Optimising power facilities for efficiency and sustainability

In today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape, the journey toward a sustainable future is as much about optimising efficiency as it is about reducing emissions.

The International Energy Association (IEA) highlights this by referring to efficiency as the “first fuel,” offering “some of the quickest and most cost-effective CO2 mitigation options while lowering energy bills and strengthening energy security.”

As market volatility intensifies and scrutiny increases, the pressure to maximise the output of installed assets and industrial processes has never been more critical. Control valves, though just one piece of a much larger system, play a pivotal role in driving industry efficiency and enabling businesses to meet ambitious decarbonisation goals.

The challenge is significant. Research from the University of Oxford reveals that current heavy industry commitments only target about a 60% reduction in total emissions by 2050—a figure “substantially short” of what’s required to achieve net zero. But there’s more to the story.

While it’s clear that more action is needed, it’s equally important to recognise the strides that have already been made. The energy transition is a complex endeavour, requiring businesses to shift from established practices geared toward fossil fuel consumption to embracing a diverse and often intermittent energy mix.

For plant managers, particularly those in power generation, this presents substantial practical challenges. Many facilities now operate under conditions far different from those for which they were originally designed, placing increased strain on assets. Meanwhile, the relentless demand for power continues to grow, and facilities that can’t adapt risk becoming uncompetitive.

In this high-pressure environment, where regulatory demands intersect with commercial realities, it’s essential to closely examine valve performance. Enhancing valve efficiency is not just about improving operations—it’s about ensuring that plants remain competitive and capable, even as renewables take centre stage in the power sector.

To support industry professionals in navigating these challenges, we’ve developed a comprehensive guide that leverages practical examples and success stories from the IMI portfolio.

Titled “How to Optimise Your Valves for the Energy Transition,” this guide is specifically designed for site maintenance teams, purchasing departments, and management. Collaboration among these groups is crucial to ensure that facilities are equipped to meet the demands of the energy transition.

International Energy Association (IEA)