• Breakthrough Technology: GR3N’s MADE process transforms hard-to-recycle PET into virgin-like materials, closing the loop on plastic waste.
• Industrial Scalability: Schneider Electric’s automation system enables rapid, flexible scaling of GR3N’s process across multiple sites.
• Next-Gen Operations: Software-defined automation reduces costs, increases efficiency, and attracts new talent to the recycling industry.

Schneider Electric, a leader in energy management, has partnered with GR3N to revolutionize the plastic recycling industry. GR3N’s Microwave Assisted DEpolymerization (MADE) process breaks down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste into its chemical building blocks. This innovative technology enables the creation of new, high-quality PET pellets, effectively addressing the challenge of recycling hard-to-process plastics.

In March 2024, GR3N successfully demonstrated the MADE system, powered by Schneider Electric’s open automation technology, EcoStruxure Automation Expert, at its site in Italy. The automation system decouples hardware from software, allowing greater flexibility in operations. “Through software-defined automation and hardware independence, we have been able to effectively de-risk our operations and push the boundaries of our technology,” said Fabio Silvestri, Head of Marketing and Business Development at GR3N.

The MADE system will soon scale to industrial levels with a facility planned in Spain, targeting over 40,000 tons of PET waste annually. This modular approach simplifies operations and enhances decision-making through advanced data analytics, reducing engineering costs by 30%. Schneider Electric’s support has been crucial, as noted by Christophe de Maistre, President Energy & Chemicals at Schneider Electric: “If we want to overcome the scale of plastic waste, there are certain non-negotiables. Integration, modularization, and automation are key.“

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The partnership aims to reach industrial scale by 2027, with the construction of a 35-40kton per annum plant. This solution offers a pathway for the chemical sector to meet sustainability goals, combat plastic waste, and pave the way for a circular economy.