Energy conservation measures - case study of a cement unit

The Perform, Achieve and Trade scheme under National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency of Govt. of India aims to promote energy efficient measures in industries that consume power. Cement production is one of the most energy consuming industry and India is the second largest producer of cement in the world. This paper presents a case study of energy saving initiatives implemented in a cement unit. Among these are several retro-fittings, modifications and repair work at its captive power plant, cement grinding unit and for its lighting. This has resulted in substantial reductions in annual electrical energy consumption at about 23 percent. The paper discusses the measures taken in each phase of process flow from handling of raw materials, processing, storage till the dispatch of finished product.