In the search for other solutions to optimize energy use, many manufacturers have also turned to digital technology solutions like AI, which complements smart sensors around their facilities that gather intelligence on capacity, volume, and other operational data.

“AI is then used to learn and train the system to automatically trigger the right facility process controls accurately and provide the desired outputs at speed,” says Goh.

Despite its capabilities, AI is only an enabler for maintaining a facility at optimum efficiency.

The bulk of the responsibility still lies with the on-site facilities team to identify areas for improvement, starting with the lowest-hanging fruit, Goh says.

“Conducting an ESG audit, for instance, will help pinpoint potential enhancements from the introduction of efficient lighting solutions to the more complex capital expenditure projects such as upgrading chillers and exhaust fans to energy-efficient alternatives,” he says.