Our priority activities on energy efficiency are particularly focussed on addressing climate change and resource efficiency.
Whilst detailed understanding of climate change continues to develop, the macro-level science is accepted by the vast majority of scientists. IMI follows the global consensus on the issue. IMI’s position is in line with the aims of the Kyoto Protocol and focuses on energy efficiency and, consequently, CO2 emission reduction. Our current focus is on energy use in our buildings, processes and products, as this offers the most significant opportunities for IMI to contribute positively.
In continuing operations the use of gas and electricity, as the main sources of energy used in the Group, has continued to decrease since 1999. Each of our facilities is required to set targets aimed at minimising emissions with global warming potential and also reducing the associated costs. In all our facilities recycling and reducing waste are also part of how we do business and play their part in wider energy efficiency matters. Our objectives are:
- To minimise our energy use relative to our sales
- To minimise our impact on the environment (principally emissions of CO2)
- To minimise the cost of energy use to improve profitability
- To take advantage of business opportunities associated with energy efficiency
Energy efficiency measures are adopted in our businesses worldwide to ensure that energy consumption continues to reduce throughout IMI. Examples include:
- A project at Norgren's Littleton plant which involved all employees in identifying energy saving opportunities. Process improvements and simple energy conservation measures provided immediate savings of at least $40,000 a year with further potential savings over time
- A similar exercise at Farnham in the UK which yielded a 33% saving in gas usage despite moving to a 24-hour operation and also reduced cardboard waste by 45% (14.5 tonnes)
- Installation of a new paint spray system at Cannon Equipment's Chattanooga plant in the USA which has reduced overspray powder waste going to landfill by 30 tonnes a year as well as reducing the use of aerosol touch-up paint
Reduced energy consumption is a primary benefit of and selling point for many of the products and services provided by IMI Group companies. Promoting efficient use of energy is good business:
- A typical TA project for cooling in large public buildings will deliver savings through reduced temperature fluctuations and pumping costs resulting in combined energy savings of 13-22%
- A housing cooperative in Sweden that used our Indoor Climate services in 2005 reduced its energy costs by €90,000 - a minimum 15% saving for this and subsequent years.
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