The Lactalis Group, an international leader in the dairy sector, operates numerous facilities in Italy, including the San Polo di Torrile plant, a central hub for the collection and processing of Parmigiano Reggiano whey and the production of whey protein powder. This highly energy-intensive facility consumes approximately 5,000 MWh of electricity and 3,500 MWh of thermal energy annually. To reduce costs and emissions, in 2017 Lactalis installed a cogeneration plant with an electrical capacity of 901 kW and a thermal output of 955 kW, which also produces hot water used in pasteurization, cleaning, and drying processes. Thanks to this technology, energy costs have decreased by 25% and CO₂ emissions by around 2,000 tons per year. In 2024, an 85 MWh photovoltaic system was added, further integrating renewable energy. The combined use of cogeneration and solar power makes the facility more efficient and sustainable.