Outperforms similar U.S. plants on measure of energy efficiency

 

December 10, 2024, Las Vegas, Nevada – The Rillito cement plant owned by CalPortland, has earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) ENERGY STAR certification, which signifies that the industrial plant performs in the top 25 percent of similar facilities nationwide for energy efficiency and meets strict energy efficiency performance levels set by the EPA. This is the 12th year that the Rillito cement plant has earned the ENERGY STAR, reflecting a legacy of continued energy savings.

“CalPortland is pleased to accept EPA’s ENERGY STAR certification in recognition of our energy efficiency efforts at our Rillito cement plant,” said William Jerald, Director of Energy and Sustainability. “Through this achievement, we have demonstrated our commitment to environmental stewardship, focusing on efficiency projects, and lowering our energy footprint.”

Earning ENERGY STAR certification highlights Rillito’s status within the top 25 percent of cement plants in the nation with regard to energy performance. CalPortland improved its energy performance by managing energy strategically across the entire organization and by making cost-effective improvements to its plant.

“Improving the energy performance of our nation’s industrial plants is critical to reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” said Cindy Jacobs, Chief of the ENERGY STAR Commercial & Industrial Branch. “EPA applauds the commitment to energy efficiency demonstrated by ENERGY STAR certified plants.”

To earn the ENERGY STAR, CalPortland took the following actions:

  1. Installed energy metering at all process areas
  2. Replaced decades old reciprocating compressor with a new, more efficient screw compressor
  3. Replaced high-pressure sodium lamps with LED lights
  4. Upgraded housing around kiln ID fan to a more efficient design

ENERGY STAR was introduced by EPA in 1992 as a voluntary, market-based partnership to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through energy efficiency. To date, tens of thousands of buildings and plants across all fifty states have earned the ENERGY STAR.

For more information about ENERGY STAR Certification for Industrial Facilities:  energystar.gov/plants