Gallo Glass has secured funding for its hybrid electric glass furnace project.

The California, USA-headquartered glass manufacturer secured more than $2.7 million (of the total project federal cost share of up to $75 million) to begin Phase 1 activities.

The funding was from the US Department of Energy's Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) fund.

The project plans to install a demonstration hybrid electric furnace at its Modesto, CA site. 

It will reduce natural gas use by up to 70% and increase recycled content in its glass bottle production process.

It will also demonstrate cradle-to-gate reductions in carbon intensity of more than 40% compared to traditional gas-powered furnaces. 

Gallo anticipates selling low-carbon glass bottles as a premium option, contributing to the decarbonisation of a large portion of glass packaging for California’s wine and spirits industry. 

During Phase 1, Gallo will perform engineering for the project, assess the feasibility of clean or low-carbon power sources, provide documentation and reports necessary for OCED to complete the National Environmental Policy Act review, and continue engagement activities with the community, partners, and takeholders.