Operating since 2023, the electric tunnel kiln fires LAUFEN sanitary ceramics using electricity. The wider transformation continued through 2025, with the phase out of gas fired equipment and the introduction of heat pumps and electric boilers.
2019
Development begins
2023
Electric tunnel kiln in operation
2025
Plant transformation away from fossil fuels
2026
A verified reduction in operational emissions
FIRING SANITARY CERAMICS WITHOUT CO₂ EMISSIONS FROM FOSSIL FUEL COMBUSTION
After four years of development, the first electric tunnel kiln for sanitaryware has successfully started production of complex ceramic pieces in Gmunden. The LAUFEN plant, which already uses electricity from renewable sources, was chosen for the first implementation of this pioneering technology as it is particularly conducive to the manufacture of the latest products of the highest quality.
The electric kiln was the first milestone, not the end of the transformation.
Cradle to Cradle Certification
LAUFEN has achieved Cradle to Cradle Certified® Circularity at Bronze level for ceramics manufactured at Gmunden within the certified scope. The certification assesses how products are designed to circulate, including material sourcing, packaging and systems for recovery.
The courage to change
Christian Schaefer, Managing Director, LAUFEN Austria, tells in an interview with Anna Moldenauer from Stylepark about the next steps:
