Energy efficiency and decarbonization
Both energy efficiency and decarbonization are central to Orano’s Commitments initiative. Thus the Group aims to improve its energy efficiency by 10% in 2025 compared with 2019; and over the same period,
to reduce its direct CO2 emissions (Scopes 1&2) by 25%.
An energy network
Energy managers in very site lead energy efficiency and decarbonization projects. This internal Orano community is called the Energy Network, created in 2019. By operating as a network, it can share knowledge, replicate successes and run common projects, thus accelerating the overall pace of the company’s progress.
A road map focused on efficiency
To achieve these objectives, the Group launched the Energy-Carbon Performance Plan in 2022. The plan will identify additional opportunities via energy audits, use dedicated software to extract value out of available energy data within our sites and optimize the efficiency of our engines.
Examples of carried out projects
- Investment in more energy-efficient equipment: electric steam boilers to replace oil-fired boilers, replacement of motors and pumps.
- Electricity consumption optimized with off-peak and demand-side management.
- Consumption related to outdoor and indoor lighting optimized, via programs to install LEDs and operational standards.
- Nuclear ventilation operating modes optimized without reducing the nuclear safety of the facilities.
- Losses and leaks detection campaigns (compressed-air equipment optimized etc.)
As at the end of 2023, the Group’s energy consumption has dropped by approximately 5% compared with 2019, in spite of higher levels of production.
An Ecowatt approach focused on economy
Aware of the stresses on energy-supply security in the autumn of 2022, the Group decided to partner with Ecowatt, hence has taken further sobriety & efficiency measures.
- Energy economy measures at all Group sites
- Heating restricted to 19°C.
- Limits on the use of individual heating/air-conditioning devices.
- Building temperatures optimized based on occupation (logistics).
- Targeted extinguishing of outdoor and indoor lighting, without adverse effect on the safety of industrial sites.
- Controls on IT consumers and equipment (electronic mail reduced, less printing, devices powered down rather than left on standby, etc.).
- Heating restricted to 19°C.
- Demand-side management contract agreed for the third consecutive year, applying to 10 MW at the La Hague site.
- An awareness program for all staff on energy savings in daily routines.
- All industrial and service sites active in identifying additional measures.