Summary of Collaboration or Co-Development Project
Project Number
46359
Sponsor
Ventus Engineering, S.A.
Date SCCP Disclosed
Jun 9, 2022
Country
Uruguay
Region
Latin America and the Caribbean
Last Updated Date
Sep 30, 2022
Industry
Manufacturing
Sector
Other (Copper, Rolled Copper, Brass, etc.)
Department
CM1UP - Regional Industry - MAS LAC/MAS Upstream - LAC
Project Description
IFC is partnering with Ventus Engineering, S.A. (“Co-Developer”), to jointly explore the development of a silicon production plant in Uruguay, using renewable raw materials and energy. The production plant would allow for the production of green silicon, with significantly lower carbon emissions per unit of silicon produced than using conventional production technology which utilizes coal and fossil-based energy sources. This first engagement serves to assess the availability of raw materials for the production, and the sustainability of their procurement, from an environmental, social, and economic perspective. In addition, IFC and Co-Developer jointly seek to identify a strategic partner to join the subsequent phases of project development and ultimately start operations.
E & S Information
Key inputs to produce silicon are quartz and carbon. During this first phase Prefeasibility phase, Co-Developer and IFC seek to ensure that both would be procured sustainably. An early-biodiversity screening assessment against PS6 Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of Living Natural Resources will be carried out to ensure the proposed site is not located in an area containing sensitive biological features, including critical habitat. The team will also assess current land use and tenure, and scope out any potential risks to local communities as well as those associated with PS5 Land Acquisition and Involuntary Resettlement. Should the Parties jointly proceed to the next, Feasibility stage of the project, two key areas of risk that will be studied prior to further activity include, but are not limited to (i) water resources impacts / water pollution and (ii) community health and safety, within the scope of the ESIA. For carbon, the project plans to use charcoal instead of coal, increasing the sustainability of production. The Team will assess how charcoal is sourced, to ensure a sustainable supply chain that relies on sustainable afforestation.
Additional Documents
