Mike McGrath’s

Kerry plant a leader in energy efficiency

THE Charleville based Kerry Ingredients and Flavours plant, which employs 325 people, was among the Irish companies that reduced carbon emissions, thus saving €14.5million in energy costs through improved energy efficiencies.

Energy efficiency measures at the plant have achieved the equivalent of taking 30,000 petrol and diesel cars of Ireland’s roads, according to a review of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), which was recently released.

The Kerry Ingredients and Flavours, which became part of the 200 strong SEAI energy saving network of member companies in 2006, is continually taking steps to improve its energy performance at the Charleville site, where it recently commissioned a new evaporator. Using mechanical vapor recompression technology, the evaporator significantly reduces the thermal energy required in dairy processing. This investment, which forms part of the energy action plan for the facility, will potentially save 5,000,000 kWh of energy, resulting in reduced carbon emissions and cost savings.

Commenting on the work of network members, Jim Gannon, CEO of SEAI, said: “The results in this review are further evidence that investing in energy efficiency is as much a good businesses decision as it is a socially responsible one.

“Our network members account for more than one fifth of all the energy produced in Ireland. They have been leading the energy transformation of Irish industry for decades and are seeing the dividends of their investment in energy efficiency appear on their bottom line.

“This leadership provides clear case studies for other businesses to follow, and has also built a hugely experienced and valuable Irish supply chain that can help execute these projects.

“As the realities of climate change become clearer to us all, it is particularly important to highlight what work is being done by energy leaders across the country.

“Investing in sustainable energy is increasingly being perceived as a good use of capital, that locks in long-term savings. We look forward to continuing our support to Irish business as it reduces its consumption and decarbonises its supply,” said Mr. Gannon.