Written by Mary Hallock, IMEC Technical Specialist
Small Steps to Save Energy
The IMEC blog recently posted a report link titled “Energy Efficiency and Cook County Manufacturers." The report, sponsored by the Delta Institute describes energy efficiency recommendations that are commonly recommended to manufacturers and discusses why the most cost effective measures are often NOT implemented.
I was intrigued to find that I wasn’t the only one stumped by these missed opportunities. I have visited many manufacturers that are leaving money on the table by not making small investments in energy conservation. It is rare that I go into a facility that has no energy savings opportunities that could be implemented with low investment and quick payback. Some of my observations have included heaters that are running on a beautiful spring day with the doors wide open, lights on in conference rooms, cafeterias and offices when no one is using them, lack of controllable thermostats or not programming them properly when they are installed. My list goes on and on.
We take energy for granted, especially if we don’t see the bills or if the bills get hidden in the all-encompassing “overhead” category. Energy prices will continue to be volatile and will continue to rise. As much as I wish there were, there is no magic alternative energy bullet. In order to shield your business from rising energy costs and continue to maintain profitability and competitiveness, your energy usage should become as big a focus as the quality and on time delivery of your products. I believe more companies need to actively measure their energy use and make it visible. What gets measured, gets addressed. There are many tools available that can help you do this.
I’d appreciate any comments or feedback on why you are or are not investing in energy reduction. If you are investing, how are you managing your energy projects amidst all your other priorities? If you aren’t investing in energy projects, what is preventing you from doing so?
If you want to talk more about energy efficiency, email me at mhallock@imec.org