Canson and ENGIE Inaugurate New Biomass Boiler Facility at Historic Saint-Marcel-Lès-Annonay Site (France)

Written on 09/21/2026
François HENIN


Canson inaugurates its new biomass boiler, marking a new milestone in the decarbonization of its industrial plant

A leading player in drawing, fine art, and specialty papers for over 450 years, Canson is continuing the transformation of its production plant with the commissioning of a new biomass boiler. Representing an investment of nearly 6 million euros, this project marks a major step in the site’s decarbonization strategy. It aims to significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels while strengthening the competitiveness and long-term sustainability of industrial operations in France.

A Boiler Fueled by a Local, Renewable Resource

The new facility operates on wood chips and shredded pallets sourced from within a 100-kilometer radius of the plant. This approach prioritizes renewable energy and local supply, aligning with circular economy principles.

The project received 2 million euros in financial support from ADEME as part of the France 2030 investment plan, along with the support and trust of the F.I.L.A. Group, Canson's parent company.

This new boiler contributes to a comprehensive transformation effort for both the site and the region, balancing environmental goals, local resource optimization, and competitive industrial manufacturing.

Nearly 89% Reduction in Energy-Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Since signing the contract in autumn 2023, technical teams from Canson and ENGIE have worked jointly to carry out this energy transition. Following a six-month fine-tuning period, the new boiler is now reaching its performance targets. It is projected to cut energy-related greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 89% and substantially reduce the site's natural gas consumption.

Beyond its environmental benefits, this investment serves as a driver for industrial transformation, enabling the facility to limit its exposure to fossil fuel market volatility while maintaining full production capacity.

“Advancing Energy Transition and Industrial Performance Together”

“With this new biomass boiler, we are achieving a major milestone in the transformation of our site. Our ambition is clear: reduce our carbon footprint while preserving our manufacturing footprint in France and securing the long-term sustainability of our operations locally. This project demonstrates that energy transition and industrial performance can go hand in hand,” stated Luca Pelosin, Managing Director of Canson and COO of the F.I.L.A. Group.

For Canson and the F.I.L.A. Group, this inauguration reflects a shared conviction: industrial energy transition must be approached as a long-term strategy that combines emissions reduction, competitiveness, industrial innovation, and regional commitment.

Through this investment, Canson continues its transformation and reaffirms its commitment to making a concrete contribution to the decarbonization of the French paper industry.

“After more than twenty years of collaboration with Canson, we are delighted to support this new phase of their energy transition. This biomass facility delivers lasting CO₂ reductions for the site while enhancing energy cost control and supply security through a local, renewable resource,” said Emmanuelle Brisemur, ENGIE South-East Regional Director for Local Energy Infrastructure.

Photo/Engie