Food and beverages sector taking energy management seriously: Report

A recent report has revealed that about 77% of UK food and beverages manufacturers view energy as a critical issue and are working towards increasing their investments in energy management in the next 12 months.

The findings of the Siemens Industry report – ‘The Future of Energy: The UK Manufacturing Opportunity’, which took into account the views of 600 board directors, senior management and energy managers from UK manufacturers from all major sectors, including food and beverage organisations – says that about 64% of the manufacturers are taking steps to become energy efficient.

When compared with other sectors, the food and beverages sector has more goals set for energy management for the next five years.

However, when assessed alongside sectors like chemicals and pharmaceuticals, aerospace, glass and solar, automotive and metals, the food and beverage manufacturers scored less in terms of board level involvement, investment in renewable and self-generation initiatives and a reluctance to view energy management on a par with other strategic decisions.

About 61% of the businesses stated that they had different energy management programmes in place for the next five years.

Speaking about the food and beverages industry taking energy management seriously, Siemens Industry head of energy efficiency and environmental care Steve Barker said, "Progress in terms of instigating long-term strategic planning is to be applauded, but the real reward for food and beverage businesses is evidenced in the bottom line and the 70% who say it has improved as a result of energy management measures.

"There are already many manufacturers taking action in this crucial area and, together with expert technology partners, they can help to inspire and educate those who say they have ‘other priorities’ over and above energy management. For the industrial sector, and the food and beverage sector in particular, the challenges around managing energy consumption will only intensify in the years to come and doing nothing is not an option for businesses that want to thrive."