ABSTRACT
An efficiently managed and effective business would, ideally, produce products or services using the least amount of energy. From a business perspective, energy savings must, first and foremost, be considered for business survival and business longevity. A less tangible and not uncommon bonus is that energy efficiency does not have to involve significant change in employment conditions, thus avoiding any human relations (HR) issues and civil actions. Managers need the ability to measure, monitor, validate and continuously reduce the energy consumed by the manufacturing plant. While there may be price variations beyond the control of managers, the quantum of energy use is within the control of managers. Consuming less energy minimises the impact of energy prices. The long-term value of fossil fuel resources will continue to increase as scarcity increases. This cycle will continue to spiral upwards unless a new source of energy is found, so the inevitable solution is to preserve and prolong reserves that are presently available.
