as the existing enclosures, piping, pumps, and valves, were retained—optimizing both project timeline and overall cost. Additional safety features, such as extra gas shut-off valves and enhanced vibration damping, further increase long-term reliability and operational safety.
Phased execution tailored to the customer
The project was deliberately split into two phases. The first engine was commissioned in December 2024 and has been running almost continuously since then, with excellent availability. The second engine was replaced and brought back online in May 2025. This timing allowed the second unit to remain in service during the winter months, ensuring backup capacity and minimizing the risk of frost-related disruptions.
Investing in continuity and sustainability
With this new installation, we are helping Kaneka achieve a lasting reduction in CO₂ emissions while guaranteeing the availability of its energy supply. A new full-service maintenance contract of 10 years or 60,000 operating hours has also been launched, including a guaranteed primary energy saving of over 25%.
Through this investment, Kaneka continues to focus on energy efficiency and reaffirms its long-term commitment to sustainability, environmental responsibility, and climate action. The company has also joined the Energy Policy Agreement (EBO) for energy-intensive industries in Flanders, further supporting the region’s climate goals.
“We are convinced that cogeneration is a high-efficiency, sustainable, and reliable technology with a proven track record—fully aligned with our climate roadmap toward sustainability.” – Jean Vandael, Vice President Operations, Kaneka Belgium NV
At Luminus Solutions, we are proud to once again contribute as a trusted partner to Kaneka’s energy journey. This project is further proof that CHP remains a solid foundation for industrial decarbonization—today and in the future.