The chemical engineering industry is one of the most energy and resource intensive industries. Therefore, chemical engineers can drive meaningful change in reducing the use of energy and resources by improving efficiencies.

IChemE has been working for several years to develop a suite of resources to advise organisations how to improve energy efficiencies.

Project objectives

The initial objective for the work was to identify what practical help IChemE might offer. This led to the creation of an Energy and Resource Efficiency guidance framework document and a series of case studies showing examples of good practice. More recently, focus has shifted on promoting energy and resource efficiency globally. To this end, IChemE is hosting regular workshops featuring energy and resource efficiency experts with real examples of applications in industry. These are being delivered through the Oil, Gas and Energy Transition Special Interest Group.

Outputs

The outputs of the project were as follows:

1. A report presenting 10 principles for improving resource efficiency that could be embraced by chemical engineers and their organisations. 
2. A series of case studies showcasing good practice in energy efficiency.

• Material Recovery from Discarded Electronic Devices (Dell and the Circular Economy)
• Controlled Phase Cycle, viably transforming low grade waste heat into electricity
• The Home Energy Resources Unit (HERU) – Conversion of household waste into heating fuel 
• Promoting a Circular Economy with Clean Fuels and Chemicals made from Municipal Waste 

Project completion

The original ERE Good Practice Guide and case studies were launched in January 2019. They are examples of how chemical engineers and their organisation can address climate change and make positive changes by reducing the impact we have on the planet.

We would like to thank all the volunteers for their contribution to the report.

More information

If you would like to know more about this project, please email energy@icheme.org.