Solvay to cut soda ash capacity at Spain plant to 420 kilotons

24 Feb '26

2 min read

Solvay to cut soda ash capacity at Spain plant to 420 kilotons

Pic: Shutterstock/Mr. Amarin Jitnathum

Insights

Solvay will reduce soda ash capacity at its Torrelavega, Spain plant to 420 kilotons from 600 kilotons starting Q3 2026, citing global oversupply and persistently high energy and carbon costs in Europe.
Sodium bicarbonate output remains unchanged.
The move supports competitiveness, energy transition goals and a biomass project, with up to 77 positions impacted.

Effective in the third quarter of 2026, and pending the required consultation process, Solvay will adjust the soda ash production capacity of its Torrelavega plant in Spain to 420 kilotons (from 600 kt previously) to strengthen the competitiveness of its global assets. Sodium bicarbonate operations remain unaffected.

This adjustment is a direct response to challenging market conditions, which are characterized by worldwide oversupply and the sustained high energy and carbon costs in Europe. Today’s measure is essential for securing the long-term viability and sustainable future of the Torrelavega site's remaining production capacity.

Etienne Galan, President of Solvay Soda Ash & Derivatives “Solvay is taking decisive steps to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of its soda ash operations. Soda ash is critical for essential applications, and Solvay remains firmly committed to the business. We are strategically investing now to cement our competitiveness for decades to come, including the deployment of carbon neutral soda ash processes as part of our energy transition roadmap. At the same time, we urgently need the regulatory framework to align with our industrial reality and the investments that are needed for this transformation.

The Torrelavega site will focus on serving regional soda ash and premium sodium bicarbonate customers, leveraging its proximity and long-term sustainability commitment. Customer supply remains fully guaranteed via the site and Solvay’s global network. The optimized operational level also aligns with Solvay’s commitment to energy transition, including a major biomass project to significantly reduce coal usage.

The measure will lead to a net reduction of maximum 77 positions. Solvay is committed to managing the impact for its employees in close consultation with the employee representatives, with the clear aim of socially responsible solutions and support measures.