Firm launches 100%-renewable-powered site

Multinational chemicals and consumer goods manufacturer Henkel has achieved a “ground-breaking sustainability milestone”, with its manufacturing site in Nairobi, Kenya, now fully powered by renewable energy.

This accomplishment marks a significant step forward for Henkel’s sustainability efforts in the region, highlighting Kenya’s leadership in the transition to clean energy.

Henkel Kenya is among eight manufacturing sites of the Adhesive Technologies business unit in the Middle East and Africa, that have successfully transitioned to renewable electricity sources, eliminating CO2 emissions from their electricity use – also known as Scope 2 emissions.

This shift includes on-site solar installations and external renewable sources such as hydroelectric and wind energy.

Speaking on this landmark achievement, Henkel Nairobi’s adhesives factory plant manager Nancy Mwathi shared her excitement, saying that this is a tremendous milestone for her team and a key part of Henkel’s broader vision.

“Seeing this project, which began in 2021, come to fruition in 2024 has been both exciting and transformative,” she adds.

By aligning its goals with Henkel’s 2030+ Sustainability Ambition Framework, Henkel Kenya is not only contributing to global ambitions but also making a tangible impact on the ground in Kenya.

This shift to renewable energy is expected to avoid around 3.5 t/y of CO₂ emissions, setting a new benchmark for sustainability in the country.

Currently, the solar installation at Henkel’s Nairobi site provides about 95% of daily electricity needs on optimal days, while the remaining 5% runs on external renewable sources.

The plant is exploring ways to further expand this capacity, reinforcing Henkel's environmental responsibility.

Through its initiatives, Henkel has eliminated about 10 471 t/y of CO₂ emissions from its Scope 2 activities, equivalent to removing the carbon footprint of about 2 700 flights between New York and Singapore.

“By drastically reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, Henkel is making a substantial environmental impact and setting a benchmark for the industry,” she enthuses.

Mwathi further emphasised the long-term vision for the plant.

“The journey towards setting a net-zero pathway is well under way, and we are looking into increasing our solar capacity and integrating more renewable electricity sources at all our sites worldwide,” she says.

Further, Henkel’s focus now is on achieving greater sustainability through initiatives such as water and waste circularity, which will play a crucial role in its plans.

Aligned with Henkel’s 2030+ Sustainability Ambition Frame-work, this achievement is part of Henkel’s broader goal to create value through “purposeful growth and responsible business development”.

With this milestone, Henkel continues to lead by example, showcasing that sustainable practices can drive positive environmental impact, while achieving operational excellence.

“Our transition to renewable energy is about much more than just reducing emissions. It’s about setting a standard in Kenya and across the region. We are committed to fostering a future where sustainability and business success go hand in hand,” Mwathi concludes.