Energy efficiency in industry is a fundamental point for the sector. At the national level, the industry is responsible for41% of the total energy consumed in Brazil, according toNational Confederation of Industry(CNI).
Good news is that, in 2022, the industrial sector presented a1.5% reductionin energy consumption, according to theQuarterly Electricity Consumption Bulletin, linked to the Energy Research Company (EPE), a federal body responsible for energy planning.
Although in the commercial and residential sectors the EPE Bulletin registered aincrease of 0.6%In terms of energy consumption in the first quarter of the year, the industrial segment went against this result and has demonstrated good potential in terms of energy efficiency.
This is partly due to the environmental awareness of managers with regard to sustainable constructions and intelligent systems in the production line. Thus, it is possible to save energy without compromising the productivity of the industrial chain. This is what we will talk about in this content, showing how to achieve energy efficiency through more modern and sustainable practices.
What is the role of industry in efficiency and energy
In general terms, the industrial sector represents a scenario of attention when talking about energy efficiency. After all, production chains are extensive and cannot stop, which ends up driving high consumption.
Therefore, we are facing a time when the sector needs to take investments in energy efficiency seriously tocurb consumption e stimulate business competitiveness.
When an industry positions itself as a sustainable and energy-efficient company, its image in the market improves and profitability is also much greater. However, according to data from Epbr, a media specialized in the energy market,Energy efficiency remains behind in Brazil in all segments.
Identifying the big villains in the scenario is the first step towards becoming aware of this issue. In summary, the main factors that contribute to maintaining this panorama are:
- increase in world population;
- emergence of new enterprises and industries;
- growth in demand for electrical energy;
- the high cost of electricity.
The search for energy efficiency is the great way to overcome this scenario and make it more optimistic. This process is the result of a global energy transition effort, that is, which aims to replace an energy generation matrix in which the use of fossil fuels predominates with a sustainable chain, based onrenewable sourcesand withlow pollutant emission ratesas CO2.
The rational use of electrical energy is also a decisive aspect in this process, in order to contain the emission of greenhouse gases and, at the same time, reduce operational costs in the industry. THEenergy efficiencyIt is, therefore, an environmental and, at the same time, economic issue. This is why investments in sustainable solutions are so important. We will talk more about these solutions throughout the content.
What are the main villains of energy efficiency
Before we talk about sustainable systems for industry and thinking about efficient methods of using energy, we have to start with an analysis of waste. According to the National Electric Energy Conservation Program (Procel), annual energy waste reaches22 million kW, which is equivalent to1.54 billion dollars. This is when we consider industries, residences and commerce.
It is clear, then, that there is still a lot of work to be done in search of energy efficiency in industry and other segments. Below, we point out the main villains that compromise this search in industrial parks in general.
Electric motors
It is estimated that in Brazilian factoriesabout 20%of the engines installed are over 25 years old. As we know, old machinery is one of the things that consumes the most energy in industries, considering that they are outdated technologies. No wonder, approximately70% of a factory's energy expenditure comes from these engines.
The best alternative, in this case, is to replace the old engines with new, high-performance solutions. Although they require a high initial investment, the return is achieved in the medium to long term with energy savings.
Another alternative is to use adjustable speed drives on old machinery. Thus, it is possible to adapt the system with varying workloads. This path also helps to reduce energy waste.
compressed air systems
Negligently maintained compressed air systems can generate majorwaste of energy, mainly due to internal leaks. This problem usually happens due to wear on piston rings or valves. This produces less air than the rated capacity of the compressor.This is why it is so important to carry out proper maintenance.
Furthermore, with regard to the distribution and use of gas in industries, it is important to check whether there is a loss of pressure between the reservoirs and the points of use. Making use of low-pressure fans and compressors can help in the search for energy efficiency in industry – especially when used in places where compressed air is not so necessary.
Air conditioning and ventilation
Improper use of air conditioning directly influences electricity consumption. Therefore, using it in the appropriate temperature ranges for the environment and installing air curtains are some important measures to avoid waste in everyday life. More than that, one must always consider thepreventive maintenance of the device(cleaning filters, checking for gas leaks, etc.);
How to achieve energy efficiency in industry
One of the main ways to achieve energy efficiency in industry is investment inrenewable sourcesand other sustainable solutions. The installation of photovoltaic panels forgenerating energy from sunlightis a good example, although the system demands a high initial cost.
Another alternative, with lower costs, is the use of LED lamps, which combine maximum lighting efficiency with minimum energy consumption. Furthermore, the useful life of LEDs is very long. A system that combinesnatural lighting and dimmable LEDsrepresents the most innovative aspect of this proposal.
In addition to helping in the search for energy efficiency in the industry, these sustainable solutions make the company more competitive in the market. After all, working in an environmentally friendly way reveals a positive image of the brand.
Swap conventional light bulbs for LED
Replacing incandescent and fluorescent lamps with LED models is the most common example when it comes to reducing energy costs,combining maximum performance with minimum consumption. Furthermore, LED lamps are recyclable and can be dimmed, which allows even greater control over use.
The ideal is to install automatic sensors to ensure that the lamps remain off whenever necessary. Mainly in factories and industrial parks, it is also recommended to invest in solutions that prioritize thenatural lighting, in order to also promote thermal comfort in the warehouse.
Replace old equipment
Many industries operate with old machines that, although they are within their useful life, are not economical from an energy point of view, as we mentioned previously. Replacing them with more modern versions is a viable solution that brings results even in the short term.In fact, this is one of the most common practices in construction projects.industrial retrofit.
There are a series of efficient equipment available on the market, which have greater performance and lower consumption compared to older versions. Another alternative is to install transformers so that older devices operate in the nominal power range compatible with the machinery's performance.
Use industrial air conditioners
O industrial air conditionerIt has a series of advantages over conventional air conditioning devices, especially in relation to energy efficiency. In addition to significantly reducing energy consumption, this type of air conditioner is easier to install and requires little maintenance.
The installation ofindustrial shuttersIt is also a very efficient solution when it comes to improving thermal comfort and reducing electricity costs. The shutters function as a natural ventilation mechanism, allowing continuous air flow and preventing workers from being exposed to sudden changes in temperature,in addition to preventing the accumulation of contaminants in the air.
Invest in natural lighting and ventilation
Throughout this content, we have already given some clues about the importance of natural lighting and ventilation systems for the industry. Now we will give more details about it. These sustainable solutions bring quick returns and are more affordable than other alternatives. Among the natural lighting and ventilation systems that operate thezero energy cost, we can mention thedomus, to theshuttersand theindustrial lanterns.
Lighting conditions can be considerably improved by installinglinear domus. This structure encourages the right amount of natural light to enter the warehouse, which will be well lit during most of the working day. Therefore, it is not necessary to resort to artificial lamps forabout eight hoursoffice hours.
Another advantage is that the domus helps control the internal temperature and has protection against UV rays, making the place more pleasant. When it comes to thermal comfort, the winning solutions are thoseshuttersand theindustrial lanterns. If used together, the effect ofconstant air renewalin the warehouse it is even more enhanced.
This prevents the accumulation of stale air, dust and any toxic gases suspended in the environment. These particles are eliminated by the exhaust process that takes place at the entrances and exits of the lanterns, as a result of theVenturi and chimney effects.
As ventilation is permanent and air exchange is constant, there will be no need to use air conditioning units. THEair quality, in turn, will be the best possible, which also helps to create a healthier corporate environment. In other words, in addition to gaining energy efficiency in the industry, we also gainbetter quality of life in the workplace.
Therefore, if you are looking for intelligent solutions with guaranteed returns for your factory, you already know where to start. Invest in natural lighting and ventilation systems and take your industry to a more economical, modern and sustainable level.
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