ENERGY CONSERVATION IN EXISTING CHEMICAL-PLANTS

This paper surveys energy conservation in existing chemical plants, using as an example the conservation program at the Texas Division of Dow Chemical USA. An active, organized program has been in operation at the division since September 1972. Following are the key elements of the program: Goal Setting and Progress Reporting; Economic Evaluation; Design; Routine Operations and Maintenance; Employee Education; and Public Relations. The program's results for 1974 in the Texas Division exceeded expectations: The goal for Dow Chemical USA was 7%, whereas the Texas Division used about 10% less energy per pound of product than for 1973.