Alcon’s commitment to energy efficiency pays off

ALCON Singapore Manufacturing (ASM), part of the largest eye care device company in the world, is keenly focused on consistently delivering safe and high-quality ophthalmology products, enabled by a workforce of highly skilled talents.

A cornerstone of ASM’s operations is a robust energy management framework aimed at streamlining energy consumption, reducing operational costs and cutting greenhouse gas emissions (GHG).

The company has set an ambitious target to reduce total energy consumption by 15 per cent over the next five years, based on its 2021 consumption levels.

To achieve this goal, the energy management team, led by general manager Thirunavukkarasu Ramasamy, meets regularly to deliberate on energy-related data and initiatives.

Ramasamy highlighted the importance of interdepartmental collaboration for successful energy management. “Energy consumption often spans multiple departments and processes. Collaboration among cross-functional teams are more likely to generate innovative ideas and solutions,” he said.

This strategy has fostered a sense of ownership among employees, leading to higher engagement and more effective energy-saving efforts.

ASM’s commitment to energy efficiency has already borne fruit. By 2021, the company reduced its total energy consumption, including that of natural gas and electricity, by an impressive 29 per cent compared to 2019 levels.

Carbon emissions also saw a significant reduction by 740 tonnes in 2021, with projections indicating a further decrease by 801 tonnes in 2023, compared to 2019 levels.

These achievements resulted in ASM becoming one of the winners of the Excellence in Energy, GHG Management award at this year’s EENP Awards, and reaffirms its position as a responsible corporate citizen committed to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

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Looking ahead, Ramasamy outlined a multi-pronged approach aimed at helping ASM achieve its long-term sustainability goals.

These include regular energy audits and benchmarking against industry standards, upgrading existing boiler and chillers to meet the required industry standards, and exploring the adoption of renewable energy, including a recently installed solar panel project, which generates almost 15 per cent of the site’s requirement.

To encourage a culture of energy efficiency, ASM recognises and incentivises employees who contribute energy-saving ideas. These achievements are highlighted in departmental and town hall meetings, reinforcing the importance of collective action.

ASM’s integrated approach to energy management – marked by strong leadership, interdepartmental collaboration and employee engagement – serves as a benchmark for corporate sustainability in Singapore.