H&M Group has taken a major step in advancing its climate strategy by partnering with and investing in Rondo Energy, a leader in zero-carbon industrial heat and power solutions. The collaboration aims to decarbonize H&M’s extensive textile supply chain by leveraging Rondo’s innovative heat batteries, which convert renewable electricity into continuous high-temperature heat. By joining Rondo’s Strategic Investor Advisory Board, H&M aims to explore and implement these cutting-edge technologies into its global operations.
Southeast Asia, a major hub for textile manufacturing, will greatly benefit from this partnership. H&M and Rondo’s work in the region includes the recently installed first thermal battery in Southeast Asia, which also powers a cement factory. These advancements highlight the region’s potential for positive environmental and economic impact. H&M Group’s investment in Rondo Energy underlines its commitment to sustainable practices and the company’s role in global efforts to combat climate change through innovative, clean energy solutions.
H&M Group has been consistently investing in efforts aimed at decarbonizing its supply chain. The partnership with Rondo Energy marks an important step in these efforts with a focus on scalable and sustainable solutions. Rondo will leverage the investment from H&M Group Ventures to expand its international operations and develop storage projects focused on the textile industry. The move is in line with H&M’s broader goal to help its suppliers reduce their energy use and increase the adoption of renewable electricity.
The fashion industry, which accounts for around 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, faces a major challenge in reducing its carbon emissions due to its reliance on low-cost energy. Currently, the main energy source for textile production is coal, which contributes significantly to emissions. Rondo’s heat battery is a viable alternative that can replace fossil fuels with clean, renewable energy, potentially reducing the carbon emissions of clothing production by nearly two-thirds.
