Energy Efficiency Assessments—Just a Paper Exercise?

Abstract

Abstract Drivers behind improving energy efficiency at any industrial site include environmental legislation, company policy, process optimization, cost reduction and not least the need to control the generation of Green House Gas (GHG) emissions. Energy efficiency assessments were carried out at a number of Total E&P UK Limited (TEPUK) sites, on and offshore. The assessment of each site followed a set format which include certain key steps; project kick off, full site survey and discussions, with operations and support staff. The assessments allow site specific action plans with short and long term improvements to be formulated and implemented. Analysis of cost, operability, maintainability, environmental impact, safety and security of supply has been used to justify and prioritize actions to be implemented. Recommendations for improvement differ greatly between sites, however there is a re-occurring recommendation to calculate and monitor energy performance indicators for each facility. Development of this indicator gives an operational baseline to measure process changes and improvements against. Close monitoring of changes against baseline provides additional feedback for process and cost optimization strategies. The value of energy efficiency assessments with regards to cost effective operation and process optimization should not be overlooked. Significant energy savings are achievable through detailed investigation – approximately 3-5% fuel savings are achievable through implementation of the "quick win" changes. Benefits are not only visible in process and associated costs. Environmentally, the reduction of energy consumption has a positive effect on GHG emissions and reduces the overall environmental impact of operations.