Energy efficient design: Tools, techniques and applications to the petroleum and chemical industry

Almost 56% of the total primary energy used (about 100 Quads in 2010) in USA is wasted. 40% of the total energy is used to generate electricity with an overall efficiency of about 32% (or 1/3^rd). The transportation sector uses about 27% (1/4^th) with an overall efficiency of 25%. The industrial/ commercial sector uses 47% with an overall efficiency of 55%. Energy Efficiency has been a topic of great interest in the Petroleum and Chemical Industry (PCI) since 7-8% of all electricity generated in the US is used by the PCI. This paper discusses recent advancements and best practices in energy efficiency techniques and the impact of new legislation on energy efficiency. It also addresses economic considerations and provides some application guidelines.