Hercules Global SARL, a manufacturing company based in Sandiara, Senegal, has successfully concluded the construction of a recycling facility within the Sandiara Special Economic Zone (SEZ). This new plant utilizes advanced technology to transform motor oil and end-of-life tires into automotive lubricants and carbon black powder. The Sandiara plant encompasses three distinct units: a lubricant mixing facility with an annual capacity of 3 million tons, a tire-to-carbon black powder conversion plant, and an aluminum alloy plant capable of producing 10,000 metric tons per year.

The aluminum recycling products are exclusively supplied to Toyota, while the recovered tire and oil goods are presently marketed within Senegal, contributing to the country's environmental cleanliness.

Founder of Hercules, Manoj Solanki, revealed that the decision to establish the recycling plant in Senegal was driven by identifying a market gap and potential. He observed the lack of a domestic lubricant manufacturing industry and recognized the opportunity to meet this demand locally and in neighboring countries, particularly as shipping costs had become prohibitively expensive before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Factors such as Senegal's favorable geographical location, stable governance, and efforts by Mayor Serigne Gueye Diop to boost the domestic market also influenced the company's choice. Mayor Diop emphasized that the SEZ's objective is to enhance Senegal's production of innovative and sustainable products, contributing to trade balance and focusing on heavy industry and energy sectors.

Hercules' aspirations transcend Senegal's boundaries, as the company envisions the nation as a hub for exporting to nearby countries. Solanki elaborated on their plans to expand lubricant sales to nations like Burkina Faso, Mali, and The Gambia. The company aims to establish showrooms and extend its regional presence in the coming years.

Original article by Energy Capital & Power.