Nico Reitz
We move people – Nico Reitz by interview
For many of us, the topic of energy has only really come to the fore since the energy crisis. Nico, on the other hand, has been dealing with it for many years and gives us an insight into his work at Umicore.
„For me, working at Umicore means contributing to a sustainable future and making a positive difference.“
| It's not just the current energy crisis that has put energy in the spotlight - the efficient use of resources and sustainability in general have long played an important role at Umicore. Has your work changed as a result of the energy crisis? |
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"Yes, there have definitely been changes. One particular challenge last year, for example, was to develop a back-up plan in the case that natural gas was no longer available in sufficient quantities. This involved running through different scenarios for heating the buildings to identify possible solutions. Like everyone else in their private lives, we have been affected by rising energy costs in the workplace. Compared to private households, the energy consumption and associated costs at Umicore are significantly higher. However, sustainability and the efficient use of resources are not new to Umicore. The energy crisis has made us focus even more on these topics and implement them better and faster. Personally, I have been involved in the area of energy for a long time, and although the latest developments are very challenging, there is also a positive side: the questions of where our energy comes from, how we can use it efficiently and how we can save energy are receiving more attention throughout society and solutions are being worked on much more intensively. Cross-company meetings and projects on energy, as well as networking between the city and regional companies, show that the importance of this issue has been recognised and that we want to learn from and with each other." |
| Umicore is pursuing several initiatives to increase energy efficiency and savings and to switch to renewable energy. Can you give us an insight into what is currently happening in this direction at the Hanau site? |
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"We are working hard to develop a sustainable alternative for the heat supply of our buildings. We have also started an energy assessment of our buildings. This is a detailed analysis of the energy efficiency of each building. This includes looking at the façade, heating and cooling systems and energy consumption. Our aim is to develop specific recommendations to increase efficiency and reduce energy consumption." |
| The energy transition is a key lever for significantly slowing climate change, but it is also one of the greatest challenges. As with all change processes, there is resistance. Have you experienced this in your work? |
| "The energy transition is an impressive challenge, but it is also a wonderful opportunity to make a difference. There are certain hurdles to overcome, whether in the form of complex technical, economic or political aspects that need to be carefully considered. From the difficulties of working within existing buildings to adapting and developing the necessary infrastructure, it's all part of this fascinating process and my day-to-day work." |
