Case
Digitalisation reduces energy consumption.
At the end of the Norwegian Sørfjord lies Boliden Odda. This zinc smelter has produced zinc since 1924 and today its annual production is 200 kilotons. In conjunction with the goal to increase production to 350 kilotons in the project GZO (Green zink Odda) 4.0, Boliden is determined to optimise their energy consumption and production processes. Knightec Group has been brought in as a strategic partner with the aim of utilising every kWh as efficiently as possible via digitalisation.
ClientBoliden
IndustryIndustry
ServicesSustainable BusinessSoftware & CloudHardware & MechanicsProduction & Industrialisation
Originally delivered by Semcon, now part of Knightec Group.
Background
In addition to being vital to life, zinc is indispensable to several industries. It is used, among other things, for rust protection in steel alloys and as a construction material. Zinc can be successfully recycled, a process that also takes place at Boliden Odda. However, zinc refinement is very energy intensive, and Odda itself accounts for 1% of all of Norway's energy consumption.
Challenge
After the Odda 4.0 expansion was decided, Boliden asked Knightec Group for assistance to explore the introduction of autonomous vehicles at the smelter. To select the right technology, Knightec Group needed to first inspect the production process in detail.
Data-driven energy management in production.
The project expanded to include strategic support in procuring and implementing an energy management system. Using energy mapping data, Knightec Group developed a real-time dashboard for Boliden’s operations in Odda, enabling data-driven decisions on energy use.
Through hands-on testing in its own workshop, Knightec Group evaluated and applied relevant technologies specifically for zinc production. This practical, test-driven approach ensured effective solutions aligned with both operational needs and modern technological capabilities.
Delivered Value
Knightec Group developed use cases for key processes at Odda, such as compressed air, enabling real-time visibility of energy consumption across departments. By implementing an energy management system and leveraging data insights, the solution supports more proactive production, better decision-making, and improved cost efficiency, while combining expertise in digitalisation, automation, and practical testing to ensure effective adoption.
