The Energy Start recognition is for the plant’s 2015 performance in being among the top 25% of cement manufacturing facilities nationwide for energy efficiency and meeting the strict energy efficiency performance levels set by the EPA.
"Ash Grove Cement Seattle is pleased to earn EPA’s Energy Star certification in recognition of our energy efficiency efforts,” said plant manager Carey Austell. "Through this achievement, we have demonstrated our commitment to environmental stewardship while also lowering our energy costs by nearly US$300,000.”
Ash Grove Cement Seattle improved its energy performance by strategically managing energy and making cost-effective improvements to its plant.
"All our plants and employees have worked very hard when it comes to efficiency and conservation of resources,” said Andy Lippert, Ash Grove Cement’s corporate energy director. “The Seattle plant once again regaining Energy Star certification is the result of our employees’ significant efforts.”
To earn the Energy Star, Ash Grove Cement Seattle automated the plant compressed air system, saving 1 million kilowatt hours in one year; upgraded plant lighting, saving 540,000 kW/h; and adjusted the raw material blend to improve mill efficiency, saving 3.5 million kW/h.
“Improving the energy efficiency of our nation’s industrial facilities is critical to protecting our environment,” said Jean Lupinacci, chief of the ENERGY STAR commercial and industrial branch. “From the plant floor to the board room, organisations are leading the way by making their facilities more efficient and earning EPA’s ENERGY STAR certification.”
