Energy Efficiency

AkzoNobel has a strong track record in making the most of our energy. But we want to do more. So we’ll continue improving our energy efficiency and reducing the carbon-intensity of our production processes.

So how are we doing so far?

• 73 percent of our worldwide power consumption is based on zero and low carbon sources 
• 37 percent of the electricity used in our production processes is based on hydropower
• we’re in the top ten percent for energy efficiency in manufacturing salt-chlorine-PVC loop – one of our most energy-intensive processes 
• we use exclusively low-carbon energy sources for manufacturing the other two most energy-intensive chemicals: sodium chlorate and hydrogen peroxide
• wherever possible, we’re replacing fossil fuels with renewable raw materials such as woodchips
• we’ve assessed the eco-efficiency/carbon footprint of key products 
• we’ve developed several carbon-efficient solutions for our customers 
• we include energy efficiency and carbon footprint criteria in our investment decisions.

Using low-carbon fuels

Our most energy-intensive facilities are in Scandinavia (Pulp & Paper Chemicals) and the Netherlands (Base Chemicals). Together they account for 82 percent of our energy use and 73 percent of our carbon emissions.

For Pulp & Paper Chemicals, 58 percent of the power consumed is based on hydropower, which is free of carbon emissions. And our Base Chemicals plants are equipped with highly energy-efficient, gas-fired cogeneration units that produce steam and power. We’re also developing investment plans to produce steam from waste and bio-fuels. 

Carbon emission trading schemes

We’re in favor of a performance-based allocation for carbon emission trading (for example through benchmarks within a cap and trade credit system). This will stimulate efficient plants and penalize the inefficient ones. We continue to support initiatives that promote the most energy-efficient technologies, not just in Europe but around the world.

Looking to the future

We’re developing a revised Carbon Strategy in 2008. This will also consider carbon reduction opportunities in areas other than manufacturing, where we’ll be assessing carbon footprints and preparing reduction plans.