GridBeyond, a flexible energy management company, has recently introduced its innovative Process Optimiser service in the United States, aimed at enhancing profitability for industrial facilities. By optimising production schedules in relation to fluctuating energy prices, the service ensures that production targets are maintained.
The Process Optimiser employs a data-driven approach, utilising digital simulations that model the intricacies of industrial processes. This allows the identification of efficiencies within plant operations while aligning sub-processes with variable energy market prices. Central to this technology is the creation of a “digital twin”, which serves as a virtual replica of the industrial site, capturing essential details of both production and energy consumption.
Sean McEvoy, GridBeyond’s Chief Product Officer, commented on the launch saying, “The launch of Process Optimiser in the US shows once again GridBeyond’s commitment towards continued innovation in flexible energy management and energy market optimisation. This product will empower manufacturing companies to optimise production schedules in the face of energy price volatility. By harnessing the power of data analytics, deep industrial expertise, and machine learning, companies can gain valuable insights into energy consumption patterns, identify cost-saving opportunities, and optimise production schedules in real-time.”
The introduction of this product in the US follows its successful launch in the UK in September 2024. At the time of that launch, GridBeyond indicated that the technology had potential savings of up to £3.7 million ($4.6 million) annually for cement manufacturers. The launch in the UK was particularly significant due to ongoing fluctuations in energy prices, attributed to the increasing integration of renewable energy sources, which also raised concerns regarding grid stability.
GridBeyond’s application of advanced technologies such as data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning is designed to provide insights into energy usage, enabling businesses to refine their operations. Mark Davis, the Chief Commercial Officer at GridBeyond, remarked, “This product will empower businesses to better manage production schedules in the face of energy price volatility. By harnessing the power of data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, companies can gain valuable insights into energy consumption patterns, identify cost-saving opportunities, and optimise production schedules in real-time.”
The company highlights a successful case study from a Texas-based cement plant that illustrates the benefits of the Process Optimiser. The facility, which produces 7,500 tonnes of cement daily, managed to lower its annual energy costs by 12% and gain increased visibility into its operations. Initially, the plant operated continuously regardless of energy price fluctuations, but through the partnership with GridBeyond, it discovered opportunities for optimisation without compromising product quality or operations.
By strategically reducing production at three silos during peak capacity and leveraging algorithmic energy trading, the plant was able to monetise its operational flexibility. This involved adjusting its energy consumption in anticipation of price spikes and participating in flexible energy programmes, which ultimately led to participation in high-revenue energy markets, resulting in significant cost savings.
As the energy landscape continues to evolve with the integration of renewable energy and the associated price volatility, solutions like GridBeyond’s Process Optimiser are positioned to play a crucial role in helping industrial companies navigate these challenges while enhancing their operational efficiency.
Source: Noah Wire Services