Huge potential for energy savings

Atlas Copco Compressors has released figures indicating that UK industry could save 16.5 million kWh of energy in 2012* as a result of using its energy efficient VSD compressor technology. Almost 9 million kg of CO2 could also be saved - the equivalent of more than 2000 trips around the world. Yet the company says the technology is still not being used to maximum advantage by UK businesses.

While lack of access to funding is often cited as a reason why many SMEs are unable to develop their businesses, when it comes to energy saving projectes, there are various funding schemes available.

One such scheme is the Enhanced Capital Allowances program, managed by the Carbon Trust on behalf of the government. In July 2011, Atlas Copco launched a 0% finance scheme to encourage investment in compressed air technology. A further development is the Energy Efficiency Financing Scheme that will provide £550m over the next three years for investment in energy efficient technology.

Atlas Copco's VSD compressors are available as oil-injected models from 5 to 500kW and oil-free models from 22 to 900kw.

* 16.5 million kWh - based on typical 25% average saving on energy, and 4000 running hours per annum when a VSD compressor is compared to a fixed speed unit