A case study to assess the benefits of implementing energy efficiency projects as perceived by three automotive component manufacturers in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality

Abstract

Increasing energy efficiency is critical towards mitigating greenhouse gas emissions from fossil-fuel combustion, reducing oil dependence, and achieving a sustainable global energy system (Greene, 2011:608). Most South African legislation and research scholars support the above statement; however, with a lack of tangible evidence, the statement is yet to be proved physically true in the South African manufacturing industry. A case study was conducted within three automotive component manufacturers located in Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, with the objective of identifying energy efficiency projects; investigate the perception of company employees on energy efficiency and assessing whether there are benefits for the companies when implementing such projects. For the research methodology, the mixed mode method was used. Quantitative data was collected using energy assessments and a questionnaire was used for the collection of qualitative data. The quantitative and qualitative findings clearly demonstrate that company managers and operational staff need to have a clear understanding of the concept of 'energy efficiency'. Efficiency projects implemented include automated compressors, changing hot-water geyser settings, installation of power factor correction, and tariff structure changes. The quantitative recommendations were centered on switching off equipment when not required. As an alternative, the use of sensors, timers and other automated control devices should be investigated and implemented where feasible. Qualitatively recommendations advise that companies with employees who do not understand energy efficiency, training and awareness programmes need to be applied. Employees would then be able to put their energy saving knowledge into action. This study demonstrated that there is a need for further research to be undertaken, to improve efficiency for energy within the automotive manufacturing industry.