Capacitor Banks Save Costs Toward a Sustainable Future

Q: How has IICE developed its operations in Mexico?

A: During my time at Siemens, I became interested in the benefits of using capacitor banks for energy optimization. After self-service chain H-E-B approached us in Monterrey to improve the efficiency of its stores’ energy systems, I realized I could offer these products and services 30 percent cheaper if I were to form my own company. The business part was somewhat alien to me because I was an engineer and not a salesman. Nonetheless, the capacitor banks I installed in four stores are all still functioning perfectly. In 2007, I decided to go independent and IICE was born. I started to work with TDK Electronics (previously EPCOS), which sold capacitors directly to me. I am still doing business with H-E-B to this day.

I see the company’s work like that of a doctor. I visit a patient, diagnose what is wrong and provide advice as to how the client can solve their ailment. I then provide the tools to achieve this, which can resolve even the most seemingly chronic issues. It is an integral service, which is the main advantage the company provides. This creates value and generates trust over the long term. The company’s clients are often located in Monterrey, but we operate all over the country. Word of mouth travels far, which I consider to be the best type of advertising.

Q: What equipment does the company offer?

A: There are different types of equipment. Some are fixed solutions, while others are intermittent in nature. Fixed capacitor banks are useful if a particular piece of equipment, such as a motor, is constantly running. But if there is a line of 10 motors working intermittently, then automatic capacitor banks may be the better solution. The company also provides harmonic filters, which work better for factories that have a great deal of equipment, which could be damaged by a regular capacitor bank. The company has a large number of solutions for every application.

In the last few years, the business surrounding capacitor banks has increased quite a bit. When industry grows, energy generation increases. Our business follows that trajectory, helping to make processes more efficient.

Q: How is the company identifying opportunities during the COVID-19 outbreak?

A: I do not think there are any opportunities at this exact moment. There is less need to save energy because there is less energy being used. The engineers in charge of maintenance are not physically present at their factories either. Once work returns to normal, the first steps will be to examine how to save costs and energy. Capacitor banks will be crucial to optimize a company’s resources. We see many opportunities emerging after the pandemic passes.

Beyond the pandemic, the regulatory situation is a significant factor that could impact our business. President López Obrador does not appear to be too keen on renewable energies. What will happen with renewables remains unclear but regardless of the energy source, capacitor banks can provide added value. Even if more fossil fuels are used for generation, capacitor banks can still optimize the process.   

Q: What are your goals for 2020?

A: I would like the year to be profitable, and not just in the business sense. The goal is to keep the company healthy, but if changes can be made regarding efficient energy use in general, everyone profits. This does not only include our capacitor banks. There are many different routes to take to optimize energy use. As consultants, manufacturers and installers of capacitor banks, our goal is to be a part of this bigger process, to be present as a brand and to help Mexico’s industry progress. That is the real objective.

IICE was founded in 2007. It provides Mexico’s industry with advice and equipment to make energy consumption more efficient, thereby generating benefits for the overall grid and end users through the use of capacitor banks.