Energy Audit No. 2: Aluminium Industry in the European Economic Community

摘要

Energy conservation still represents the best, cheapest and most accessible energy source for the next 10 years or so. These savings can only be made at the point of energy use, i.e., in the plants by the people working in the plants. Effective energy management means integrated and continuous attention to all the problems involved in the running of the plant. Energy management is only one of the factors influencing profitability, but it is entirely within control. Management sunshine is the strongest single factor contributing to the achievement of effective energy conservation. Analysis of energy management results identifies three distinct groups of companies: (1) Top management is fully involved; (2) Top management appreciates the problem, but is not directly involved; and (3) Energy considerations are not thought to be part of top management activities. Other significant factors in the achievement of effective energy conservation are: productivity improvements, low plant load factor during recessionary times, and product recovery. Cost is only one aspect of energy management.