Belgium, Obourg

GO4ZERO

Decarbonised cement production facility for Holcim
BESIX and Denys have been appointed by Holcim as main contractor for the civil works of the GO4ZERO project. This initiative involves the construction of a new clinker production unit, designed to produce up to 2.3 million tonnes of carbon-neutral cementitious materials annually.

Project overview

Situated in Obourg, GO4ZERO prioritises low energy use and reduced environmental impact. BESIX and Denys are delivering over 70 structures within a demanding schedule. The facility will include an air-oxyfuel switchable kiln, advanced carbon purification, and a comprehensive CO₂ capture and storage system. The project is being delivered in two phases, transitioning from wet to dry process technology and incorporating alternative raw materials and fuels. The plant aims to set a benchmark for sustainable construction in Europe.

Scope of works

  • Civil works for more than 70 structures to be delivered in under 15 months, including a 60-metre-high silo, electrical substations, a 25-metre-high concrete shell for a 145-metre pre-heating tower, a 200-metre covered storage area, and a train unloading station.

  • Integration of innovative kiln technology and CO₂ storage facilities.

  • Support for renewable energy generation through floating solar panels and waste heat recovery.

Key highlights

  • Strategic decarbonisation: GO4ZERO is among Europe’s first large-scale cement plants designed for near carbon-neutral production, supporting Holcim’s and BESIX’s climate objectives.

  • Innovative technology: The facility features an air-oxyfuel switchable kiln with carbon purification and advanced carbon capture and storage, enabling purification of over 99.5% of process CO₂.

  • Energy transition: Over 95% of the plant’s energy will be sourced from alternative fuels, with the aim of eliminating fossil fuel use.

  • Integrated approach: Deep foundations by Franki Foundations, involving around 1,500 Omega screw piles up to 32 metres deep, redesigned to reduce concrete use by nearly 50%.

Project details

Project nameGO4ZERO
LocationObourg, Belgium
Building period2024 - 2026
SectorIndustry, 3fc407dd-3375-4161-a0a8-feaa323e8d73
Area of expertisec9cf63b0-bcb8-4601-ab61-c1958129230c
Stakeholder(s)BESIX
Contract typeBuild
ClientHolcim
Partner(s)Denys

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