WBPI: CAN YOU SUMMARISE INTEC’S PRODUCT AND SERVICES OFFERING TO THE INDUSTRIAL WOOD PRODUCER SECTOR?
Oliver Lauer (OL): INTEC delivers advanced thermal energy systems tailored to the diverse needs of industrial wood producers – ranging from sawmills and wood-based panel manufacturers to paper mills. The company’s systems utilise both biomass and fossil fuels to produce thermal oil, steam, hot water, or hot gas, depending on the specific industrial application. In certain configurations, power generation can also be integrated. INTEC’s focus is on delivering reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions that align with the unique operational demands of these sectors.
In addition to its activities in the woodbased materials industry, INTEC also serves a broad range of other industrial sectors worldwide. This diversified global network enables the company to balance market fluctuations more effectively and maintain resilience in the face of shifting industry dynamics.
WBPI: WHAT IS INTEC’S ASSESSMENT OF THE CURRENT INTEREST AND FOCUS OF THIS SECTOR IN INVESTING IN ENERGYEFFICIENT ENERGY SYSTEMS?
OL: When asked about the current appetite for energy-efficient technologies, INTEC reports a moderate level of interest among the wood industry. While some players are actively exploring updates to their energy systems, the financial burden associated with such investments often leads to hesitation. In Europe, the wood-based panel industry is witnessing relatively low activity in terms of new project development. However, in the US, there is renewed interest fuelled in part by the availability of carbon credits. Even so, ongoing discussions around tariffs have introduced uncertainty, putting several projects on hold.
WBPI: DESCRIBE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FACED BY THESE SECTORS WITH REGARD TO THEIR ENERGY REQUIREMENTS
OL: The industry faces a number of persistent challenges, particularly around long-term forecasting and operational stability. Over the past five years, unpredictability in energy pricing and market demand has made it difficult for companies to confidently plan investments. At the same time, the availability of skilled operators and maintenance personnel remains a critical concern, especially as energy systems grow more sophisticated. Yet, amidst these obstacles, there are meaningful opportunities – particularly for companies that are willing to adopt newer, more efficient technologies to gain a competitive edge.
WBPI: HOW MUCH ARE THESE SECTORS INVOLVED IN CO-GENERATION (CHP)? AND EXPLAIN SOME OF THE BENEFITS OF THE DIFFERENT SYSTEMS AVAILABLE
OL: Despite its potential for improving efficiency, co-generation (CHP) remains under-utilised in the wood-based panel industry. The complexity of steam-based systems poses a significant barrier, requiring trained operators and robust maintenance regimes.
Nevertheless, alternative approaches – such as systems combining thermal oil with Organic Rankine Cycles (ORC) and belt dryers – are gradually gaining ground. These solutions offer a less complicated path toward energy integration. However, INTEC notes that the sector remains largely conservative in its technological approach, with widespread change unlikely unless regulations mandate it.
WBPI: WHAT IS THE CURRENT STATE OF PLAY WITH ENERGY PRICES IN EUROPE AND HOW DO YOU SEE THEM DEVELOPING?
OL: Energy prices in Europe have recently begun to stabilise following a period of volatility. However, the global geopolitical climate continues to cast a shadow over longterm projections. INTEC notes that while the current pricing environment is more predictable than in recent years, external factors such as ongoing conflicts could easily disrupt this fragile equilibrium. As a result, flexibility and strategic planning are essential.
WBPI: WHAT ROLES ARE REGULATION, INCENTIVES AND SUBSIDIES PLAYING IN DIFFERENT COUNTRIES?
OL: Government policies, subsidies, and incentives play a pivotal role in shaping energy investment decisions. INTEC emphasises that regulations and financial support mechanisms can directly determine whether a project proceeds. Incentives not only make projects more financially viable but also accelerate decision-making and implementation time lines. In some markets, these tools are not just supportive – they are indispensable.
WBPI: HOW DOES INTEC VIEW MARKET DEMAND IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS?
OL: INTEC’s forecast for the next five years in the wood-based panel industry remains cautious. The company has seen a steady decline in its market share within this sector over the past decade and, in response, has increasingly diversified into other industries. In Europe, persistent over-capacity and a general reluctance toward new capital investments suggest that demand for new equipment will remain subdued – unless external factors such as stricter environmental regulations compel producers to act. While some niche opportunities may emerge, substantial growth in this market segment is unlikely without significant external catalysts.
Additionally, it is worth noting that major press manufacturers are now increasingly capable of offering complete plant technology as one-stop suppliers – covering every stage from the wood yard and energy systems to the press line and final finishing. This fully integrated approach enables them to deliver comprehensive, turnkey solutions, making it considerably more difficult for independent technology providers like INTEC to gain access to and compete in these largescale projects directly.
This market dynamic has further reinforced INTEC’s strategic decision to expand its presence in other industrial sectors beyond the wood-based panel industry. By serving a broad portfolio of industries around the world, the company has built a resilient and flexible business model. This diversified global network enables INTEC to better absorb fluctuations in any single sector and maintain a stable trajectory in an increasingly unpredictable economic environment.
The wood-based panel industry finds itself at a crossroads – balancing operational conservatism, financial constraints, and a growing need for energy modernisation. INTEC’s insights reveal a sector that is cautiously exploring efficiency improvements but remains heavily influenced by regulation, economic feasibility, and geopolitical events. As governments continue to emphasise carbon reduction and energy efficiency, the pace and nature of change will largely depend on how these external forces shape the business environment in the years ahead.
