Financial Assistance for Process Integration

Natural Resources Canada has introduced a process integration (PI) pilot initiative to help Industrial Energy Innovator companies with complex industrial processes identify energy cost savings. Financial assistance is available to qualifying companies to cover 50 percent of the cost of a PI study to a maximum of $75,000.

Process Integration Study

PI studies go beyond conventional energy audits. They focus on the systematic analysis of new designs or existing process and utility systems and their interactions to determine the most efficient use of energy, water and raw materials. A team of engineers and energy experts take a rigorous approach to identifying the most effective and efficient energy-saving opportunities in complex industrial processes. Visit the CETC-Varennes Web site to learn more about the main steps of a PI study.

Benefits of Process Integration

This systematic approach to assessing industrial processes has been recognized for its ability to:

• optimize utility configuration, including cogeneration, energy-efficient boiler sizing and operation, optimum process drive selection and process steam generation
• remove bottlenecks from critical processes, equipment and utility systems
• optimize sequencing of separation processes, such as distillation systems and membranes
• improve reactor design, integration and usage
• optimize batch process scheduling

By implementing the recommendations of a PI study, companies can:

• decrease energy consumption by 10 to 30 percent
• reduce water usage and effluent production
• increase production capacity at minimal capital cost
• reduce greenhouse gas emissions

Additional Resources

Visit CETC-Varennes' Web site to access additional information and publications on the application of PI studies to a diverse group of industrial sectors.

Process Integration Pilot Initiative Contact

Find out how your company can participate in this initiative by contacting Vaughn Munroe, P.Eng., Chief, Engineering Research and Technical Group, Industrial Programs Division, at (613) 947 1594 or by e-mail.