Committed to sustainability and net-zero emissions through recyclable, biodegradable packaging, Mayr-Melnhof Graphia (MMG) faced rising energy costs and frequent power cuts at its Izmir site, affecting both production efficiency and employee workflows. To address this, MMG partnered with SOLITERM Group to implement a 3.5 MWth,peak solar thermal cooling system—Europe’s largest industrial solar-powered cooling facility. The system provides process cooling, air conditioning, and warm water, significantly reducing fossil fuel dependency, energy costs, and CO₂ emissions while ensuring uninterrupted production. This flagship project not only supports MMG’s environmental goals but also serves as a scalable, innovative model for other sites and industries aiming to transition toward a more sustainable and emission-free future.

The MMG facility in Izmir, Turkey, previously relied on fossil fuels for heating and cooling. The SOLITERM Group’s solution now meets 80% of thermal demand in summer and 60% in winter using solar thermal energy. The system includes 500 parabolic trough collectors (4,500 m²), generating hot water at 170-180°C, which is converted to cooling via a two-stage absorption chiller. Excess energy is stored for use during low solar periods. This system reduces natural gas consumption by 60%, significantly lowering MMG’s carbon footprint and supporting its commitment to sustainability and carbon neutrality.
The project uses a 5th generation PTC solar thermal system, which provides process cooling, air conditioning, and warm water. The system includes 500 robotic-manufactured collectors, with 99% optical efficiency, that track the sun with precision (0.1°). It integrates with existing infrastructure and stores excess energy for use during low irradiation periods. The system operates bivalently with conventional energy, optimizing energy use based on demand and cost. SCADA technology monitors and controls the system, optimizing energy consumption over time. The system ensures reliable, sustainable energy supply with a payback period of up to 6 years.

By implementing the DigiSolar DS Suite at the Izmir demo plant, SOLITERM can transform the installation into a digitally optimised reference site. The integration of digital twins, AI-based optimisation, performance verification, predictive maintenance, and environmental assessment provides measurable technical, economic, and sustainability advantages.

Key strategic outcomes include:

• Reduced Levelized Cost of Heat (LCOH).
• Increased plant efficiency and availability.
• Enhanced investor confidence and bankability.