“We’re very excited to receive support from Innovation Norway for this research and development project, which plays to all of Elkem’s strengths: pioneering green technology to produce strategic materials that are essential for our modern-day economy,” says Håvard Moe, Elkem’s senior vice president for Technology.
The grant, which has been awarded for the 2025-2026 period, comes from Innovation Norway’s Environmental Technology Scheme that supports the development, pilot testing, and demonstration of new environmental technology. The project aims to reduce the carbon footprint of the products, developing cement alternatives from slag from Elkem’s ferrosilicon smelters, with a CO2 footprint of less than a third of that of the average standard for cement. In addition, the project has a target of achieving recycling rates of over 50 per cent in new products, utilising secondary silicon sources.
“The project has the potential to significantly lower CO2 emissions in the construction and automotive industries by replacing traditional products with recycled silicon and slag material streams. The project will transform by-products and materials currently seen as waste into valuable resources. By integrating recycled material streams into production, we support the transition to a circular economy, in line with national and international environmental goals for the green transition,” says Gro Eide, vice president of innovation at Elkem Silicon Products.
The testing will be conducted at REC Solar Norway’s former production facilities next to Elkem’s research centre at Fiskaa in Kristiansand, southern Norway. Elkem acquired the facilities in 2024 for testing and optimisation of products and green production processes, hiring several former REC employees to work at the site.
About Elkem
Elkem is one of the world's leading providers of advanced silicon-based materials shaping a better and more sustainable future. The company develops silicones, silicon products and carbon solutions by combining natural raw materials, renewable energy and human ingenuity. Elkem helps its customers create and improve essential innovations like electric mobility, digital communications, health and personal care as well as smarter and more sustainable cities. With a strong track record since 1904, its global team of more than 7,200 people has a joint commitment to stakeholders: Delivering your potential. In 2024, Elkem achieved an operating income of NOK 33 billion. Elkem has been awarded top score of A on Forests and Water Security, and B on Climate Change from CDP. Elkem is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (ticker: ELK), where the company is also included in the ESG Index. www.elkem.com
