New Trends Push Energy Efficiency Forward

Q: How can Schneider Electric help companies reach their sustainability goals?

A: A typical top-five automotive company will have an annual energy bill in excess of US$1 billion. These large global enterprises have a substantial impact on all sustainability topics. We offer these companies the opportunity to save up to 30 percent on their electricity bill. These savings go beyond monetary costs since they also reduce the environmental impact. Schneider Electric has the most complete portfolio for the automotive sector. It can help customers to achieve most of their sustainability goals and can make production eco-friendly through specific solutions like WAGES metering and Data Collection Solutions, Facility Energy and Building Management Solutions and Renewable Energy Solutions, just to name a few.

Q: What would you suggest to automotive companies to increase energy efficiency in their manufacturing processes?

A: Connectivity has significant potential to increase efficiency in manufacturing plants through the internet of Things. The collected information is analyzed and the results are used for process optimization to make plants more efficient. All our electrical distribution products include this feature and can be used by companies in every manufacturing sector. Automotive manufacturers are investing in sustainability as it is closely linked to energy efficiency. Several of the global top 10 automotive companies aim to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 25 percent.

Q: How will automation impact manufacturing in terms of energy savings?

A: Automation is the best way to improve energy efficiency but to be implemented it requires reliable power sources that can ensure a continuous flow of energy. Mexico’s low percentage of renewable energy consumption is gradually changing. Most energy in Mexico is generated from fossil fuels, which makes it costly. The Energy Transition Law provides a framework for clean energy, energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions reductions.

Q: What new opportunities will the Energy Reform bring to Schneider Electric?

A: When the Energy Reform was conceived, there were two
possible paths Mexico could take. One was the improvement
of the country’s energy infrastructure, which would generate
jobs and new business opportunities. The second was the path
chosen by Mexico: the implementation of strategies that would 187 reduce energy costs in the country. This will lead companies to be more competitive over the long term. Allowing competition will generate more options for companies, lower prices and lead to smaller operational costs. Mexico is in the midst of a transition toward the goal of generating 35 percent of energy through renewable sources by 2024.

Q: What main energy and automation trends do you perceive in the automotive sector?

A: The automotive sector is developing autonomous cars and increasing connectivity. Cars will become computers on wheels that will autonomously transport individuals. Ownership models are also changing as carpooling becomes prevalent. An increase in connectivity will reduce the need for technicians to perform diagnostics and many problems will be solved remotely. Schneider Electric expects an integration of solutions that allows manufacturers to execute their sustainability strategies in Mexico. Based on these trends, the company is developing end-to-end solutions to help our customers face their challenges successfully.

Q: How important is Mexico in Schneider Electric’s global strategy?

A: Mexico is among the top priority countries worldwide for Schneider Electric. The country has a very important manufacturing footprint for us in North America. We now have 12 manufacturing plants that export mostly to the US and Canada and employ over 9,000 individuals. Mexico is becoming increasingly attractive thanks to the Energy Reform and our experience will help us to advise clients as they navigate changes brought about by this reform.