Duferco La Louvière S.A.
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Company Overview
Duferco is a diversified international group established in 1979, evolving from its origins in steel trading to become a significant player across four core markets: Energy, Steel, Shipping, and Innovation. Guided by its founder, Bruno Bolfo, the group emphasizes innovation and sustainability as central to its future growth and operational strategy.
Core Business Divisions
Duferco's Energy Division is comprehensive, encompassing energy trading, origination, and retail. It operates in wholesale power and gas markets across Europe, actively investing in renewable power production and e-mobility solutions, including a network of charging points in Italy and Europe. Notable projects include the Hydrogen Valley in Giammoro, Sicily, featuring a 1 MW electrolyzer and 4 MW photovoltaic plant for green hydrogen production, and a peaker plant to support regional electricity stability. The division also engages in biomass production and trading, with PEFC-certified operations focused on circularity and sustainable forest management.
The Steel Division, while representing the group's historical foundation, is forward-looking with substantial investments in cutting-edge technology and sustainability. Its main facility in San Zeno Naviglio boasts a new Smart Beam Manufacturing (SBM) rolling mill, a 250 million euro investment with a 700,000 tons/year capacity. This 'greenest steel plant in Europe' utilizes AI for management, is powered by renewable energy, and integrates circular economy principles, using ferrous scrap as raw material. Other key plants in Giammoro, San Giovanni Valdarno, and Pallanzeno contribute to a diverse range of steel products, from beams and profiles to track shoes and bulb plates for shipbuilding.
Through its partnership with the Nova Marine Group, the Shipping Division operates a fleet of over 100 vessels globally, providing flexible and reliable shipping solutions across various commodities. The division is committed to decarbonization, evidenced by its participation in initiatives like the Sea Cargo Charter and investments in eco-friendly vessels, such as the new methanol dual-fuel cement carrier. Additionally, Duferco Terminal Mediterraneo marks its presence in logistics as Sicily's first private multi-purpose container terminal.
The Innovation Division drives the group's efforts in digital transformation and sustainable development. It leverages internal expertise and collaborations with universities to develop advanced tools, including machine learning and AI, and lead projects that enhance operational efficiencies and accelerate energy transition. This division supports initiatives ranging from green hydrogen production and carbon capture to the development of mobile applications and computerized maintenance systems across the group's diverse businesses.
Sustainability Commitment
Duferco prioritizes environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance, aligning its operations with a long-term sustainability plan built on nine pillars. The group's Code of Ethics guides its conduct, fostering a safe and stimulating work environment that values diversity and professional excellence. Investments in green technologies and circular economy models underscore Duferco's commitment to reducing environmental impact and contributing to a more sustainable future.
