JEFFERSON - Jackson Electric Membership Corporation (EMC) is offering industrial members in its 10-county service area the opportunity to have a comprehensive energy and water use Industrial Energy Assessment, valued at $10,000 and up, at no charge.
Funded in part by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act 2009 (ARRA) in cooperation with the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA), these assessments will bring together the expertise of the Georgia Institute of Technology, The University of Georgia, Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the Southeast Energy Efficiency Alliance to help create a customized plan for each manufacturer selected.
"Our cooperative has felt this recession's impact, and we know how important energy efficiency and cost reduction is to our members," said Jackson EMC Director of Commercial/Industrial Marketing Lee Chapman. "Energy and water are among the largest manufacturing expenses. The assessment we're offering will help industries identify and determine the best methods to add value to their operation by reducing their energy and/or water consumption."
Chapman said funds are limited and a limited number of participants will be selected to participate.
"The program will get underway in August, with an interactive application form available on our website at www.jacksonemc.com/assessment. Those area industries selected to participate will receive an assessment valued at $10,000 or more absolutely free. Our end goal is to improve those industries' profitability, sustainability and competitiveness, which benefits the community through additional job creation, increased environmental sustainability and an improved business environment."
Industries selected will begin with a pre-assessment where information about the facility, manufacturing processes, production data, and energy and water consumption is gathered and analyzed. From that information, energy experts develop potential energy saving recommendations and a strategy for the next phase.
An assessment day at the plant follows, including a review of a typical day s manufacturing process and operations, plant tour, brainstorming potential energy saving opportunities, and gathering data through measurements, monitoring and diagnostic testing. At the end of the day, energy experts and plant management discuss initial findings.
Once the assessment is completed, the manufacturer will receive a report with a description of findings, recommendations and estimates to implement cost reduction measures. Follow-ups will help answer questions and track implementation.
"We know a major roadblock to achieving energy efficiency is the cost of implementing those recommendations, so our energy experts will also assist manufacturers to determine if any grants or other financial opportunities are available that can make their improvements a reality," Chapman said. "Jackson EMC has a long history of encouraging efficient use of energy resources, and we're really pleased to have this opportunity to help our members, especially with the economic pressures we're all facing."
Companies interested in having an Industrial Energy Assessment may go to www.jacksonemc.com/assessment to complete an application.
Monday
April 21st, 2025
1:09PM
