Efficiency assessment and ses applicability analysis in energy intensive processes in the chemical industry

The chemical industry ranks among the most energy intensive sectors due to its reliance on high temperature, high pressure processes and continuous operation of complex units. This intensive energy use drives up production costs and contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions when fossil fuels are the primary energy source. Consequently, the adoption of renewable energy solutions and the implementation of energy efficiency measures have become both an economic imperative and an environmental necessity for modern chemical plants. An energy audit systematically examines existing consumption points and process streams to identify losses and opportunities for improvement. Complementing this, the energy intensity metric—expressed as energy consumed per unit of product—provides a benchmark for performance tracking and target setting. Time series forecasting, particularly using ARIMA models, leverages historical consumption data to generate reliable projections of future energy needs, thereby supporting strategic planning and budget optimization. Integrating a solar photovoltaic (PV) system offers a pathway to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lower long term energy expenditures, and curb the facility's carbon footprint. Recent declines in PV module costs and the availability of government incentives have shortened payback periods and enhanced project viability. In this study, a comprehensive energy audit and energy intensity analysis of a chemical manufacturing plant's five year consumption data are first conducted. Next, ARIMA based forecasts inform the sizing and financial evaluation of a prospective solar PV installation, assessing its technical feasibility and economic benefits.