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Grünenthal API Manufacturing Site Switzerland

A new era of sustainable API production

At our Mitlödi site, seven interconnected heat pumps now generate all production heat with green electricity, cutting energy use by 38%.

Our API manufacturing site in Mitlödi, Switzerland, has introduced a new way of generating heat to produce active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) by using seven interconnected heat pumps. This innovative system brings us closer to reaching our SBTi (science-based targets initiative)-validated targets and sets a strong foundation for responsible, future-ready manufacturing.

A fresh approach to creating heat in pharma

In January 2026, the site achieved a major milestone: for the first time, all the heat needed for API production was generated using 100% green electricity. This marks a big step forward on our journey towards climate-neutral operations.

How the system works

  • Seven large industrial heat pumps work together to create the temperatures needed for production, without relying on oil or gas.
  • When higher temperatures are required, electric boosters provide an additional energy lift.
  • Heat that would normally be lost – for example, waste heat from condensation processes – is captured and recycled back into the system.
Victor Barbosa, Head of Global Operations and member of the Executive Board Team
Innovation at Mitlödi shows how we advance sustainable manufacturing with excellence and responsibility.
Victor BarbosaHead of Global Operations at Grünenthal

This innovative approach to the use of electricity, which is rarely seen in the pharmaceutical industry, has led to a 38% decrease in primary energy consumption. With this system now fully operational, our focus shifts to optimising performance, sharing learnings and accelerating the transition to carbon-free energy solutions across our sites.