New DLR Institute in Zittau: 32 million euros for a green future!

New DLR Institute in Zittau: 32 million euros for a green future!

In Zittau, in the heart of Upper Lusatia, an extremely important development is being set in motion these days: the construction of a new institute for low-CO₂ industrial processes, which is being run byGerman Aerospace Center (DLR)is responsible. A total of 32 million euros will flow into this ambitious project, which is fully covered by funding. The foundation stone was laid in June 2024 and the work is scheduled to be completed by the end of next year. The new institute is being built on a spacious area of ​​1.58 hectares between Schramm-, Hochwald- and Friedrich-Schneider-Straße.

DLR founded the institute in 2019 to promote the decarbonization of various industries. In addition to the location in Zittau, there is currently also one in Cottbus, where 32 employees already work in research and administration. The number of employees is expected to rise to 60, which not only shows a good knack for economic development, but also cooperation with regional partners, such as the snack manufacturerLorenzand the specialized paper manufacturerFelix Schoeller, strengthens. The aim is to increase energy efficiency in production and reduce fossil fuels in the production of food, paper and other materials.

Progress through innovation

A central concern of the new institute is the development of high-temperature heat pumps for using waste heat, which are essential for a sustainable energy supply in industry. The industry has a high demand for industrial heat supply - around 70% of the energy required is required in the form of heat, with only around 15% of this heat being provided by renewable technologies. The majority still comes from fossil fuels, which generates high amounts of greenhouse gases, especially CO₂. This is why innovative solutions are needed to design production processes with minimal CO₂ emissions. DLR is working, among other things, on converting coal-fired power plants into low-CO₂ energy suppliers and has launched numerous projects, including the development of a design-for-circularity methodology for the traceability of raw materials.

Some of DLR's other projects include developing energy solutions for difficult industries that cannot easily convert to electrical systems, particularly the steel sector. The focus here is on replacing coal and coke with hydrogen. The use of hydrogen could represent a true revolution in the field of energy supply, as it is not only efficient but also makes a significant contribution to reducing CO₂.

Research and teaching in focus

In addition to research, the DLR also offers numerous opportunities for students who are interested in topics such as green process heat or decarbonization concepts. Bachelor's and master's theses as well as doctorates on these innovative topics are on the program. The institute is therefore not only a center for scientific excellence, but also a future training location for the skilled workers of tomorrow.

Overall, it can be said that the new DLR institute in Zittau is an important step in the right direction to achieve the energy and climate goals of the future. The initiatives being developed there could not only support local businesses, but also pave the way to a more sustainable industry and set an example in the fight against climate change. A project that “there is something going on” and that makes not only the region but the entire industry sit up and take notice.

For more information, please visit the DLR and the Decarbonization Cluster pages, which provide valuable insights into processes and projects. Sächsische.de reports on the current status of the construction, while [dlr.de].