There are varying opinions of the significance of cost of energy as one of the major challenges facing the foundry industry. In the midst of numerous production and sales challenges, does it really benefit a plant to spend time and money on energy management?
Evidence from the National Cleaner Production Centre (NCPC-SA) seems to suggest it is not only worthwhile, but it is a business imperative, particularly in light of the energy insecurity we face in South Africa. The NCPC-SA has developed numerous case studies to demonstrate how an assessment followed by implementation of energy management or optimisation of energy intensive systems, can shave millions off the cost of production across multiple industrial sectors.
One such case study was completed at Atlantis Foundry in the Western Cape, following seven years of energy – and water – efficiency interventions.