Top Planet: reducing energy consumption
In 2007, Plastic Omnium launched the Top Planet program to reduce energy use by activating three important levers:
- Equipment and processes
- Energy supply contracts
- Initiatives to raise awareness involving more than 3,000 employees in 25 facilities.
The many initiatives introduced as part of the Top Planet program have enabled Plastic Omnium to obtain energy efficiency certificates that can then be traded. In the Automotive Division, for example, variable power control units have been installed on molds to reduce energy consumption. Other Plastic Omnium initiatives that have earned energy efficiency certificates include the use of mold insulation sleeves, compressor heat recovery systems and condensing boilers as well as programs to teach environmentally friendly driving techniques.
France’s Energy Act of 13 July 2005 required energy distributors to reduce energy use, initially for a period extending from 1 July 2006 to 30 June 2009, followed by subsequent three-year periods.
To comply with the legislation, energy suppliers can purchase energy savings certificates from customers that have obtained them from one of France’s Regional Environment, Development and Housing Departments in recognition of their investments in energy-efficient equipment and related initiatives.
Energy suppliers who fail to meet their energy savings objectives after three years are subject to penalties (see the guide prepared by France’s Environment and Energy Management Agency: ADEME guide).
