EDP has launched a modern system of compressed air generation in Solvlay’s plant in Torrelavega. The new equipment provides a better efficiency to the production process, while it will be generating an annual energy saving of more than 1 000 MWh, equivalent to the average annual electric consumption of 300 households.

EDP will finance the project and will be responsible for the equipment and its maintenance and operation during the 10-year-validity of the agreement, understood as a service contract.

The developed project has consisted of the substitution of the equipment for a more modern and efficient one. It is composed by seven compressors and four dryers of high energy efficiency from Atlas Copco, sized for the installations and needs of the chemical group. In addition, it incorporates a complete control system, that allows to regulate and manage in real time the compressors, optimizing its performance.

The use of compressed air is key in the production process. It enables different mechanical works, like activating pneumatic equipment or machinery of the installations, where Solvay fabricates carbonate and sodium bicarbonate, fundamental raw materials for the elaboration of essential products like glass, powder, health products, pharmaceuticals and products of personal hygiene, and of human and animal diet.

Savings and efficiency contribute, furthermore, to strengthen the environmental protection. The installed equipment will allow to avoid the emission of 540 tons of CO2 into the environment each year.

The project has contributed, likewise, to employment generation. More than ten people from collaborating companies, specially from the Cantabrian Telnor, have taken part in the works.

EDP has developed this project within the program “Save to compete”, through which it offers its corporate clients the most modern and innovative solutions to improve the energy efficiency and boost its savings and competitivity.