A novel systematic and comprehensive method for identification of energy-saving measures

Abstract

Energy savings are driven by technological solutions along with behavioural changes and managerial decisions. A systematic and comprehensive method of identification of energy-saving measures can be a powerful tool for that purpose. Within this context, we propose a simplified, systematic and comprehensive method to bridge gaps of usual approaches. It was built by combining consecutively 3 developed tools: an energy-saving model, a process-oriented decomposition approach and a multi-criteria decision-making analysis of alternative energy-saving solutions. The outcome is a matrix filled with energy saving measures by corresponding sub-processes in lines to energy parameters such as energy sufficiency or output losses in columns. A central sterile service department in a university hospital in Morocco was analysed at the operating phase. Via this method, we could systematically and fluently list all viable energy-saving features. Concretely, the modernity of the installation confined the margin of manoeuvre to managerial and behavioural measures. The multi-criteria decision-making analysis process applied on steam generator of autoclaves highlighted many instructive points on induction heating development potential despite of its qualitative character.