Energy cost is significant in many of the
manufacturing activities. The efficiency of energy use is
quiet low as there are substantial visible and hidden losses.
Visible losses can be easily identified and corrective action
can be taken. However hidden and indirect losses form a
sizeable portion of the losses. Identifying these losses is not
easy and requires an integrated approach which includes
thorough study of process, operations and their
interactions with energy use. Industries across sectors have
implemented lean management principles which target
various wastes occurring in the plant. This paper discusses
case studies which highlight the exploitation of lean tools
as a means for unearthing hidden energy saving potential
that often go unnoticed. In addition to the energy savings
which results in improved profits and competitiveness, the
approach also aids the industry to pursue a path of
sustainable manufacturing.
Analysis of the Administrative Cost of Present Energy Conservation: A Case Study of Hebei Province
