Toward Energy Efficient Manufacturing: A Study on Practices and Viewpoint of the Industry

The main objective of this study is to assess current situation and applications in the industry with respect to energy efficiency. From literature, a four pillar framework (strategy, tool, process, technology) has been developed, outlining the essential elements to successfully integrate energy efficiency in manufacturing. Based on the framework, a questionnaire is developed to assess manufacturing companies in Europe. How and what companies are doing currently to integrate energy efficiency in their manufacturing is under investigation through surveys and complementary case studies. This paper presents a fact finding study, aimed to understand the main motivations, limitations, and effectiveness of integrating energy efficiency in manufacturing. Hence, this study intends to establish a basis for the companies and academia to have a holistic understanding on energy efficient practices as a first step on the way to integrate energy efficiency in manufacturing. Consequently, the gaps between theory and practice are revealed. Keywords: Energy efficient manufacturing, energy management, industrial viewpoint, manufacturing plant, sustainability.