Luxembourg launches project to modernise industrial zones
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On 5 February 2025, the Minister of Economy, SMEs, Energy and Tourism, Lex Delles, presented a concept for the densification of industrial zones based on the Triangle Vert pilot project in Ellange-Gare. He was joined by burgomasters Steve Reckel (Mondorf-les-Bains) and Michel Gloden (Schengen), representing SIAER, the inter-municipal structure that manages the region's economic zones.
The project aims to optimise the use of resources, especially land, to increase space for industrial, craft and service companies, while maintaining environmental sustainability. With the limited amount of available land in Luxembourg, the authorities are looking for new ways to efficiently utilise industrial zones, reducing the burden on the environment and making the area more attractive to businesses.
A key area will be the development of multi-level industrial buildings - companies will be able to occupy space both horizontally and vertically, which will increase the number of workplaces and businesses per unit area. At the same time, the concept of a mix of economic activities will be introduced - along with traditional industrial facilities, there will be zones for research, innovation and startups.
The project also includes common infrastructure and services: centralised parking, catering areas, co-working spaces and renewable energy sources, including wind power and biogas plants. The environmental aspect also plays an important role - green areas, biodiversity management and recreational spaces are planned.
One of the most ambitious items will be to look at options for residential development near economic zones to reduce the distance between workplace and home for employees of businesses.
The Minister of Economy Lex Delles emphasised that the rational use of industrial zones is a key factor for sustainable economic growth. The Triangle Vert project will help to develop and test innovative solutions that can then be implemented in other regions of the country.
Burgomaster Steve Reckel said this approach would free up valuable land in the centre of Mondorf-les-Bains, allowing it to be used for housing. This, in turn, would reduce pressure on the property market.
Burgomaster Michel Gloden emphasised that Schengen will pioneer this approach, which is likely to shape the development of industrial zones for decades to come.
At the same time, Albert Waaijenberg, president of ZARW (Zone for Economic Development in Wiltz), presented the "Salzbaach" project, which proves that densification is possible even in difficult topographical conditions.
The Triangle Vert project will be a testbed for the modernisation of all industrial zones in Luxembourg. The densification of development, the integration of infrastructure and the use of renewable energy should increase economic efficiency while reducing the negative impact on the environment. This project demonstrates a new way of thinking about economic development in a country where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand.
