35 Quick Wins for Energy Reduction

Not all energy reduction initiatives have to be time consuming and expensive. We've put together a list of our favourite quick wins that food manufacturers can implement at their facilities- today.

Lighting

1. De-lamping: remove excess bulbs and fixtures

2. Daylight Harvesting: maximize the use of daylight by removing obstructions from daylight sources

3. Retrofit: Replace inefficient bulbs and fixtures with more energy efficient technologies

4. Occupancy Sensors: Install occupancy sensors in low use areas

5. Task Lighting: Replace or reduce energy intensive overhead lighting with smaller, directed task lighting

6. Wall and Ceiling Colour: Paint walls and ceiling bright colours to help reflect and maximize lighting

7. Exit Signs: Replace old inefficient exit signs with low energy use LED signs or no energy use signs

Plug Loads

1. Computers: establish a daily computer shut down policy and utilize sleep modes

2. Equipment: purchase Energy Star Certified office equipment when replacing old items

3. Phantom Power: unplug equipment when not in use or use power bars for quick shut off

4. Timers: install timers on office equipment to shut off and turn on at predefined times

5. Vending Machines: request energy efficient machines and/or install sensors to automatically control usage

6.  Use reflective signs

Motors

1. EE Motors: replace motors at end of life with energy efficient models

2. VFD’s: Install variable frequency drives or soft start drives on motors

3. Right Sizing: Ensure motors are the right size for the application

Building Envelope

1. Window Film: install thermal window film to reduce solar heat infiltration during summer months

2. Dock Doors & Levelers: seal dock doors and leveling devices, install curtains to retain temperature

3. Caulking and Sealing: seal all windows and door frames using weather stripping, caulking and sealants

HVAC & Water

1. Programmable Thermostats: install programmable thermostats and program them to run only when areas are in use

2. Lower Temperature: lower temperatures 1-2 degrees in the winter and increase temperatures 1-2 degrees in summer

3. Hot Water Heater: lower temperature on hot water heaters

4. Hot Water On-Demand: replace old inefficient Hot Water Heaters with Hot Water on Demand Heaters

5. Water Pipes: insulate hot water pipes with approved insulating sleeves and jackets

6. Vents and Fans: remove obstructions blocking vents and fans

MANAGEMENT

1. Peak Demand: perform peak shedding by staggering equipment start-up and installing timers to stagger usage

2. Time of Use: optimize operation schedules to take advantage of cheaper off peak rates

3. Shut Down Procedures: establish a separate shutdown procedure for weekdays, weekends and holidays

4. Education/Awareness/Training: modify employee behaviour through education, awareness and training

5. Energy Management System: develop an energy management system to maximize energy performance

6. Energy Management Team: establish an energy management team to elevate conservation initiatives

7. Signage: place signage in high use areas to encourage energy efficient behaviours

8. Power Factor: contact provider to ensure power factor is maximized

9. Audit: engage provider or third party to conduct a full energy audit of the facility

10. Treasure Hunts: perform energy treasure hunts to identify energy reduction opportunities