6 Steps to Complete Energy Management for a Production or Manufacturing Facility
Effective energy management in a manufacturing setting is essential for companies looking to reduce costs and increase efficiency. One way to achieve this is by utilising iOpen services, which provide a comprehensive approach to energy management. Here are six steps to complete energy management for a production or manufacturing facility using iOpen services:
Step #1 – Appoint a C-level champion for energy management
Having a high-level champion for energy management is crucial for driving change and achieving significant results. Without a top-level executive who cares about energy management and efficiency, the company will miss out on strategic benefits such as differentiation and cost savings. iOpen services can provide executive support and guidance to help appoint a C-level champion and drive energy management initiatives.
Step #2 – Create a cross-functional team to address energy usage throughout the facility
The team should be tasked with identifying current energy consumption and its key drivers, developing energy reduction strategies, and setting targets. These targets should be linked to performance evaluations for unit managers to ensure accountability. iOpen services can provide support in forming and managing this cross-functional team, as well as in identifying the data required for implementing energy reduction strategies.
Step #3 – Set an energy consumption baseline and track usage regularly
Without a baseline understanding of energy consumption, it is impossible to determine and report results. Regular tracking of energy usage and any changes that impact consumption is key to demonstrating results and defending them in the boardroom. iOpen services can provide support in setting an energy consumption baseline and tracking usage using state-of-the-art monitoring and reporting tools.
Step #4 – Distinguish between utility bill and utility consumption
It is important to understand the difference between your utility bill and energy consumption. Factors such as tariffs and production needs can impact both, so consider both energy procurement and consumption when looking for ways to lower the utility bill. iOpen services can provide guidance and support in understanding and managing utility bills and consumption.
Step #5 – Recognize value beyond energy cost reduction
Energy management should not be solely focused on cost reduction. It is also important to consider the impact of energy usage on the production process and identify ways to increase efficiency and value. iOpen services can provide support in identifying and implementing efficiency measures that can increase value and improve production processes.
Step #6 – Continuously evaluate and improve
Energy management is an ongoing process, and it is essential to continuously evaluate and improve upon existing strategies. Regularly review energy consumption data, set new targets, and make adjustments as necessary to stay on track and achieve long-term success. iOpen services can provide support in monitoring progress, evaluating results, and making adjustments as needed to ensure long-term success.
In conclusion, effective energy management in a manufacturing setting starts at the top with a C-level champion and requires a cross-functional team approach to identify current consumption, set targets, and track progress. By utilising iOpen services for guidance and support in all aspects of energy management, from executive support to monitoring and reporting, companies can achieve long-term success in reducing energy costs and increasing efficiency.
If you would like to know more about iOpen can assist you in developing and effective energy management strategy, please get in touch by filling out our contact form.