Maximum Demand Management: An overlooked energy saving opportunity in industries

Abstract

Maximum demand management is always overlooked as an energy saving opportunity in industry. Maximum demand charge is part of total electricity charges of an Industrial energy tariff and contributes around 20% of the total electrical energy bill. An energy audit conducted in an Industry revealed an opportunity of reducing the total plant maximum demand of average from 2736 kW to 2220 kW saving up to RM 17,000 on an average/month. The paper briefs the process re-engineering and technologies that could be used in the plant to reduce up to 20% Maximum demand charges from the total electricity bill. This can bring in a significant saving with minimal investment and is sustainable.