Development of an Energy Consumption Model at a Multi-Product Chemical Plant

A plant-wide energy model is being developed to be used primarily as a planning tool to evaluate the impact of energy conservation projects and plant expansions on the total plant energy balance. Statistical analysis of historical data from each production unit has generated regression equations which correlate the various energy utilities with production rate and other variables. The form of the model varies from unit to unit. Startups, shutdowns, and unit interruptions are simulated using a Monte Carlo technique. In some units, energy consumption does not correlate with production rate, which indicates that energy savings may be possible through better control of energy usage. The model should also lay the framework for an on-line energy management program