Siemens Erlangen Factory Recognized as Digital Lighthouse by World Economic Forum

Siemens Erlangen Factory Recognized as Digital Lighthouse by World Economic Forum

(IN BRIEF) The World Economic Forum (WEF) has honored Siemens’ Erlangen factory in Germany with the designation of Digital Lighthouse Factory, incorporating it into the Global Lighthouse Network. This accolade recognizes advanced manufacturing sites that effectively utilize fourth industrial revolution technologies. Over the past four years, the factory has achieved a remarkable 69% increase in productivity while reducing energy consumption by 42%, thanks to its Green Lean Digital approach. The site recently launched in-house semiconductor production for high-performance frequency converters, contributing to its innovative reputation. With a €500 million investment aimed at enhancing research and development, the Erlangen facility aims to lead in power electronics for the energy transition. The WEF’s recognition is a testament to the factory’s commitment to sustainability and technological advancement, driven by initiatives including the use of AI and digital twins.

(PRESS RELEASE) ERLANGEN, 9-Oct-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — In a significant recognition of innovation and sustainability, the World Economic Forum (WEF) has designated Siemens’ factory in Erlangen, Germany, as a Digital Lighthouse Factory, integrating it into the esteemed Global Lighthouse Network. This accolade highlights advanced manufacturing sites that exemplify the application of fourth industrial revolution technologies. The Erlangen facility, utilizing a Green Lean Digital approach, has reported a remarkable 69% boost in productivity while simultaneously cutting energy consumption by 42% over the past four years.

The factory’s recent initiatives include the successful launch of in-house semiconductor production for high-performance frequency converters, further solidifying its status as a pioneering site in manufacturing. Siemens had previously committed €500 million to enhance research and infrastructure at the Erlangen location, transforming it into a global hub for research and development and a focal point for industrial metaverse activities.

Following the accolades received by Siemens facilities in Amberg, Germany, and Chengdu, China, the Erlangen site becomes the third to earn such recognition. “With this achievement, we celebrate the creative spirit of our Erlangen team. Through the integration of AI, digital twins, and robotics, we are setting new benchmarks in manufacturing efficiency while contributing to sustainability,” remarked Cedrik Neike, Member of the Managing Board of Siemens AG and CEO of Digital Industries. He added that this recognition fuels the company’s commitment to sustainability and enhances resilience for its customers.

The factory’s advancements include the deployment of AI across over 100 use cases, significantly improving production efficiency. The implementation of innovative waste reduction techniques has optimized resource use, thus minimizing environmental impact.

“Becoming the leading supplier of power electronics for the energy transition is our goal,” stated Site Manager Stephan Schlauss. He emphasized that the award reflects the dedication of all employees and serves as a motivation to continue striving for improvement.

The WEF jury was impressed by five distinct applications of digital technology showcased at the factory, particularly the establishment of a clean-room facility for semiconductor production. This project, completed within 11 months, utilized an end-to-end data analytics platform that halved space requirements and reduced material usage by 40%, all while enhancing performance and energy efficiency. An innovative energy management system implemented at the facility also contributed to a significant reduction in energy consumption of over 50%.

Siemens AG (Berlin and Munich) is a leading technology company focused on industry, infrastructure, mobility, and healthcare. The company’s purpose is to create technology to transform the everyday, for everyone. By combining the real and the digital worlds, Siemens empowers customers to accelerate their digital and sustainability transformations, making factories more efficient, cities more livable, and transportation more sustainable. Siemens also owns a majority stake in the publicly listed company, Siemens Healthineers, a leading global medical technology provider shaping the future of healthcare. In fiscal 2023, which ended on September 30, 2023, the Siemens Group generated revenue of €74.9 billion and net income of €8.5 billion. As of September 30, 2023, the company employed around 305,000 people worldwide on the basis of continuing operations. Further information is available on the Internet at www.siemens.com.

Media Contacts:

Jil Huber
Siemens AG
+49 162 3474144
jil-patricia.huber@siemens.com

Bernhard Lott
Siemens AG
+49 174 1560693
bernhard.lott@siemens.com

SOURCE: Siemens AG