Google has introduced its Energy Assessment tool, aimed at assisting plant and sustainability managers in the manufacturing sector to identify opportunities for improving energy efficiency. The tool seeks to tackle challenges such as the high cost of energy assessment consultants, difficulty in securing capital for efficiency projects, and the absence of in-house energy management expertise.
Vrushali Gaud, Global Director at Google responsible for Strategy & Operations for Netzero, Water and Circularity, highlighted the significance of energy efficiency, stating that it should be a straightforward approach for reducing energy use and costs across the supply chain. However, many manufacturers face constraints such as limited in-house expertise, stretched teams, and insufficient time to evaluate options. She stated, “We saw the problem. So we built the solution.”
The platform offers customised project recommendations, enabling users to analyse over 20 opportunities across key systems like air compressors, boilers, chillers, and lighting. It helps identify projects with the highest potential for cost and carbon reduction, including equipment upgrades, operational adjustments, and solar installations. Users can also assess multiple facilities to compare results, prioritise investments for maximum impact, and collaborate with teams and upstream suppliers.
Mischa Weiss-Lijn, Group Product Manager, and Alan Deng, Supplier Engagement Manager at Google, emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainability goals. They stated, “The journey to a more sustainable future is a shared one. By equipping our partners with the right resources, we can accelerate progress, reduce costs, and build a more resilient and sustainable supply chain for everyone.”
Developed and operated by Together Creative, the tool’s calculation methodology and input data sets were crafted by consulting firms Jacobs and Anew Consulting. For further information, access the Energy Assessment tool.
