There's More to Managing Energy than Saving BTUs

Abstract

It's time to broaden our thinking in the energy world. Conserving energy means more than saving Btu's of fuel gas-improving yields and reducing waste should be vital parts of any conservation program. This paper will begin by summarizing the incredible savings and improvements experienced in Dow's Louisiana Division after an ongoing energy program was expanded to include yield improvement and waste reduction. Then we'll review the results of a "Superintendent's Survey". We'll find out why the program is so enthusiastically supported by the plants and gain insight into the motivational aspects of the program. Next, the mechanism of the program will be examined. A key concept here is the emphasis on generating projects. We'll look at actions that help accomplish that task as well as a few that are unnecessary and sometimes hinder progress. The paper will conclude with the Louisiana Division's approach to the future; our plans for continuously improving our performance in energy conservation, yield improvement and waste reduction during the next few years.