Let the sun shine in

At the Vetropack plant in Boffalora sopra Ticino, sustainability is becoming increasingly visible – quite literally on the rooftops. The newly installed photovoltaic system covers approximately 75,000 square metres, roughly the size of ten football pitches. With an installed capacity of 8.824 MWp and an estimated annual output of 10.6 GWh, the plant will be capable of generating enough energy to meet the average needs of around 4,200 households. The electricity will be used entirely on site, helping to reduce emissions while supporting Vetropack’s decarbonization journey.

Energy for the future

Renewable electricity is increasingly important for future-oriented glass production. The project is part of Vetropack’s broader effort to steadily increase the share of renewable energy across its operations. Similar investments have already been implemented at plants in Austria and Croatia.

A systematic approach to sustainability 

The photovoltaic initiative investment contributes to Vetropack’s climate roadmap, which aims for a 50.4% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2032 (compared to 2021) and a 30% cut in Scope 3 emissions linked to the value chain. While Scope 1 and 2 relate primarily to production and energy consumption, Scope 3 includes indirect emissions across the wider value chain. 

Sustainability considerations were already embedded into the design of the Boffalora sopra Ticino plant from the very beginning. The photovoltaic installation builds on an overall sustainability concept that includes smart technologies, process water recovery and waste heat reuse systems. The result is a production site designed to combine operational efficiency with long-term environmental responsibility. 

“A natural next step”

For Riccardo Gobbis, Managing Director of Vetropack Italia, the photovoltaic installation therefore is more than a standalone project.

What is the strategic significance of this investment for Vetropack Italia?

Gobbis: The photovoltaic system is a natural next step for the Boffalora sopra Ticino plant that was designed with focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. It complements and reinforces an industrial model that aims to progressively reduce its environmental impact, whilst maintaining high production standards. 

How does this project strengthen Vetropack’s position as a partner for the food and beverage industry?

Gobbis: Projects like this also reflect growing expectations from the food and beverage industry. Glass is increasingly valued as a sustainable and safe packaging material that aligns well with future environmental requirements – and we are committed to being a reliable and responsible partner that can help our customers in facing these environmental challenges. 

What are Vetropack’s next steps to continue along this path of sustainability and energy innovation?

Gobbis: Our approach is structured and long-term. We will continue investing in renewable energy sources and in technologies that improve the efficiency of production processes. At the same time, we aim to further optimise the value chain together with our suppliers and customers, integrating sustainability considerations even more into our strategic decision-making.

Across the glass industry, energy efficiency and renewable power are becoming increasingly important topics – not only in terms of reducing emissions, but also for strengthening long-term resilience. Projects such as the photovoltaic installation in Boffalora sopra Ticino illustrate how sustainability initiatives can be integrated directly into modern glass production processes.