How do you choose energy-efficient equipment for your plant?

Choosing energy-efficient equipment for your plant can help you save money, reduce emissions, and improve performance. But how do you know which equipment is best for your needs and goals? Here are some tips to help you make smart decisions.

1 Assess your current situation

Before you invest in new equipment, you need to evaluate your current situation. How much energy do you use, and where do you use it? What are your main sources of energy waste and inefficiency? How old and reliable are your existing equipment and systems? You can use tools like energy audits, benchmarking, and metering to collect and analyze data on your energy performance and identify opportunities for improvement.

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Lawrence Oladeji

Data Analyst | Business Intelligence Analyst | Energy Modelling | Community Developer for Sustainable Innovation and Future of Work.
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Data-Driven Assessment: I initiate with a meticulous analysis of energy consumption patterns through comprehensive data collection. This forms the foundation for identifying high-impact areas. Lifecycle Cost Analysis: I conduct rigorous lifecycle cost analyses, encompassing acquisition, operation, maintenance, and energy expenditure. This method ensures sound financial decisions, emphasizing long-term savings. Cutting-Edge Technology Integration: Staying at the forefront of industry advancements, I leverage state-of-the-art technologies like variable frequency drives (VFDs) and IoT sensors. These innovations optimize performance while minimizing energy wastage.

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2 Set your objectives and criteria

Once you have a clear picture of your current situation, you need to set your objectives and criteria for choosing energy-efficient equipment. What are your energy-saving goals and targets? How much are you willing to spend on upfront and operating costs? How do you measure and compare the energy efficiency of different equipment options? What are the technical, environmental, and regulatory requirements and standards that apply to your plant? You can use tools like life-cycle costing, payback analysis, and energy performance indicators to help you define and prioritize your criteria.

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Dr. Rikhil Iyer

Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Solutions | Novel Membrane Synthesis | Polymer Chemistry & Innovation| Fitness propounder
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In my experience the total ownership cost of the equipment always misleads you. This number is essential as it gives an insight on how return on investment the equipment would render for example, the Energy-efficient equipment might have a higher upfront cost but can often pay for itself in energy savings over its operational life. If the equipment has higher energy ratings, the long term costs such as energy consumption and lifespan would be taken care of as it will induce lower maintenance, lower energy consumption (paying of bills to operate the equipment will be lower) and downtime for monthly maintenance.

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3 Research and compare options

After you have set your objectives and criteria, you need to research and compare the available options for energy-efficient equipment. You can use sources like catalogs, websites, reviews, case studies, and experts to find out more about the features, benefits, and drawbacks of different equipment types and models. You can also use tools like energy efficiency labels, ratings, and certificates to compare the energy performance of different options. You should look for equipment that meets or exceeds your criteria and fits your plant's needs and conditions.

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4 Test and verify performance

Before you finalize your decision, you need to test and verify the performance of the energy-efficient equipment you have selected. You can use methods like trials, demonstrations, simulations, and inspections to check the functionality, quality, and compatibility of the equipment. You can also use methods like monitoring, verification, and evaluation to measure the actual energy savings and impacts of the equipment. You should look for evidence that the equipment delivers the expected results and meets or exceeds your standards.

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5 Implement and maintain equipment

After you have chosen and tested the energy-efficient equipment, you need to implement and maintain it properly. You can use strategies like planning, scheduling, training, and documentation to ensure a smooth and safe installation and commissioning of the equipment. You can also use strategies like preventive maintenance, repair, and replacement to keep the equipment in good condition and optimal performance. You should look for ways to optimize the operation and integration of the equipment with your plant's systems and processes.

Choosing energy-efficient equipment for your plant is not a one-time task, but a continuous process of improvement. By following these tips, you can make informed and effective decisions that will benefit your plant's energy performance and bottom line.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Reinhold Wieland

Energy Efficiency & Services Support
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For comparison of various options SIR is an excellent way (Savings to Investment Ratio). It indicates the monetary return for every £ invested over the finance period. To calculate, divide the total projected energy savings over say 10 years by the total equipment/installation cost. How would you like it if you get say £5.00 for every £ invested? Also, Return of Investment in % is another way a s much better than Simple Pay Back. Energy Efficiency is Smart Business!

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How do you choose energy-efficient equipment for your plant?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Assess your current situation

2 Set your objectives and criteria

3 Research and compare options

4 Test and verify performance

5 Implement and maintain equipment

6 Here’s what else to consider

Plant Operations

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How do you choose energy-efficient equipment for your plant?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Assess your current situation

2 Set your objectives and criteria

3 Research and compare options

4 Test and verify performance

5 Implement and maintain equipment

6 Here’s what else to consider

Plant Operations

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