Influencing factors and challenges to energy management and energy efficiency for chemical process SMEs in India

Energy optimization benefits an organization by reducing its energy usage, decreasing fuel requirements, increasing its revenue and non-revenue benefits, and enhancing its green image. Some Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) implement low-cost energy-efficient technical measures which are insufficient unless comprehensive energy management practices are followed. A variety of researchers have discussed the drivers and barriers to energy management and energy efficiency across the globe but such studies are scarce in the Indian scenario. In light of advancement and cross-country exchange of technology, sustainable business models, globalized business, and competition, the need to re-exploit the challenges and drivers has evolved. This paper focuses on energy management practices and energy efficiency steps undertaken by the Chemical Process SMEs of western India. The data collection was done by surveying 30 SMEs using a questionnaire and interview method and the responses were analysed. The first objective of the paper is to identify and analyse the influencing factors and challenges applicable to SMEs in form of external and internal factors, through literature review and survey of Indian SMEs. The second objective of the paper is to recapitulate the benefits achieved by some of these SMEs after optimizing their energy usage. The findings of the study reveals that it is imperative to evaluate the external factors and internal factors to enable decision making process pertaining to energy management and efficiency. Suggestions to enhance the energy performance of SMEs are also incorporated. Copyright (C) 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Selection and peer-review under responsibility of the scientific committee of the International Chemical Engineering Conference 2021 (100 Glorious Years of Chemical Engineering & Technology).