Reduce your energy consumption: Preventive maintenance and optimization in manufacturing
Cost savings in the manufacturing sector are key to competitiveness, and preventive maintenance combined with ongoing optimization is an effective way to achieve it.
Companies must continuously adapt to new market demands—not only in terms of productivity but also in the efficient management of energy consumption. Preventive maintenance and continuous optimization are two strategies that, when combined, create a powerful harmony to reduce energy costs, boost productivity, and minimize operational disruptions.
In Mexico, the manufacturing industry faces significant challenges due to increased demand and rising energy costs, which are driven by internal growth and nearshoring effects. As a result, many companies are now approaching energy efficiency with greater urgency.
The importance of energy efficiency for Mexican companies
Energy demand is constantly growing in our country, primarily driven by economic expansion and manufacturing sector growth. Mexico’s energy matrix may struggle to support this growth without a clear efficiency strategy, missing key opportunities.
Electricity rates in recent years have reflected this urgency. They have directly impacted profit margins by increasing operating costs and hindering competitiveness against other markets.
Companies that invest in preventive maintenance and process optimization can reduce operational costs and use resources better, eliminating waste and lowering carbon emissions. This is more critical than ever—not just to comply with environmental regulations but also to build a reputation for social responsibility aligned with their stakeholders' values and interests.
What is preventive maintenance to avoid electrical waste?
Preventive maintenance focused on energy efficiency consists of scheduled activities to ensure that electrical and mechanical systems operate with the lowest possible energy consumption, avoiding failures and costly interruptions.
By implementing a standardized and ongoing plan, companies can detect minor misalignments and anticipate problems in their facilities, correcting them before they escalate into significant failures that affect production. The frequency and scope of these tasks depend on each company's operational needs, but in all cases, they are essential to avoid energy losses that increase costs.
Benefits of preventive maintenance in reducing energy consumption
Don’t underestimate it! Preventive maintenance is one of the most effective strategies to reduce costs and optimize energy use in the industry. If your company does not yet have an energy maintenance plan in place, consider these benefits and implement one as soon as possible:
Reduction of energy costs: Equipment in optimal condition requires less energy. In contrast, poorly calibrated systems or those with electrical leaks can consume more energy than necessary and present constant failures.
Fewer disruptions: Lack of maintenance can cause unexpected equipment failures, resulting in costly repairs and losses due to production interruptions.
- Regulatory compliance: Manufacturing companies in Mexico must comply with the Official Mexican Standards (NOMs) on energy efficiency and the National Commission for the Efficient Use of Energy (CONUEE) recommendations. Complying with these regulations is key to avoiding penalties and ensuring smooth operation.
Preventive maintenance strategies in manufacturing
To implement effective preventive maintenance, companies must carry out at least the following actions:
Calibration and verification of energy meters: A miscalibrated equipment can generate significant losses. Regular calibration ensures accurate measurements and allows the detection of deviations in energy consumption that, if not corrected, could unnecessarily increase energy costs.
Performance testing of electrical systems: Regular evaluation of transformers, motors, and control systems helps identify anomalies that could raise energy use.
Updating engineering blueprints: Each adjustment or replacement in electrical infrastructure must be reflected in updated plans to facilitate future maintenance and ensure efficient operations.
- Maintenance schedule: Establishing a calendar ensures all tasks are carried out on time, preventing failures and optimizing energy consumption.
Process optimization to increase energy efficiency
In addition to preventive maintenance, process optimization plays a fundamental role in reducing energy consumption. Systems must not operate efficiently in isolation—they must work in synergy to maximize productivity and minimize operational costs.
Key strategies include:
Automation and digitalization: Technology allows real-time monitoring of electricity consumption, detecting areas of energy waste and making quick adjustments to optimize resource usage.
Technical reviews of equipment and production lines: Evaluating which machines or processes consume the most resources helps prioritize replacement with more efficient models or methods.
Implementation of Energy Management Systems (EMS): Specialized tools and software that monitor and control real-time consumption and support energy audits to identify savings opportunities.
- Use of renewable energy sources: More and more companies are integrating renewables and storage systems to optimize resources and ensure long-term sustainability.
Enel Energía: Ready to grow alongside Mexico’s manufacturing companies
In an environment where energy demand continues rising and costs continue escalating, Mexican companies must take proactive steps to optimize resources and ensure long-term sustainability.
Preventive maintenance and process optimization are essential to maintaining operational continuity, reducing energy consumption, and improving profitability.
At Enel Energía México, we’re ready to support companies like yours on the path to more efficient, sustainable, and competitive operations. Our customized energy solutions will help you cut costs and promote a more responsible industrial sector.
Now is the time to take the next step toward energy efficiency with Enel!
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