Innovation in the brewing kettle
Flensburger Brewery opts for green heat
There is less steam in Flensburg than there used to be. Not because less beer is being brewed, but because Michael Seip, technical director at Flensburg Brewery, is systematically reducing CO2 emissions. "Heat from natural gas is our biggest CO2 driver, and that's exactly where we're starting," he says, explaning his company's ambitious transformation concept of 2023.
A brewery without steam? Long unthinkable. But Seip and his team have found a way: "A brewery needs a lot of heat and electricity - green electricity can be purchased, but heat form natural gas is the real problem." The solution lies in the gradual decarbonisation of all processes. The modernisation of the dealcoholisation plant has already been completed: it now operates almost without steam.
The new brewhouse, a €17 million investment, will be at the heart of the green transition. With innovative energy storage technology, it keeps hot water above 90 degrees Celsius and uses modern heat pump technology.
The result: "With the new brewhouse and energy storage system, we are reducing primary energy by around 50 per cent, without any loud green PR campaigns." The brewery is pursuing a down-to-earth, northern German approach: "We communicate transparently but down-to-earth - we report instead of drumming up publicity." A joint climate protection concept with the NGO Orca makes the technical processes understandable for employees and the public. Employees are actively involved in this sustainability process, e.g. via e-charging stations, information campaigns and training courses.
Seip appreciates the state's support on this innovative and challenging path: "The cooperation with the state, WTSH and Danish partners is northern German - understated, but very helpful." He sees visits from state politicians - such as that of Minister President Daniel Günther on his summer tour in mid-2025 - as a clear sign of appreciation. Nevertheless, there is one downside: bureaucratic hurdles sometimes slow things down. "We switched to an environmental management system. It was time-consuming at first, but in the end, everyone was happy because it was worth it."
The technical manager's conclusion: "Sustainability brings us joy - and when you're successful, it's even more fun."
