Implementing and Sustaining Operator Led Energy Efficiency Improvements

Abstract

The continuing high price of energy, difficult trading conditions and corporate commitments to meet emissions targets means that industry faces tough challenges to improve energy efficiency and reduce operating costs. The challenge is how to maximize energy savings with optimal capital investment. During the past few years, many operating companies have made good strides towards improving the energy performance of their assets by implementing energy efficiency programs. In general, these programs and initiatives have focused on relatively easy 'low hanging fruit' energy efficiency improvements - such as reducing furnace O2 levels and implementing steam trap maintenance programs. These initiatives are an important first step. However, to significantly reduce energy consumption, the site must focus on a strategic approach which involves developing, implementing and sustaining a client specific program of energy optimization. We discuss ways of sustaining energy performance through operator led initiatives as part of the structured KBC energy management process, ENgage. We present case studies from the oil refining industry, demonstrating energy savings of up to 20 percent, in which capital expenditure were kept to the bare minimum.