since 1976
since 1976
Continental's tire plant in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, has launched an ambitious solar energy project. With the installation of 2,500 solar panels covering an area of 10,000 square meters, the first phase of this project has a total solar capacity of 1,500 kilowatt-peak (kWp) and is expected to generate 2 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of green energy per year. This means that the Petaling Jaya plant will meet about 13 percent of its electricity needs through solar power generation during daytime production, reducing CO2 emissions by an estimated 1,400 tons annually.
"The solar panel installation project at our tire plant in Petaling Jaya reflects the dedication to reducing carbon emissions and embracing renewable energy solutions. By investing in sustainable initiatives, we not only support global environmental goals but also ensure a greener future for the communities we serve," says Andrea Somorova, Managing Director, at Continental's tire plant in Petaling Jaya.
Flora Hong Xu, Plant Manager at Continental's tire plant in Petaling Jaya emphasized the projects significance: “This solar energy project reflects our commitment to sustainability and supports Malaysia’s net-zero goals at the same time. It ensures energy security for generations to come.”
The project launch on January 28, was officiated by YB Tuan Haji Akmal Nasrullah bin Mohd Nasir, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, Malaysia. He said: "Continental's commitment to sustainability at its tire plant in Petaling Jaya goes beyond solar energy; it is part of a broader strategy to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. By utilizing clean, renewable energy, the company is not only lowering its operational costs but also contributing to Malaysia’s goal of a carbon-neutral future. This is a perfect example of how industries can lead the way in achieving national environmental goals.”
The successful launch of the Phase 1 solar energy project at Continental's tire plant in Petaling Jaya is the beginning of a broader project. It is planned to double the total solar power generation capacity of the tire production site to 4 million KWh by end of 2026. This project is part of Continentals' global energy-saving initiative, through which the tire manufacturer is systematically reducing the carbon footprint of its operations.
Ambitious sustainability targets for all production sites
The ambition of Continental Tires is to reduce its energy consumption by 20 percent by 2030 compared to 2018. Continental is aiming to achieve climate-neutral production by 2040 at the latest. Since the end of 2020, the electricity that the company purchases for all locations worldwide has already been sourced from renewable energy sources and is climate neutral. For this purpose, guarantees of origin are obtained in accordance with the criteria of the global RE100 Initiative.
The tire plant in Petaling Jaya
Continental’s Petaling Jaya tire plant, located in Selangor, Malaysia, first opened its doors in 1963. Over the decades, it has undergone numerous transformations, culminating in 2012 when it became fully owned and operated by Continental. Today, the plant stands as a Center of Innovation and Excellence, specializing in Commercial Specialty Tires and serving as the only production site for OTR X-Ply Tires within Continental’s global network. It also produces Off-The-Road (OTR) tires for specialized applications, such as port operations and earth movers, with the capability to manufacture tires ranging from 24 inches to 35 inches.
Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2023, Continental generated sales of €41.4 billion and currently employs around 200,000 people in 56 countries and markets.
Tire solutions from the Tires group sector make mobility safer, smarter, and more sustainable. Its premium portfolio encompasses car, truck, bus, two-wheel, and specialty tires as well as smart solutions and services for fleets and tire retailers. Continental has been delivering top performance for more than 150 years and is one of the world’s largest tire manufacturers. In fiscal 2023, the Tires group sector generated sales of 14 billion euros. Continental's tire division employs more than 56,000 people worldwide and has 20 production and 16 development sites.
