CalPortland’s Rillito, Ariz., cement plant earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Energy Star certification for superior energy efficiency. This is the 12th year that the Rillito plant has earned the recognition.
“CalPortland is pleased to accept EPA’s Energy Star certification in recognition of our energy efficiency efforts at our Rillito cement plant,” said William Jerald, director of energy and sustainability. “Through this achievement, we have demonstrated our commitment to environmental stewardship, focusing on efficiency projects, and lowering our energy footprint.”
Earning Energy Star certification highlights Rillito’s status within the top 25%b of cement plants in the nation with regard to energy performance. CalPortland improved its energy performance by managing energy strategically across the entire organization and by making cost-effective improvements to its plant.
“Improving the energy performance of our nation’s industrial plants is critical to reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” said Cindy Jacobs, chief of the Energy Star Commercial & Industrial Branch. “EPA applauds the commitment to energy efficiency demonstrated by Energy Star certified plants.”
To earn the Energy Star, CalPortland installed energy metering at all process areas; replaced decades old reciprocating compressor with a new, more efficient screw compressor; replaced high-pressure sodium lamps with LED lights; and upgraded housing around kiln ID fan to a more efficient design.
