Energy Assessments Reveal Opportunities for Savings

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has completed Energy Savings Assessments (ESAs) at 200 of the largest industrial facilities in the nation.

The assessments have identified opportunities to save over 50 trillion Btus of natural gas — roughly equivalent to the natural gas used in 700,000 American homes. 

DOE’s Energy Saving Teams visited 200 of the nation’s most energy-intensive manufacturing facilities over the past 12 months. The teams worked with plant personnel to identify savings opportunities that typically amounted to five percent to15 percent of a plant’s total energy use - saving an average of about $2.5 million per plant annually.

The total value of energy savings identified is close to half a billion dollars per year. These energy savings, if fully implemented, could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 3.3 million metric tons annually, representing approximately seven percent of the total U.S growth in carbon dioxide emissions from 2004 to 2005, says DOE.

“Working with our industry partners, the Department of Energy has surpassed our expectations and found huge opportunities for saving energy,” says Assistant Secretary Karsner. “Not only do these assessments inform industry of best practices to maximize energy savings, but they will also significantly help reduce greenhouse gases by increasing the nation’s energy efficiency.”

In 2007, DOE will conduct 250 additional ESAs and offer cost-sharing options with industry, utilities and other partners.

The 2007 Energy Saving Assessments will be selected through an on-line application process now underway. These assessments analyze pumps, fans, and compressed air systems in addition to process heating and steam systems. The website also offers training opportunities, software assessment tools, technical tips and publications suitable for plants of all sizes.

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