Improving energy efficiency in a pharmaceutical manufacturing environment : analysis of EUI and cooling load

Abstract

Reducing energy consumption without compromising the quality of products and the comfort of occupants is important in maintaining the competence of a pharmaceutical company. An energy management tool is developed to monitor the energy efficiency and calculate the cooling load. After analyzing the Energy Utilization Index (EUI) and cooling load, the Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) system is identified as the major energy consumer in the plant. The AHU operation schedule in the office building is modified to reduce waste while accommodating the working schedule of employees. Motion detection lighting control is implemented in office areas to reduce waste from unnecessary lighting. Revision of the AHU operating schedule in manufacturing building can reduce electricity use by 16.5% while the implementation of other recommendations can save more than $50,000 in a six month period. A spreadsheet is developed to optimize the dehumidifier setting and the set point temperature of chilled water and off coil air.