The membrane factory in Oroszlány began operations in the industrial park in 2002 and has since grown into one of Hungary’s leading water treatment technology manufacturing plants. In 2006, the facility was acquired by General Electric (GE), which implemented significant capacity expansions within a few years, creating new jobs in the region. In 2017, it was purchased by the French SUEZ Group, and in 2023 it became part of the Veolia group, which further developed the factory’s international connections and market influence.
The membrane factory uses some of the most advanced technology in water treatment. Veolia Water Hungary’s membrane is a reinforced hollow fiber ultrafiltration membrane that can purify contaminated water without the use of chemicals, utilizing a low vacuum separation method. The membranes are immersed directly in wastewater, where they draw water through pores smaller than a hair’s width, effectively removing bacteria, viruses, organic matter, and micro-pollutants.
The ultrafiltration and gas separation membranes, as well as reverse osmosis filtration units produced here are recognized worldwide. In Hungary, numerous drinking water and wastewater treatment plants – such as those in Lázbérc, Balatonőszöd, Veresegyház, Cegléd, and Oroszlány –successfully use the factory’s products. These innovative technologies help purify drinking water and treat wastewater, playing a significant role in achieving sustainability goals and reducing environmental burdens.
In recent years, the factory has reached new heights. Production volume has increased sharply, and the number of membranes sold has risen by 70% over three years. To meet growing demand, the factory expanded its capacity with a $42 million investment, and today employs more than 1,000 people in Oroszlány, with a total workforce of 1,200 nationwide.
As water demand continues to rise in industry, agriculture, and households, access to clean water is becoming an ever greater challenge. Climate change and the emergence of new pollutants further exacerbate the situation. Veolia recognizes the gravity of these issues and is committed to providing quality water at affordable prices for everyone. The GreenUp 24-27 strategy focuses on water technology, which plays a significant role in sustainable development.
The Oroszlány factory – the world’s largest ultrafiltration membrane manufacturing centre –produces 160,000 membrane modules annually, further strengthening its technological leadership. Moreover, the plant’s expertise actively contributes to the implementation of the latest 2024 European Union water management and wastewater treatment directives.