Kemira has carried out energy-saving measures for over ten years. Now the company has adopted a new approach that is even more systematic and goal-oriented than before. “In spring 2010, we launched an energy-efficiency program, and the first results have been very encouraging,” says Elina Engman, vice president of energy at Kemira.
The first phase of the program involves reviewing Kemira’s 25 most energy-consuming production plants. The pilot project examined opportunities to enhance energy efficiency at Kemira’s production plant in Äetsä.
“The inspection was well received at the plant, and the results were excellent because of the dedicated and enthusiastic staff. We discovered dozens of little and big ways to use energy more efficiently,” Engman says.
Energy savings of up to 20 percent
Production plants reviewed during the past few months also include those in Joutseno and Oulu, as well as two smaller water-chemical plants in Harjavalta and Pori. “The results have been excellent. In some cases, energy efficiency can be improved by as much as 20 percent,” says Engman.
The newfound ways to save energy seldom require large investments. Energy consumption—and costs—can be reduced considerably by adjusting operating methods and making processes more effective. “Energy can be saved by using waste heat for preheating, for example. In many cases, all we need to do is view familiar procedures from a new perspective, through the eyes of an outsider,” says Engman.
In addition to the locations in Finland, Kemira’s production plants in Eastover, South Carolina, and Augusta, Georgia, in the United States as well as in Uruguay were reviewed during fall 2010. The one in Helsingborg in Sweden was inspected right before the end of 2010. “After that, the review process will be expanded to cover other, larger production plants, such as those in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom,” says Engman.
Everyone benefits from best practices
The review process provides practical information on how to save energy and, thereby, costs and minimize environmental impacts. Kemira is preparing a toolkit with instructions and best practices for all production plants.
“Kemira’s production plants vary greatly in energy use. Some production plants need a great deal of steam, whereas others consume a lot of electricity, gas or oil. All will benefit from a common toolkit from which they can choose the tools that work best for them,” says Engman.
In addition to the toolkit, Kemira is developing an energy-efficiency system that includes management and reporting tools, as well as training. “The goal to improve energy efficiency applies to all of Kemira’s global operations. This will be achieved through constant development, audits and operational improvements,” says Engman.
The program covers the entire production chain as well as logistics. Most of the transportation of products and raw materials is outsourced. “We have compiled a purchasing guide that includes energy-efficiency issues,” says Engman.
Text Matti Remes
The article was first published in Kemira´s stakeholder and customer magazine Waterlink, issue 4/2010.