MiniWatt continues to make progress

 

In 2024, the Miniwatt project continues to make significant progress compared to 2023, with numerous opportunities for further improvement. The remote monitoring of energy consumption is advancing well, with sensors now installed at OTIMA Industries and IVA sites, and dashboards for monitoring are currently being defined. A weekly tracking system has been implemented to promptly address corrective actions, particularly regarding consumption peaks. Effective management of machine shutdowns at the end of production remains a key lever for progress, requiring vigilance from everyone involved. The second half of the year aims to replicate this project across other sites within the Group.

Our commitment to Miniwatt and the Group’s decarbonization is also evident through our investments. Over €335,000 has already been allocated for 2024, covering several key initiatives:

• Replacement of a cataphoresis oven at IVA with a hybrid oven (electricity/gas) scheduled for August 2024.
• Addition of heat recovery systems on furnace fumes at STSM and IVA Dollon.
• Installation of air curtains on sectional doors at AIMM and METASEVAL.
• Heat recovery from air compressors at the OTIMA site.
• Purchase of air leak detection cameras for all sites.
• Installation of variable speed drives on process pumps at AIMB.
• Implementation of LED lighting with motion detection at AIMM.

Furthermore, detailed studies are underway to equip several parking areas with photovoltaic canopies to generate a portion of our energy needs. An initial site perimeter has been approved, and active efforts are ongoing to secure financing.

In 2024, the Miniwatt project extends beyond mere energy consumption reduction, encompassing broader decarbonization initiatives and continuous improvement. For instance, the heat recovery systems on furnace fumes will recycle previously wasted energy, thereby enhancing energy efficiency by reducing gas consumption and carbon emissions. The air curtains on sectional doors will mitigate energy losses and reduce gas usage for workshop heating.

The weekly monitoring of energy consumption, now in place, serves as a crucial tool to swiftly identify anomalies and proactively address them. This approach ensures that implemented improvements are sustained and optimized over time.

Moreover, the involvement of all employees is essential for the success of our MiniWatt initiative. Regular awareness campaigns and ongoing training on energy best practices are conducted to ensure that everyone actively contributes to reducing consumption and managing equipment effectively.