Energy Efficiency in regioNal fOod processing Value chAins

Introduction

EENOVA will demonstrate that the uptake of energy audit results (at the company level) is supported and energy-related solutions can be implemented through an independent and service-oriented caretaker. The EENOVA methodology leverages the regional context of value chains consisting of SMEs (and LEs) by identifying common steps for awareness-raising, cooperation, and implementation between individual companies being part of the food processing value chain.

Methodology Focus

This will be achieved through the inherent focus of EENOVA on individual and related value chain conditions reflecting the existing or perceived regional legislation/standardization and business environment differences.

Validation and Replication

EENOVA will validate its sector-neutral methodology on 5 different regional food processing value chains (bakery, winery, brewery, meat, and milk) in 5 different countries (AT, BG, LT, RO, and SLO). Building on their successes, EENOVA aims to derive a widely applicable replication model for other value chains in the same or other regions and sectors.

The uptake of the replication model will be initiated through the involvement of relevant stakeholders such as:

• Sector associations
• Representatives from the finance sector
• Other relevant parties

The underlying replication roadmap will also involve the policy level to create mutual interest to replicate.

Methodology Components

The methodology encompasses:

1. A trusted intermediary - that might need training on energy-related topics but is not necessarily considered an energy expert.
2. A value chain of companies – at least three companies.
3. A structured process with several roundtables at three levels:
   • Single enterprise
   • Regional value chain
   • Consolidation towards general replicable solutions and policy learnings

Expected Impact

The expected energy-related impact of the intervention is estimated to result in:

• Primary energy savings of roughly 1.1 GWh/year
• Renewable energy generation of roughly 1.1 GWh/year by the end of the project

Additionally, it is projected that roughly 21 GWh/year in primary energy savings and roughly 23 GWh/year in renewable energy will be triggered within 5 years.