Implementing Zero-Loss Thinking in Energy Management: News from EL Conference

One of the many topics covered at the 2017 Environmental Leader Conference and Energy Summit was "zero-loss" thinking in energy management.

To talk about the matter were Aiman Abdrabou, global manager of energy and sustainability with Goodyear Tire and Rubber, and Richard Gorze, global energy manager for Eaton Corp.

Abdrabou touted Goodyear's commitment to sustainability, noting results that include:

• More than $1 million in cost reduction in the first year with the Energy Clean Sheet process
• Additional reductions in energy costs
• Identified millions of cost savings in projects
• Spent 100% of energy capex allocation
• As far as building capabilities, Goodyear has continuous skills development training, onsite energy coordinators and the integration of projects and best practices

According to Abdrabou, Goodyear is moving from a siloed to a cross-functional team to manage energy costs.

Similarly, Eaton Corp. is thinking strategically about their sustainability strategy, which includes:

• Increase and communicate the sustainability benefits of the company's products
• Reduce the environmental footprint
• Engage employees in sustainability
• Become more transparent by communicating goals and accomplishment

Eaton has been successful in meeting their 2015 goals, which were: reduce emissions 25% from 2006, reduce water usage 20% from 2010 and reduce waste to landfill 30% from 2010.

"In 2003 we developed a sustainability strategy," said Gorze. "In 2006, we determined baseline inventory. Starting in 2006 and continuing now, we evaluate our footprint and prioritize actions. We are also working to reduce energy consumption, renew energy and restore – the three 'Rs.' We communicate results and performance on an ongoing, quarterly basis."