One of New Zealand’s largest exporters is set to save more than $2 million a year and enhance its global reputation as a sustainable producer through a company-wide energy management programme.

The Energy Efficiency Conservation Authority’s EECA Business announced yesterday it would support the initiative over two years to help meat processor and exporter ANZCO generate long-term energy savings in its New Zealand plants.

With annual sales of $1.25 billion, ANZCO Foods Ltd processes and markets New Zealand beef and lamb products around the world. The firm employs over 3,000 staff world-wide and has 11 meat processing plants in New Zealand.

This programme will target a reduction in its processing plant energy use by 25 gigawatt hours (GWh), returning ongoing annual savings of $2.45 million after two years.

EECA Business general manager Ian Niven says that making better use of its energy will provide far-reaching benefits for the company and congratulated the company on its vision.

“Globally New Zealand is recognised for sustainably produced, premium quality meat products. And energy efficiency is one of the best ways to strengthen environmental credentials.

“By taking a lead in energy efficiency, ANZCO is making significant energy cost savings and signaling to its customers that it is committed to sustainable production,” he says.

ANZCO managing director, Mark Clarkson says the programme will deliver on many levels for the company.

“Sustainability is key to the ANZCO brand and we are always looking for new ways to build on our reputation for environmentally responsible production, so reducing energy costs is a priority.”

The programme involves the establishment of a group-wide energy management plan, led by a team responsible for putting in place up to $5 million of identified energy efficiency projects.

With the assistance of one of EECA Business’ industrial programme partners, ANZCO will set up a system to help keep the programme on-track, measure efficiency outcomes, and develop case studies for a number of the projects.

Ian Niven says management commitment is key to the programme achieving its objectives.

“From the Board of Directors through to site operations, ANZCO leadership has indicated it wants to foster a culture of efficient energy use throughout the company.

“Such commitment is important to the success of making enduring improvements to energy management.”

EECA Business funding of up to $450,000 will be made available in stages upon achievement of various programme milestones.