In early 2022, a leading food & beverage distributor that serves US-based customers was seeking to implement an energy management software that could increase cost savings in the face of rising utility rates - all without compromising production.They operate facilities that utilize refrigeration systems, resulting in expensive consumption costs. The majority of consumption these large facilities is attributed to refrigeration, lighting, and battery charging, with the rising costs stemming from system inefficiencies and increasing utility rates.
The client required a proven solution for refrigerated facilities to identify reduction opportunities, optimize systems, and ultimately drive cost savings. In April 2022, this client implementedSiteSense. SiteSense was built to be the best way to monitor, optimize, and reduce energy usage.Prior to implementation, no energy management software was in place. This made it difficult to monitor and track energy usage, leading to costly unexpected consumption.SiteSense was configured to enable the client to measure kilowatt-hours (kWh) consumption per case shipped, also referred to as energy intensity. This metric enables future goal setting for consumption reduction, based around their desired unit of production.
Since implementing in early 2022, a 15% decrease in annual consumption was realized, while maintaining a 5% increase in production.
The implementation of SiteSense began with on-site commissioning, and was fully optimized by June 2022. Upon completion of system optimization, an 11% reduction in energy consumption was realized. SiteSense energy experts build a custom theoretical operating energy model based on the optimal settings for the refrigeration system for each SiteSense energy management client. The proprietary energy modeling monitors every step of the process, not just overall monthly kWh expenditures.
This model allows users to track and maintain their energy usage activity, receive alerts if any equipment has deviated from their optimal energy set points, and automatically dispatch site-specific checklists to their front-line operators to ensure they make quick adjustments to reduce their consumption. Equipped with the ability to monitor their entire facility, this client is able to identify increased energy consumption in real-time –
down to every piece of equipment. That vital information, when combined SiteSense's ability to automatically train front-line operators, makes a powerful ally in the mission to reduce energy incidents and minimize overall consumption.
The results achieved through the implementation of SiteSense at this facility have been remarkable. In just one year, the facility witnessed a series of energy breakthroughs that led to substantial reductions in annual energy usage. The facility realized a staggering 1,400,000 kWh reduction, epresenting a significant milestone in their sustainability efforts.
Notably, SiteSense proved its effectiveness even amidst a 5% increase in production. Despite the higher volume of processing and storage, the facility managed to consume nearly 20% less electricity per case of product.
Moreover, the positive trend continued beyond the initial implementation phase. Within two months, the facility realized extraordinary results, further reinforcing the value of SiteSense. The first quarter of 2023 witnessed a 26% decrease in kWh per case shipped compared to the same period in 2022 (prior to SiteSense implementation).
The success of the SiteSense software implementation underscores the significant benefits of employing energy management solutions in industrial refrigeration systems. By enabling real-time monitoring, providing timely alerts for deviations, and offering comprehensive energy usage tracking,
SiteSense empowers facilities to reduce energy costs while simultaneously boosting production levels.
The success of the SiteSense software implementation underscores the significant benefits of employing energy management solutions in industrial refrigeration systems. By enabling real-time monitoring, providing timely alerts for deviations, and offering comprehensive energy usage tracking,
SiteSense empowers facilities to reduce energy costs while simultaneously boosting production levels.
Looking ahead, the potential for further energy savings with SiteSense is immense. By 2030, assuming no major changes or introduction of capital projects, an estimated 8-10 million kWh can be avoided at this facility alone. These savings not only translate into substantial cost reductions but also contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious operation.
The success of this facility serves as a powerful testament to the capabilities of SiteSense in delivering long-term energy savings and efficiency improvements. By leveraging the advanced features and analytics provided by SiteSense, organizations can reach exceptional results, reducing their environmental footprint while optimizing their financial performance.