Energy Audits

So far in our audits of plastics plants we have found that for every $1 invested in an audit, $10.60 worth of energy efficiency savings are identified.

An energy audit conducted by an independent energy expert is an excellent way to start the process of becoming more energy efficient in your operations.

“The audit was terrific value for money. The auditors were very professional and required minimal involvement from me. The report showed me where energy is being used in my plant and practical ways for me to reduce costs. I thoroughly recommend one of these audits for every small plastics manufacturer”. Tony Miller, Owner, Lane Plastics – Savings of 24% of annual energy spend identified

There are different levels of audit, but typically an auditor will look at all the major energy-consuming devices on your site, develop an energy footprint of your operation, and then look for opportunities to improve the efficiency of your operations.

Energy audits evaluate how efficiently energy is being used, identify energy and cost-saving opportunities and highlight potential improvements in energy use. Design audits determine whether your proposed new premises, processes or technology are as energy efficient as they could be

Both processes provide valuable information on which to base decisions about future investment in plant changes, new technology or process changes.

Further information about energy audits can be found in this Best Practice Case Study.

As part of the Plastics New Zealand Best Practice Programme, you have access to expert advice and assistance to implement the audit findings once the audit is finished. Our Programme Coordinator will work with you to help you make changes and monitor your progress.

Plastics New Zealand is working closely with the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) to offer member companies heavily subsidised energy audits. The cost of the audit depends on your company’s annual energy spend.

Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA)

In every audit undertaken through the Best Practice Energy Programme the company has recouped the price of the audit almost instantly through energy savings.

“The Energy Audit has encouraged the Plant Engineers to evaluate equipment, processes and time demands with energy efficiency in mind, instead of only considering production output and deadlines. This will assist in more Energy Efficient production planning, and Engineering resourcing as we implement the suggestions and train staff in this area.” Manager, Audited Plastics Company 1

“The audit process was thorough and detailed giving us full confidence that the big issues had been identified with clear options on the best way forward.”
Director, Audited Company 2

For more information about audits, or to sign up for an audit, please contact the Best Practice Programme Coordinator.