GeniAl – a network for the Swedish aluminium industry

Panel: 2. Sustainable production design and supply chain initiatives

Authors:
Hans Frisk, Svenskt Aluminium, Sweden
Gerard Tuenter, Swedish Energy Agency
Energy Efficiency Department, Sweden
Mats Söderström, University of Linköping
IEI Energisystem, Sweden

Abstract

Energy efficieny is promoted in Swedish energy intensive industries in a learning process where SMEs participate along with larger companies. Aluminiumproducer and processor and recycling companies are running a network with the aim to improve their common energy efficiency.

Since aluminium production is an energy intensive process, energy efficiency has traditionally received much attention amongst individual companies. However, by sharing experiences in the whole product chain significant additional energy savings could be identified and realised. Companies have already saved 150 GWh during the past two years, with the possibility to save another 260 GWh in the next years. That corresponds to 5 resp. 14% of the total 3000 GWh used in the Swedish aluminium industry. The results depend on: The companies own hard work, their common engagement in the periodic meetings with open discussions, a step by step approach from identification of simple measures towards more integrated complex strategic management issues.

All the companies have mapped their material and energy flows in detail and shared the results openly and transparent. These facts and figures were visualized in a pedagogic way, obvious for everyone to see exact what energy source used, the amount of energy used in every step of production and finally – perhaps most importantly– the theoretical energy losses in every step. It is inspiring and demanding for everyone to enjoy the possibilities of future savings in simple terms and it includes outsiders in discussions stimulating non-conventional solutions.

It has not always been easy. Although the aluminium industry suffers from global overproduction and falling prizes the Swedish aluminium industry sincerely believe in a prosperous future. One mayor company was under threat of closing down, their energy savings however, is helping the company to survive since it has made them more resource efficient than other worldwide competitors.