Responsibility arkistot - Mäkelä Alu Oy https://dev.makelaalu.fi/en/category/responsibility/ Alumiiniprofiilien puristaminen vuosikymmenten kokemuksella. Fri, 24 Apr 2026 08:12:38 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://makelaalu.fi/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/makelaalu-logo-www-150x150.jpg Responsibility arkistot - Mäkelä Alu Oy https://dev.makelaalu.fi/en/category/responsibility/ 32 32 Sustainability report 2025 published https://makelaalu.fi/en/news/sustainability-report-2025-published/ Tue, 14 Apr 2026 06:31:58 +0000 https://makelaalu.fi/?p=11632 We have published our sustainability report for 2025. This year, reporting was expanded to meet increasing requirements and to better support the development of our operations. – We have chosen to go beyond what is required in our reporting. For us, reporting is not just an obligation, but a tool for identifying areas for development and measuring our progress, says CEO Marko Orpana. Concrete actions to reduce emissions The report brings together Mäkelä Alu’s key sustainability actions and results. We have significantly reduced our carbon dioxide emissions over the long term and continued to invest in energy efficiency, electrification of production and renewable energy over the years. – Our climate work is primarily based on reducing our own emissions. We continuously develop our production to be more energy efficient and utilise solutions that help us reduce emissions across the entire value chain. In addition, we improve material efficiency as part of the overall approach, says Sustainability Director Päivi Venesoja. People at the centre Personnel play a key role in our sustainability work. We invest in wellbeing at work, safety and competence development. – A skilled and motivated workforce is the foundation of our operations. We have developed, for example, supervisory work and invested in wellbeing at work, which is reflected in improved employee satisfaction results, says HR Manager Jenni Hautakangas. Read the sustainability report The 2025 sustainability report has been prepared in line with the VSME reporting framework and, where applicable, key ESRS requirements. A summary version of the report has also been published, providing the key content in an easy-to-read format. Read the summaryDownload the full report

Artikkeli Sustainability report 2025 published julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> We have published our sustainability report for 2025. This year, reporting was expanded to meet increasing requirements and to better support the development of our operations.

– We have chosen to go beyond what is required in our reporting. For us, reporting is not just an obligation, but a tool for identifying areas for development and measuring our progress, says CEO Marko Orpana.

Concrete actions to reduce emissions

The report brings together Mäkelä Alu’s key sustainability actions and results. We have significantly reduced our carbon dioxide emissions over the long term and continued to invest in energy efficiency, electrification of production and renewable energy over the years.

– Our climate work is primarily based on reducing our own emissions. We continuously develop our production to be more energy efficient and utilise solutions that help us reduce emissions across the entire value chain. In addition, we improve material efficiency as part of the overall approach, says Sustainability Director Päivi Venesoja.

People at the centre

Personnel play a key role in our sustainability work. We invest in wellbeing at work, safety and competence development.

– A skilled and motivated workforce is the foundation of our operations. We have developed, for example, supervisory work and invested in wellbeing at work, which is reflected in improved employee satisfaction results, says HR Manager Jenni Hautakangas.

Read the sustainability report

The 2025 sustainability report has been prepared in line with the VSME reporting framework and, where applicable, key ESRS requirements.

A summary version of the report has also been published, providing the key content in an easy-to-read format.

Read the summary
Download the full report

Artikkeli Sustainability report 2025 published julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> Päivi Venesoja appointed as sustainability manager https://makelaalu.fi/en/news/paivi-venesoja-appointed-as-sustainability-manager/ Fri, 12 Dec 2025 07:30:43 +0000 https://makelaalu.fi/?p=11527 Our long-time EHSQ manager Päivi Venesoja has been appointed as the company’s sustainability manager. The appointment highlights Mäkelä Alu’s intention to invest in sustainable operations and responsibility work.– The role of sustainability manager brings forward how important we see corporate responsibility and sustainable actions at this moment and in the future. In addition, legislation and political regulation are constantly changing, so responsibility matters require continuous monitoring and anticipation, states CEO Marko Orpana.Päivi’s job description will not significantly change with the appointment. The new job title reflects the role of responsibility as part of all the company’s operations.– Responsibility is not just individual projects but is visible in our everyday decisions and actions. We have a strong foundation on which it is good to build more, Päivi notes.– I accept the appointment humbly and proudly. Thank you to the employer for the trust; I feel both responsibility and joy for this opportunity, she adds. Photo: Tuukka Kiviranta

Artikkeli Päivi Venesoja appointed as sustainability manager julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> Our long-time EHSQ manager Päivi Venesoja has been appointed as the company’s sustainability manager. The appointment highlights Mäkelä Alu’s intention to invest in sustainable operations and responsibility work.
– The role of sustainability manager brings forward how important we see corporate responsibility and sustainable actions at this moment and in the future. In addition, legislation and political regulation are constantly changing, so responsibility matters require continuous monitoring and anticipation, states CEO Marko Orpana.
Päivi’s job description will not significantly change with the appointment. The new job title reflects the role of responsibility as part of all the company’s operations.
– Responsibility is not just individual projects but is visible in our everyday decisions and actions. We have a strong foundation on which it is good to build more, Päivi notes.
– I accept the appointment humbly and proudly. Thank you to the employer for the trust; I feel both responsibility and joy for this opportunity, she adds.

Photo: Tuukka Kiviranta

Artikkeli Päivi Venesoja appointed as sustainability manager julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> Our own solar power plant is built from aluminium profiles https://makelaalu.fi/en/news/our-own-solar-power-plant-is-built-from-aluminium-profiles/ Tue, 02 Dec 2025 12:43:17 +0000 https://makelaalu.fi/?p=11494 Mäkelä Alu’s solar power plant project was completed on schedule this autumn, and the plant was connected to the grid at the beginning of November. The solar power plant produces electricity even during winter, which may come as a surprise. – The plant performs well even in early spring when days are bright and cold. The panels are bifacial and also capture light reflected from snow. The best efficiency is achieved in April and May when daylight increases and the air remains cool, preventing the panels from overheating, says Ismo Pitkänen, Managing Director of Pitkäsen Sähköasennus Oy. Made from our own profiles The solar power plant was purchased as a turnkey delivery from Pitkäsen Sähköasennus Oy. The subcontractor for the project was Wisol Oy, a company specialised in building solar parks and also a customer of Mäkelä Alu. – The project was special because solar parks are typically built from steel. We wanted to do things differently and built the support structures entirely from aluminium profiles extruded in our own factory, says Reijo Seppälä, Project Manager responsible for the project at Mäkelä Alu. The structures were designed based on official strength calculations by an engineering consultancy. The profile design was carried out by our own profile designer Joni Malinen in close cooperation with Wisol, who also handled the mechanical and layout planning of the plant. – Wisol was also responsible for the on-site installation thanks to their strong expertise in solar field construction, says Ismo Pitkänen. – The cooperation with both Ismo Pitkänen and Mäkelä Alu was extremely solution-focused. Together we found the right ways to utilise aluminium in the mounting system, says Arto Kurtti, Commercial Director at Wisol Oy. Supporting energy self-sufficiency The plant consists of 1488 solar panels and has a maximum output of 952 kWp. – The plant produces approximately the annual electricity consumption of fifty electrically heated detached houses, says Ismo Pitkänen. The electricity consumption of Mäkelä Alu’s factory area is still considerably higher. – The plant naturally does not cover our full consumption, but it is a good step towards improved energy self-sufficiency. Locally generated electricity also supports our green electricity sourcing strategy, says Reijo Seppälä. The plant is located in a field area behind the extrusion plant and the anodising plant. The same area also contains an energy storage unit that Mäkelä Alu uses on the national reserve market. – By participating in the reserve market, Mäkelä Alu supports grid balancing and the use of green energy. The energy storage unit acts as a flexibility element when weather-dependent production fluctuates, says Tomi Pilbacka, Development Director at Mäkelä Alu. Part of the RRF project The solar power plant is part of Mäkelä Alu’s RRF project. RRF (Recovery and Resilience Facility) is EU funding under the NextGenerationEU programme, granted for green transition projects. In Finland the funding is provided by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment (TEM). Mäkelä Alu’s project began in 2022 and received RRF energy investment support covering 27 percent of the total investment. DID YOU KNOW? Mäkelä Alu’s factory area consumes as much electricity annually as a small municipality. The consumption equals that of around 1000 electrically heated detached houses. All the electricity we purchase is emission-free.

Artikkeli Our own solar power plant is built from aluminium profiles julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> Mäkelä Alu’s solar power plant project was completed on schedule this autumn, and the plant was connected to the grid at the beginning of November. The solar power plant produces electricity even during winter, which may come as a surprise.

– The plant performs well even in early spring when days are bright and cold. The panels are bifacial and also capture light reflected from snow. The best efficiency is achieved in April and May when daylight increases and the air remains cool, preventing the panels from overheating, says Ismo Pitkänen, Managing Director of Pitkäsen Sähköasennus Oy.

Made from our own profiles

The solar power plant was purchased as a turnkey delivery from Pitkäsen Sähköasennus Oy. The subcontractor for the project was Wisol Oy, a company specialised in building solar parks and also a customer of Mäkelä Alu.

– The project was special because solar parks are typically built from steel. We wanted to do things differently and built the support structures entirely from aluminium profiles extruded in our own factory, says Reijo Seppälä, Project Manager responsible for the project at Mäkelä Alu.

The structures were designed based on official strength calculations by an engineering consultancy. The profile design was carried out by our own profile designer Joni Malinen in close cooperation with Wisol, who also handled the mechanical and layout planning of the plant.

– Wisol was also responsible for the on-site installation thanks to their strong expertise in solar field construction, says Ismo Pitkänen.

– The cooperation with both Ismo Pitkänen and Mäkelä Alu was extremely solution-focused. Together we found the right ways to utilise aluminium in the mounting system, says Arto Kurtti, Commercial Director at Wisol Oy.

Supporting energy self-sufficiency

The plant consists of 1488 solar panels and has a maximum output of 952 kWp.

– The plant produces approximately the annual electricity consumption of fifty electrically heated detached houses, says Ismo Pitkänen.

The electricity consumption of Mäkelä Alu’s factory area is still considerably higher.

– The plant naturally does not cover our full consumption, but it is a good step towards improved energy self-sufficiency. Locally generated electricity also supports our green electricity sourcing strategy, says Reijo Seppälä.

The plant is located in a field area behind the extrusion plant and the anodising plant. The same area also contains an energy storage unit that Mäkelä Alu uses on the national reserve market.

– By participating in the reserve market, Mäkelä Alu supports grid balancing and the use of green energy. The energy storage unit acts as a flexibility element when weather-dependent production fluctuates, says Tomi Pilbacka, Development Director at Mäkelä Alu.

Part of the RRF project

The solar power plant is part of Mäkelä Alu’s RRF project. RRF (Recovery and Resilience Facility) is EU funding under the NextGenerationEU programme, granted for green transition projects. In Finland the funding is provided by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment (TEM). Mäkelä Alu’s project began in 2022 and received RRF energy investment support covering 27 percent of the total investment.

DID YOU KNOW?

Mäkelä Alu’s factory area consumes as much electricity annually as a small municipality. The consumption equals that of around 1000 electrically heated detached houses. All the electricity we purchase is emission-free.

Artikkeli Our own solar power plant is built from aluminium profiles julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> We have invested in an electricity storage system https://makelaalu.fi/en/news/we-have-invested-in-an-electricity-storage-system/ Tue, 18 Nov 2025 13:08:35 +0000 https://makelaalu.fi/?p=11431 The share of renewable energy sources, especially wind and solar power, in Nordic electricity production has increased and will likely continue to grow in the coming years. Balancing renewable generation capacity with electricity consumption is challenging and requires changes to the electricity grid infrastructure. When it is both windy and sunny, the grid can become overloaded. When it is calm and cloudy, the situation can be the opposite. This creates instability in the electricity grid. One way to support grid stability is through electricity storage systems. We wanted to do our part and take on more societal responsibility as part of the broader energy transition. – This is why we have decided to invest in our own electricity storage system. The state-owned transmission system operator Fingrid Oyj (Finland’s national grid operator) needs electricity storage capacity. Mäkelä Alu participates in Fingrid’s reserve markets with its electricity storage system, explains Development Director Tomi Pilbacka. Fingrid Oyj manages and oversees Finland’s national electricity grid at a high level. When a company invests in an electricity storage system, it can make an agreement directly or via an intermediary with Fingrid and sell battery capacity to the so-called reserve markets for various purposes. – Our factory area already has a robust electrical infrastructure, and this investment allows us to utilise it for purposes other than aluminium profile production, he adds. Although the storage system is not directly linked to aluminium profile manufacturing, it reflects Mäkelä Alu’s forward-looking and open-minded approach. – One of our values is Challenging Tomorrow. This investment fits that value very well. Finland will need more electricity storage systems in the future, so participating in maintaining grid stability is also a genuinely responsible choice, adds CEO Marko Orpana. Part of the RRF project The electricity storage system is part of Mäkelä Alu’s RRF project. RRF (Recovery and Resilience Facility) funding is part of the European Union’s NextGenerationEU programme, granted for example to green transition projects. The funding in Finland is allocated by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment. Mäkelä Alu’s overall project began in 2022. It has been granted RRF energy investment support covering 27 percent of the total investment value.

Artikkeli We have invested in an electricity storage system julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> The share of renewable energy sources, especially wind and solar power, in Nordic electricity production has increased and will likely continue to grow in the coming years.

Balancing renewable generation capacity with electricity consumption is challenging and requires changes to the electricity grid infrastructure. When it is both windy and sunny, the grid can become overloaded. When it is calm and cloudy, the situation can be the opposite. This creates instability in the electricity grid. One way to support grid stability is through electricity storage systems. We wanted to do our part and take on more societal responsibility as part of the broader energy transition.

– This is why we have decided to invest in our own electricity storage system. The state-owned transmission system operator Fingrid Oyj (Finland’s national grid operator) needs electricity storage capacity. Mäkelä Alu participates in Fingrid’s reserve markets with its electricity storage system, explains Development Director Tomi Pilbacka.

Fingrid Oyj manages and oversees Finland’s national electricity grid at a high level. When a company invests in an electricity storage system, it can make an agreement directly or via an intermediary with Fingrid and sell battery capacity to the so-called reserve markets for various purposes.

– Our factory area already has a robust electrical infrastructure, and this investment allows us to utilise it for purposes other than aluminium profile production, he adds.

Although the storage system is not directly linked to aluminium profile manufacturing, it reflects Mäkelä Alu’s forward-looking and open-minded approach.

– One of our values is Challenging Tomorrow. This investment fits that value very well. Finland will need more electricity storage systems in the future, so participating in maintaining grid stability is also a genuinely responsible choice, adds CEO Marko Orpana.

Part of the RRF project

The electricity storage system is part of Mäkelä Alu’s RRF project. RRF (Recovery and Resilience Facility) funding is part of the European Union’s NextGenerationEU programme, granted for example to green transition projects. The funding in Finland is allocated by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment. Mäkelä Alu’s overall project began in 2022. It has been granted RRF energy investment support covering 27 percent of the total investment value.

Artikkeli We have invested in an electricity storage system julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> Foundry’s waste heat used for heating paintshops https://makelaalu.fi/en/news/foundrys-waste-heat-used-for-heating-paintshops/ Mon, 19 May 2025 08:31:29 +0000 https://makelaalu.fi/?p=11113 We have implemented new heat pump technology to recover waste heat from the foundry at our Luoma-aho plant. The recovered heat is used to warm up the paintshops. – The heat recovery and pump system replaces the use of liquefied gas in the pre-treatment processes of both coating lines. The waste heat is collected from the foundry’s cooling water basin. This water is generated when castings are cooled with water, explains Tomi Pilbacka, Development Manager. The foundry produces Mäkelä Alu’s own recycled billet by casting recycled aluminium. The idea of capturing heat from the cooling water originated nearly ten years ago. – Together with the equipment supplier, we explored different possibilities for utilising process waste heat, and this was identified as one of the most promising targets, says Reijo Seppälä, Project Manager. The system replaces liquefied gas With the new system in place, the thermal energy recovered from the foundry is used to heat the pre-treatment water in both coating lines and the horizontal coating line. Before powder coating, the aluminium profiles are washed – previously, this process water was heated with liquefied gas. – Once the new system is fully operational, we’ll be able to eliminate the use of liquefied gas in these heating needs, Pilbacka states. Since cooling water is only generated when casting is in progress, the system includes an electric backup boiler that operates with clean electricity. Container solution allows mobility The equipment was installed in a separate container that was preassembled at the factory. On site, piping and electrical work was carried out by local contractors. – This solution is cost-efficient and, if needed, movable. Commissioning is still ongoing, but the system will be fully up and running shortly, Seppälä says. The equipment supplier was the Finnish company Calefa, specialised in heat pump solutions, and the project was also carried out in cooperation with local piping and electrical companies. The solution will result in a reduction of 290 tonnes of CO₂ emissions already this year. The investment is valued at approximately €360,000 and will bring substantial energy savings by eliminating liquefied gas usage. The foundry heat recovery project is part of a larger investment programme aimed at reducing CO₂ emissions from our own production. The project received energy investment support (RRF) from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment of Finland.

Artikkeli Foundry’s waste heat used for heating paintshops julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> We have implemented new heat pump technology to recover waste heat from the foundry at our Luoma-aho plant. The recovered heat is used to warm up the paintshops.

– The heat recovery and pump system replaces the use of liquefied gas in the pre-treatment processes of both coating lines. The waste heat is collected from the foundry’s cooling water basin. This water is generated when castings are cooled with water, explains Tomi Pilbacka, Development Manager.

The foundry produces Mäkelä Alu’s own recycled billet by casting recycled aluminium. The idea of capturing heat from the cooling water originated nearly ten years ago.

– Together with the equipment supplier, we explored different possibilities for utilising process waste heat, and this was identified as one of the most promising targets, says Reijo Seppälä, Project Manager.

The system replaces liquefied gas

With the new system in place, the thermal energy recovered from the foundry is used to heat the pre-treatment water in both coating lines and the horizontal coating line. Before powder coating, the aluminium profiles are washed – previously, this process water was heated with liquefied gas.

– Once the new system is fully operational, we’ll be able to eliminate the use of liquefied gas in these heating needs, Pilbacka states.

Since cooling water is only generated when casting is in progress, the system includes an electric backup boiler that operates with clean electricity.

Container solution allows mobility

The equipment was installed in a separate container that was preassembled at the factory. On site, piping and electrical work was carried out by local contractors.

– This solution is cost-efficient and, if needed, movable. Commissioning is still ongoing, but the system will be fully up and running shortly, Seppälä says.

The equipment supplier was the Finnish company Calefa, specialised in heat pump solutions, and the project was also carried out in cooperation with local piping and electrical companies.

The solution will result in a reduction of 290 tonnes of CO₂ emissions already this year. The investment is valued at approximately €360,000 and will bring substantial energy savings by eliminating liquefied gas usage.

The foundry heat recovery project is part of a larger investment programme aimed at reducing CO₂ emissions from our own production. The project received energy investment support (RRF) from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment of Finland.

Artikkeli Foundry’s waste heat used for heating paintshops julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> The year of action 2024: our responsibility report is now published https://makelaalu.fi/en/news/the-year-of-action-2024-our-responsibility-report-is-now-published/ Thu, 24 Apr 2025 09:27:49 +0000 https://makelaalu.fi/?p=11072 In 2024, we continued our determined work for corporate responsibility  and took further concrete steps toward a more sustainable future. Investments in energy efficiency and emissions reduction We made significant investments to improve energy efficiency and replace fossil fuels with renewable energy sources. For example, at Press Line 3, we replaced liquefied gas-powered billet heating equipment with modern electric solutions, reducing our CO₂ emissions by 900 tonnes per year. At our Luoma-aho foundry, we introduced a heat recovery system that enables process water in our paint shops to be heated without liquefied gas. A similar project was implemented at our Voikkaa unit, where replacing natural gas in process water heating reduces emissions by 204 tonnes per year. Award-winning sustainability efforts The renewal of the energy system at our anodising plant received both national and international recognition. We were awarded the Energy Genius of the Year 2024 by the Energiavirasto (Energy Authority), the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, and Motiva (a state-owned company specialising in sustainable development), in recognition of our responsible energy use. We also won the Net-Zero Industries Award in the Outstanding Projects category, highlighting our innovation in reducing industrial carbon emissions. “We have achieved permanent improvements that are reflected in both emission figures and daily operations. The fact that our work has gained international recognition is a sign of true success,” says Päivi Venesoja, EHSQ Manager at Mäkelä Alu. People at the centre People are at the heart of our sustainability work. We have invested in strengthening our safety culture, supporting employee wellbeing, and encouraging continuous learning. We have also supported local sports clubs, helping to promote regional wellbeing. Our 2024 employee satisfaction survey showed improvement in all key areas. “In recent years, we have especially focused on developing supervisor work and the training provided to support it. It’s great to see that these efforts are now being reflected in our employee satisfaction results,” says Jenni Hautakangas, HR Manager. Moving forward together Sustainability is not just a collection of individual actions – it is a shared goal for our entire work community. “Responsibility is part of our everyday work. It has been truly rewarding to see how we, as a team, have committed to our shared goals and successfully taken concrete steps to achieve them,” says CEO Marko Orpana. These actions are part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability and continuous development. We are proud of what we have accomplished and we will continue working toward an even more sustainable future. Read our 2024 Responsibility Report on Issuu.You can download the report here: Mäkelä Alu Oy Responsibility Report 2024. The report is also available in our Material bank.

Artikkeli The year of action 2024: our responsibility report is now published julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> In 2024, we continued our determined work for corporate responsibility  and took further concrete steps toward a more sustainable future.

Investments in energy efficiency and emissions reduction

We made significant investments to improve energy efficiency and replace fossil fuels with renewable energy sources. For example, at Press Line 3, we replaced liquefied gas-powered billet heating equipment with modern electric solutions, reducing our CO₂ emissions by 900 tonnes per year.

At our Luoma-aho foundry, we introduced a heat recovery system that enables process water in our paint shops to be heated without liquefied gas. A similar project was implemented at our Voikkaa unit, where replacing natural gas in process water heating reduces emissions by 204 tonnes per year.

Award-winning sustainability efforts

The renewal of the energy system at our anodising plant received both national and international recognition. We were awarded the Energy Genius of the Year 2024 by the Energiavirasto (Energy Authority), the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, and Motiva (a state-owned company specialising in sustainable development), in recognition of our responsible energy use.

We also won the Net-Zero Industries Award in the Outstanding Projects category, highlighting our innovation in reducing industrial carbon emissions.

“We have achieved permanent improvements that are reflected in both emission figures and daily operations. The fact that our work has gained international recognition is a sign of true success,” says Päivi Venesoja, EHSQ Manager at Mäkelä Alu.

People at the centre

People are at the heart of our sustainability work. We have invested in strengthening our safety culture, supporting employee wellbeing, and encouraging continuous learning. We have also supported local sports clubs, helping to promote regional wellbeing.

Our 2024 employee satisfaction survey showed improvement in all key areas.

“In recent years, we have especially focused on developing supervisor work and the training provided to support it. It’s great to see that these efforts are now being reflected in our employee satisfaction results,” says Jenni Hautakangas, HR Manager.

Moving forward together

Sustainability is not just a collection of individual actions – it is a shared goal for our entire work community.

“Responsibility is part of our everyday work. It has been truly rewarding to see how we, as a team, have committed to our shared goals and successfully taken concrete steps to achieve them,” says CEO Marko Orpana.

These actions are part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability and continuous development. We are proud of what we have accomplished and we will continue working toward an even more sustainable future.

Read our 2024 Responsibility Report on Issuu.
You can download the report here: Mäkelä Alu Oy Responsibility Report 2024.

The report is also available in our Material bank.

Artikkeli The year of action 2024: our responsibility report is now published julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> First in the world: P3’s upgrade exceeded expectations https://makelaalu.fi/en/news/first-in-the-world-p3s-upgrade-exceeded-expectations/ Fri, 07 Mar 2025 12:28:43 +0000 https://makelaalu.fi/?p=10998 In the article picture: Press operator Tuomo Paalijärvi has already become familiar with the new technology. On Press Line 3, the billet heating system was upgraded by replacing gas-powered equipment with modern, electric-powered technology. The project involved installing a resistance furnace and an induction furnace for heating billets, as well as renewing the billet table and saw. Although the principle of billet heating remains the same as before, the solution implemented at Mäkelä Alu includes a section that is the first of its kind in the world. – What makes this unique is that resistance furnaces have never before been used prior to an induction furnace. The resistance furnace, also known as EHKO (electrically heated high-speed convection furnace), provides the initial heat to the billet. The induction furnace then ensures the precise temperature and the temperature difference between the front and rear ends of the billet, explains profile production development engineer Jan Rintala. Energy efficiency and more consistent quality Billets at P3 are now heated more efficiently compared to the previous gas-powered system. The overall efficiency of the system is exceptionally high. The electricity used by Mäkelä Alu is green electricity produced by Väre’s wind power. – We have also invested in improving the factory area’s electrical infrastructure, which has made it possible for us to carry out electrification projects in the first place, says Mäkelä Alu’s Development Director Tomi Pilbacka. In addition to the positive environmental impact, the upgrade has other significant benefits. – The billets now have much more uniform quality for pressing. With a gas furnace, the heat load is concentrated at certain points, which has a major impact on pressing. It is crucial that the billet temperature is consistent. The pressing process is more successful, quality improves, and efficiency increases, summarizes Jan Rintala. A successful project The commissioning of the equipment went smoothly. Collaboration with the equipment supplier Extrutec was close throughout the project. – We planned and reviewed everything very carefully. Everything proceeded smoothly, and the equipment was commissioned on schedule. This is impressive, as no one had previous experience with EHKO, says Jan Rintala. Press operators are pleased with the new technology. Work has become more efficient, as billets reach the press faster than before. – There have been no problems with the new equipment; everything has worked extremely well. The equipment is functional and easy to use, states press operator Tuomo Paalijärvi. Improved working conditions The new equipment has also had an impact on working conditions. The project included intentional improvements to the working environment. – The gas furnace produced much more heat, making the hall quite hot in the summer. The electric furnaces do not generate heat in the same way, notes Tuomo Paalijärvi. The new, larger, air-conditioned, and soundproofed workspace has also received positive feedback. – This is pure luxury! Operators can now do their work here, whereas previously, the control desks and screens were located outside the soundproofed space in the hall. The hall is very noisy, so this significantly improves working conditions, says Tuomo Paalijärvi. Additional soundproofed workspaces will also be introduced in other areas of the press shop, such as near the saw. The modernization of the P3 line is part of a larger investment plan aimed at reducing the company’s CO2 emissions from production. The project has received energy investment support (RRF) from the Finnish Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment (TEM). We previously reported on this investment in the article: Production line modernisation reduces CO2 emissions by 920 tons.

Artikkeli First in the world: P3’s upgrade exceeded expectations julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> In the article picture: Press operator Tuomo Paalijärvi has already become familiar with the new technology.

On Press Line 3, the billet heating system was upgraded by replacing gas-powered equipment with modern, electric-powered technology. The project involved installing a resistance furnace and an induction furnace for heating billets, as well as renewing the billet table and saw.

Although the principle of billet heating remains the same as before, the solution implemented at Mäkelä Alu includes a section that is the first of its kind in the world.

– What makes this unique is that resistance furnaces have never before been used prior to an induction furnace. The resistance furnace, also known as EHKO (electrically heated high-speed convection furnace), provides the initial heat to the billet. The induction furnace then ensures the precise temperature and the temperature difference between the front and rear ends of the billet, explains profile production development engineer Jan Rintala.

Energy efficiency and more consistent quality

Billets at P3 are now heated more efficiently compared to the previous gas-powered system. The overall efficiency of the system is exceptionally high. The electricity used by Mäkelä Alu is green electricity produced by Väre’s wind power.

– We have also invested in improving the factory area’s electrical infrastructure, which has made it possible for us to carry out electrification projects in the first place, says Mäkelä Alu’s Development Director Tomi Pilbacka.

In addition to the positive environmental impact, the upgrade has other significant benefits.

– The billets now have much more uniform quality for pressing. With a gas furnace, the heat load is concentrated at certain points, which has a major impact on pressing. It is crucial that the billet temperature is consistent. The pressing process is more successful, quality improves, and efficiency increases, summarizes Jan Rintala.

A successful project

The commissioning of the equipment went smoothly. Collaboration with the equipment supplier Extrutec was close throughout the project.

– We planned and reviewed everything very carefully. Everything proceeded smoothly, and the equipment was commissioned on schedule. This is impressive, as no one had previous experience with EHKO, says Jan Rintala.

Press operators are pleased with the new technology. Work has become more efficient, as billets reach the press faster than before.

– There have been no problems with the new equipment; everything has worked extremely well. The equipment is functional and easy to use, states press operator Tuomo Paalijärvi.

Improved working conditions

The new equipment has also had an impact on working conditions. The project included intentional improvements to the working environment.

– The gas furnace produced much more heat, making the hall quite hot in the summer. The electric furnaces do not generate heat in the same way, notes Tuomo Paalijärvi.

The new, larger, air-conditioned, and soundproofed workspace has also received positive feedback.

Äänieristetty työtila Mäkelä Alun puristinlinja 3:lla.
Soundproofed workspace improves working comfort.

– This is pure luxury! Operators can now do their work here, whereas previously, the control desks and screens were located outside the soundproofed space in the hall. The hall is very noisy, so this significantly improves working conditions, says Tuomo Paalijärvi.

Additional soundproofed workspaces will also be introduced in other areas of the press shop, such as near the saw.

The modernization of the P3 line is part of a larger investment plan aimed at reducing the company’s CO2 emissions from production. The project has received energy investment support (RRF) from the Finnish Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment (TEM). We previously reported on this investment in the article: Production line modernisation reduces CO2 emissions by 920 tons.

Artikkeli First in the world: P3’s upgrade exceeded expectations julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> Pioneering energy efficiency from finland: An award-winning aluminium profile manufacturer drives the green transition https://makelaalu.fi/en/news/pioneering-energy-efficiency-from-finland-an-award-winning-aluminium-profile-manufacturer-drives-the-green-transition/ Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:57:39 +0000 https://makelaalu.fi/?p=10992 Mäkelä Alu has made significant investments in low-carbon solutions over recent years. With projects undertaken in 2023 and 2024 alone, the company will achieve an annual CO2 reduction of nearly 2,000 tonnes. Central to this progress is the abandonment of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as well as the adoption of modern electric furnace technology and heat recovery systems. Mäkelä Alu is a family-owned company with roots dating back to 1937. Over its long history, the company has weathered various economic cycles. For more than 30 years, it has specialised in aluminium profile extrusion. Sustainability has been a guiding principle for years, evidenced by substantial investments in modern technology. “Our ambitious goal is to achieve carbon neutrality in our own production by the end of 2025. Producing aluminium profiles is energy-intensive, requiring extremely high temperatures. By making responsible decisions in our production processes, we reduce not only our environmental impact but also the carbon footprint of our customers when they use our products,” says Petri Mäkelä, Chairman of the Board and Co-Owner of Mäkelä Alu Oy. Award-winning energy efficiency At the end of last year, Mäkelä Alu received two significant awards for its energy efficiency upgrades in one of its production units. The heating and cooling system of the anodising plant was modernised by replacing the LPG-powered steam system with a heat pump and electric boilers. The heat pump recovers waste heat while simultaneously cooling the process. Additionally, drying operations were switched from steam to heated water and electric resistances. “As a result of this upgrade, we were awarded the Net-Zero Industries Award as the national winner in the Outstanding Projects category. The award ceremony took place at the UN Climate Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. In addition, we received the Energy Genius of the Year 2024 recognition, granted by the Energy Authority, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, and Motiva, for energy efficiency measures that promote responsible energy use in a distinctive way,” says Päivi Venesoja, Mäkelä Alu’s EHSQ Manager. This modernisation reduced the company’s CO2 emissions by over 700 tonnes last year. Read more about the rewarded solution: The energy system at our anodising plant awarded Energy Genius of the Year 2024 New technology for the extrusion press An even larger emission reduction project is currently underway. Mäkelä Alu operates three extrusion lines, one of which is now undergoing modernisation. “In this renewal, the old equipment is being replaced with modern, electricity-powered technology, reducing LPG consumption by approximately 320 tonnes per year and CO₂ emissions by 960 tonnes,” says Development Director Tomi Pilbacka. The new equipment includes a combination of an electric resistance furnace and an induction furnace. The project also upgrades the billet table and billet saw. The commissioning of the new equipment is ongoing, and the emission reductions will be realised during 2025.   Waste heat recovery in the foundry Mäkelä Alu operates its own foundry, where recycled aluminium billets are produced. When aluminium billets are cast, they are cooled with water. The cooling water and the energy it absorbs are collected in a basin. “We have also invested in heat recovery and heat pump systems in the foundry to capture waste heat from the cooling water. At present, we heat our powder coating plants using waste heat from the foundry,” explains Tomi Pilbacka. These investments are just part of the energy efficiency projects implemented in recent years. The company launched a development programme exceeding €10 million in 2022 to achieve carbon neutrality. “Sustainability is about actions. For us, sustainability means setting our own ambitious goals when regulatory standards are not enough to achieve the best outcomes for people or the environment. At Mäkelä Alu, we have chosen to do more,” summarises Petri Mäkelä.   AluPlanet®: a low-carbon aluminium profiles Mäkelä Alu has launched its environmentally friendly aluminium profile product family, AluPlanet®. “The product family is designed to meet sustainability requirements and support planetary durability. AluPlanet® products play a key role in combating climate change,” says Päivi Venesoja, Mäkelä Alu’s EHSQ Manager. The emissions of the AluPlanet® product family are exceptionally low: only 2.04–2.59 t CO2e/t, depending on the surface treatment. Carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) measures the climate impact of greenhouse gases produced by humans. The unit (t CO2e/t) represents how many tonnes of CO2 equivalents are produced for every thousand kilograms of the product manufactured. “By choosing AluPlanet® profiles for your production, you can significantly reduce the environmental impact of your own operations,” adds Päivi Venesoja. For comparison, the European average for primary aluminium production (raw material, not finished profiles) is 6.7 t CO2e/t.

Artikkeli Pioneering energy efficiency from finland: An award-winning aluminium profile manufacturer drives the green transition julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> Mäkelä Alu has made significant investments in low-carbon solutions over recent years. With projects undertaken in 2023 and 2024 alone, the company will achieve an annual CO2 reduction of nearly 2,000 tonnes. Central to this progress is the abandonment of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as well as the adoption of modern electric furnace technology and heat recovery systems.

Mäkelä Alu is a family-owned company with roots dating back to 1937. Over its long history, the company has weathered various economic cycles. For more than 30 years, it has specialised in aluminium profile extrusion. Sustainability has been a guiding principle for years, evidenced by substantial investments in modern technology.

“Our ambitious goal is to achieve carbon neutrality in our own production by the end of 2025. Producing aluminium profiles is energy-intensive, requiring extremely high temperatures. By making responsible decisions in our production processes, we reduce not only our environmental impact but also the carbon footprint of our customers when they use our products,” says Petri Mäkelä, Chairman of the Board and Co-Owner of Mäkelä Alu Oy.

Award-winning energy efficiency

At the end of last year, Mäkelä Alu received two significant awards for its energy efficiency upgrades in one of its production units. The heating and cooling system of the anodising plant was modernised by replacing the LPG-powered steam system with a heat pump and electric boilers. The heat pump recovers waste heat while simultaneously cooling the process. Additionally, drying operations were switched from steam to heated water and electric resistances.

“As a result of this upgrade, we were awarded the Net-Zero Industries Award as the national winner in the Outstanding Projects category. The award ceremony took place at the UN Climate Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. In addition, we received the Energy Genius of the Year 2024 recognition, granted by the Energy Authority, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, and Motiva, for energy efficiency measures that promote responsible energy use in a distinctive way,” says Päivi Venesoja, Mäkelä Alu’s EHSQ Manager.

This modernisation reduced the company’s CO2 emissions by over 700 tonnes last year. Read more about the rewarded solution: The energy system at our anodising plant awarded Energy Genius of the Year 2024

New technology for the extrusion press

An even larger emission reduction project is currently underway. Mäkelä Alu operates three extrusion lines, one of which is now undergoing modernisation.

“In this renewal, the old equipment is being replaced with modern, electricity-powered technology, reducing LPG consumption by approximately 320 tonnes per year and CO₂ emissions by 960 tonnes,” says Development Director Tomi Pilbacka.

The new equipment includes a combination of an electric resistance furnace and an induction furnace. The project also upgrades the billet table and billet saw. The commissioning of the new equipment is ongoing, and the emission reductions will be realised during 2025.

 

Waste heat recovery in the foundry

Mäkelä Alu operates its own foundry, where recycled aluminium billets are produced. When aluminium billets are cast, they are cooled with water. The cooling water and the energy it absorbs are collected in a basin.

“We have also invested in heat recovery and heat pump systems in the foundry to capture waste heat from the cooling water. At present, we heat our powder coating plants using waste heat from the foundry,” explains Tomi Pilbacka.

These investments are just part of the energy efficiency projects implemented in recent years. The company launched a development programme exceeding €10 million in 2022 to achieve carbon neutrality.

“Sustainability is about actions. For us, sustainability means setting our own ambitious goals when regulatory standards are not enough to achieve the best outcomes for people or the environment. At Mäkelä Alu, we have chosen to do more,” summarises Petri Mäkelä.

 

AluPlanet®: a low-carbon aluminium profiles

Mäkelä Alu has launched its environmentally friendly aluminium profile product family, AluPlanet®.

“The product family is designed to meet sustainability requirements and support planetary durability. AluPlanet® products play a key role in combating climate change,” says Päivi Venesoja, Mäkelä Alu’s EHSQ Manager.

The emissions of the AluPlanet® product family are exceptionally low: only 2.04–2.59 t CO2e/t, depending on the surface treatment. Carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) measures the climate impact of greenhouse gases produced by humans. The unit (t CO2e/t) represents how many tonnes of CO2 equivalents are produced for every thousand kilograms of the product manufactured.

“By choosing AluPlanet® profiles for your production, you can significantly reduce the environmental impact of your own operations,” adds Päivi Venesoja.

For comparison, the European average for primary aluminium production (raw material, not finished profiles) is 6.7 t CO2e/t.

Artikkeli Pioneering energy efficiency from finland: An award-winning aluminium profile manufacturer drives the green transition julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> The energy system at our anodising plant awarded Energy Genius of the Year 2024 https://makelaalu.fi/en/news/the-energy-system-at-our-anodising-plant-awarded-energy-genius-of-the-year-2024/ Tue, 10 Dec 2024 12:33:10 +0000 https://makelaalu.fi/?p=10781 The energy system at Mäkelä Alu’s anodising plant has been recognised with the Energy Genius of the Year 2024 award. The award is granted by Finland’s Energy Authority, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, and Motiva (a Finnish government-affiliated organisation promoting energy efficiency) for outstanding energy efficiency measures that promote responsible energy use in a distinctive way. The award was given to us for the following reasons: “The new energy system at Mäkelä Alu’s anodising plant is a prime example of electrifying industrial processes and utilising waste heat. This initiative boldly implements actions that should already be widely adopted in the industry to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions. As a family business, Mäkelä Alu is at the forefront of scalable and adaptable solutions that can benefit other industries as well.”   What is it about? Mäkelä Alu upgraded the heating and cooling system of its anodising plant by replacing a liquefied gas steam system with a heat pump and electric boilers. The heat pump allows waste heat to be utilised while also cooling the process. In addition, drying was converted to operate with warm water and electric heaters instead of steam. New sensors, automation, and controls were introduced to enhance and optimise the system’s operation. The electrification of process heating and cooling has significantly reduced the plant’s external energy demand, improved energy efficiency by approximately 35% per produced tonne, and decreased CO2 emissions by over 700 tonnes annually. Our energy system was also recently recognised with the international Net-Zero Industries Award. You can find more about it here: A significant international award for our anodising plant.

Artikkeli The energy system at our anodising plant awarded Energy Genius of the Year 2024 julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> The energy system at Mäkelä Alu’s anodising plant has been recognised with the Energy Genius of the Year 2024 award. The award is granted by Finland’s Energy Authority, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, and Motiva (a Finnish government-affiliated organisation promoting energy efficiency) for outstanding energy efficiency measures that promote responsible energy use in a distinctive way.

The award was given to us for the following reasons:

“The new energy system at Mäkelä Alu’s anodising plant is a prime example of electrifying industrial processes and utilising waste heat. This initiative boldly implements actions that should already be widely adopted in the industry to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions. As a family business, Mäkelä Alu is at the forefront of scalable and adaptable solutions that can benefit other industries as well.”

 

What is it about?

Mäkelä Alu upgraded the heating and cooling system of its anodising plant by replacing a liquefied gas steam system with a heat pump and electric boilers. The heat pump allows waste heat to be utilised while also cooling the process. In addition, drying was converted to operate with warm water and electric heaters instead of steam. New sensors, automation, and controls were introduced to enhance and optimise the system’s operation.

The electrification of process heating and cooling has significantly reduced the plant’s external energy demand, improved energy efficiency by approximately 35% per produced tonne, and decreased CO2 emissions by over 700 tonnes annually.

Our energy system was also recently recognised with the international Net-Zero Industries Award. You can find more about it here: A significant international award for our anodising plant.

Artikkeli The energy system at our anodising plant awarded Energy Genius of the Year 2024 julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> Regional wellbeing as part of our responsibility work https://makelaalu.fi/en/news/regional-wellbeing-as-part-of-our-responsibility-work/ Tue, 03 Dec 2024 06:58:21 +0000 https://makelaalu.fi/?p=10769 We are committed to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), of which there are 17 in total. From these, we have identified four goals that are particularly central to us. The four goals are: Decent Work and Economic Growth, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, Climate Action, and Sustainable Cities and Communities. The latter is described as supporting the positive economic, social, and environmental connections between urban, peri-urban, and rural areas by strengthening national and regional development planning. Our aim is to act as a driving force for regional wellbeing and to build employment and collaboration not only locally but also on a provincial, national, and European scale. We measure our impact by monitoring our tax footprint and engaging in selected networks. This also includes charitable activities, especially during the holiday season.   Supporting families during the holidays One of the ways we contribute is by partnering with a local charity association, Moms for Kids, to support families in need. Financial donations collected are used to purchase gift cards for groceries, which are distributed to families with children who are struggling financially. Families assess their own need for support and reach out for assistance. “This is the simplest way to help. It ensures that families can save money for the specific gifts their children have wished for. The funds go directly to those who need it most,” says Annukka Navis, the association’s director. The charity emphasizes the importance of personal connections. “Meeting the families who receive support is crucial for us. It allows us to hear their gratitude directly and ensures the help is meaningful,” Navis adds. Charity in Kouvola We also contribute to a charity initiative in the Kouvola area. This project delivers holiday gifts to children and young people in disadvantaged families. All donations go directly to the recipients through an official local volunteer network, ensuring there are no intermediaries or administrative costs.   Long-standing support for church-based aid For several years, Mäkelä Alu has made donations to the diaconal work of the local parish. Diaconal work, which is governed by church law, is dedicated to helping those in the most vulnerable positions. However, our donations are not linked to this legal framework but are instead an act of goodwill during the holiday season. “We always warmly welcome Mäkelä Alu’s donations. They are incredibly important, as we lack the budget for such support otherwise. These contributions are directed straight to families with children in our community who have reached out to us for help,” says Marja-Terttu Akonniemi, a deacon in the Alajärvi parish. The donations are typically used to purchase gift cards for local grocery stores, which families can use for essentials or gifts for their children. “This keeps the funds within our community and ensures they directly benefit local families,” Akonniemi emphasizes.   A growing need for help The need for assistance continues to grow, and anyone can find themselves in a situation where they require support. With thoughtful evaluation, church workers ensure that donations are allocated to the families who need them most.   TAX FOOTPRINT: €16.7 MILLION Last year (2023), our tax footprint amounted to €16.7 million. This figure represents the tax revenue and tax-like payments generated by our operations for society. It includes corporate income tax, employee income taxes, and value-added tax (VAT), among others.  

Artikkeli Regional wellbeing as part of our responsibility work julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]> We are committed to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), of which there are 17 in total. From these, we have identified four goals that are particularly central to us.

The four goals are: Decent Work and Economic Growth, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, Climate Action, and Sustainable Cities and Communities. The latter is described as supporting the positive economic, social, and environmental connections between urban, peri-urban, and rural areas by strengthening national and regional development planning.

Our aim is to act as a driving force for regional wellbeing and to build employment and collaboration not only locally but also on a provincial, national, and European scale. We measure our impact by monitoring our tax footprint and engaging in selected networks. This also includes charitable activities, especially during the holiday season.

 

Supporting families during the holidays

One of the ways we contribute is by partnering with a local charity association, Moms for Kids, to support families in need. Financial donations collected are used to purchase gift cards for groceries, which are distributed to families with children who are struggling financially. Families assess their own need for support and reach out for assistance.

“This is the simplest way to help. It ensures that families can save money for the specific gifts their children have wished for. The funds go directly to those who need it most,” says Annukka Navis, the association’s director.

The charity emphasizes the importance of personal connections.

“Meeting the families who receive support is crucial for us. It allows us to hear their gratitude directly and ensures the help is meaningful,” Navis adds.

Annukka Navis.

Charity in Kouvola

We also contribute to a charity initiative in the Kouvola area. This project delivers holiday gifts to children and young people in disadvantaged families. All donations go directly to the recipients through an official local volunteer network, ensuring there are no intermediaries or administrative costs.

 

Long-standing support for church-based aid

For several years, Mäkelä Alu has made donations to the diaconal work of the local parish. Diaconal work, which is governed by church law, is dedicated to helping those in the most vulnerable positions. However, our donations are not linked to this legal framework but are instead an act of goodwill during the holiday season.

“We always warmly welcome Mäkelä Alu’s donations. They are incredibly important, as we lack the budget for such support otherwise. These contributions are directed straight to families with children in our community who have reached out to us for help,” says Marja-Terttu Akonniemi, a deacon in the Alajärvi parish.

The donations are typically used to purchase gift cards for local grocery stores, which families can use for essentials or gifts for their children.

“This keeps the funds within our community and ensures they directly benefit local families,” Akonniemi emphasizes.

 

A growing need for help

The need for assistance continues to grow, and anyone can find themselves in a situation where they require support. With thoughtful evaluation, church workers ensure that donations are allocated to the families who need them most.

 

TAX FOOTPRINT: €16.7 MILLION

Last year (2023), our tax footprint amounted to €16.7 million. This figure represents the tax revenue and tax-like payments generated by our operations for society. It includes corporate income tax, employee income taxes, and value-added tax (VAT), among others.

 

Artikkeli Regional wellbeing as part of our responsibility work julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran Mäkelä Alu Oy.

]]>