Press Release
Alliant Energy works with Iowa Insulation on energy efficiency projects
Iowa Insulation designs custom-made insulation blankets for the 3M Company
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – October 15, 2009 – Management at 3M Knoxville received assistance from Interstate Power & Light Company (IPL), an Alliant Energy company and Iowa Insulation as they explored ways to become more energy efficient. The energy experts were able to demonstrate to 3M leadership how an energy savings project could help lower operating expenses, decrease emissions and advance their competitive position.
3M Knoxville installed custom-made removable insulation blankets to cover exposed areas of steam pipes. The installation resulted in a gas use reduction of 304,061 therms which avoids more than 1,520 metric tons of carbon dioxide. This is equivalent to removing the CO2 emissions from 172,566 gallons of gasoline consumed or 3,536 barrels of oil consumed.
In addition to improving its environmental performance, 3M will realize an estimated savings on its annual energy bill of $238,427.00. Part of the insulation project included training 3M maintenance staff on the importance of energy savings. Employees observed new areas where insulation could be added. A follow-up project resulted in an additional $30,000 energy savings per year.
“We saw an immediate change after installing the insulating blankets” says Jim Oberbroeckling, 3M Company. “Saving energy is an important goal for us at 3M Knoxville. We want to thank Alliant Energy and Iowa Insulation for identifying this opportunity in energy savings.”
“The impact of this energy savings project is huge. Saving money on set operating costs is just like earning more profit,” says Darrell Bunting, Iowa Insulation. “Our goal at Iowa Insulation is to help customers tap in to the power of energy conservation through mechanical insulation. We would like to thank the leadership of 3M for the vision to make this energy-saving project happen. From a financial perspective, the return-on-investment over 25 years is 1,500%!”
3M Knoxville manufactures pressure sensitive tapes that are sold worldwide into the industrial, automotive, and construction markets. Worldwide exports from Knoxville exceed $50 million per year. Currently the plant occupies over a half a million square feet of manufacturing and warehouse space and employs 550 employees.
“It was a pleasure working with 3M Knoxville on this project,” said Jason Oglesby-Strategic Account Manager, Alliant Energy. “I applaud the company for everything it has done to become more energy efficient.”
Making energy-savings improvements in business, farm or commercial facilities reduce energy use and result in lower energy bills for years to come. Energy experts are available to identify ways your company can reduce energy use and provide estimates on how much improvements will cost, as well as how much your business can expect to save. For more information call 1-866-ALLIANT.
Media Contact: Nancy Craig, (319) 786-4788