Title: Energy saving potential in SMEs: selected case studies from the industrial sector in Sri Lanka

Authors: Nilusha Dilhani; Jayasena Dissanayake; Asankha Pallegedara

Addresses: Department of Industrial Management, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Lional Jayathilake Mawatha, Kuliyapitiya 60200, Sri Lanka ' Department of Industrial Management, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Lional Jayathilake Mawatha, Kuliyapitiya 60200, Sri Lanka ' Department of Industrial Management, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Lional Jayathilake Mawatha, Kuliyapitiya 60200, Sri Lanka

Abstract: Energy efficiency in Sri Lankan SMEs in industrial sector is typically low with a large untapped potential for energy saving. This study focused on analysing the energy saving potential of the selected SMEs in Sri Lanka. Comprehensive energy audits were conducted for five SMEs in energy intensive industrial sectors. Results showed that incorrect power factor adjustments, poor practice of switch off policy on lights and fans, inadequate modifications on lighting systems, compressed air systems, boilers, and machinery were the most significant factors led to energy inefficiencies. Further, if prompt actions were to be taken for the above issue, the study estimated that the total energy saving potential for the selected firms would be about 20% to 30% of the total energy consumption. Moreover, it was about 10% to 15% of energy costs of the selected firms. The study concludes that SMEs should focus on rectifying inefficient usage of energy.

Keywords: energy efficiency; energy cost; energy saving potential; small and medium sized enterprises; SMEs; industry; Sustainable Development Goals; SDGs; energy audits; Sri Lanka; lighting systems; boilers.

DOI: 10.1504/IER.2020.112595

Interdisciplinary Environmental Review, 2020 Vol.20 No.3/4, pp.297 - 310

Received: 24 Jun 2020
Accepted: 19 Sep 2020
Published online: 22 Jan 2021 *

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