Getting started

Get the most out of the PACIA energy+ program to unlock energy savings in your business.

Using the portal

As you move through the PACIA energy+ portal, you will notice that it has a very flexible structure and there are clear connections between the different topic areas. It has been deliberately structured in this way so that you can focus on the areas most relevant to your business, and we encourage you to make the most of this.

Which areas are relevant to you?

PACIA energy+ is targeted specifically to small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) – those with less than 200 employees – in the chemicals and plastics industry.

Our research and ongoing work with the industry has identified four key energy efficiency topics for chemicals and plastics SMEs:

  • Understanding your energy purchasing and alternative energy generation options
  • Maximising the energy usage of existing equipment and buildings
  • Selecting replacement equipment and consolidating your processes
  • Linking your energy performance measurement with business productivity

You can tackle any of these topics at any time. However you might want to consider how advanced your current energy management approach is, before deciding where to start. The table below provides suggestions on when you might tackle the four topics.

Topic Most valuable for businesses that: 
1: Energy purchasing and generation
  • Are just starting out on their energy management journey
  • Have not been tracking energy use systematically or assessing their energy supply contracts
  • Have an interest in onsite or co-generation options
2: Energy usage of existing equipment
  • Have good knowledge of their on-site energy usage
3: Equipment replacement and consolidation
  • Have good knowledge of their on-site energy usage
  • Are considering replacement of equipment items and/or process lines
  • Are not aware of how replacement or consolidation of equipment and processes can drive energy efficiency
 4: Energy performance and productivity
  • Are more advanced in their energy management
  • Have good productivity data and reporting systems in place

 

Your energy plan is crucial

Before getting started on any of the four energy efficiency topics, it is important that you set up an energy management plan for your business.

While this might take a little time and thought, it is important in laying the groundwork for success. Without a structured plan, your efforts might be wasted by focussing on low priority energy efficiency opportunities. A plan will help you to assess the business case and cost savings you should expect from your energy actions. It will also ensure you have a process in place to monitor improvements and identify new priorities as you progress.

The PACIA energy+ program provides you with targeted information and tools to help you develop an appropriate energy plan. Go to Your energy plan to get started.