The new agreement builds on existing efforts
UPM has participated in energy efficiency agreements across several periods. As part of the agreement, we report annually on our energy efficiency measures to the Energy Authority and its partner, Motiva, a state-owned sustainable development company.
UPM maintains a continuous annual energy efficiency improvement target of 1%.
"Energy efficiency assessments are closely integrated into our decision-making, action plans, and implementation. In recent years, we’ve focused on utilizing secondary heat at our mills, supported by rapid technological development," says Eerik Ojala, Director, Environment at UPM Responsibility. "In practice, this includes adopting efficient heat pump technologies that can replace process steam produced with various fuels, for example."
Energy efficiency is a key factor in cost competitiveness, but it also affects other performance areas. "At best, energy efficiency measures help reduce fossil fuel use and support our climate goals. However, some targets - such as reducing water emissions - may require more energy. Each measure must be evaluated individually, and consider cross-effects," Ojala adds.
The electrification of society presents challenges for energy efficiency, but it also enables effective emission reductions and access to cost-efficient energy in a fluctuating price market.
Concrete impact behind the agreements
According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, measures under the agreements will save Finland over 16 terawatt-hours of energy annually - equivalent to 4.5% of the country’s total energy consumption. At the same time, carbon dioxide emissions will be reduced by approximately 3.5 million tonnes per year, equal to the average annual emissions of more than 335,000 Finns.
“These figures inspire us to continue our efforts - both as a company and as part of the forest industry,” Ojala concludes.
Energy Efficiency Agreements are overseen by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment and, in part, the Ministry of the Environment. The Energy Authority is responsible for implementation within the state administration, in partnership with Motiva.
