Manufacturing facilities can use solar energy to reduce harmful emissions.
We’ve already taken a look at some companies that have taken the solar route to reduce operational pollution and one of the interesting points that came out of it was that it’s not just buildings but manufacturing facilities that are making this shift. This is a big move, as globally factories consume the highest amount of electricity daily. So let’s explore this a little more.
A gassy situation
We all know that electricity production is one of the largest contributors of greenhouse gas emissions. And the manufacturing sector is one that relies heavily on power produced by burning fossil fuels. The most damaging greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and small amounts of methane and nitrous oxide are also emitted when fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas, are combusted to produce electricity. Additionally, hazardous waste like ash, slag, and particulates removed from flue gas, etc are discharged from the factories and released into the environment.
A step in the bright direction
Whether it’s sourcing solar energy from farms or installing solar panels on factory roofs or on the premises, switching to solar energy makes a difference. Unlike fossil fuels, solar panels do not produce harmful byproducts when they generate electricity – no greenhouse gasses, no waste. In fact, solar systems have a minimal impact on the environment and considerably contribute to reducing daily carbon emissions.
This is a great way to protect the environment and make manufacturing processes less reliant on fossil fuels and more importantly sustainable, so that businesses can continue to not just grow but thrive.
A need for change
According to the most recent Quarterly Update on Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions, 35% of total carbon emissions come from direct fuel combustion to make electricity, 18% from direct fuel combustion used in energy, mining, manufacturing, etc and 6% from industrial production processes that do not create energy. By reducing dependency on fossil fuels in these industries, we can significantly reduce carbon emissions. And as we’ve seen before change is happening, companies like Carlton & United Breweries have not just committed to running 100% of their operations with renewable energy by 2025, they have already made leaps towards attaining this goal.
Towards a better world
In recent years there has been an increase in the demand and supply chain that has led to mass consumption and production. This in turn has taken a toll on our planet. The switch to renewable energy like solar power has enormous potential to change manufacturing processes for the better and pave the way for a future that is truly bright.
